Top 5 Recommended Cribs

You want a crib that is both safe and durable. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.

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

1. Sturdy

A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in their crib, so it's important to choose a crib that's sturdy enough. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on structural integrity. Also, you should avoid older cribs that might have loose parts or rough spots that could cause harm to your child.

Avoid cribs with slats too close to each other, since this can cause suffocation. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides as these features may be dangerous for your child.

Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they can impact your cheap baby cots's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib that has a small footprint, since it will reduce the space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.

The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib, since it meets the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could be snagged on clothing or toys, and it looks great in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have a toddler rail and it doesn't have the same number of slat levels as other cribs on this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's a bit more costly than the other options on this list, however it's stylish and meets nearly all of our requirements, such as being incredibly easy to put together. It only has three mattress levels which is less than other cribs. If you plan to use the crib for several years it could be better suited to your requirements.

2. Easy to Assemble

A majority of modern Mini Cot Bed cribs do not require the time of a whole day to put together unlike some of the larger cribs. They are ready to use right out from the box, and require around 30 minutes to put together using the tools provided. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from the need to purchase separate pieces.

You should always make sure that the crib is well-assembled and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to the baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware such as screws and bolts. Make sure they're securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which can cause broken threads or wood cracks. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.

If you're thinking about buying a crib that requires an assembly, look for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers include an instructional video, which is helpful for those who might not be accustomed to working with furniture pieces. A good cribs manual will include a list with the required tools, including screws and washers.

In addition to the design, size is a different consideration. A crib should be big enough for your child but not so large that it cannot pass through a standard opening. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not be up to current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those who want an elegant, modern crib. It comes with three mattress height settings and is constructed from durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed hardware than other options on this list however, some users found it more difficult to put together than needed because of mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.

3. Convertible

If you're seeking a crib that will last until the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that can be converted into a daybed or a full-size bed. If you're seeking a crib that will last through the age of three and beyond, think about purchasing one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will free up space and money, making it easier to replace the mattress as your baby grows.

The majority of best rated cribs that convert into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought - you simply take off the side and replace it with a larger rail--Oeuf designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and looks nice in almost every nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle cot beds for sale or dressers to create a seamless design.

This crib is more robust than the other cribs we tested in our 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 aren't skilled. It also comes with three different mattress heights that can be adjusted, which means you can start your child in a low spot which is easy for parents to lift and raise as they grow older.

This convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's a great choice for parents who are seeking a crib that will be a part of an elegant nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, which eliminates the need to buy those separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which can be an issue 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 baby while promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are present in other cribs, as well as toxic substances like PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually made of solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and most are designed to minimize the impact on the environment. They are typically simple to put together and convert, and a few have dressers or changing tables 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 a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra 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 most eco-friendly cribs for babies are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.

Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed of sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and environmentally friendly.

Another option is the Namesake crib, which comes with an elegant design and top-quality construction at a reasonable price. The sturdy slats that are constructed of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be attached to the side to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.

5. Safety First

When selecting a crib, safety should be the top priority. Make sure the crib is well-constructed and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental 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 possibility of strangulation.

Likewise, keep all toys out of the crib as they can pose choking and dangers of suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby with a clear line of sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, ensure that any cords are not within your child's reach and are securely attached. Don't place any blankets, pillows or positioners inside the crib. These can lead to choking and suffocation risks and could be pushed down or kicked by your child.

Do not use cribs that are old because they may have outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib appears in excellent condition, it may have slats that are too wide or lack hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may have paint that contains lead or have loose and hazardous screws or bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a low price, but it might be too much for those who want a simple design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 have a similar look but with fewer bells and whistles.