Top 5 Recommended Cribs

You want a crib that's both safe and durable. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It has four different mattress height settings and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.

1. Sturdy

It is essential that the crib is built to last because a baby will spend a lot of the 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 emphasize the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas that could cause harm cots to tots your child.

Avoid cribs with slats too close to each other, since this can cause the child to suffocate. Also, look for a crib that does not include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, as these features can be a hazard to your child.

Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Select a crib with a tiny footprint to help save space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.

The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib, since it fulfills the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could get snagged on clothing or toys, and it looks great in a variety of rooms. The only drawback is that it does not include a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs in this list.

Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, but it fulfills all our criteria and is simple to put together. It has just three mattress heights, which is less than other cribs, however it might be preferable in the event that you plan to let your baby use the crib for a few years and wish to have it last longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

In contrast to larger cribs many modern mini cribs don't require a full day to put together. Most are ready to use right out of the package, and take only 30 minutes to put together with the tools included. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from having to buy separate pieces.

Of course, you must always check that the crib is firmly constructed without gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. You should also pay attention to the quality of the hardware, specifically screws and bolts. Make sure they're tightened securely, but don't over-tighten them, which can result in cracked wood or stripped threads. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.

If you're thinking about buying a crib that needs assembly, search for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial which can be useful for those who might not be familiar with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list of needed supplies, like screws and washers.

Size is also important. A crib must be large enough to accommodate your child but not too big that it can't pass 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 an elegant, modern crib. It is constructed of sturdy, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It is more exposed to metal hardware than the other options on the market. Some customers also complained that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.

3. Convertible

In contrast to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have a lot of "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't consider other factors like aesthetics, cost, and how long the crib will last. 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 save space and money, making it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.

While most cribs which convert into full-size cheap cot beds are a last resort and you have to remove the side and replace it by an extended rail. Oeuf has designed a stylish crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and looks nice in almost every nursery. You can also bundle it with a matching trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless look.

The crib is much more sturdy than other cribs we've tested tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, cot sales but it will last for a long time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to put together even for those who aren't handy. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your child in a seated position which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they grow older.

The convertible crib has more of a traditional design than the other two on this list, and is perfect for parents looking for a crib that looks nice in a stately nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, which eliminates the need to purchase these separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for certain people.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win situation. They provide a safe, Crib Sets comfortable sleeping space for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are found in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate, MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials and have a minimalist design. They are easy to set up or convert, and some include a dresser or a changing tray attached. This can save space.

Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be transformed into a toddler bed or full-sized bed. Some cribs can come with additional features such as an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. Regardless of their capabilities to convert, they should be sturdy and durable enough to stand up to regular use and frequent cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.

A fantastic example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood, and is free of toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib with modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.

Another option is the Namesake crib, which has a timeless style and high-quality construction for a low cost. Its sturdy slats, made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies who have reflux.

5. Safety First

Safety should be the primary priority when choosing a crib. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Also, ensure that it is in line with 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 bottle) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or very tall--anything between can pose a strangulation risk.

Additionally make sure that all toys are away from the crib since they can be choking or risk of suffocation. Choose a baby monitor that is in a clear line of sight so it does not hinder your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of the reach of your baby and securely connected. Don't keep any pillows, blankets or positioners in the crib. These can lead to dangers of suffocation and choke, and can be pushed down or kicked by your child.

Also, do not use old cribs as they may have construction elements that are outdated and could result in injuries. Even if the crib appears in good condition, it could have slats that are not wide or lack hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may contain lead-based paint or have loose, dangerous screws or bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a great price, but it might be too much for people who want a simple design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, sport a similar style but less bells and whistles.