Top 5
Recommended CribsYou need a crib that is sturdy and safe. You should look for sturdy construction
cots and tots slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our top picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress heights and is constructed out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail that is included.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in the crib, so it is important to find one that is solid enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close to each other, since this can cause suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts, or drop-sides since these options could be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could impact your baby's breathing and sleep. 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 all of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that can get stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't have a toddler rail and it doesn't 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 more expensive than the other cribs, but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is simple to put together. It also only has three mattress height levels which is less than other cribs. However, it's a good choice if you're planning to have your child use the crib for a few years and would like it to last for longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cribs do not require an entire day of assembly unlike larger cribs. They're ready to use right out of the box, taking around 30 minutes to assemble with the included tools. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit, which will save you the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later.
You should always make sure that the crib is assembled properly and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could snag babies. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of the hardware such as screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them up securely but not too much as this can cause the wood to crack or strip threads. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those who aren't used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list with the required tools, including screws and washers.
Size is also crucial. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your child, but not too big that it won't fit through a standard doorway. Be cautious about using cribs that are older, mini cot beds (
www.parusplus.com.ua) because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those looking for a modern, sleek crib. It is made from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other options on the market. Some customers also complained that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with many "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't consider other factors such as aesthetics, price, and how long the crib lasts. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib to last long into the age of toddlerhood. This will help you save money and space, and make it easier to swap out the mattress as your child grows.
Most cribs that transform into a full-size bed seem like a gimmick--you just take off the side and replace it with a longer rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek high-quality crib that can transform into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and can be incorporated into almost any nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with a matching trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless appearance.
This crib is more substantial than others in our tests, and it could occupy more square feet of your nursery than some of the smaller options, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand up to the test of time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to put together even for those who don't have the skills. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights which means you can start your baby off in a low position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they grow older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's a great choice for parents who are seeking a crib that will fit in a formal nursery. It is also simple to assemble, and comes with toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase rails separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win scenario, providing an environment that is safe for your child while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful chemicals and emissions as well as harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and most have a minimal design to minimize the impact on the environment. They are easy to assemble, convert and some even come with a dresser or a changing tray attached. This can reduce space.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to adapt to your child's needs changing into an infant bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They should be sturdy and durable to withstand repeated use and clean. The
best cot beds eco-friendly baby cribs are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood and has no toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib that has an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which offers an elegant design and top-quality construction at an affordable price. The sturdy slats that are constructed from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be connected to the side to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the primary priority when choosing a crib. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. Make sure it is in compliance with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or the footboard, and corner posts that are either aligned with the end panels of the crib or very tall. Anything that is in between poses a risk of strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, since they pose the risk of choking or suffocation. If you're considering using a baby monitor, make sure you choose one with a clear line of sight, so it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure that all cords are out of the reach of your baby and securely anchored. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets, or baby cribs with positioners. These can cause suffocation and choking risks and could be thrown away by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Also, do not use old cribs since they could contain outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it could have slats that are too wide or be missing some hardware. Old cribs may also have lead-based paint or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimal look. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 have a similar look but less bells & whistles.