When you buy a crib you want it to be secure and durable. Look for solid construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our most favored choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four mattress height settings and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail included.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is sturdy since a baby will spend most of his or her time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on structural integrity. Also, consider avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots that could harm your baby.
Find a solid frame, and avoid slats that are too close together as this can pose a risk of suffocation. Also, you should look for a crib that does not have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these features can be an hazard for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can influence your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, choose a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has tiny footprint to help save space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy crib, as it is a good fit for the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing, and it looks great in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail and does not have the same amount of slats as 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's stylish and meets almost all our requirements, such as being extremely easy to assemble. It also only has three mattress heights, 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 wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cribs do not need the time of a whole day to put together unlike larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use straight out of the box, and take just about 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some even come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which eliminates the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to a baby cots on Sale. Be sure to be attentive to the quality of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Be sure to tighten them up securely, but not too much as this can cause the wood to crack or strip the threads. Find a solid wood crib as it is thought to be safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list of required tools, including washers and screws.
In addition to design, size is another consideration. A crib should be big enough for your child but not so large that it will not fit through an opening of a standard size. Be cautious when using cribs that are older as they might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those who want an elegant, modern crib. It has three different mattress heights and is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to the elements than other options on this list, though, and some users found it more complicated to assemble than necessary because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with a lot of "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like design, cost and how long the crib will last. If you're seeking a crib that will last into toddlerhood and beyond, think about getting one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. This will help you save money as well as space, making it easier to change the mattress as your child develops.
The majority of cribs that convert into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought - you simply remove the side and replace it with a larger rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for an even more seamless look.
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. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to put together, even for those who aren't skilled. It also has three different mattress heights that can be adjusted that means you can start your baby in a low spot that is easy for caregivers to lift and raise as they get older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents looking for a crib to be a part of the formal nursery. It is also simple to put together, and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase them separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which could be an issue for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win for everyone. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are found in other cribs, as well as toxic substances like PVC, phthalate MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be made of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature an elegant design. They are typically easy to build and change, and some include dressers or changing tables attached that can save space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child and convert to a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. Regardless of their capabilities to convert, they should be sturdy and durable enough to stand up to regular use and frequent cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.
An excellent example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and green.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which offers an elegant design and top-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when choosing the right crib. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy, with firmly fitted and secure hardware. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes: less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard, and corner posts that are in line with the panels at the end of the crib, or very tall. Anything that is in between poses a risk of strangulation.
Likewise, keep all toys away from the crib since they can be choking or dangers of suffocation. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, ensure that any cords are out of your child's reach and are securely connected. Finally, never 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, avoid using older cribs as they may have construction elements that are outdated and 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 could also be painted with lead or unsafe bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features for a reasonable price, but it might be too much for people who prefer a minimalist 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 style but less bells & whistles.
