Top 5 Recommended Cribs

You need a crib that is sturdy and safe. Look for solid construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It includes four mattress heights and is constructed out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.

1. Sturdy

The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in the crib, so it's important to choose a crib that is solid enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize the structural integrity of the crib. Also, think about avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots that could cause harm to your little one.

Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close together, as this can cause the child to suffocate. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts, or drop-sides because these can be harmful to your child.

Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Instead, select a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select a crib that has a small footprint, since it will make room in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib as it meets most of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that can be stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have an infant rail and does not have the same number of slat levels 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 assemble. It only has three mattress levels, which is fewer than some other cribs. However, if you intend to use the crib for a longer period of time it could be more suitable for your requirements.

2. Easy to Assemble

Unlike some larger cribs, Recommended Cribs most modern mini cribs do not require a whole day to assemble. Most are ready to use straight out of the box and only take 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some even have 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 securely assembled without gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of the hardware such as screws and bolts. Make sure they're tightened securely but don't over tighten them, which could lead to broken threads or wood cracks. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.

If you're considering a crib that needs assembly, choose one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those who are not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list with the necessary supplies, such as washers and screws.

The size of the crib is also important. A crib should be big enough for your child, but not so big that it cannot fit through an opening of a standard size. Be cautious when using cribs older than a year, because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those looking for an elegant, modern crib. It has three different mattress height settings and is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than the other options on the list. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.

3. Convertible

As opposed to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have a lot of "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like design, cost and the length of time the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib which will last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about getting one that converts into a full-size Cot Bed or daybed. This will help save space and money, and make it easier to replace the mattress as your Baby Cot Bed grows.

Most cribs that can be converted into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought - you simply remove the side and replace it with a longer rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, Recommended Cribs minimal and looks great in any nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for an even more seamless look.

This crib is more substantial than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for years. It's simple to put together and sturdy, even for parents who aren't skilled. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your child in a low position, which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.

The convertible crib has more of a traditional style than the other two cribs on this list, and is ideal for parents who want an option that looks stylish in a grand 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 does have some exposed hardware, which could be a problem for certain.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs offer a win-win scenario, providing a safe sleep environment for your baby while promoting sustainable practices for the environment. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that can be found in other best rated cribs, and also harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are made of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials and have a minimalist design. They are generally simple to put together and convert, and a few have an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.

Some brands make eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child and convert to a toddler bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They could also include additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. Regardless of their conversion capabilities, they should be sturdy and durable to withstand regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for babies are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coatings.

Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood, and it has no toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and also environmentally friendly.

Another option is the Namesake crib, which has an elegant design and top-quality construction at an affordable price. The sturdy slats of the crib are made of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be connected to the side to create an even slope for infants with reflux.

5. Safety First

When choosing a crib, safety should be the top priority. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built, with firmly fitted and sturdy hardware. Also, ensure that it complies with the 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 bottle), no decorative cutout designs on the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with end panels or very tall--anything between can pose an opportunity for strangulation.

Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they can pose choking or suffocation risks. Choose a Baby Cot monitor that has 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 securely anchored. Never place pillows, blankets or positioners inside the crib. These items can cause dangers of suffocation and choke and may be pushed or kicked by your child.

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

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