Top 5
Recommended CribsWhen you purchase a crib, you want it to be safe and sturdy. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
One of our top picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It includes four mattress heights and is made out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It also comes with an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is strong because babies will spend the majority of his or her time in it. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough areas which could hurt your child.
Find a solid frame and stay clear of slats that are too close together, as they could pose a risk of being suffocated. Also, look for a crib that does not have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these could pose an hazard for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. 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 dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for babies because it meets the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in the majority of 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 crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, but it meets all of our criteria and is simple to put together. It has only three mattress levels which is less than other cribs. If you plan to use the crib for several years, it may be more suitable for your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
In contrast to larger cribs the majority of modern mini cribs don't require a full day to assemble. They're usually ready for use right out of the box and take only 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some even have an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which saves you the expense and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.
Of course, you must ensure that the crib is firmly built without gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Also, be attentive to the quality of hardware, especially screws and bolts. Make sure they're tightened securely however, don't over-tighten them, which could result in stripped threads or cracking wood. Find a solid wood crib since it is considered to be safer than metal.
Find cribs with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list of required tools, including washers and
cot sales screws.
The size of the crib is also important. A crib must be large enough for your child, but not too big that it will not fit through a standard opening. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs, as older cribs may not meet 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 made from durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It has more exposed metal hardware than the other options on the market. Some customers also complained that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have many "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors such as aesthetics, price and the length of time the crib will last. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib to last long into toddlerhood. This will save space and money, as well as make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
Although most cribs that convert into full-size beds are considered an afterthought they can be removed from the side and replace it with a wider rail. Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be converted into bed frames. It's 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 substantial than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it will last for a long time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to put together, even for those who aren't handy. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your baby 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, and is great for parents who want an option that looks stylish in a grand nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, which eliminates the need to purchase these separately. The only drawback is that it does have some exposed hardware, which may be an issue for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be a win-win situation. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are present in other cribs, and also harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually made of solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and many have a minimal design to reduce the impact on the environment. They are simple to put together or convert, and some come with a dresser or changing tray that is attached. This can help save space.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to adapt to your child's needs and convert to an infant bed, daybed, or full-size bed. They might also come with additional features, like a built-in changing table or storage compartments. Whatever their conversion capabilities, they should be sturdy and durable enough to withstand frequent use and frequent cleaning. The
best cot newborn eco-friendly cribs are made of organic and non-toxic materials. They also have a low-VOC finish.
Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and is eco-friendly.
Namesake is another option that offers an elegant design and top-quality construction at a reasonable cost. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for 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 with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the first priority when selecting the crib. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. 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 flush with the end panels of the
best crib for newborn or very tall. Anything in between is a possibility of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they can pose the risk of choking or suffocation. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight so that it doesn't hinder your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of reach of your child and securely anchored. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These can lead to dangers of suffocation and choke, and can be pushed or kicked by your child.
Also, do not use old cribs because they could have construction elements that are outdated and can cause injuries. Even if the crib appears in good condition,
cots to tots it may have slats that are not wide or lack hardware. Additionally, old cribs may contain lead-based paint or have loose, dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features for a reasonable price, but it might be too much for those who want 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 style but less bells & whistles.