The Evolution Of Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that's both safe and durable. Look for solid construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It has four different mattress sizes and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is strong since a baby will spend most of his or her time in it. Find cribs that comply with safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on structural integrity. Also, consider avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots which could cause harm to your little one.
Look for a solid frame and stay clear of slats that are too close together, as this can pose a danger of suffocation. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides, because these can be dangerous to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could influence your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose the crib with the smallest footprint, since it can reduce the space in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy baby crib because it meets the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in the majority of rooms. The only downside is that it does not have a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs listed in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's a bit more costly than the other options on this list, but it has a sleek design and meets almost all our requirements, including being super-easy to assemble. It only has three mattress levels, which is fewer than other cribs. If you plan to use the crib for a long time it might be better suited to your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, many modern mini cribs don't require a full day to assemble. They are usually ready to use straight out of the package, and require only 30 minutes to put together with the tools included. Some even have built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you the expense and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.
Of course, you must always ensure that the crib is properly built with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Be sure to be aware of the quality of the hardware, specifically screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them up securely but not too much, as this can cause the wood to crack or strip threads. Choose a solid wood crib as it is believed to be safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos that provide instruction, which is helpful for those who may not be accustomed to working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list with the essential tools, like washers and screws.
Besides design, size is an additional aspect to consider. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your baby, but not so large that it can't be accessed through a standard doorway. Be cautious about using cribs older than a year, because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those who want a modern, sleek crib. It is made from durable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It's got more exposed hardware than the other choices on this list, however, some users have complained that it was more difficult to set up than they needed to because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which will last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that converts into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib that lasts long into toddlerhood. This will free up space and money, and make it easier to replace the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of cribs that convert into full-size beds are considered an afterthought and you have to remove the side and replace it with an extended rail. Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be converted into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and looks nice in almost any nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds and dressers for a seamless look.
This crib is a little larger than the other cribs in our tests. It could take up more square feet of your nursery than some of the less expensive options However, it's a gorgeous piece that will stand the test of time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to put together even for those who don't have the skills. It also has three different mattress heights that can be adjusted, which means you can start your baby off in a low, comfortable position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they grow older.
This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents looking for a crib to be a part of the formal nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, which eliminates the need to purchase those separately. The only downside is that it has some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for certain.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win scenario, providing a safe sleep environment for your baby while encouraging sustainable environmental practices. 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 are usually constructed from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and most are minimalist in design to reduce the environmental impact. They are usually simple to put together and convert, and a few have dressers or changing tables attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs designed to adapt to your child's needs and convert to a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs might have additional features such as a built in changing tables or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand frequent use and clean. The best eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic, non-toxic materials and are low-VOC in their 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 for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents who want an eco-friendly crib that offers modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, offering a timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable cost. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality hardwood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be affixed to the side to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when choosing the crib. Make sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes: less than 2.375 inches between the slats; no decorative cutouts in the headboard or the footboard, and corner posts that are either in line with the ends of the crib, or very tall. Anything in between poses a possibility of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, since they pose choking or suffocation risks. Select a monitor for your baby with a clear line of sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of reach of your child and securely attached. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets, or positioning devices in the crib. These can lead to dangers of suffocation and choke and may be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Also, avoid using older cribs since they could contain outdated features that could result in injuries. Even if a crib is in great condition, the slats could be too wide or it might be lacking hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may contain lead-based paint or have loose and hazardous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist look. cheap cot bed like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 offer a similar design but with fewer bells and whistles.