Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib, you want it to be secure and durable. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.
One of our top picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It includes four mattress sizes and is made out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail included.
1. Sturdy
A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in their crib, which is why it's crucial to choose a crib that's solid enough. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on structural integrity. Also, you should avoid older cribs that might have loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your little one.
Find solid frames and avoid slats which are too close as they could pose a risk of suffocation. Also, search for a crib that does not feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these features can be an hazard for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could impact your baby's breathing and sleeping. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select the crib with the smallest footprint, as it will reduce the space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a solid crib as it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could be snagged on clothing or toys and looks fantastic in all rooms. The only drawback is that it doesn't include a toddler rail or as many slats like other cribs listed in this list.
Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs on this list, however it's stylish and meets almost all our requirements, including being super-easy to assemble. It only has three mattress levels that is less than some 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 some of the larger cribs. They are ready to use right out of the box, and take approximately 30 minutes to assemble with the tools provided. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that saves you from having to buy separate pieces.
You should always make sure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could snag babies. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of hardware including screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them up securely but not excessively as this can cause the wood to crack or strip the threads. Look for a solid wood crib as it is believed to be more secure than metal.
Look for cribs that have easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos that provide instruction which can be useful for those who might not be used to working with furniture parts. A good guide will also include a list of necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.
The size of the crib is also important. A crib should be big enough for your child but not so big that it will not fit through an opening of a standard size. Be cautious about using cribs that are older as they might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great choice for those who are looking for a sleek and modern crib. It is constructed from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It has more exposed metal hardware than the other options on the market. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have a lot of "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't consider other factors like design, cost and the length of time the crib will last. Consider an adjustable crib if you want a crib that lasts well into toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, as well as make it easier to replace the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs that can be converted into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought--you simply remove the side and replace it with a wider rail--Oeuf designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and looks nice in almost any nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for an even more seamless look.
This crib is a little more substantial than others in our tests. It could occupy more square feet of your nursery than some of the other cribs However, it's a gorgeous piece that can stand the test of time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to put together even for those who aren't skilled. It also has three different mattress heights you can adjust, which allows you to start your child in a low spot that is easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they grow older.
This crib is more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, and is ideal for parents looking for an option that looks elegant in a formal nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, which eliminates the need to purchase those separately. The only drawback is that it has some exposed hardware, which could be a problem for certain.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be an ideal solution for everyone. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are present in other cribs, as well as toxic substances like PVC, phthalate MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and many have a minimal design to reduce the impact on the environment. They are typically easy to assemble and convert, and some come with dressers or changing tables attached that can save space in the nursery.
best infant cribs offer eco-friendly cribs which can be transformed into an infant bed or a full-size bed. They could also include additional features, like an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They should be durable and strong enough to withstand repeated usage and cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coatings.
An excellent example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood and is free of harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that has a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option that offers timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable cost. The sturdy slats that are constructed from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib also comes with 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 selecting a crib. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built with well-fitting and secure hardware. Also, make sure it is in line with 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 can) and no cutouts with decorative designs in the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or extremely tall. Anything between is the risk of strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, since they pose choking or suffocation risks. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight so that it doesn't hinder your view. Also, make sure any cords are not within your baby's reach and are securely connected. Never place pillows, blankets or positioners inside the crib. These items can pose suffocation and choking risks and can be kicked off by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Also, do not use old cribs since they could have outdated construction features that could result in injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, the slats may be too wide or it could be lacking hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint, or unsafe bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it may be too much to those who prefer a minimal look. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 offer a similar design but with fewer bells and whistles.