Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be secure and sturdy. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our most favored picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress heights and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is built to last since a baby will spend most of his or her time in it. Find cribs that comply with safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough areas which could hurt your child.
Find solid frames and avoid slats which are too close together, as this could increase the danger of being suffocated. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts or drop-sides since these options could be dangerous to your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose a crib that has a small footprint, since it will reduce the space in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for babies because it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing, and it looks great in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't have a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, but it fulfills all our criteria and is simple to put together. It also only has three mattress height levels, which is lower than other cribs. However, it could be a better option when you're planning to let your child use the crib for a while and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Unlike some larger cribs, many modern mini cribs don't require a full day to assemble. They're usually ready for use right from the box, and only take 30 minutes to put together with 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.
Always ensure that the crib is assembled properly and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could snag babies. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of the hardware including screws and bolts. Make sure they're securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which could result in cracked wood or stripped threads. Choose solid wood cribs as it is considered to be safer than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that needs assembly, search for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos for those who are not used to working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list of necessary supplies, such as washers and screws.
Besides the design, size is a different consideration. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not so big that it won't fit through an ordinary doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs because older cribs may not meet current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a modern and sleek crib. It comes with three mattress height settings and is constructed from durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed metal hardware than other options on the list. Some users also noted that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that will last through the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that can be converted into a daybed or a full-size bed. If you're seeking a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about getting one that converts into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will reduce your costs as well as space, making it easier to switch out the mattress as your child develops.
While most cribs that transform into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought--you simply take the side off and replace it with a longer rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and will look great in any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a seamless design.
This crib is larger than the other cribs 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 the test of time. It's simple to put together and durable, even for parents who aren't handy. It also comes with three different mattress heights that can be adjusted that allows you to start your child in a low position that's easy for caregivers to lift and raise as they get older.
This convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's a great choice for parents who are looking for a crib that can fit in a formal nursery. It is also simple to assemble, and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase the rails separately. The only drawback is that it does have some exposed hardware, which might be an issue for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering an environment that is safe for your child, while also promoting sustainable practices for the environment. Other cribs can contain harmful emissions and chemicals, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them are designed to reduce the impact on the environment. cot for sale are generally simple to put together and convert, and some include dressers or changing tables attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs which can be transformed into a toddler bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features such as an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. Regardless of their capabilities to convert, they should be sturdy 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 excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and green.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which has an elegant design and top-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats of the crib are made of high-quality hardwood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be affixed to the side to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When selecting a crib, security should be the primary priority. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy with well-fitting and secure hardware. Also, ensure it is in line with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's approximately the size of a soda can) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs on the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or are very tall. Anything in between poses a strangulation risk.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they can pose dangers of choking or even suffocation. If you're planning to use baby monitors, select one with a clear line of sight that doesn't block your view. Also, ensure that any cords are not within your baby's reach and are securely connected. Also, do not keep cushions, blankets or other baby cribs with positioners. These items can cause choking and suffocation risks and could be pushed or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using old cribs because they could have construction elements that are outdated and can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, it could have slats which are too wide or lack hardware. Additionally, old cribs may have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it could be too much for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1 have similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.