Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be safe and sturdy. You should look for sturdy construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our top picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four mattress heights and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is sturdy because a baby will spend the majority of his or her time in it. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, since this can cause the child to suffocate. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides, as these features may be dangerous to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could affect your baby’s breathing and sleep. Instead, select a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose the crib with the smallest footprint, since it can make room in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a solid crib, since it is a good fit for the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in most rooms. The only downside is that it does not have a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is easy to assemble. It has just three mattress heights, which is lower than other cribs, but it might be preferable if you're planning to have your child use the crib for a few years and would like it to last for longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
In contrast to larger cribs most modern mini cribs do not require a full day to assemble. They are ready to use straight out of the box, and take approximately 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that saves the cost of buying separate pieces.
Of course, you should always ensure that the crib is properly assembled without gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Also, be attentive to the quality of hardware, especially screws and bolts. Make sure they're securely tightened, but don't over-tighten them, which could lead to cracked wood or stripped threads. Choose solid wood cribs as it is believed to be safer than metal.
Find cribs with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list with the necessary supplies, like washers and screws.
The size of the crib is also important. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your child, but not too big that it will not fit through a standard doorway. Be cautious about using cribs older than a year, as they may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It is made from sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It has more exposed metal hardware than the other options on the list. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't consider other factors like aesthetics, cost and the length of time the crib lasts. Consider a convertible crib if you would like a crib that will last long into toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, making it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.
The majority of cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed feel like an afterthought - you simply take off the side and replace it with a larger rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and will look great in every nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds and dressers for a seamless look.
Mini Cot Bed is more substantial than others in our tests. It could take up more square footage of your nursery than the less expensive options However, it's a gorgeous piece that will stand up to the test of time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to assemble, even for those who don't have the skills. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to begin your baby in a seated position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
This crib is more of a traditional design than the other two on this list, which is great for parents looking for a crib that looks elegant in a formal nursery. It is also simple to assemble, and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase rails separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for certain.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are an ideal solution for everyone. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions, and toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and most are minimalist in design to minimize the environmental impact. They are easy to assemble and convert, and some have an adjustable dresser or changing tray that is attached. This can help save space.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs which can be converted into an infant bed or a full-sized bed. Some cribs might have additional features like a built in changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their capabilities to convert they should be strong and durable to withstand regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic, non-toxic materials and have a low-VOC finish.
Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed of sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a great choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and is green.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which comes with an elegant design and top-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats that are constructed from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib also features an optional reflux leg that can be attached 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 crib. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built with well-fitting and secured hardware. Also, ensure it meets the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's about the width of a soda bottle) and no cutouts with decorative designs on the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or extremely tall. Anything in between poses the risk of strangulation.
Likewise, keep all toys out of the crib as they can pose choking and suffocation hazards. Choose a baby monitor that is in a clear line of sight so it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are not within your baby's reach and securely attached. Do not place blankets, pillows or positioners inside the crib. These items could pose the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown away by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.
Also, do not use old cribs since they could contain outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, the slats might be too wide or it might be missing hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may contain lead-based paint or have loose and dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but could be too much for those who prefer a minimal design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 have a similar look but without the bells and whistles.