Top 5 Recommended Cribs

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

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It includes four mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.

1. Sturdy

It is crucial that the crib is sturdy because babies will spend the majority of the time in it. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough areas which could hurt your child.

Find solid frames and avoid slats which are too close together, as they could pose a danger of suffocation. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides because these can be dangerous for your child.

Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, choose a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose a crib with a minimal footprint, since it will reduce the space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib as it meets most of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing and looks fantastic in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include 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 expensive than some of the other cribs on this list, but it's sleek and stylish and is a perfect fit for our requirements, including being incredibly easy to put together. It also has only three mattress height levels, which is lower than other cribs, however it could be a better option in the event that you plan to let your child use the crib for a while and want it to last longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

Many modern mini cribs don't require an entire day of assembly unlike larger cribs. They're ready to use straight out of the box, taking approximately 30 minutes to assemble with the included tools. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that saves the cost of buying separate pieces.

Of course, you must always ensure that the crib is securely constructed with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of the hardware such as screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them securely, but not too much, as this can cause the wood to crack or strip the threads. Find solid wood cribs as it is considered to be safer than metal.

If you're thinking about buying a crib that requires assembly, look for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video, which is helpful for those who might not be used to working with furniture components. A good manual will include a list of necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.

The size of the crib is also important. A crib must be big enough for your baby but not so large that it won't fit through a standard doorway. Be cautious about using cribs older than a year, as they may not meet the current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic choice for those who are looking for a sleek and modern crib. It is made from sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It is more exposed to the elements than some of the other options on this list however, and some customers found it more difficult to set up than needed due to mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.

3. Convertible

If you're looking for a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that can be converted into a full-size bed or daybed. If you're looking for a crib that will last through the age of three and beyond, think about buying one that can convert into a full-size bed or daybed. This will reduce your costs and space, and make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child develops.

Most cribs that transform into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought--you simply take the side off and replace it with a wider rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and will look great in every nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for a more seamless look.

The crib is much more sturdy than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for a long time. It's easy to assemble and durable even for parents who aren't handy. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to begin your child in a low position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.

This convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are looking for a crib that can fit in the formal nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler rails that convert, eliminating the need to buy the rails separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for some people.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs are the Best cot for newborn of both worlds, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that can be found in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them are designed to reduce the environmental impact. They are typically simple to put together and convert, tots and cots a few come with a changing tray or dresser attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.

Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs which can be transformed into a toddler bed or full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features like an integrated changing table or storage compartments. Whatever their conversion capabilities they must be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are constructed from non-toxic, organic materials and come with a low-VOC finish.

Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and green.

Namesake is another option that offers a timeless design and high-quality construction at a low cost. The sturdy slats that are constructed of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified cots to tots have low emissions of chemicals. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies suffering from reflux.

5. Safety First

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

Additionally ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib as they could pose choking and suffocation hazards. Select a monitor for your baby that is in a clear line of sight so it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of reach of your child and are securely anchored. Don't place any blankets, pillows or even positioners in the crib. These can pose the risk of suffocation or choke, and can be pushed or kicked by your child.

Do not use cribs that are old as they could be equipped with outdated features that could cause injury. Even if the crib is in good condition, the slats might be too wide or it may be lacking hardware. Old cribs could also have lead-based paint or unsafe screws and bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimal look. Other options such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 offer a similar design but less bells & whistles.