20 Trailblazers Setting The Standard In Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that's both safe and durable. Look for solid construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It includes four mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in their crib, so it's important to find one that is solid enough. Find cribs that comply with safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that might have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs with slats that are too close to each other, since this can cause suffocation. Also, look for a crib that does not feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these can pose an hazard for your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib that is certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select a crib with a minimal footprint, as it will save space in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a solid crib, since it fulfills the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could get caught on clothing or toys. It also looks fantastic in the majority of rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have a toddler rail and doesn't have the same amount of slats like other cribs on this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more expensive than some of the other options on this list, however it's stylish and is a perfect fit for our requirements, such as being extremely easy to assemble. It also has only three mattress height levels which is less than some other cribs, but it's a good choice in the event that you plan to let your baby use the crib for a while and would like it to last for longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not require an entire day of assembly unlike larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use straight out from the box, and require just about 30 minutes to assemble with the tools included. Some even come with built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which will save you the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.
Of course, you should ensure that the crib is properly built without gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of hardware such as screws and bolts. Make sure they're securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which can lead to stripped threads or cracking wood. Choose a solid wood crib as it is considered to be more secure than metal.
If you're considering a crib that needs assembly, look for one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers include an instructional video which can be useful for those who may not be accustomed to working with furniture parts. A good guide will include a list with the required tools, including screws and washers.
Size is also important. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not so big that it will not fit through a standard doorway. Be cautious when using cribs older than a year, as they may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those who want a sleek, modern crib. It is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It has more exposed hardware than some of the other options on this list, however, some users found it more difficult to set up than needed due to the mislabeled components and confusing instructions.
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 full-size bed or daybed. If you're looking for a crib which will last into toddlerhood and beyond, consider purchasing one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. This will save space and money, and make it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.
While most cribs that transform into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought - you simply take off the side and replace it with a wider rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and can be incorporated into almost any nursery. Plus, cribs beds can bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser for a more seamless appearance.
The crib is much more sturdy than other cribs in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for a long time. It's easy to set up and durable, even for parents who aren't handy. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your child in a low position which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional design than the other two on this list, and is great for parents looking for an option that looks nice in a stately nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized rails that convert, eliminating the need to shop for those separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for certain people.
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 tend to be made of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature an elegant design. They are easy to set up and convert, and some include a dresser or changing tray built-in. This can save space.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs that are designed to grow with your child and convert to a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs might have additional features, such as a built in changing table or storage compartments. They should be durable and strong enough to withstand frequent use and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for babies are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coatings.
Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and is free of toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and also eco-friendly.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which comes with an elegant design and top-quality construction at a reasonable price. The sturdy slats made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be connected 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 selecting the right crib. Make sure the crib is strong and well-constructed, with firmly fitted and sturdy 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 the footboard and corner posts that are either in line with the panels at the end of the crib or extremely tall. Anything that is in between poses the possibility of strangulation.
Additionally ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib as they can be choking or dangers of suffocation. If you're planning to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one that is clear of sight so that it doesn't block your view. Also, make sure that all cords are out of the reach of your child and securely anchored. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets, or baby cribs with positioners. These items could pose suffocation and choking risks and could be thrown away by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.
Do not use cribs that are old because they may have outdated features that can lead to injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it could have slats that are not wide or lack hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may contain lead-based paint or have loose and dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a great price, but it might 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 a similar style but less bells and whistles.