Top 5 Recommended Cribs

You need a crib that is sturdy and safe. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It has four different mattress height settings and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.

1. Sturdy

It's important that the crib is built to last because babies will spend the majority of his or her time in it. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize 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 baby.

Look for solid frames and stay clear of slats that are too close together as this could increase the danger of suffocation. Also, you should look for a crib that does not feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these can pose an hazard for your child.

Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose a crib that has a small footprint, since it can make room in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for babies because it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that might get caught on toys or clothing, and it looks great in a variety of rooms. It's only downside 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 the other cribs on this list, but it fulfills all our criteria and is easy to assemble. It only has three mattress levels that is less than other cribs. If you intend to use the crib for a longer period of time, it may be more suitable for your requirements.

2. Easy to Assemble

Unlike some larger cribs, the majority of modern mini cribs don't require a whole day to assemble. They are usually ready to use right 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 will save you the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later.

You should always make sure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could snag the baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure they're tightened securely but don't over tighten them, which could result in cracked wood or stripped threads. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.

If you're thinking about buying a crib that needs assembly, search for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should also include a list of supplies, like washers and screws.

The size of the crib is also important. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your cheap baby cots, but not so large that it will not fit through the standard doorway. Be cautious about using cribs that are older, as they may not meet the current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those who want an elegant, modern crib. It has three different mattress heights and is made of durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed metal hardware than other choices on the list. 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 toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that can be converted into a daybed or a full-size bed. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib that lasts long into toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, making it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.

The majority of cribs that convert into full-size beds are a last resort, you simply remove the side and replace it with a longer rail, Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be turned into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and will look great in any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.

The crib is much more sturdy than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it will last for a long time. It's easy to set up and durable, even for parents who aren't handy. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your baby in a seated position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they grow older.

This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's a great choice for parents who are looking for a crib that can fit into an elegant nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, eliminating the need to purchase those separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which may be a problem for certain people.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs are the best of both worlds, providing an environment that is safe for your child while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are present in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually made of solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and most have a minimal design to reduce the environmental impact. They are generally easy to build and convert, and a few include an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached, which can help save space in the nursery.

Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to adapt to your child's needs, converting to an infant bed, daybed or a full-size cot bed sales. Some cribs can come with additional features such as an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. No matter what their conversion capabilities they must be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are made of organic, non-toxic materials and have a low-VOC finish.

An excellent example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood and has no toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib that offers modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.

Another option is the Namesake crib, which has timeless design and top-quality construction at an affordable price. The sturdy slats that are constructed from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies who have reflux.

5. Safety First

Safety should be the primary priority when choosing the right crib. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy with well-fitting and secure hardware. Also, ensure it complies with the 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 in the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or are very tall. Anything in between poses the risk of strangulation.

Keep all toys away from the crib, as they pose the risk of choking or suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby cot online with a clear line of sight so it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure that all cords are out of reach of your baby and securely connected. Don't place any blankets, pillows, or positioners inside the crib. These items can pose suffocation and choking risks and could be thrown away by your Baby beds or pulled down by older siblings.

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 be missing some hardware. Also, old cribs could contain lead-based paint or have loose and dangerous screws or bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a great price, but it could be too expensive for those who want a simple design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, have the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.