Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be safe and sturdy. You should look for sturdy construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our favorite picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress heights and is constructed out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
It is crucial that the crib is built to last because a baby will spend most of their time in it. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize structural integrity. Also, consider avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close to each other, as this could cause the child to suffocate. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts or drop-sides, since these options could be harmful to your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose a crib that has a small footprint, as it will make room in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib because it meets the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could get caught on clothing or toys. cot sale looks beautiful in the majority of rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have an infant rail and it doesn't have the same amount of slats as some other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list but it fulfills all our criteria and is easy to assemble. It only has three mattress levels which is less than other cribs. However, if you intend to use the crib for a long time it might be better suited to your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, many modern mini cribs don't require an entire day to assemble. They're usually ready for use straight from the box, and only take 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some even have a built-in toddler bed conversion kit which saves you the expense and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
Of course, you must always check that the crib is properly assembled with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware such as screws and bolts. Be sure that they are securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which could result in stripped threads or cracking wood. Find a solid wood crib as it is thought to be safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those who are not used to working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list with the required tools, including screws and washers.
Size is also crucial. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not so big that it won't fit through a standard doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs because older cribs may not be up to current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a sleek and modern crib. It is constructed of durable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other choices that are on the list. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
In contrast to car seats and strollers cribs aren't equipped with many "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like design, cost, and how long the crib lasts. Consider a convertible crib if you would like a crib that will last until toddlerhood. This will reduce your costs as well as space, making it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of cribs that transform into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought - you simply take off the side and replace it with a longer rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and looks nice in almost any nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser for an even more seamless appearance.
The crib is much more sturdy than other cribs we've tested tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for years. It's easy to set up and sturdy, even for parents who don't have the skills. It also comes with three different mattress heights you can adjust that means you can start your child in a low, comfortable position that is easy for caregivers to lift and raise as they get older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents looking for a crib that can fit into the formal nursery. It is also simple to set up and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy the rails separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which could be an issue for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are the best of both worlds, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child, while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful chemicals and emissions as well as toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be made of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials and have a minimalist design. They are usually easy to build and convert, and some come with an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs which can be transformed into a toddler bed or a full-size bed. They may also have additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. Regardless of their capabilities to convert they should be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coatings.
Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood and does not contain harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and is green.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which offers an elegant design and top-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats made from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be affixed to the side to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When selecting a crib, safety should be the top priority. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Also, make sure it meets current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's approximately the size of a soda bottle), no decorative cutout designs on the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or extremely tall. Anything in between poses the risk of strangulation.
Additionally make sure that all toys are out of the crib because they can be choking or dangers of suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby that is in a clear line of sight to ensure it does not hinder your view. Also, ensure that all cords are not within reach of your baby and securely connected. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These can pose dangers of suffocation and choke, and can be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using older cribs since they could contain outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if a crib is in excellent condition, the slats might be too wide, or they could be missing hardware. Also, old cribs could contain lead-based paint or have loose and dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a low price, but it could be too much for people who prefer a minimalist design. Other options such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 offer a similar design but less bells & whistles.