Top 5 Recommended Cribs

You want a crib that's sturdy and safe. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also comes with a toddler rail that is included.

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 sturdy enough. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas that could harm your child.

Find solid frames and stay clear of slats that are too close together as this can pose a risk of death from 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 cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Select a crib with a a small footprint to minimize space and dust build-up in your nursery.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy baby crib as it meets most of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that might get snagged on clothing or toys and looks fantastic in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't come with an infant rail and it doesn't have as many slat levels as some other cribs on this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's a bit more expensive than the other cribs on this list, but it's sleek and stylish and meets almost all our requirements, including being super-easy to assemble. It has only three mattress levels that is less than other cribs. If you plan on using the crib for several years, it may be more suitable for your requirements.

2. Easy to Assemble

Unlike some larger cribs, the majority of modern mini cribs don't require an entire day to put together. They are usually ready to use right out of the box and only take 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from the need to purchase separate pieces.

Of course, you must always check that the crib is firmly built without gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of the hardware such as screws and bolts. Make sure they're securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which can result in broken threads or wood cracks. Find a solid wood crib as it is believed to be safer than metal.

If you're thinking about buying a crib that needs assembly, choose one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos that provide instruction, which is helpful for those who may not be accustomed to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should also include a list with the necessary tools, including screws and washers.

Size is also crucial. A crib should be big enough for your child, but not so large that it will not pass through a standard opening. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs, as older cribs may not meet the current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great crib option for those who want a modern, sleek crib. It has three mattress height settings and is made of durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than the other options on the list. Some customers also complained that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.

3. Convertible

If you're seeking a crib that will last through the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that can be converted into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider a convertible crib if would like a crib that will last until the age of toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, making it easier to replace the mattress as your baby grows.

Most cribs that convert into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought - you simply take the side off and replace it with a larger rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and can be incorporated into almost every nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds and dressers for a seamless look.

The crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It may use up more square feet of your nursery than the smaller options, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand up to the test of time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to put together, even for those who aren't skilled. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to begin your baby in a low position, which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they grow older.

This crib is more of a traditional design than the other two cribs on this list, which is ideal for parents who want a crib that will look elegant in a formal nursery. It's also easy to set up 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 a win-win situation. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that can be found in other cribs, and also toxins like PVC, phthalate, MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature a minimalist design. They are simple to put together or convert, and some have a dresser or changing tray attached. This can help save space.

Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs which can be converted into an infant best cot bed or a full-sized bed. They could also include additional features, like a built-in changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their capabilities to convert, they should be sturdy and durable enough to withstand frequent use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.

An excellent example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood, and it is free of harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and 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 is green.

Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which comes with timeless design and top-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies with reflux.

5. Safety First

When choosing a crib, safety should be your top priority. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy, with firmly fitted and sturdy hardware. Make sure it is in compliance with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having less than 2.375 inches between the slats; no decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard, and corner posts that are aligned with the panels at the end of the crib or extremely tall. Anything that is in between poses a danger of strangulation.

Additionally ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib as they could pose choking and risk of suffocation. If you want to use a baby monitor, choose one with a clear line of sight that doesn't block your view. Also, make sure that all cords are not within reach of your child and Recommended Cribs securely connected. Never place pillows, blankets or even positioners in the crib. These items can pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and could be thrown away by your infant or best cots for newborns dragged down by older siblings.

Avoid using old cribs as they could be equipped with outdated features that can cause injury. Even if the crib appears in excellent condition, it may have slats that are too wide or may be missing hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint or unsafe screws and bolts.

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