Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib, you want it to be safe and sturdy. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.
One of our most favored choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress height settings and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It also comes with an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in their crib, so it is important to choose a crib that is sturdy enough. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on structural integrity. Also, think about avoiding older cribs that might have loose parts or rough spots that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close to each other, since this can cause the child to suffocate. Also, you should look for a crib that does not include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, since these can pose a hazard to your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they could 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 save space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for babies because it meets all of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could be caught on toys or clothing and looks beautiful in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't include an infant rail and it doesn't have as many slat levels like other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list but it fulfills all our criteria and is easy to put together. It only has three levels of mattress which is less than other cribs. However, if you plan on using the crib for a longer period of time it might be better suited to your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
In contrast to larger cribs the majority of modern mini cribs don't require an entire day to put together. They're usually ready for use right out of the package, and take only 30 minutes to put together with the tools included. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that saves you from having to buy separate pieces.
Of course, you should always ensure that the crib is securely constructed 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 they're securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which could lead to cracked wood or stripped threads. Look for a solid wood crib as it is thought to be more secure than metal.
If you're looking at a crib that requires assembly, choose one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers provide an instructional video which can be useful for those who might not be accustomed to working with furniture components. A good manual will include a list with the necessary supplies, such as washers and screws.
Size is also crucial. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your child, but not so large that it can't be accessed through an ordinary doorway. Be cautious when using cribs that are older, as they may 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 made from sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It has more exposed metal hardware than other options that are on the list. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
If you're seeking a crib that will last through the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that converts into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. Consider an adjustable crib if you want a crib to last long into toddlerhood. This will save you money and space and will make it easier to change the mattress as your child develops.
The majority of cribs that transform into full-size beds are a last resort and you have to remove the side and replace it with an extended rail. Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be turned into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and looks nice in almost any nursery. You can also bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser to create a more seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it will last for years. It's simple to put together and durable, even for parents who aren't handy. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your child in a low position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, which is ideal for parents looking for a crib that will look stylish in a grand nursery. It is also simple to put together, 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 some people.
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. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that can be found in other cribs, and also harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. view publisher site -friendly cribs are generally made from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and many have a minimal design to minimize the impact on the environment. They are usually easy to assemble and convert, and a few include dressers or changing tables attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs that are designed to grow with your child and convert to a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features, such as a built in changing tables or storage compartments. Whatever their ability to convert they should be strong and durable to withstand regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made 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 from sustainable birchwood, and it has no harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib that offers modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which has timeless design and top-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats that are constructed of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope 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 secure hardware. Verify that it complies with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes less than 2.375 inches between the slats; no decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard, and corner posts that are flush with the panels at the end of the crib, or very tall. Anything in between poses a possibility of strangulation.
Also, keep all toys out of the crib as they can pose choking and risk of suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby that has a clear line-of-sight so it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are out of your child's reach and are securely attached. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets, or positioning devices in the crib. These items can pose the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.
Avoid using old cribs, as they could have outdated features that can cause injury. Even if a crib is in great condition, the slats may be too wide, or they 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 comes with a variety of features for a reasonable price, but it may be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 have a similar look but with fewer bells and whistles.