Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be secure and sturdy. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It comes with four mattress height settings and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail included.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in their crib, so it's important to choose a crib that's solid enough. Find cribs that comply with safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on structural integrity. Also, you should avoid older cribs that might have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.
Look for a solid frame and avoid slats which are too close together as this could increase the risk of death from suffocation. Also, search for a crib that doesn't have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these can pose an hazard for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may influence your baby's breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib that has a small footprint, as it will save space in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib, since it fulfills the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in the majority of rooms. The only drawback is that it doesn't include a toddler rail, or as many slats as the other cribs in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list, but it meets all of our criteria and is easy to assemble. It also only has three mattress height levels which is less than other cribs, however it might be preferable when you're planning to let your child use the crib for a few years and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, most modern mini cribs do not require a full day to assemble. In fact, most are ready to use out from the box, and require around 30 minutes to put together using the tools provided. Some even have built-in toddler bed conversion kit which eliminates the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later.
Of course, you must always check that the crib is properly built without gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. You should also be attentive to the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them properly, but not too much because this could cause the wood to break or strip threads. Look for a solid wood crib since it is thought to be more secure than metal.
Find cribs with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial that can be helpful for those who may not be familiar with furniture components. A good guide should also include a list of items, such as washers and screws.
Beyond design, size is another factor to consider. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your child but not too big that it cannot fit through a standard opening. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs because older cribs may not meet the latest safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those looking for a modern, sleek crib. It comes with three mattress heights and is made of durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed 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 looking for a crib that will last until the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that converts into a daybed or a full-size bed. If Baby beds seeking a crib that will last into toddlerhood and beyond, consider purchasing one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will free up space and money, making it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of cribs that transform into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought - you simply remove the side and replace it with a larger rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and can be incorporated into almost every nursery. You can also bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for an even more seamless appearance.
This crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery than the less expensive options, but it's a beautiful piece that can stand the test of time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to put together even for those who aren't skilled. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to begin your child in a seated position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
This convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents who are looking for a crib to fit into an elegant nursery. It is also simple to assemble, and comes with toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase rails separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering an environment that is safe for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that can be found in other cribs, as well as toxins like PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them are minimalist in design to minimize the impact on the environment. They are typically easy to assemble and convert, and a few have dressers or changing tables attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to adapt to your child's needs changing into a daybed, toddler bed, or full-size bed. They may also have additional features, like a built-in changing table or storage compartments. They should be durable and strong enough to withstand repeated usage and cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are made of organic, non-toxic materials and come with a low-VOC finish.
A fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma 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 option for parents who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and also green.
Namesake is another option, with an elegant design and top-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats of the crib are made of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When you are choosing a crib security should be the primary priority. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy, with firmly fitted and sturdy hardware. Also, make sure it complies 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 container) and no cutouts with decorative designs on the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with end panels or very tall--anything between can pose a strangulation risk.
Keep all toys away from the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. Select a monitor for your baby that has a clear line-of-sight to ensure it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of reach of your baby and securely attached. Finally, never keep cushions, blankets or other positioning devices in the crib. These can lead to choking and suffocation risks and may be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Also, avoid using old cribs since they could contain outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it could have slats which are too wide or be missing some hardware. Old cribs may also have lead-based paint or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it might be too much for those who want a simple design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, sport the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.