When you buy a crib, you want it to be safe and durable. Look for cots4Tots solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
One of our favorite choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is sturdy because a baby will spend a lot of their time in it. Look for cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough surfaces which could hurt your child.
Look for a solid frame and avoid slats which are too close together, as they could pose a risk of suffocation. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts, or drop-sides because these can be harmful to your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, select a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose a crib that has a small footprint, as it will make room in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for your baby because it meets all of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that can be stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in all rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't include an infant rail and it doesn't have as many slat levels as other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, but it meets all of our criteria and is simple to put together. It also has only three mattress height levels which is less than other cribs, but it could be a better option in the event that you plan to let your child use the crib for a few years and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
In contrast to larger cribs the majority of modern mini cribs don't require a whole day to put together. In fact, most are ready to use right out of the box, taking just about 30 minutes to assemble with the tools provided. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit, which will save you the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later.
Of course, you should always check that the crib is firmly constructed without gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware such as screws and bolts. Make sure they're securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which can result in broken threads or wood cracks. Find solid wood cribs as it is believed to be safer than metal.
If you're considering a crib that needs assembly, choose one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos that provide instruction that can be helpful for those who may not be accustomed to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list of essential tools, like screws and washers.
Besides design, size is an additional aspect to consider. A crib must be large enough for your child but not so large that it can't fit through a standard opening. Be wary of cribs older than a year, as they might not meet 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 durable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other choices that are on the list. Some users also noted that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which will last until the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that converts into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. If you're looking for a crib that can last until the age of three and beyond, think about getting one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will free up space and money, making it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.
The majority of cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought--you simply take off 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's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and will look great in every nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.
This crib is more robust than other cribs in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for a long time. It's easy to set up and durable even for parents who aren't skilled. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your child in a seated position which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they get older.
This convertible crib has more of a traditional style than the other two on this list, which is great for parents looking for a crib that looks elegant in a formal nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler-sized rails that convert, eliminating the need to buy those separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which may be a problem for certain 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. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are found in other cribs, and also toxic substances like PVC, phthalate, MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually made from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them are designed to minimize the impact on the environment. They are generally easy to assemble and convert, and a few have dressers or changing tables attached that can save space in the nursery.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into a toddler bed or full-sized bed. They could also include additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. No matter what their conversion capabilities they must be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and frequent cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coatings.
Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood and is free of toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and also green.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which has a timeless style and high-quality construction at a reasonable price. Its sturdy slats, made of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when choosing the crib. Make sure the crib is strong and well-constructed with well-fitting and sturdy hardware. Verify that it complies with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes: less than 2.375 inches between the slats; no decorative cutouts in the headboard or the footboard and corner posts that are either aligned with the ends of the crib or very tall. Anything that is in between poses the risk of strangulation.
Likewise, keep all toys away from the crib since they can pose choking and suffocation hazards. If you're considering using baby monitors, select one that has a clear line of sight so that it does not block your view. Also, ensure that any cords are not within your baby's reach and securely attached. Finally, never keep cushions, blankets or other positioning devices in the crib. These can pose the risk of suffocation or choke, and can be pushed or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using older cribs since they could have outdated construction features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, it may have slats which are too wide or be missing some hardware. Also, old cribs could contain lead-based paint or have loose, dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it may be too expensive for those who want a simple design. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 offer a similar design but less bells & whistles.
