Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that's both safe and durable. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.
One of our top picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress heights and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. best cot newborn includes a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is sturdy since a baby will spend a lot of his or her time in it. Find cribs that comply with the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on structural integrity. Also, think about avoiding older cribs that may have loose parts or rough spots which could cause harm to your child.
Choose solid frames and stay clear of slats that are too close together, as this can pose a danger of being suffocated. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts, or drop-sides as these features may be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could affect your baby’s breathing and sleep. Instead, choose cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with tiny footprint to help minimize space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy baby crib because it meets the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in the majority of rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have a toddler rail, and does not have the same number of slat levels like other cribs on this list.
Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more costly than other cribs on this list, however it has a sleek design and meets nearly all of our criteria, including being super-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 while and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not need an entire day of assembly, unlike some larger cribs. They are ready to use out from the box, and require approximately 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some even have built-in toddler bed conversion kit which will save you the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.
Of course, you should always check that the crib is securely assembled with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Be sure to be attentive to the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them up securely but not excessively as this can cause the wood to crack or strip the threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that needs assembly, look for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those who are not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list with the essential tools, like screws and washers.
In addition to the design, size is a different factor to consider. A crib must be large enough to accommodate your child but not so big that it cannot fit through a standard opening. Be cautious when using cribs older than a year, as they might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic choice for those who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It comes with three mattress heights and is constructed of durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other choices that are on the list. Some customers also complained that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs aren't equipped with a lot of "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like design, cost and how long the crib lasts. Consider an adjustable crib if you would like a crib that will last until toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, making it easier to replace the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs that can be converted into a bed of a larger size feel like a gimmick--you just take off the side and replace it with a wider rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and can be incorporated into almost every nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless appearance.
The crib is more substantial than others in our tests, and it could take up more square footage of your nursery than some of the smaller options however, it's a stunning piece that will stand up to the test of time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to put together, even for those who aren't handy. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your baby in a low position, which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.
This crib is more of a traditional design than the other two on this list, which is great for parents looking for an option that looks nice in a stately nursery. It is also simple to assemble, and comes with toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy the rails separately. The only drawback is that it does have some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for certain.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be a win-win situation. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions, and toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally made of solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and most are designed to minimize the environmental impact. They are generally easy to assemble and change, and some have dressers or changing tables attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to adapt to your child's needs, converting to an infant bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs might have additional features, such as a built in changing tables or storage compartments. No matter what their capabilities to convert they should be strong and durable to withstand regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are made from organic and non-toxic materials. They also are low-VOC in their finish.
A great example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made 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 looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and is environmentally friendly.
Namesake is another option, with timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. Its sturdy slats, made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. nursery cots comes with 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 choosing a crib, safety should be your top priority. Make sure that the crib is sturdy and well-built with well-fitting and secure hardware. 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 footboard, and corner posts that are flush with the end panels of the crib or very tall. Anything in between poses a possibility of strangulation.
Additionally ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib as they could pose choking and dangers of suffocation. If you want to use a baby monitor, choose one that is clear of sight, so it does not block your view. Also, make sure any cords are kept away from your baby's reach and securely attached. Don't keep any pillows, blankets, or positioning devices in the crib. These can pose dangers of suffocation and choke, and can be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Do not use cribs that are old, as they could have outdated features that could cause injury. Even if the crib appears in excellent condition, it could have slats that are not wide or may be missing hardware. Additionally, old cribs may have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a low price, but it could be too much for people who want a simple design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 have the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.