Top 5 Recommended Cribs

You want a crib that's sturdy and safe. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.

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

1. Sturdy

A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in the crib, which is why it's crucial to choose a crib that's sturdy enough. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough surfaces that could cause harm to your child.

Find solid frames, and avoid slats that are too close as they could pose a danger of suffocation. Also, look for a crib that does not include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, as these could pose dangerous for your child.

Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could influence your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with a small footprint to minimize space and dust accumulation in your nursery.

The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib as it meets the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could get in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks great in the majority of rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't have a toddler rail and doesn't have as many slat levels as other cribs on this list.

Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is easy to put together. It also only has three mattress heights, which is less than other cribs, but it's a good choice when you're planning to let your child use the crib for a few years and wish to have it last longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

Unlike some larger cribs, the majority of modern mini cribs don't require a full day to assemble. They are ready to use right out of the box, and take approximately 30 minutes to put together using the tools provided. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from having to buy separate pieces.

It is essential to ensure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could snag a baby. Also, be attentive to the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them securely, but not too much because this could cause the wood to crack or tear the threads. Find a solid wood crib since it is believed to be more secure 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 not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list of items, such as screws and washers.

Beyond the design, size is a different aspect to consider. A crib must be large enough for your child, but not so large that it cannot fit through a standard opening. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs might not meet the latest safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those who want a modern, sleek crib. It is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It has more exposed metal hardware than other options that are on the list. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.

3. Convertible

If you're looking for a crib that can last through the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that can be converted into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. If you're looking for a crib that will last into the age of three and beyond, think about purchasing one that converts into a full-size Cot Bed or daybed. This will help you save money and space and will make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows.

Although most cribs that transform into full-size beds are considered an afterthought they can be removed from the side and replace it by a longer rail, Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be converted into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and looks nice in almost any nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a cohesive look.

The crib is much more sturdy than other cribs we've tested tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for years. It's easy to set up and durable, even for parents who aren't skilled. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your baby in a low 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 cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents seeking a crib that will be a part of the formal nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized rails that convert, eliminating the need to purchase these separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which could be an issue for certain people.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs are the best of both worlds, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your baby while promoting sustainable practices for the environment. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are present in other cribs, and also toxins like PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have an elegant design. They are generally simple to put together and convert, and some include a changing tray or dresser attached, which can help save space in the nursery.

Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs which can be converted into a toddler bed or a full-sized infant cot bed. Some cribs can come with additional features, such as a built in changing tables or storage compartments. Regardless of their capabilities to convert they should be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coating.

An excellent example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood and has no 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 that offers modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.

Namesake is another option, offering a timeless design and high-quality construction at a low cost. The sturdy slats made of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib also features an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.

5. Safety First

When selecting a crib, security should be the primary priority. Be sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Also, ensure that it complies with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's approximately the size of a soda container) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs on the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or are very tall. Anything between can pose the risk of strangulation.

Likewise ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib because they can be choking or risk of suffocation. If you're planning to use a baby monitor, choose one that is clear of sight that doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure that all cords are not within reach of your baby and securely attached. Do not place blankets, pillows or even positioners in the crib. These can lead to dangers of suffocation and choke and could be pushed down or kicked by your child.

Beware of cribs that are older, as they could have outdated features that can lead to injuries. Even if a crib is in great crib condition, the slats might be too wide or it may be lacking hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint or loose, dangerous bolts and screws.

The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but may be too much to those who prefer a minimal design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, sport a similar style but less bells and whistles.