The Best Cribs for 2023
The right crib is a worthwhile investment for your little one’s sleep quality.
We all know how bad posture is terrible for our health. We especially know how sleeping in an uncomfortable bed can ruin your mood let alone inflict physical strain on your body which can lead to worse complications in your later years. If this is true for adults, how much more for babies?
A crib for your baby is easily one of the most important purchases you will ever make. A baby needs a comfortable space to lay their little heads as the quality of sleep greatly matters with regards to your little one’s growth. Bearing this in mind, the crib industry has evolved to accommodate the lifestyles of the main caregivers. This means that there is a crib that is right for every household. With these many choices coming your way, we understand that this may be overwhelming and that is why we are here to help narrow down your options!
How We Picked
Slat/Bar Distance
The bar distance dictates how safe a child is in their cot. The larger the bar spaces the more accident-prone they become as the toddler may stick their foot or their head between the bars leading to suffocation.
Stationary Sides
We are partial towards cribs with stationary sides as these are the safer options for the baby, unlike the drop-down sides which allow for easy access to the little one but are hazardous.
Materials/Finish/Paint
A crib may be hazardous to a child as a result of the materials used in its construction and the finishing altogether. This includes the paint done as this might pause as a risk to the child. Always watch out for these seemingly small details.
Cost-Effectiveness
Bearing in mind that cribs are essential when a baby is on the way, their cost matters. As such, you need value for your money with an emphasis on functionality.
Our Top Picks
Best Pick
Storkcraft 4-in-1 Convertible Crib and Changer
This choice may be pricer than others, but it’s 100% worth it.
This crib converts into a bed and the changing station is perfect for bedside drawers. It offers plenty of storage options with its three spacious drawers and three open shelves. The crib converts to a full-size bed which is ideal for your growing toddler. This crib is sure to give you great value for your money for many years.
This adjustable crib with a changing station is sure to give you great value for your money for many years
Runner Up
Stokke Sleepi Mini
This crib is a beautifully crafted crib with intricate designs.
The attention to detail, coupled with its functionality is perfect for any home expecting a child. It has a distinctive oval shape which creates a ‘nest-like’ environment which is great for a newborn baby. Its design gives it a personalized touch which is always welcomed. We also love that it takes up very minimal space.
A beautifully crafted crib whose design gives it a personalized touch which is always welcomed
Most cost-effective
Dream Me Edgewood Convertible
If You are on a budget then this is for you.
This practical crib is perfect for small spaces. It will meet the needs of your growing baby starting out as a mini crib, then converting into a mini daybed, and then into a twin-size bed. It has been tested for lead and other toxic elements to meet safety standards. We love that its price is pocket friendly.
A practical and affordable crib that’s also easy to put together since the assembling is not complicated.
Everything We Recommend
Best Pick
Storkcraft 4-in-1 Convertible Crib and Changer
This choice may be pricer than others, but it’s 100% worth it.
Most cost-effective
Dream Me Edgewood Convertible
If You are on a budget then this is for you.
$146.99
Who This Is For
Are you expecting a Baby or planning for one? Is your loved one having a baby? Cribs are essential where a baby is involved. Picking the right crib for your needs is a great step in preparing for a little human.
Crib vs Cradle
Cradles are similar to cribs only that they are used to sway a baby and have a small sleeping area. Children outgrow cribs after a few months but most cribs that cannot be converted still allow for some years’ worth of usage.
Safety Concerns of Cribs/How to get the Safest Crib for Your Baby
Ensure that the crib you get is certified by either CPSC, JPMAor GreenGuard Gold which are the approving bodies that then guarantee that the product is painted with non-volatile paint, that the sides are stationary, and that the finishing is baby safe. You know this by seeing a badge of certification on the crib.
If yours is a hand-me-down, or second-hand crib, although we do not recommend this, ensure that there are no rough edges or loose pieces that may harm your child. Also look at the bar spaces, ensuring that they are no more than 2 and ⅜ inches wide and that the bars are strong enough to accommodate the baby’s weight.
Why You Should Trust Us
The safety of children can never be overemphasized and here we appreciate that you need to rest easy, knowing that your child is safe. We looked at different trusted sources offering information on cribs. We then went ahead and evaluated the top picks based on top ratings and reviews of the products. We ensured that all products we recommended were certified as juvenile safe products.
How We Picked
Some years back, drop-down slides, which were designed to help the caregiver to reach into the baby crib were banned from the market because they proved hazardous to children. They were the cause of suffocation for many children whose body parts got stuck in the gaps. All the cribs we looked at had stationary sides for maximum protection.
There is a recommended bar distance that does not allow for a child’s body parts, particularly their heads and necks to be trapped or even pass through the spaces. The base also needs to be sturdy so as to support their child’s weight.
We prefer the intricate details offered by different types of wooden cribs as opposed to the newer models which may be made of metal or plastic. This is not to say that the two materials are of lesser quality. In fact, some designs elevate the feel and look of the room.
The finishing of the crib must be impeccable with wonderful designs such as round cribs or post-modern designs that still ensure that there are no loose hanging pieces such as rough edges on the bed. The paint used must not be toxic since children chew on the bed frame during teething. You can purchase a teething rail to protect the cot and if you need to be extra vigilant about the child’s health just ensure that it is compatible with your cot brand and design to avoid any incidents.
Even on a budget, your child’s safety must come first. That is why we looked at both: Price without compromising on quality. While here we looked at the initial price and the number of years the convertible crib can be used.
Some cribs come with a mattress lever that can be adjusted and this is perfect for both the babies and caregivers who can adjust the height and access their child. The more comfortable the crib, the better the quality of sleep that your child gets.
Different cribs offer different options such as being converted into a foldable backpack and carried while others have wheels which means you can move them from one side of the room to the other. This is perfect if the child isn’t constantly using that crib or if there is a need to save on space. Flat-bottomed cribs are harder to move about as they are bulky.
Our Picks For You
Best Pick - Storkcraft 4-in-1 Convertible Crib and Changer
Best Pick
Storkcraft 4-in-1 Convertible Crib and Changer
This choice may be pricer than others, but it’s 100% worth it.
This crib converts into a bed and the changing station is perfect for bedside drawers. It offers plenty of storage options with its three spacious drawers and three open shelves. The crib converts to a full-size bed which is ideal for your growing toddler. This crib is sure to give you great value for your money for many years.
Who it is for
This is perfect for your child’s room. As long as you have set space for your child that can eventually be a bedroom then this is for you. We like that this bed comes with a changing station that will eventually become a chest of bedside drawers. The mattress base is also adjustable so you don't have to worry about how to access your child.
Potential flaws
The greatest flaw of this product is that it occupies a large space. This is because of its design which also has a flat bottom so it doesn't allow for a lot of easy moving of the crib.
Other features
This crib boasts of a convertible in one feature as it doubles up as a crib, a day bed, a toddler bed, and even a full-sized bed. It also has a changing station with up to three drawers with open shelves to accommodate your child’s changing items and their body as well during changing time.
This product is designed with safety in mind as it is approved for children's usage and certified by JPMA-Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association. We love its simple yet sophisticated design that is bound to look beautiful in any room. It also retails at an affordable rate for its product range and this is exactly what we love about it.
Product Specifications
Weight: 125 lbs
Crib dimensions: Width (70.78 inches) x Depth (32.91inches) x Height (43.11 inches)
Distance between slats: 71'' W
Runner Up - Stokke Sleepi Mini
Runner Up
Stokke Sleepi Mini
This crib is a beautifully crafted crib with intricate designs.
The attention to detail, coupled with its functionality is perfect for any home expecting a child. It has a distinctive oval shape which creates a ‘nest-like’ environment which is great for a newborn baby. Its design gives it a personalized touch which is always welcomed. We also love that it takes up very minimal space.
Who it is for
If you have budget limitations then this is perfect for you. Its oval design allows for fitting in smaller spades and its movable wheels ensure that the crib can be moved around different rooms. We love how beautiful and practical this crib is. Regardless of space, this is perfect for you.
Potential flaws
For the features that it has, this crib is rather costly as compared to others that might not have the same design but serve a similar purpose. The wheels can only support a certain weight until they are no longer functional enough to move around.
Other features
Although this crib is a bit pricey, it definitely gives you value for your purchase starting from its design which is cozy and gives a nesty feeling to the non-allergenic foam pad that it has. It can also grow with your baby until the age of 10 as it is expandable. Your child can grow in the familiarity of their bed.
Its dimensions also mean that even when pressed for space, this crib is still a win given that it is oval and can be easily folded and moved about easily. Of course, this crib is child safe and is certified as such too.
Product specifications
Crib dimensions: 32"L x 26.38"W x 32.68"H
Most cost-effective - Dream Me Edgewood Convertible
Most cost-effective
Dream Me Edgewood Convertible
If You are on a budget then this is for you.
This practical crib is perfect for small spaces. It will meet the needs of your growing baby starting out as a mini crib, then converting into a mini daybed, and then into a twin-size bed. It has been tested for lead and other toxic elements to meet safety standards. We love that its price is pocket friendly.
Who it is for
This classically designed crib is terribly cute, particularly in this color but it also comes at an amazing price and boasts of amazing features as well.
Potential flaws
This is the perfect functional crib and as such it doesn't have any “IT” factor. However, it comes in various colors, all with perfect finishing.
Other features
This convertible 4-in-1 crib ensures that you not only have a mini crib but as your child grows, it can convert into a mini daybed and even a twin-sized bed. Even on a budget, this product offers even further affordability. It is certified as child-safe as it is well-finished and has nontoxic paint. It also has an adjustable mattress height that allows the caregiver to easily reach their child while at the same time, giving maximum comfort to the baby.
Product specifications
Crib dimensions: 38"L x 25"W x 33"H
Almost made the cut - Lotus Travel Crib
Almost made the cut
Lotus Travel Crib
If you are often on the move, then this is the crib for you.
We love how dynamic this crib is such that you can use it while traveling, in the house, and even as a playpen. We love that it’s easy to carry with a hands-free backpack carrying case. We love that it is a light load of 15 pounds. It is also easy to put together since the assembling is not complicated.
Who it is for
If you have a child who comes over once in a while or you are constantly on the move then this is ideal for you. With its foldability and lightweight, you can carry this anywhere including to the airport as it is airplane safe.
Potential flaws
This is not the kind of crib that your child grows up in as it has a relatively small sleeping area that is suitable for a whole night’s sleep.
Other features
You can easily set this portable crib up in a few minutes after carrying it in its backpack case which is rather light as it weighs 15lbs. This crib is also a perfect playing pen as it has a silent zipper and a strong frame so that your child can play and still sleep in the same comfortable and child-safe crib. It is so safe that it is certified by GreenGuard Gold as it has full-height mesh and breathable airflow. Its mattress is well-padded and suitable for children up until they turn three! This is perfect for families that travel a lot, for small spaces, or simply when you need a portable crib.
Product specifications
Crib dimensions: 45.5 x 31.5 x 25.5 inches
Care and maintennace
Before and after purchase, here are some things to be on the lookout for in your child’s crib. First, If you choose to get any addons for the crib, ensure that they are compatible with the brand you have.
Do not use an old or antique crib because of its aesthetic because it could be dangerous to your child. Unless you have no other option and even then, ensure that the finishing is great and that there are no hazardous pieces on it. Make sure that if it does have a drop-down design that you get it looked at by a professional so they adjust the design and bar spacings. Eventually, having an old crib might be dangerous to your child and expensive in the long run.
Check that the bar spacing is no more than 2 and ⅜ inches apart because any wider and the baby can slip their body through the bar and this may cause suffocation leading to death. This specification in the bar space was reached after the injury and even death of a number of babies. Ensure that the posts are also firm enough so that the child doesn’t fall from the crib.
When teething, babies chew on their cribs. This is why you need to ensure that your crib is certified that it doesn’t contain toxic paint and has the correct finishing. A baby can injure themselves if the finishing isn’t smooth as a result of shoddy workmanship. Ensure that your crib is smooth by checking for any splinters or chipping points.
To ensure that the baby’s clothes do not catch on the corner posts, the regulation requires that these posts should not be over 1/16th inch high. You don’t want your child getting trapped in their clothes or hanging over the crib.
If your crib does not come with a mattress ensure that the one you buy fits into the bed, leaving a two-finger gap at most at the edges. You know that your mattress and even beddings are firm when you press the mattress and it doesn’t fold or it still is firm to the touch. The sheets should also be tightly fitted so they appear to be one with the mattress.
Some cribs accommodate height adjusting which is perfect for the caregivers to be able to access their child easily. Ensure that you keep lowering the height as your baby gets older so they don’t roll out of the crib or get out of it. You know that the height is right by ensuring that the crib is at least 26 inches higher than the crib.
Do not put a heated or electric blanket into the crib as this might overwhelm the baby causing them to overheat which is dangerous. Cover your baby properly and check up on them as soon as they fuss to ensure that they are comfortable.
If you are using any electronics such as baby monitors, do not leave them near the baby given that they are dangerous and can have faults at any moment such as battery overload and this is very dangerous. Always keep any and all electronics away from your child’s reach and from moisture so as to keep clear of as many accidents as possible.
Further Reading and Similar Topics
March 1, 2023
Baby Sleep Day
Nap time is happy time! Give your baby and yourself the valuable gift by sleeping enough.
January 22, 2023
Children’s Week
Much is said here about childhood and children, but we’ll leave it to you to discover!
September 1, 2023
Baby Safety Month – September
A great chance for parents and retailers to brush up on baby-proof safety standards.
