Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You need a crib that is sturdy and safe. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail included.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is strong since a baby cots online will spend most of the time in it. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, you should avoid older cribs that might have loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your little one.
Look for solid frames and stay clear of slats that are too close together, as this can pose a danger of suffocation. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides because these can be dangerous to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may influence 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, since it can save space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy baby crib because it meets all of our criteria. It’s easy to clean, doesn’t include any exposed hardware that might get snagged on clothing or toys, and it looks great in all rooms. It’s only downside is that it doesn’t include a toddler rail, or as many slats like other cribs in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It’s a bit more costly than the other cribs on this list, however it’s stylish and meets nearly all of our requirements, such as being extremely easy to assemble. It also has only three mattress height levels, which is lower than other cribs, but it’s a good choice when you’re planning to let your baby use the crib for a few years and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cribs do not need the time of a whole day to put together unlike some of the larger cribs. They are ready to use out of the box, taking approximately 30 minutes to assemble with the tools provided. Some even come with built-in toddler bed conversion kit which saves you the expense and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.
Of course, you should always ensure that the crib is firmly assembled without gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of hardware including screws and bolts. Make sure they’re securely tightened, but don’t over-tighten them, which can result in cracked wood or stripped threads. Look for solid wood cribs as it is considered to be safer than metal.
If you’re looking at a crib that needs assembly, search for one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list with the necessary supplies, such as washers and screws.
Beyond design, size is another consideration. A crib should be big enough for your child but not too big that it will not fit through a standard opening. 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 fantastic option for parents who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It comes with three mattress heights and is made of durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed hardware than other choices on this list, however, and some customers noted that it was more difficult to set up than necessary due to the mislabeled components and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs aren’t equipped with a lot of “features.” However, that doesn’t mean parents shouldn’t take into consideration other factors like design, cost and the length of time the crib lasts. If you’re looking for a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider getting one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. This will save you money as well as space, making it easier to switch out the mattress as your child develops.
The majority of cribs that convert into full-size beds are a last resort, you simply remove the side and replace it by a wider rail. Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be converted into a bed frame. It’s GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser for a more seamless look.
This crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery than some of the less expensive options however, it’s a stunning piece that will stand up to the test of time. It’s simple to put together and durable, even for parents who aren’t handy. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your child in a low position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they get older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It’s perfect for parents looking for a crib to fit in an elegant nursery. It’s also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, eliminating the need to buy the rails separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are the best of both worlds, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that can be found in other cribs, as well as toxic substances like PVC, phthalate, MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed from solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials and have a minimalist design. They are easy to assemble, convert and some even come with an adjustable dresser or changing tray built-in. This can help save space.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child changing into a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. They could also include additional features, like a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. They should be sturdy and durable to withstand the rigors of daily usage and cleaning. The best cots uk eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with a low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with 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 has timeless design and top-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats that are constructed of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When you are choosing a crib security should be the primary priority. Make sure that the crib is sturdy and well-built with well-fitting and secured 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 footboard and corner posts that are aligned with the end panels of the crib or very tall. Anything in between poses the danger of strangulation.
Likewise ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib as they can be choking or suffocation hazards. Select a monitor for your baby cot online that has a clear line-of-sight so it does not hinder your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of reach of your child and are securely connected. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets, or baby cribs with positioners. These can cause the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.
Avoid using old cribs, as they could have outdated features that can lead to injuries. Even if a crib is in great condition, the slats may be too wide or might be lacking hardware. Old cribs could also have lead-based paint, or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it may be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter’s by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, have a similar style but less bells and whistles.