Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You need 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
top ranked cribs picks. It includes four mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes an
infant cot bed rail.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is built to last because babies will spend the majority of their time in it. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that may have loose parts or rough spots that could cause harm to your child.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close together, as this can cause suffocation. Also, look for a crib that doesn't have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these can pose dangerous for your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, choose cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with smaller footprints to minimize space and dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for your baby because it meets all of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that can get stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have a toddler rail, and does not have as many slat levels as other cribs on this list.
Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, however it has a sleek design and meets nearly all of our requirements, such as being super-easy to assemble. It also only has three mattress height levels which is less than other
cribs, however it's a good choice if you're planning to have your baby use the crib for a few years and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Unlike some larger cribs, many modern mini cribs don't require an entire day to put together. In fact, most are ready to use right out of the box, and take just about 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from having to buy separate pieces.
Of course, you should always check that the crib is firmly constructed without gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. You should also pay attention to the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them properly, but not too much because this could cause the wood to break or strip threads. Find solid wood cribs as it is thought to be safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list with the necessary supplies, such as washers and screws.
Besides design, size is an additional consideration. A crib must be large enough for your child, but not so big that it cannot pass through a standard opening. Be wary of using hand-me-downs, as older cribs might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those who want a sleek, modern crib. It comes with three mattress height settings and is made of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed hardware than the other options on this list however, some users noted that it was more complicated to assemble than they needed to due to mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
In contrast to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have a lot of "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like aesthetics, cost and the length of time the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib that can last until the age of three and beyond, think about getting one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. This will save space and money, and make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
Most cribs that can be converted into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought--you simply take the side off and replace it with a larger rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and looks nice in almost any nursery. You can also bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless look.
The crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests, and it may use up more square feet of your nursery than the other cribs However, it's a gorgeous piece that can stand the test of time. It's easy to set up and sturdy even for parents who aren't handy. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your baby in a low position, which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they get older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional design than the other two cribs on this list, which is perfect for parents looking for a crib that looks stylish in a grand 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. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which may be an issue for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create the
best crib newborn of both worlds, providing an environment that is safe for your child while also promoting sustainable practices for the environment. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that can be found in other cribs, and also toxins like PVC, phthalate, MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and a lot of them are designed to reduce the impact on the environment. They are usually easy to build and convert, and some have dressers or changing tables attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child changing into a daybed, toddler bed, or full-size bed. Some cribs might have additional features like a built in changing tables or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand the rigors of daily use and clean. The best eco-friendly cribs are constructed from non-toxic, organic materials and have a low-VOC finish.
A fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for
Baby Cot low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for
Cot Sale parents who want an eco-friendly crib that has an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which comes with a timeless style and high-quality construction at a reasonable price. The sturdy slats made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies who have reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, security should be the primary priority. Be sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. 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 either aligned with the end panels of the crib or very tall. Anything in between poses the risk of strangulation.
