Top 5 Recommended Cribs

When you buy a crib you want it to be safe and sturdy. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It has four different mattress height settings and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.

1. Sturdy

The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in the crib, so it is important to find one that is solid enough. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on structural integrity. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that may have loose parts or rough spots which could cause harm to your baby.

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

Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with tiny footprint to help minimize space and dust accumulation in your nursery.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy baby crib because it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could be snagged on clothing or toys and looks fantastic in a variety of rooms. The only drawback is that it does not have a toddler rail or as many slats like other cribs listed in this list.

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

2. Easy to Assemble

In contrast to larger cribs most modern mini cribs do not require a whole day to assemble. They're usually ready for use straight from the box, and require only 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares the cost of buying separate pieces.

Of course, you should ensure that the crib is firmly built without gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. You should also be aware of the quality of hardware, especially screws and bolts. Be sure that they are securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which could cause broken threads or wood cracks. Look for solid wood cribs as it is considered to be safer than metal.

If you're looking at a crib that needs assembly, search for one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial that can be helpful for those who may not be accustomed to working with furniture parts. A good guide will include a list of required tools, including screws and washers.

Size is also crucial. A crib should be large enough for your baby but not so big that it won't fit through the standard doorway. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not be up to current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those looking for a modern, sleek crib. It is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It's got more exposed hardware than the other options on this list however, and some customers found it more difficult to put together than needed due to mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.

3. Convertible

As opposed to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have a lot of "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't consider other factors like design, cost and how long the crib lasts. If you're seeking a crib that can last until toddlerhood and beyond, consider buying one that can convert into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will reduce your costs and space, and make it easier to swap out the mattress as your child develops.

While most cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought - you simply take off the side and replace it with a longer rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and will look great in any nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser cots to tots create a more seamless appearance.

This crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it will last for a long time. It's simple to put together and durable, even for parents who aren't handy. It also has three different mattress heights you can adjust which means you can start your baby in a low spot that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they grow older.

This crib is more of a traditional style than the other two cribs on this list, which is ideal for parents who want an option that looks stylish in a grand nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler-sized rails that convert, eliminating the need to purchase these separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which could be a problem for certain.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs create the best crib newborn of both worlds, providing a safe sleep environment for your child while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are present in other cribs, and also toxic substances like PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed from solid wood, sustainable and Good cribs renewable materials and have simple designs. They are generally easy to assemble and change, and some include an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.

Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into an infant bed or a full-sized bed. Some cribs can come with additional features like a built in changing table or storage compartments. They must be sturdy and durable to withstand repeated use and cleaning. The best cot bed eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with a low-VOC coating.

A fantastic example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and it does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a great choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib with modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.

Another option is the Namesake crib, which offers an elegant design and top-quality construction for a low cost. Its sturdy slats, made from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be connected to the side to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.

5. Safety First

Safety should be the top ranked cribs priority when selecting the right crib. Be sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. Make sure it is in compliance with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes: less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or footboard, and corner posts that are aligned with the end panels of the crib or extremely tall. Anything in between is the possibility of strangulation.

Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, since they pose the risk of choking or suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby that has a clear line-of-sight so that it doesn't hinder your view. Also, make sure that any cords are kept away from your baby's reach and securely attached. Don't keep any pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These items could pose the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown away by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.

Do not use cribs that are old, as they could have outdated features that could cause injury. 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 contain lead-based paint or have loose, dangerous screws or bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a great price, but it might be too much for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 offer a similar design but with fewer bells and whistles.