Top 5
Recommended CribsWhen you purchase a crib you want it to be safe and durable. You should look for sturdy construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our favorite picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress height settings and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail that is included.
1. Sturdy
A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in the crib, so it is important to choose a crib that's sturdy enough. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close together, as this can cause suffocation. Also, look for a crib that does not feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these could pose an hazard for your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, select a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib with a minimal footprint, as it will make room in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib as it fulfills the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks great in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include an
infant cot bed rail and it doesn't have as many slat levels like other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, however it has a sleek design and meets almost all our requirements, such as being incredibly easy to put together. It only has three levels of mattress that is less than other cribs. If you plan on using the crib for several years it could be better suited to your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs don't require a full day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use straight out of the box, taking around 30 minutes to put together using the tools provided. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that saves you from having to buy 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 catch the
Baby Crib. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of hardware including screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them up securely, but not too much, as this can cause the wood to crack or tear threads. Look for a solid wood crib as it is thought to be safer than metal.
If you're looking at a crib that needs assembly, look for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list of required tools, including screws and washers.
Size is also crucial. A crib must be large enough for your child, but not so large that it can't fit through a standard opening. Be wary of cribs older than a year, as they might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those who want a modern, sleek crib. It has three mattress heights and is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed metal hardware than other choices on the list. Some customers also complained that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
If you're seeking a crib that will last until toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider a convertible crib if would like a crib that will last long into toddlerhood. This will free up space and money, as well as make it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.
Most cribs that transform into a full-size bed seem like a gimmick--you just take off the side and replace it with a larger rail--Oeuf designed a stylish, quality-made crib that transforms into an actual bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and is a great addition to any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle
cheap cot beds and dressers to create a seamless design.
This crib is more robust than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for a long time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to put together, even for those who aren't handy. It also has three adjustable mattress heights that means you can begin your child in a low, comfortable position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they get older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents seeking a crib that will be a part of a formal nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler rails that convert, eliminating the need to shop for these separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which may be an issue for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer the best 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 are found in other cribs, and also toxins like PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be made of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature a minimalist design. They are easy to assemble or convert, and some have a dresser or a changing tray that is attached. This can reduce space.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child changing into a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features like an integrated changing table or storage compartments. Regardless of their conversion capabilities they must be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and frequent cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coatings.
A fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed of sustainable birchwood and has no toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a great option 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 for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats made of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be connected to the side to create an even slope for infants with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when choosing a crib. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy with firmly-fitted and sturdy hardware. Verify that it complies with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having 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 extremely tall. Anything in between is the possibility of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. If you're planning to use a
baby cots on sale monitor, choose one with a clear line of sight that doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are out of your baby's reach and securely connected. Don't place any blankets, pillows or even positioners in the crib. These items can pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and can be kicked off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.
Avoid using old cribs, as they could have outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if a crib is in great condition, the slats might be too wide or it might be missing hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint, or unsafe bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a great price, but it could be too much for people 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 style but less bells & whistles.