Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that is both safe and durable. Look for solid construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our favorite picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress heights and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is built to last because a baby will spend the majority of his or her time in it. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.
Find a solid frame and stay clear of slats that are too close together, as this can pose a danger of suffocation. Also, look for a crib that does not include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, as these could pose a hazard to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may influence your baby's breathing and sleeping. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Select a crib with a smaller footprints to minimize space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib because it meets the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks great in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail and doesn't have as many slat levels as some other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's a bit more costly than other options on this list, but it's stylish and is a perfect fit for our requirements, including being super-easy to assemble. It also has only three mattress height levels, which is less than other cribs, however it could be a better option if you're planning to have your child use the crib for a few years and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cribs don't require a full day of assembly, unlike some larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use straight out of the box, and take around 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some even come with built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which will save you the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.
You should always make sure that the crib is assembled properly and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could catch the baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of the hardware, especially bolts and screws. Be sure to tighten them up securely, but not too much because this could cause the wood to break or strip the threads. Look for a solid wood crib as it is thought to be more secure than metal.
Find cribs that come with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list with the necessary items, such as washers and screws.
The size of the crib is also important. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your child, but not so large that it can't be accessed through the standard doorway. Be cautious when 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 option for parents looking for a sleek and modern crib. It is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It's got more exposed hardware than other choices on this list, however, some users noted that it was more difficult to set up than necessary due to the mislabeled components and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats, cribs don't have a lot of "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like design, cost and how long the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib that will last into toddlerhood and beyond, think about getting one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. This will help save space and money, making it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.
Although most cribs that transform into full-size beds are considered an afterthought they can be removed from the side and replace it with an extended rail. Oeuf has designed a stylish crib that can be transformed into bed frames. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and looks great in any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.
This crib is more robust than other cribs we've tested tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for a long time. It's easy to set up and sturdy even for parents who don't have the skills. It also has three adjustable mattress heights that means you can begin your baby in a low position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they get older.
This crib is more of a traditional style than the other two on this list, and is great for parents looking for an option that looks elegant in a formal nursery. It is also easy to assemble, and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy the rails separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be a win-win for everyone. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that can be found in other cribs, and also harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed from solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature simple designs. They are simple to put together or convert, and some include an adjustable dresser or changing tray built-in. This can help save space.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs designed to adapt to your child's needs changing into an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They may also have additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. Whatever their capabilities to convert they should be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib with a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, offering an elegant design and top-quality construction for 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 is equipped with an reflux foot that can be attached to the side to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, security should be the primary priority. Make sure that the crib is strong and well-constructed with well-fitting and secured 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 the footboard, and corner posts that are in line with the ends of the crib or very tall. best crib for newborn in between poses the risk of strangulation.
Likewise ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib as they could pose choking and dangers of suffocation. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight to ensure it does not interfere with your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of the reach of your child and are securely anchored. Don't keep any cushions, blankets or other baby cribs with positioners. These can lead to dangers of suffocation and choke and may be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using older cribs since they could contain outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if a crib is in excellent condition, the slats may 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 bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but may be too much to those who prefer a minimalist style. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 have the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.