Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that's both safe and durable. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
One of our most favored choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four mattress height settings and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in the crib, so it's important to choose a crib that's sturdy 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 focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough surfaces that could cause harm to your child.
Choose a solid frame and stay clear of slats that are too close together as this could increase the risk of death from suffocation. Also, you should look for a crib that doesn't include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, since these features can be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may impact your baby's breathing and sleeping. Instead, choose cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has a small footprint to minimize space and dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for your baby because it meets all of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could get in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in the majority of rooms. The only drawback is that it does not have a toddler rail or as many slats like other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. full report 's a bit more expensive than some of 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 also has only three mattress height levels, which is lower than other cribs. However, it's a good choice in the event that you plan to let your child use the crib for a while and would like it to last for longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cribs do not require a full day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. They are usually ready to use right out of the package, and take only 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some even have a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which will save you the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.
Of course, you should ensure that the crib is securely built with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Be sure to pay attention to the quality of hardware, particularly bolts and screws. Make sure they're securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which can result in broken threads or wood cracks. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos for those who aren't used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should also include a list of items, such as screws and washers.
Besides design, size is an additional aspect to consider. A crib must be large enough for your child, but not too big that it cannot pass through a standard opening. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs because older cribs may not meet current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those looking for a sleek, modern crib. It is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other options on the list. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which will last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that can be converted into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. Consider an adjustable crib if you would like a crib that will last well into the age of toddlerhood. This will help you save money and space, and make it easier to change the mattress as your child develops.
The majority of cribs that transform into a full-size bed feel like an afterthought - you simply take off the side and replace it with a wider rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and will look great in any nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with a matching trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless appearance.
This crib is more robust than other cribs in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for a long time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to assemble, even for those who don't have the skills. It also has three different mattress heights you can adjust, which allows you to start your baby in a low, comfortable position which is easy for parents to lift and raise as they get older.
This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents seeking a crib that will fit in a formal nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler rails that convert, eliminating the need to purchase the rails separately. The only downside is that it has some exposed hardware, which may be an issue for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are the best of both worlds, providing a safe sleep environment for your baby while promoting sustainable practices for the environment. Other cribs can contain harmful chemicals and emissions, as well as toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials and have an elegant design. They are easy to assemble or convert, and some have a dresser or changing tray that is attached. This can help save space.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs which can be converted into a toddler bed or a full-size bed. They might also come with additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. Regardless of their capabilities to convert they must be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.
A great example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and green.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which offers an elegant design and top-quality construction at a reasonable price. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality hardwood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for 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
Safety should be the primary priority when selecting a crib. Make sure the crib is strong and well-constructed with firmly-fitted and secure hardware. Make sure it is in compliance with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having 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 that is in between poses the danger of strangulation.
Likewise, keep all toys out of the crib as they can pose choking and dangers of suffocation. Select best crib for newborn for your baby that has a clear line-of-sight to ensure it does not hinder your view. Also, make sure that any cords are kept away from your baby's reach and are securely attached. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets or positioning devices in the crib. These can cause suffocation and choking risks and could be thrown off by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using old cribs since they could have construction elements that are outdated and can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, it may have slats that are too wide or be missing some hardware. Also, old cribs could contain lead-based paint or have loose and hazardous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it could be too much for those who want a simple design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 offer a similar design but without the bells and whistles.