Top 5 Recommended Cribs

When you purchase a crib you want it to be secure and sturdy. Look for solid construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It has four different mattress heights and is constructed of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.

1. Sturdy

A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in the crib, so it is important to choose a crib that is strong enough. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on structural integrity. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.

Look for solid frames and avoid slats which are too close together as this could increase the danger of suffocation. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides as these features may be dangerous for your child.

Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, choose a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select the crib with the smallest footprint, as it will make room in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib as it meets most of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in the majority of rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail, and doesn't have as many slat levels as other cribs on 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, but it's stylish and meets almost all our criteria, including being incredibly easy to put together. It only has three levels of mattress that is less than some other cribs. However, if you intend to use the crib for a long time it might be more suitable for your requirements.

2. Easy to Assemble

Contrary to some of the larger cribs, many modern mini cribs don't require a whole day to assemble. They're usually ready for use straight from the box, and only take 30 minutes to put together with the included tools. Some even have a built-in toddler cheap cot bed conversion kit which will save you the cost tots and cots hassle of purchasing 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 catch babies. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of the hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure they're tightened securely but don't over tighten them, which could cause stripped threads or cracking wood. Choose a solid wood crib since it is thought to be more secure than metal.

Find cribs that come with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list with the essential tools, like washers and screws.

Size is also important. A crib must be large enough for your child, but not so large that it will not fit through a standard opening. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs, as older cribs may not meet the latest safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those who want a sleek, modern crib. It comes with three mattress height settings and is constructed from durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other options on the market. Some users also noted that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to assemble.

3. Convertible

If you're looking for a crib that can last through the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that converts into a daybed or a full-size bed. If you're looking for a crib that will last into toddlerhood and beyond, consider buying one that can convert into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will reduce your costs and space, and make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows.

Although most cribs that convert into full-size beds are a last resort and you have to remove the side and replace it with an extended rail. Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be turned into a infant cot bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and can be incorporated into almost every nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless look.

This crib is a little more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It may use up more square footage of your nursery than the other cribs However, it's a gorgeous piece that can stand the test of time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to assemble, even for those who aren't handy. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your baby 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 looking for a crib to fit in a formal nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, eliminating the need to buy these separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for some people.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win for everyone. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful emissions and chemicals, as well as toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and most have a minimal design to reduce the impact on the environment. They are usually easy to assemble and convert, and some have an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached that can save space in the nursery.

Some brands make eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to adapt to your child's needs and convert to a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. They might also come with additional features, like an integrated changing table or storage compartments. Regardless of their capabilities to convert, they should be sturdy and durable enough to stand up to regular use and regular cleaning. The Best cot for newborn eco-friendly baby cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.

Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood and is free of toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and also eco-friendly.

Another option is the Namesake crib, which has a timeless style and high-quality construction at an affordable price. The sturdy slats of the crib are made 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 attached to the side to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.

5. Safety First

When choosing a crib, safety should be the top priority. Be sure that the crib is well-constructed and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. Also, ensure it complies with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's approximately the size of a soda container) and no cutouts with decorative designs on the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or extremely tall. Anything between can pose a strangulation risk.

Keep all toys away from the crib, since they pose the risk of choking or suffocation. Choose a baby monitor with a clear line of sight to ensure it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure that all cords are out of reach of your child and are securely anchored. Do not place blankets, pillows, or positioners inside the crib. These can pose choking and suffocation risks and could be pushed down or kicked by your child.

Also, avoid using older cribs since they could contain outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it could have slats that are not wide or may be missing hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may have paint that contains lead or have loose and hazardous screws or bolts.

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 Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 have a similar style but less bells & whistles.