Top 5 Recommended Cribs

You want a crib that's both safe and durable. Look for solid construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.

One of our top 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 comes with a toddler's rail.

1. Sturdy

A baby spends most of their time in the crib, so it is important to choose a crib that's sturdy enough. Find cribs that comply with safety regulations tots and cots standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on structural integrity. Also, think about avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots that could harm your child.

Choose solid frames and stay clear of slats that are too close together as this can pose a risk of suffocation. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides, because these can be harmful to 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. It's also helpful to choose a crib with a minimal footprint, since it will make room in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.

The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib, since it fulfills the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that can get caught on clothing or toys. It also looks great in the majority of rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't include a toddler rail and it doesn't have the same amount of slats as other cribs on this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list but it fulfills all our criteria and is easy to put together. It also only has three mattress height levels which is lower than other cribs. However, it's a good choice when you're planning to let your baby 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 some of the larger cribs. Most are ready to use right out of the package, and only take 30 minutes to put together with the included tools. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which saves you the expense and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.

Of course, you must ensure that the crib is firmly assembled with no gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of the hardware such as screws and bolts. Be sure that they are securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which can result in broken threads or wood cracks. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.

Find cribs with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those who are not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list with the necessary supplies, such as washers and screws.

In addition to the design, size is a different aspect to consider. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not too big that it can't be accessed through the standard doorway. Be wary of cribs that are older, as they may not meet the current safety standards.

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

3. Convertible

Unlike strollers and car seats cribs don't come with many "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like design, cost and the length of time the crib will last. Consider a convertible crib if you would like a crib that will last well into toddlerhood. This will free up space and money, making it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.

The majority of cribs that convert into full-size beds are considered an afterthought and you have to remove the side and replace it by an extended rail. Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and is a great addition to any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle cheap cot beds or dressers to create a seamless design.

The crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests, and it may use up more square footage of your nursery than the smaller options, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand up to the test of time. It's easy to set up and sturdy, even for parents who aren't handy. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your child in a seated position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.

The convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are seeking a crib that will fit in an elegant nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, which eliminates the need to purchase those separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which may be an issue for some.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs are the best baby cots of both worlds, providing a safe sleep environment for your child while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that can be found 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 an elegant design. They are easy to set up or convert, and some have an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached. This can reduce space.

Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs that are designed to grow with your child changing into an infant bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs might have additional features, such as an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. No matter what their capabilities to convert, they should be sturdy and durable to withstand regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic and non-toxic materials. They also come with a low-VOC finish.

A great example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and is free of toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and is green.

Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which has a timeless style and high-quality construction for a low cost. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be connected to the side of the crib to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.

5. Safety First

When you are choosing a crib safety should be the top priority. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy, with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. Also, ensure it complies with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's approximately the size of a soda bottle), no decorative cutout designs in 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.

Also, keep all toys out of the crib because they can be choking or suffocation hazards. If you're considering using baby monitors, select one that is clear of sight that doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure that all cords are out of the reach of your child and securely connected. Don't keep any pillows, blankets, or baby cribs with positioners. These can lead to choking and suffocation risks and may be kicked or pulled down by your child.

Also, do not use old cribs as they may have outdated construction features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it could have slats that are too wide or lack hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint, or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a great price, but it might be too much for those who want a simple design. Other options such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 have a similar style but with fewer bells and whistles.