Top 5 Recommended Cribs

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

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It comes with four different mattress heights and is constructed of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.

1. Sturdy

It is essential that the crib is built to last since a baby will spend a lot of his or her time in it. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.

Avoid cribs with slats that are too close to each other, since this can cause the child to suffocate. Choose a crib with no 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. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select the crib with the smallest footprint, since it can reduce the space in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.

The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib as it is a good fit for the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could get caught on toys or clothing and looks fantastic in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail, and does not have the same number of slat levels like other cribs on this list.

Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more costly than other cribs on this list, however it's sleek and stylish and is a perfect fit for our requirements, such as being super-easy to assemble. It only has three mattress levels that is less than other cribs. However, if you plan to use the crib for a long time, it may be better suited to your needs.

2. Easy to Assemble

In contrast to larger cribs the majority of modern mini cribs don't require a whole day to put together. They're usually ready for use straight out of the box and only take 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from the need to purchase separate pieces.

Always ensure that the crib is assembled properly and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to the best baby cots (hop over to this site). Be sure to check the quality and quantity of the hardware such as screws and bolts. Make sure they're securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which can result in cracked wood or stripped threads. Find a solid wood crib since it is thought to be more secure than metal.

Find cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video, which is helpful for those who may not be used to working with furniture components. A good guide will also include a list of necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.

Size is also important. A crib should be big enough for your child but not so big that it can't pass through a standard opening. Be wary of using hand-me-downs because older cribs may not be up to the current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those looking for a sleek, modern crib. It is constructed of durable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It's got more exposed hardware than other options on this list, however, and some customers noted that it was more difficult to set up than they needed to due to mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.

3. Convertible

As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs aren't equipped with many "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects such as aesthetics, price, and how long the crib lasts. Consider a convertible crib if would like a crib that will last until toddlerhood. This will reduce your costs and space, and make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows.

The majority of cribs that transform into full-size beds are an afterthought they can be removed from the side and replace it by a wider rail. Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be turned into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a cohesive look.

This crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It could occupy more square feet of your nursery than the other cribs however, it's a stunning piece that will stand up to the test of time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to assemble, even for those who aren't skilled. It also has three different mattress heights that can be adjusted which allows you to start your child in a low position which is easy for parents to lift and raise as they grow older.

This crib is more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, and is perfect for parents who want a crib that looks stylish in a grand nursery. It is also simple to assemble, and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase them separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for certain people.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs can be an ideal solution for everyone. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that can be found in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and a lot of them have a minimal design to reduce the environmental impact. They are generally easy to assemble and convert, and a few come with a changing tray or dresser attached that can save space in the nursery.

Some brands make eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child changing into a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size Cot Bed. Some cribs may have extra features like a built in changing tables or storage compartments. Whatever their conversion capabilities they should be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for babies are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.

A great example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed of sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who want an eco-friendly crib that has a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.

Namesake is another option, with an elegant design and top rated cots-quality construction at a reasonable cost. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low 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.

5. Safety First

Safety should be the first priority when choosing the right crib. Make sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, with solid hardware and well-fitting fittings. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or the footboard and corner posts that are either flush with the end panels of the crib or extremely tall. Anything that is in between poses the danger of strangulation.

Likewise make sure that all toys are away from the crib since they can pose choking and risk of suffocation. Choose a baby monitor that is in a clear line of sight to ensure it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are not within your child's reach and are securely attached. Don't place any blankets, pillows or even positioners in the crib. These can pose dangers of suffocation and choke and may be pushed down or kicked by your child.

Also, do not use old cribs as they may have outdated construction features that could result in injuries. Even if the crib appears in good cribs condition, it could have slats which are too wide or lack hardware. Also, old cribs could have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous bolts or screws.

The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimal style. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 have similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.