Top 5 Recommended Cribs

When you buy a crib you want it to be safe and durable. You should look for sturdy construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.

One of our top choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It includes four mattress heights and is constructed from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also comes with an infant rail.

1. Sturdy

The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in their crib, so it's important to find one that is strong enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on structural integrity. Also, you should avoid older cribs that may have loose parts or rough spots which could cause harm to your baby.

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

Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has a small footprint to minimize space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib because it meets the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks great in the majority of rooms. The only downside is that it does not include a toddler rail or as many slats as the other cribs in this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs, but it fulfills all our criteria and is easy to put together. It also only has three mattress heights, which is less than other cribs, but it might be preferable when you're planning to let your baby use the crib for a while and want it to last longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

Modern Mini Cot Bed cribs don't require the time of a whole day to put together unlike some of the larger cribs. Most are ready to use straight out of the box and require only 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares 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. Also, be aware of the quality of hardware, Baby Crib particularly bolts and screws. Be sure that they are securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which could cause cracked wood or stripped threads. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.

If you're looking at a crib that requires assembly, choose one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those who are not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list with the essential tools, like screws and washers.

Size is also important. A crib should be big enough for your baby but not too big that it won't fit through the standard doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not meet current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those who want a modern, sleek crib. It is constructed from durable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It is more exposed to the elements than some of the other options on this list, though, and some users have complained that it was more difficult to set up than necessary because of mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.

3. Convertible

If you're looking for a crib that will last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. If you're seeking a crib that will last into toddlerhood and beyond, think about buying one that can convert into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will free up space and money, Baby Crib and make it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.

The majority of cribs that transform into full-size beds are considered an afterthought, you simply remove the side and replace it with an extended rail. Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be turned into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and looks great in any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.

This crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests. It may use up more square feet of your nursery than the smaller options However, it's a gorgeous piece that will stand up to the test of time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to assemble, even for those who don't have the skills. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your child in a low position, which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.

This crib is more of a traditional style than the other two cribs on this list, which is ideal for parents looking for a crib that will look nice in a stately nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler-sized rails that convert, eliminating the need to buy those separately. The only downside is that it has some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for certain.

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 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 constructed of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature simple designs. They are usually easy to build and convert, and a few come with a changing tray or dresser attached that can save space in the nursery.

Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs which can be converted into a toddler bed or a full-sized bed. Some cribs can come with additional features, such as a built in changing table or storage compartments. They should be sturdy and durable to withstand the rigors of daily use and clean. The best infant cribs eco-friendly baby cribs are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.

Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and it has no toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it 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.

Namesake is another option, offering an elegant design and top-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats made of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of 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 primary priority when selecting the right crib. Be sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, with solid hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Also, make sure it meets current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's about the width of a soda container), no decorative cutout designs on the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or very tall--anything between can pose an opportunity for strangulation.

Also ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib as they can pose choking and risk of suffocation. Choose a baby monitor that is in a clear line of sight so it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of the reach of your child and securely anchored. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These items could pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and could be thrown away by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.

Also, avoid using old cribs as they may have outdated construction features that could result in injuries. Even if a crib is in excellent condition, the slats might be too wide, or they could be missing hardware. Old cribs can also be painted with lead or tots and Cots unsafe screws and bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it could be too much for those who want a simple design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1 have a similar style but less bells and whistles.