Top 5 Recommended Cribs

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

One of our most favored picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress height settings and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Best Cot Beds pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.

1. Sturdy

It's important that the crib is sturdy since a baby will spend the majority of their time in it. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize structural integrity. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or small cot beds; Arcdog.com, rough surfaces that could harm your child.

Choose solid frames and stay clear of slats that are too close together as this could increase the risk of suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts, or drop-sides because these can be harmful to your child.

Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Instead, opt for a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with smaller footprints to save space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.

The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a solid crib as it fulfills the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include an infant rail and it doesn't have as many slat levels as some other cribs on this list.

Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more expensive than other options on this list, however it's stylish and meets almost all our requirements, including being extremely easy to assemble. It has only three mattress levels which is less than other cribs. However, if you intend to use the crib for several years it could be more suitable for your needs.

2. Easy to Assemble

Many modern mini cribs do not require an entire day of assembly, unlike some larger cribs. They're usually ready for use straight out of the package, and require only 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some even come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you the expense and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.

Of course, you should ensure that the crib is firmly built with no gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Be sure to be attentive to the quality of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Be sure to tighten them securely, but not too much as this can cause the wood to crack or tear the threads. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.

If you're looking at a crib that needs assembly, look for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos that provide instruction which can be useful for those who might not be used to working with furniture parts. A good manual will include a list with the necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.

Size is also crucial. A crib should be big enough for your baby but not so large that it can't be accessed through a standard doorway. Be wary of cribs older than a year, as they may not meet the current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic option for parents looking for a sleek and modern crib. It is made from sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It has more exposed metal hardware than the other options that are on the list. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.

3. Convertible

Unlike strollers and car seats cribs aren't equipped with many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects such as aesthetics, price and how long the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib which can last until the age of three and beyond, think about getting one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will help you save money as well as space, making it easier to swap out the mattress as your child develops.

While most cribs that transform into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought--you simply take off the side and replace it with a wider rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and is a great addition to any nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a seamless design.

The crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests, and it may use up more space in your nursery than some of the less expensive options however, it's a stunning piece that will stand the test of time. It's simple to put together and durable, even for parents who aren't skilled. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to begin your baby in a seated position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they grow older.

The convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's a great choice for parents seeking a crib that will fit in an elegant nursery. It is also easy to assemble, and comes with 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 offer an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering an environment that is safe for your child, while also promoting sustainable practices for the environment. Other recommended cribs 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 renewable and sustainable materials, and a lot of them are minimalist in design to minimize the impact on the environment. They are easy to assemble and convert, and some include a dresser or a changing tray built-in. This can save space.

Some brands make eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child and convert to a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. They may also have additional features, such as a built-in changing table or storage compartments. Whatever their conversion capabilities, they should be sturdy and durable to withstand regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are made from organic and non-toxic materials. They also have a low-VOC finish.

Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood, and it does not contain harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents who want an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and also green.

Namesake is another option that offers a timeless design and high-quality construction at a low cost. Its sturdy slats, made from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be connected to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.

5. Safety First

Safety should be the primary priority when selecting the right crib. Be sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Make sure it is in compliance 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 either aligned with the panels at the end of the crib or very tall. Anything in between poses the risk of strangulation.

Additionally, keep all toys away from the crib since they can pose choking and suffocation hazards. If you want to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one with a clear line of sight so that it does not block your view. Also, make sure all cords are not within reach of your child and are securely attached. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets, or positioners in the crib. These items can pose suffocation and choking risks and can be kicked off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.

Also, do not use old cribs since they could contain outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if a crib appears in good condition, the slats may be too wide or might be lacking hardware. Old cribs may also be painted with lead or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it may be too much to those who prefer a minimalist look. Other options such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 offer a similar design but less bells & whistles.