Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be safe and durable. Look for solid construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our most favored picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress height settings and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in their crib, so it is important to choose a crib that is strong 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 emphasize the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough surfaces which could hurt your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close to each other, since this can cause suffocation. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts or drop-sides as these features may be harmful to your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has a small footprint to minimize space and dust build-up in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib as it is a good fit for the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that can be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in all rooms. It's only downside is that it does not include a toddler rail, or as many slats like other cribs on this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more costly than other options on this list, however it's sleek and stylish and meets nearly all of our requirements, including being incredibly easy to put together. It has just three mattress heights, which is less than some other cribs. However, it could be a better option 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
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, the majority of modern mini cribs don't require an entire day to put together. They are ready to use right out of the box, taking just about 30 minutes to assemble with the included tools. Some even have a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which eliminates the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
Of course, you should always ensure that the crib is properly assembled with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of the hardware including screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them securely, but not too much, as this can cause the wood to crack or strip threads. Find a solid wood crib since it is believed to be safer than metal.
If you're considering a crib that needs assembly, search for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos that provide instruction which can be useful for those who may not be used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list of required tools, including screws and washers.
Size is also crucial. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your child, but not so big that it won't fit through an ordinary doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs might not meet the latest safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those looking for a modern, sleek crib. It has three mattress height settings and is constructed from sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other choices on the market. Some users also noted that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
If you're seeking a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that can be converted into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib that lasts long into the age of toddlerhood. This will reduce your costs as well as space, making it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
Although most cribs that convert into full-size beds are a last resort they can be removed from the side and replace it by a longer rail, Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be transformed into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and can be incorporated into almost any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.
The crib is much more sturdy than other cribs in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it will last for years. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to put together, even for those who aren't handy. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your child in a low position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.
This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents looking for a crib to be a part of an elegant nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, eliminating the need to shop for those separately. The only drawback is that it does have some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create the best of both worlds, providing a safe sleep environment for your child while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful chemicals and emissions as well as toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and many have a minimal design to reduce the environmental impact. They are generally easy to build and convert, and a few include dressers or changing tables attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into an infant bed or a full-sized bed. Some cribs may have extra features like a built in changing tables or storage compartments. They should be durable and strong enough to withstand the rigors of daily use and cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coating.
best cot newborn cots4totsuk of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood and has no toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and also eco-friendly.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which offers timeless design and top-quality construction at an affordable price. The sturdy slats made from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. 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
When selecting a crib, security should be the primary priority. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy with firmly-fitted and secured hardware. Also, ensure it complies with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's approximately the size 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 very tall--anything in between poses a strangulation risk.
Additionally ensure that all toys are kept away from the crib since they can pose choking and suffocation hazards. If you're considering using baby monitors, select one that is clear of sight that does not block your view. Also, ensure that any cords are out of your baby's reach and securely connected. Also, do not keep cushions, blankets or other baby cribs with positioners. These items could pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and could be thrown off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using older cribs since they could contain outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it may have slats that are too wide or be missing some hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1, sport the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.