Top 5 Recommended Cribs

When you purchase a crib, you want it to be secure and sturdy. You should look for sturdy construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.

One of our most favored choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.

1. Sturdy

It's important that the crib is sturdy since a baby will spend a lot 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 structural integrity. Also, consider avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots that could cause harm to your baby.

Avoid cribs with slats that are too close to each other, since this can cause the child to suffocate. Also, search for a crib that does not have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these can pose dangerous for your child.

Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can influence your baby's breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has smaller footprints to save space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib as it meets most of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that might get snagged on clothing or toys and looks fantastic in most rooms. The only downside is that it does not include a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs listed in this list.

Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the other options on this list, but it has a sleek design and meets almost all our requirements, such as being super-easy to assemble. It has only three levels of mattress, which is fewer than other cribs. If you intend to use the crib for several years it could be better suited to your needs.

2. Easy to Assemble

Modern mini cribs don't require an entire day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. They're ready to use right out of the box, and take approximately 30 minutes to assemble with the tools provided. Some even have a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you the expense and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.

Of course, you must always check that the crib is securely assembled with no gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. You should also be aware of the quality of the hardware, specifically bolts and screws. Make sure you tighten them properly, but not too much, as this can cause the wood to crack or tear the threads. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.

If you're considering a crib that needs assembly, look for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video that can be helpful for those who might not be used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list of needed tools, including washers and screws.

Size is also important. A crib should be big enough for your child but not too big that it can't fit through a standard opening. Be cautious when using cribs that are older, as they might not meet the current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic choice for those who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other choices on the list. Some users also noted that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.

3. Convertible

If you're looking for a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that can be converted into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib to last long into the age of toddlerhood. This will reduce your costs as well as space, making it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows.

The majority of cribs that transform into a full-size bed feel like a gimmick--you just take the side off and replace it with a longer rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and looks nice in almost any nursery. You can also bundle it with an equivalence 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, but it's going to last for a long time. It's easy to set up and durable even for parents who don't have the skills. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your baby in a low position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they get older.

This convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are seeking a crib that will be a part of a formal nursery. It is also simple to assemble, and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase the rails separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for certain people.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs offer an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child, while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are found in other cribs, and also harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate, MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature simple designs. They are generally easy to assemble and convert, and a few include dressers or changing tables attached that can save space in the nursery.

Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be transformed into a toddler bed or a full-size bed. They may also have additional features, such as a built-in changing table or storage compartments. They should be durable and strong enough to withstand the rigors of daily usage and cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coatings.

Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood, and it is free of toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib that offers a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.

Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which has an elegant design and top-quality construction at a reasonable price. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality hardwood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.

5. Safety First

When choosing a crib, security should be the primary priority. Be sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, with secure hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. Verify that it complies with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having less than 2.375 inches between the slats; no decorative cutouts in the headboard or the footboard, and corner posts that are flush with the panels at the end of the crib or extremely tall. Anything that is in between poses the danger of strangulation.

Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they pose the risk of choking or suffocation. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight to ensure it does not hinder your view. Also, ensure that all cords are not within reach of your child and securely attached. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These items could pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and can be kicked off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.

Beware of cribs that are older as they could be equipped with outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if a crib is in good condition, the slats could be too wide or could be missing hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint or unsafe screws and bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features for a reasonable price, but it could be too much for people who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 have a similar style but less bells and whistles.