Top 5 Recommended Cribs

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

One of our most recommended cribs favored picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress height settings and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also comes with a toddler rail included.

1. Sturdy

It's important that the crib is built to last since a baby will spend most of his or her time in it. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, you should avoid older cribs that may have loose parts or rough spots that could harm your little one.

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

Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may influence your baby's breathing and sleeping. Instead, opt for cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib that has a small cot beds footprint, since it will save space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.

The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy crib, as 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 looks fantastic in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't come with an best infant cribs rail and it doesn't have the same amount of slats as some other cribs on this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs on this list, but it's stylish and meets nearly all of our requirements, including being extremely easy to assemble. It also has only three mattress heights, which is less than some other cribs. However, it's a good choice in the event that you plan to let your baby use the crib for a while and wish to have it last longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

Unlike some larger cribs, many modern mini cribs don't require an entire day to assemble. They are ready to use out of the box, and take just about 30 minutes to assemble using the tools provided. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from the need to purchase separate pieces.

Of course, you must ensure that the crib is properly built with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Be sure to pay attention to the quality of the hardware, specifically screws and bolts. Be sure that they are securely tightened, but don't over-tighten them, which could lead to broken threads or wood cracks. Choose solid wood cribs as it is considered to be more secure than metal.

Look for cribs that have easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list of supplies, like washers and screws.

Beyond design, size is an additional consideration. A crib should be large enough for your baby but not so large that it won't fit through the standard doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs might not meet the current safety standards.

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

3. Convertible

As opposed to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have many "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors such as aesthetics, price, and how long the crib lasts. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib to last until toddlerhood. This will save you money and space, and make it easier to swap out the mattress as your child grows.

While most cribs that transform into a full-size bed feel like a gimmick--you just remove the side and replace it with a wider rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless appearance.

The crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests. It could occupy more space in your nursery than the other cribs However, it's a gorgeous piece that will stand the test of time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to put together, even for those who aren't handy. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights which means you can begin your baby in a low, comfortable position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they grow older.

This crib is more of a traditional look than the other two cribs on this list, which is perfect for parents looking for a crib that looks nice in a stately nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, eliminating the need to buy these separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for some.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs create an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering a safe sleep environment for your child while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are found in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and many have a minimal design to minimize the impact on the environment. They are easy to set up, convert and some even include an adjustable dresser or changing tray that is attached. This can reduce space.

Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to adapt to your child's needs and convert to a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features, such as an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. No matter what their ability to convert, they should be sturdy and durable enough to stand up to regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic, non-toxic materials and come with a low-VOC finish.

Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a great option for parents who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and is green.

Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which offers a timeless style and high-quality construction at an affordable price. The sturdy slats that are constructed of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies who have reflux.

5. Safety First

When selecting a crib, safety should be your top priority. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy with well-fitting and sturdy hardware. 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 footboard and corner posts that are either aligned with the end panels of the crib, or very tall. Anything that is in between poses the possibility of strangulation.

Likewise, keep all toys out of the crib because they can pose choking and suffocation hazards. If you want to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one that is clear of sight so that it doesn't block your view. Also, ensure that any cords are out of your baby's reach and securely attached. Finally, never keep cushions, blankets or other baby cribs with positioners. These items could pose the risk of choking or suffocation and can be kicked off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.

Also, do not use old cribs since they could have outdated construction features that could result in injuries. Even if a crib is in good condition, the slats might be too wide or could be lacking hardware. Additionally, old cribs may contain lead-based paint or have loose and hazardous bolts or screws.

The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features for a reasonable price, but it might be too much for those who want a minimal look. Other options like 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.