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 has four different mattress height settings and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.

1. Sturdy

The majority of a baby cot online's time is spent in their time in their crib, so it is important to find one that is strong enough. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas which could hurt your child.

Find solid frames and avoid slats which are too close together, as this can pose a danger of death from suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts, or drop-sides as these features may be harmful to your child.

Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with smaller footprints to minimize space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.

The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a sturdy crib, as it fulfills the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could be caught on clothing or toys. It also looks beautiful in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't come with an best infant cribs rail and it 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 the other cribs on this list, but it meets all of our criteria and is easy to put together. It has only three levels of mattress that is less than some other cribs. If you plan on using the crib for a longer period of time it could be better suited to your requirements.

2. Easy to Assemble

Contrary to some of the larger cribs, most modern mini cribs do not require a full day to put together. Most are ready to use right out of the package, and only take 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that spares the cost of buying separate pieces.

You should always make sure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could catch a baby. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of the hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure you tighten them properly but not excessively as this can cause the wood to break or strip threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.

If you're looking at a crib that requires assembly, search for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos that provide instruction, which is helpful for those who may not be used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should also include a list of needed items, such as washers and screws.

Size is also crucial. A crib should be large enough for your child but not too big that it can't 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 parents looking for a modern and sleek crib. It comes with three mattress height settings and is made of sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed metal hardware than other choices 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 aren't equipped with many "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't consider other factors like aesthetics, cost, and how long the crib will last. Consider a convertible crib if you would like a crib that will last long into toddlerhood. This will free up space and money, as well as make it easier to replace the mattress as your baby grows.

Most cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought--you simply remove the side and replace it with a larger rail--Oeuf designed a stylish, quality-made crib that transforms into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and looks nice in almost any nursery. You can also 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 years. It's simple to put together and sturdy, even for parents who aren't skilled. It also has 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 grow older.

This convertible crib has more of a traditional design than the other two cribs on this list, and is perfect for parents who want an option that looks nice in a stately nursery. It is also simple to assemble, and comes with toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase rails separately. The only drawback is that it has some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for certain.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win for everyone. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are found in other cribs, and also toxic substances like PVC, phthalate MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and most have a minimal design to reduce the impact on the environment. They are simple to put together and convert, and some come with a dresser or a changing tray built-in. This can reduce space.

Some brands make eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child and convert to a daybed, toddler best cot bed, or full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features like a built in changing tables or storage compartments. They must be durable and strong enough to withstand repeated usage and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.

A fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It 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 has an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.

Another option is the Namesake crib, which offers an elegant design and top-quality construction at an affordable price. 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 affixed to the side to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.

5. Safety First

Safety should be the primary priority when choosing a crib. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy with well-fitting and sturdy hardware. Also, ensure it is in line with the 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 footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with end panels or extremely tall. Anything in between poses an opportunity for strangulation.

Keep all toys away from the crib, since they pose dangers of choking or even suffocation. If you're considering using a baby monitor, make sure you choose one with a clear line of sight so that it doesn't block your view. Also, make sure that all cords are out of the reach of your baby and securely attached. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These can lead to choking and suffocation risks and could be pushed down or kicked by your child.

Avoid using old cribs because they may have outdated features that can lead to injuries. Even if a crib is in good condition, the slats could be too wide or may be lacking hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may contain lead-based paint or have loose and dangerous screws or bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, have similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.