Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You need a crib that is both safe and durable. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It comes with four different mattress sizes and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is sturdy because a baby will spend the majority of his or her time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on structural integrity. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that may have loose parts or rough areas which could cause harm to your child.
Find solid frames, and avoid slats that are too close as they could pose a danger of being suffocated. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts, or drop-sides because these can be dangerous to your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with tiny footprint to help minimize space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib, since it fulfills the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that could be snagged on clothing or toys and looks fantastic in a variety of rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't include a toddler rail and 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 some of the other cribs on this list, however it's stylish and is a perfect fit for our requirements, including being super-easy to assemble. It has only three mattress levels which is less than other cribs. If you plan to use the crib for a longer period of time it might be more suitable for your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs don't require the time of a whole day to put together unlike larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use out of the box, and take just about 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that saves the cost of buying separate pieces.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to a baby. Be sure to be aware of the quality of the hardware, specifically screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them securely but not too much because this could cause the wood to crack or strip the threads. Choose a solid wood crib since it is thought to be safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos for those who are not used to working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list with the essential tools, like screws and washers.
Size is also important. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your child but not too big that it can't fit through a standard opening. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs, as older cribs might not meet current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a sleek and modern crib. It comes with three mattress heights and is constructed of sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed hardware than other choices on this list, however, and some customers found it more difficult to set up than needed due to mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
In contrast to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have many "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors such as aesthetics, price and how long the crib lasts. Consider a convertible crib if you would like a crib that will last well into toddlerhood. This will free up space and money, as well as make it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.
While most cribs which convert into full-size beds are a last resort and you have to remove the side and replace it by a longer rail, Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and can be incorporated into almost every nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds or dressers for a seamless look.
The crib is much more sturdy than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for a long time. It's easy to assemble and durable even for parents who aren't handy. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your baby in a low position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
This convertible crib has more of a traditional design than the other two on this list, and is great for parents looking for a crib that will look elegant in a formal nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler-sized rails that convert, eliminating the need to buy the rails separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win situation. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. cot sales can contain harmful chemicals and emissions, and toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are made of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature simple designs. They are generally easy to assemble and convert, and a few have dressers or changing tables attached that can save space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child, converting to a daybed, toddler bed, or full-size bed. They might also come with additional features, like a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. They must be sturdy and durable to withstand frequent use and cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are made from non-toxic, organic materials and are low-VOC in their finish.
A fantastic example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and it has no toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that offers modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, offering a timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats of the crib are made of high-quality hardwood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when choosing a crib. Make sure the crib is built well and sturdy, with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. Also, ensure it is in line with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's about the width 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 extremely tall. Anything between is a strangulation risk.
Also ensure that all toys are kept away from the crib since they can pose choking and dangers of suffocation. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight so it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure that all cords are out of reach of your child and securely attached. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets or positioning devices in the crib. These items could pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and could be thrown away by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Beware of cribs that are older as they could be equipped with outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it may have slats that are too wide or be missing some hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may contain lead-based paint or have loose, dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it may be too much for people who want a minimal look. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 have a similar style but less bells and whistles.