Top 5 recommended cribs [
Thinktoy`s recent blog post]
You want a crib that's sturdy and safe. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It has four different mattress heights and
best crib For newborn is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
It is crucial that the crib is built to last since a baby will spend a lot of his or her 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. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough surfaces which could hurt your child.
Choose solid frames, and avoid slats that 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 dangerous for 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 is also beneficial to select a crib with a minimal footprint, as it will reduce the space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for babies as it meets most of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that can be stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks great in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't come with a toddler rail, and does not have as many slat levels as other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than some of the other cribs on this list, however it's sleek and stylish and meets nearly all of our criteria, including being incredibly easy to put together. It also only has three mattress height levels which is less than other cribs, however it might be preferable when you're planning to let your baby use the crib for a while and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not require an entire day of assembly unlike larger cribs. They're usually ready for use right out of the package, and take only 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit, which eliminates the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
You should always make sure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could snag babies. Be sure to check 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 cause broken threads or wood cracks. Find a solid wood crib since it is considered to be safer than metal.
If you're considering a crib that requires assembly, choose one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial, which is helpful for those who might not be accustomed to working with furniture parts. A
good cribs manual should include a list of needed supplies, like screws and washers.
Beyond design, size is another aspect to consider. A crib should be big enough for your child but not too big that it cannot pass through a standard opening. Be cautious about using cribs older than a year, because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a modern and sleek crib. It is constructed from sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It is more exposed to the elements than some of the other options on this list, though, and some users noted that it was more difficult to put together than needed because of mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
In contrast to car seats and strollers cribs aren't equipped with a lot of "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors such as aesthetics, price and how long the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib which can last until toddlerhood and beyond, consider purchasing one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. This will free up space and money, making it easier to replace the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs that transform into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought - you simply take the side off and replace it with a longer rail--Oeuf designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and will look great in every nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with a matching trundle bed and dresser for a more seamless appearance.
The crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests, and it could take up more square footage of your nursery than some of the less expensive options, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand the test of time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to put together even for those who aren't handy. 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 get older.
This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents who are looking for a crib to fit into a formal nursery. It is also easy to set up and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy rails separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which can 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 and promote sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are present in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically constructed from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and most have a minimal design to minimize the environmental impact. They are generally simple to put together and convert, and a few come with a changing tray or dresser attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be transformed into a toddler bed or a full-size bed. They could also include additional features, such as a built-in changing table or storage compartments. Whatever their capabilities to convert they must be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood and is free of harmful finishes or
cots and Tots (
check out here) components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who want an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and also eco-friendly.
Namesake is another option, offering timeless design and high-quality construction at a low cost. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the primary priority when selecting the crib. Be sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, with solid hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. Also, ensure that it meets 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) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything between can pose a strangulation risk.
Keep all toys away from the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. Choose a baby monitor with a clear line of sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are kept away from your child's reach and are securely attached. Don't keep any pillows, blankets, or positioners in the crib. These items could pose the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown away by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.
Beware of cribs that are older, as they could have outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it may have slats that are not wide or be missing some hardware. Old cribs can also be painted with lead or loose, dangerous bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a great price, but it might 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 Carter's Colby 4-in-1, sport the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.