Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib, you want it to be safe and durable. You should look for sturdy construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It includes four mattress heights and is constructed of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail included.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is built to last because babies will spend most of their time in it. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close together, as this can cause the child to suffocate. 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 affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Instead, opt for cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select a crib with a minimal footprint, since it can reduce the space in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy crib, as it meets the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that can get caught on clothing or toys. It also looks great in the majority of rooms. It's only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail or as many slats as the other cribs in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list but it meets all of our criteria and is easy to put together. It also has only three mattress height levels, which is less than other cribs, but it's a good choice when you're planning to let your child use the crib for a few years and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not require the time of a whole day to put together unlike larger cribs. They are usually ready to use straight out of the box and require only 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that saves you from having to buy separate pieces.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could catch babies. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of the hardware, especially bolts and screws. Be sure that they are securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which can lead to cracked wood or stripped threads. Find a solid wood crib as it is considered to be more secure than metal.
Find cribs that come with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide an instructional video which can be useful for those who might not be accustomed to working with furniture components. A good guide should include a list of items, such as washers and screws.
Size is also important. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not too big that it can't be accessed through the standard doorway. Be cautious when using cribs that are older, because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic option for parents who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It comes with three mattress height settings and is constructed of sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other choices that are on the list. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
If you're seeking a crib that can last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that can be converted into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider an adjustable crib if you want a crib to last well into toddlerhood. This will save you money as well as space, making it easier to swap out the mattress as your child develops.
great crib of cribs that convert into a full-size bed seem like a gimmick--you just remove the side and replace it with a longer rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek, quality-made crib that transforms into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds or dressers for a seamless look.
The crib is more substantial than others in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery than some of the other cribs However, it's a gorgeous piece that can stand the test of time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to put together even for those who aren't handy. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to begin your child in a low position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are seeking a crib that will fit into the formal nursery. It is also simple to set up and comes with toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy the rails separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win situation. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful chemicals and emissions and harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are made of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature a minimalist design. They are usually easy to assemble and change, and some come with dressers or changing tables attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to adapt to your child's needs changing into an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They could also include additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. Whatever their conversion capabilities they should be strong and durable to withstand regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for babies are made of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.
An excellent example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and is free of harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents who want an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and also eco-friendly.
Namesake is another option that offers timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable cost. 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 affixed to the side to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. cheap cots
When choosing a crib, safety should be your top priority. Be sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. Also, ensure it meets the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's approximately the size of a soda bottle), no decorative cutout designs in the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or are very tall. Anything in between poses the risk of strangulation.
Also make sure that all toys are away from the crib since they can be choking or dangers of suffocation. If you're planning to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one that has a clear line of sight, so it doesn't block your view. Also, make sure all cords are not within reach of your child and are securely attached. Don't keep any cushions, blankets or other baby cribs with positioners. These can pose the risk of suffocation or choke and may be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Also, avoid using old cribs as they may have construction elements that are outdated and could result in injuries. Even if the crib appears in good condition, it could have slats that are not wide or lack hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it could be too expensive for those who want a simple design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 have a similar look but less bells & whistles.