12 Companies That Are Leading The Way In Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib, you want it to be safe and sturdy. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It comes with four mattress heights and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It also comes with a toddler rail that is included.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is sturdy because babies will spend the majority of their time in it. Find cribs that comply with safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that may have loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.
Find solid frames and avoid slats which are too close together as this can pose a danger of suffocation. Also, look for a crib that does not feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these can pose dangerous for your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select a crib that has a small footprint, as it will save space in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib as it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could be snagged on clothing or toys, and it looks great in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't have an infant rail and doesn't have the same amount of slats as other cribs on this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. best infant cribs 's more expensive than other options on this list, however it has a sleek design and meets almost all our requirements, including being super-easy to assemble. It has just three mattress height levels which is less than other cribs. However, it could be a better option if you're planning to have your child use the crib for a few years and would like it to last for longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, most modern mini cribs do not require a full day to put together. In fact, most are ready to use straight out from the box, and require approximately 30 minutes to assemble with the tools included. Some even come with built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which eliminates the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could snag babies. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of the hardware including screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them properly but not excessively because this could cause the wood to break or strip the threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that needs assembly, search for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers provide an instructional video for those who are not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list with the essential tools, like washers and screws.
Beyond the design, size is a different factor to consider. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not so big that it will not fit through a standard doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not meet current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic option for parents who are looking for a sleek and modern crib. It is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It's got more exposed hardware than some of the other choices on this list, however, and some customers have complained that it was more complicated to assemble than they needed to because of mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which can last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that can be converted into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib that lasts well into toddlerhood. This will save you money as well as space, making it easier to switch out the mattress as your child develops.
While most cribs which transform into full-size beds are considered an afterthought they can be removed from the side and replace it by an extended rail. Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be transformed into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and looks nice in almost any nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a seamless design.
This crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests. It could take up more square footage of your nursery than some of the other cribs However, it's a gorgeous piece that will stand the test of time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to put together even for those who aren't skilled. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your child in a low position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's a great choice for parents who are seeking a crib that will fit into the formal nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler rails that convert, eliminating the need to purchase these separately. The only drawback is that it has some exposed hardware, which might be a problem for certain.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering an environment that is safe for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions as well as harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed from solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials and have an elegant design. They are easy to assemble and convert, and some come with an adjustable dresser or changing tray built-in. This can help save space.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs that are designed to grow with your child changing into an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed. Some cribs might have additional features like an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. No matter what their ability to convert they should be strong and durable to withstand regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are constructed from non-toxic, organic materials and are low-VOC in their finish.
Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and also environmentally friendly.
Namesake is another option, offering an elegant design and top-quality construction at a reasonable cost. The sturdy slats that are constructed from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When selecting a crib, safety should be your top priority. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy with well-fitting 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 flush with the panels at the end of the crib or very tall. Anything in between is a possibility of strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, since they pose choking or suffocation risks. If you want to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one that is clear of sight, so it does not block your view. Also, ensure that any cords are not within your child's reach and are securely attached. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These items can pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and could be thrown off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using older cribs since they could have outdated construction features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib is in great condition, the slats could be too wide or it may be missing hardware. Additionally, old cribs may have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features for a reasonable 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.