Top 5 Recommended Cribs

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

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It includes four mattress sizes and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.

1. Sturdy

It is crucial that the crib is strong because a baby will spend most of his or her time in it. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough surfaces which could hurt your child.

Avoid cribs with slats too close to each other, as this could cause suffocation. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides because these can be dangerous for your child.

Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may affect your Baby Cot Bed’s breathing and sleep. Instead, select cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose the crib with the smallest footprint, since it can save space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib because it meets all of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks great in all rooms. The only downside is that it does not include a toddler rail, or as many slats like other cribs in this list.

Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more expensive than the other cribs on this list, however it's stylish and meets nearly all of our requirements, including being incredibly easy to put together. It has just three mattress height levels, which is lower than other cribs, but it could be a better option in the event that you plan to let your child use the crib for a few years and want it to last longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

In contrast to larger cribs the majority of modern mini cribs don't require a whole day to put together. They're ready to use right out of the box, and take approximately 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that saves you from the need to purchase separate pieces.

It is essential to ensure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could catch the baby. Also, pay attention to the quality of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure you tighten them up securely but not excessively as this can cause the wood to crack or tear the threads. Choose a solid wood crib since it is considered to be safer than metal.

Find cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual should include a list with the necessary items, such as screws and washers.

In addition to design, size is an additional aspect to consider. A crib should be big enough for your baby but not so big that it will not fit through the standard doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not be up to current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents who are looking for a sleek and modern crib. It is constructed from durable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It's got more exposed hardware than other options on this list, however, some users noted that it was more complicated to assemble than necessary due to mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.

3. Convertible

As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't consider other factors like design, cost and the length of time the crib will last. If you're looking for a crib that will last into toddlerhood and beyond, consider getting one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will free up space and money, as well as make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.

The majority of cribs that transform into full-size beds are considered an afterthought, you simply remove the side and replace it with a wider rail. Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be turned into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and can be incorporated into almost every nursery. You can also bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless appearance.

This crib is more robust than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for years. It's easy to set up and durable, even for parents who aren't handy. It also has three different mattress heights that can be adjusted, which means you can begin your baby off in a low spot which is easy for parents to lift and raise as they grow older.

This convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, and is great for parents looking for 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 buy those separately. The only downside is that it has some exposed hardware, which could be a problem for some.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win for everyone. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful emissions and chemicals, and toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed from solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature an elegant design. They are simple to put together and convert, and some include a dresser or a changing tray attached. This can reduce space.

Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child changing into an infant bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features like an integrated changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their ability to convert they should be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and frequent cleaning. The best baby cots eco-friendly cheap baby cots cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.

A great example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib with modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.

Namesake is another option that offers an elegant design and top-quality construction at a reasonable cost. The sturdy slats made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib also features an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies suffering from reflux.

5. Safety First

Safety should be the first priority when choosing the crib. Make sure that the crib is strong and well-constructed with firmly-fitted and secure hardware. Make sure it is in compliance with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard, and corner posts that are in line with the panels at the end of the crib, or very tall. Anything that is in between poses the possibility of strangulation.

Keep all toys away from the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. If you're planning to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one with a clear line of sight, so it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of reach of your child and are securely anchored. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These can pose choking and suffocation risks and could be pushed or kicked by your child.

Also, avoid using older cribs as they may have construction elements that are outdated and can cause injuries. Even if a crib is in excellent condition, the slats might be too wide or it could be missing hardware. Old cribs may also be painted with lead or unsafe bolts tots and cots screws.

The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features for a reasonable price, but it could be too much for those who prefer a minimalist design. 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.