Top 5 recommended cribs (https://www.cots4Tots.Co.uk)
You need a crib that is sturdy and safe. You should look for sturdy construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It comes with four different mattress height settings and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail that is included.
- Sturdy
It's important that the crib is sturdy because babies will spend most of his or her time in it. Look for cribs which 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. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough surfaces that could harm your child.
Choose solid frames and stay clear of slats that are too close together as they could pose a danger of being suffocated. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides, since these options could be harmful to your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Select a crib with a tiny footprint to help minimize space and reduce dust accumulation 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 requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing and looks beautiful in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't have a toddler rail, and does not have the same amount of slats as other cribs on this list.
Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more costly than some of the other options on this list, however it has a sleek design and is a perfect fit for our requirements, including being extremely easy to assemble. It has only three levels of mattress, which is fewer than some other cribs. If you plan to use the crib for several years it might be more suitable for your requirements.
- 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. Most are ready to use straight from the box, and require only 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some even have an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which eliminates the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.
Of course, you must always check that the crib is securely constructed with no gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of the hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure you tighten them up securely but not too much, as this can cause the wood to break or strip threads. Find solid wood cribs as it is thought to be more secure than metal.
Find cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those who are not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list with the required tools, including washers and screws.
In addition to design, size is an additional factor to consider. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your child, but not too big that it won't fit through the standard doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs might not meet current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those looking for a modern, sleek crib. It has three different mattress heights and is constructed of durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than other options on this list, however, and some customers have complained that it was more difficult to put together than necessary due to the mislabeled components and unclear instructions.
- Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have a lot of "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't consider other factors like aesthetics, cost and how long the crib will last. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib to last until the age of toddlerhood. This will save you money as well as space, making it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
Most cribs that can be converted into a bed of a larger size feel like a gimmick--you just remove the side and replace it with a larger rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek high-quality crib that can transform into an actual bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and looks great in any nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser to create a more seamless appearance.
This crib is a little larger than the other cribs in our tests, and it could occupy more square footage of your nursery than the smaller options however, it's a stunning piece that will stand up to the test of time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to assemble, even for those who don't have the skills. It also has three different mattress heights that can be adjusted which means you can begin your baby in a low position that is easy for caregivers to lift and raise as they grow older.
This crib is more of a traditional style than the other two cribs on this list, which is perfect for parents who want an option that looks elegant in a formal nursery. It is also simple to set up and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy them separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which could be an issue for certain people.
- Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer the best of both worlds, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child, while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are found in other cribs, as well as toxic substances like PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them are minimalist in design to reduce the impact on the environment. They are simple to put together, convert and some even have a dresser or changing tray built-in. This can reduce space.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be transformed into a toddler bed or a full-size bed. They might also come with additional features, such as a built-in changing table or storage compartments. Whatever their conversion capabilities they should be strong and durable to withstand regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for babies are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood, and is free of harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib with a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which offers an elegant design and top-quality construction for a low cost. Its sturdy slats, made from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of 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 who have reflux.
- Safety First
When selecting a crib, safety should be the top priority. Be sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, with secure 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 the slats (that's about the width of a soda container) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs on the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or are very tall. Anything in between poses the risk of strangulation.
Likewise, keep all toys out of the crib because they can be choking or risk of suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby that is in a clear line of sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure any cords are out of your baby's reach and securely attached. Don't place any blankets, pillows or even positioners in the crib. These items can cause the risk of suffocation or choke, and can be pushed or kicked by your child.
Do not use cribs that are old, as they could have outdated features that can lead to injury. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, the slats may be too wide or could be lacking hardware. Also, old cribs could have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it may be too much to those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, have the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.