Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that's both safe and durable. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four different mattress sizes and is made out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in their crib, so it's important to choose a crib that's solid enough. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on structural integrity. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough surfaces that could harm your child.
Find a solid frame and stay clear of slats that are too close together, as this could increase the risk of being suffocated. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides, because these can be dangerous to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can affect your baby’s breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib that has a small footprint, since it can save space in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib because it meets all of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could get in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't have a toddler rail, and does not have the same amount of slats as other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, but it meets all of our criteria and is easy to put together. It has only three mattress levels, which is fewer than some other cribs. However, if you intend to use the crib for several years 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 a full day to put together. In fact, most are ready to use out of the box, taking just about 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some even come with built-in toddler bed conversion kit which saves you the expense and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
Of course, you must ensure that the crib is securely built without gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Be sure to be attentive to the quality of the hardware, specifically bolts and screws. Make sure they're tightened securely, but don't over-tighten them, which can cause cracked wood or stripped threads. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.
If you're looking at a crib that requires an assembly, look for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should also include a list with the necessary supplies, like washers and screws.
Besides design, size is another factor to consider. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your child but not so big that it cannot fit through a standard opening. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not be up to the latest safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those who want a modern, sleek crib. It is constructed from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other choices on the market. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which can last through the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that converts into a daybed or a full-size bed. Consider a convertible crib if you would like a crib that will last well into the age of toddlerhood. This will free up space and money, making it easier to replace the mattress as your child grows.
Although most cribs that convert into full-size beds are an afterthought, you simply remove the side and replace it by a longer rail, Oeuf has designed a stylish crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and will look great in any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.
This crib is more substantial than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it will last for years. It's easy to assemble and sturdy even for parents who aren't handy. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to begin your child in a seated position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional style than the other two cribs on this list, which is great for parents who want a crib that will look elegant in a formal nursery. It is also simple to assemble, and comes with toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase them separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create the best of both worlds, providing an environment that is safe for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that can be found in other cribs, and also harmful substances such as 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 minimize the environmental impact. They are easy to set up, convert and some even come with a dresser or a changing tray attached. This can help save space.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child changing into a toddler bed, daybed or a full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features such as an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. Whatever their capabilities to convert, they should be sturdy and durable to withstand regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic and non-toxic materials. They also have a low-VOC finish.
A fantastic example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and it does not contain toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. infant cot bed is a great choice for parents who want an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and also environmentally friendly.
Namesake is another option, offering an elegant design and top-quality construction for a reasonable price. read review that are constructed from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when selecting a crib. Make sure the crib is well-constructed and sturdy, with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Also, make sure it complies with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's about the width of a soda bottle) and no cutouts with decorative designs in the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or very tall--anything between can pose a strangulation risk.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, since they pose the risk of choking or suffocation. If you're planning to use a baby monitor, choose one that has a clear line of sight that doesn't block your view. Also, ensure that any cords are out of your baby's reach and are securely connected. Finally, never keep cushions, blankets or other positioners in the crib. These items can cause dangers of suffocation and choke and may be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Avoid using old cribs because they may have outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if a crib appears in excellent condition, the slats could be too wide or may be missing hardware. Old cribs may also be painted with lead or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features for a reasonable price, but it might be too much for those who want a simple design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, have similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.