Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that is both safe and durable. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail included.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in their crib, which is why it's crucial to find one that is sturdy enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with 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 cause harm to your child.
Find solid frames, and avoid slats that are too close as this can pose a risk of suffocation. Also, search for a crib that doesn't feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these could pose dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Instead, select a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has a small footprint to minimize space and dust accumulation in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for babies because it meets all of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that could be snagged on clothing or toys and looks beautiful in all rooms. The only drawback is that it does not include a toddler rail, or as many slats as the other cribs listed in this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs, but it fulfills all our criteria and is easy to assemble. It has just three mattress height levels which is less than some other cribs, however it might be preferable in the event that you plan to let your child use the crib for a few years and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not require a full day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. Most are ready to use right out of the box and require only 30 minutes to put together with the tools included. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you the expense and hassle of buying separate pieces later.
You should always make sure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could catch babies. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of hardware such as screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them up securely, but not too much, as this can cause the wood to crack or strip threads. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.
Find cribs with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those who aren't used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list with the necessary supplies, like washers and screws.
Besides design, size is another factor to consider. A crib should be big enough for your baby but not so big that it can't be accessed through an ordinary doorway. Be cautious about using cribs that are older, because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those who want a modern, sleek crib. It comes with three mattress heights and is made of durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed metal hardware than other options on the list. Some users also noted that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
In contrast to car seats and strollers cribs aren't equipped with a lot of "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like design, cost, and how long the crib will last. If you're looking for a crib that will last into the age of three and beyond, think about purchasing one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will reduce your costs and space and will make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of cribs that transform into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought - you simply take the side off and replace it with a larger rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and can be incorporated into almost any nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser for a more seamless appearance.
The crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests. It may use up more square feet of your nursery than the smaller options However, it's a gorgeous piece that can stand the test of time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to put together even for those who aren't handy. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights which means you can start your child in a low position that is easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they grow older.
This crib is more of a traditional design than the other two on this list, which is great for parents who want a crib that looks nice in a stately nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, which eliminates the need to shop for these separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are the best of both worlds, providing an environment that is safe for your baby while encouraging sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful chemicals and emissions, and harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials and have a minimalist design. They are usually easy to build and change, and some include dressers or changing tables attached that can save space in the nursery.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be transformed into a toddler bed or full-sized bed. They could also include additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand the rigors of daily usage and cleaning. Mini Cot Bed eco-friendly cribs are made from non-toxic, organic materials and have a low-VOC finish.
Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with 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, with timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable cost. Its sturdy slats, made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be connected to the side to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the first priority when selecting the right crib. Make sure that the crib is sturdy and well-built, with firmly fitted and sturdy hardware. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or footboard, and corner posts that are aligned with the ends of the crib or extremely tall. Anything that is in between poses the risk of strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, since they pose choking or suffocation risks. If you want to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one that is clear of sight, so it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are not within your baby's reach and are securely attached. Do not place blankets, pillows, or positioners inside the crib. These items can pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and could be thrown off by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using old cribs since they could have construction elements that are outdated and can cause injuries. Even if the crib appears in excellent condition, it may have slats that are not wide or lack hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a great price, but it may 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 Collby 4-in 1 have a similar look but without the bells and whistles.