Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib, you want it to be secure and sturdy. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
see more of our most favored choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress heights and is constructed from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also comes with a toddler rail that is included.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in the crib, so it is important to choose a crib that's sturdy enough. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close to each other, since this can cause suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides because these can be harmful to your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib that is certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib that has a small footprint, since it can reduce the space in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for babies as it meets most of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing, and it looks great in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, but it meets all of our criteria and is simple to put together. It has only three mattress levels, which is fewer than other cribs. If you plan to use the crib for a longer period of time it could be more suitable for your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not need an entire day of assembly unlike larger cribs. They're usually ready for use straight out of the package, and take only 30 minutes to put together with the tools included. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves the cost of buying separate pieces.
Of course, you should always check that the crib is properly constructed with no gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of the hardware such as screws and bolts. Be sure that they are securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which can cause cracked wood or stripped threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.
If you're looking at a crib that requires assembly, choose one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos for those who aren't used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list with the necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.
In addition to the design, size is a different factor to consider. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not so big that it will not fit through an ordinary doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not meet the latest safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those who want a sleek, modern crib. It has three different mattress height settings and is made of durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed hardware than other options on this list, however, and some customers found it more difficult to set up than necessary because of mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats, cribs don't have many "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't consider other factors like design, cost and the length of time the crib will last. If you're looking for a crib which will last into toddlerhood and beyond, think about buying one that can convert into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will reduce your costs and space, and make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child develops.
The majority of cribs that transform into full-size beds are an afterthought, you simply remove the side and replace it with an extended rail. Oeuf has designed a stylish crib that can be converted into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and is a great addition to any nursery. You can also bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for an even more seamless appearance.
This crib is more robust than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for years. It's easy to assemble and durable even for parents who aren't skilled. It also has three different mattress heights that can be adjusted which allows you to start your child in a low position which is easy for parents to lift and raise as they grow older.
This convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are seeking a crib that will fit into an elegant nursery. It is also simple to put together, and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase them separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be a win-win situation. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that can be found in other cribs, as well as toxins like PVC, phthalate MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them are minimalist in design to reduce the environmental impact. They are generally easy to build and convert, and some have a changing tray or dresser attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child, converting to a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. They could also include additional features, like an integrated changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their capabilities to convert, they should be sturdy and durable enough to stand up to regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coatings.
Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and environmentally friendly.
Namesake is another option that offers timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. 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 of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the primary priority when choosing the right crib. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built with firmly-fitted and sturdy hardware. Also, make sure it complies with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's approximately the size of a soda can) and no cutouts with decorative designs on the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or very tall--anything in between poses a strangulation risk.
Keep all toys away from the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. Select a monitor for your baby with a clear line of sight so that it doesn't hinder your view. Also, ensure that all cords are not within reach of your child and are securely connected. Never place pillows, blankets or positioners inside the crib. These items could pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and can be kicked off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.
Also, do not use old cribs because they could have construction elements that are outdated and could result in injuries. Even if a crib is in great condition, the slats could be too wide or it could be missing hardware. Old cribs could also be painted with lead or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features for a reasonable price, but it may be too much for people who want a simple design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1 have a similar style but less bells and whistles.