Top 5 Recommended Cribs

When you buy a crib you want it to be secure and durable. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.

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

1. Sturdy

A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in their crib, so it's important to find one that is strong enough. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on structural integrity. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.

Avoid cribs with slats that are too close to each other, since this can cause suffocation. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts or drop-sides as these features may be dangerous for your child.

Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. 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 can reduce the space in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy Baby Crib (please click the next page) because it meets all of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks great in all rooms. It's only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail, or as many slats as other cribs on this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, however it's sleek and stylish and is a perfect fit for our requirements, such as being extremely easy to assemble. It only has three levels of mattress, which is fewer than other cribs. However, if you plan to use the crib for several years, it may be more suitable for your requirements.

2. Easy to Assemble

Unlike some larger cribs, many modern mini cotbed cribs don't require an entire day to put together. In fact, most are ready to use out of the box, taking just about 30 minutes to assemble with the tools included. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from the need to purchase separate pieces.

Always ensure that the crib is assembled properly and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to the baby. Be sure to be aware of the quality of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure they're securely tightened, but don't over-tighten them, which can lead to stripped threads or cracking wood. Look for a solid wood crib as it is thought to be more secure than metal.

If you're considering a crib that requires an assembly, look for one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial, which is helpful for those who might not be familiar with furniture components. A good guide should include a list of items, such as washers and screws.

Size is also important. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not so big that it can't be accessed through an ordinary doorway. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs might not meet the current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a sleek and modern crib. It is constructed from sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other options that are on the list. Some users also noted that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to put together.

3. Convertible

If you're looking for a crib which can last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that can be converted into a full-size bed or daybed. If you're looking for a crib that can last until toddlerhood and beyond, best infant cribs consider purchasing one that converts into a cheap cot bed that is full size or a daybed. This will free up space and money, making it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.

While most cribs that convert into a bed of a larger size feel like a gimmick--you just take the side off and replace it with a larger rail--Oeuf designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into a Cot Bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and is a great addition to any nursery. You can also bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless appearance.

This crib is more substantial than others in our tests, and it may use up more square footage of your nursery than some of the less expensive options However, it's a gorgeous piece that can stand the test of time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to assemble, even for those who aren't skilled. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your baby in a seated position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they get older.

This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are looking for a crib that can fit into the formal nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, eliminating the need to purchase the rails separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which may be a problem for certain people.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs can be a win-win for everyone. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful emissions and chemicals, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and most are designed to reduce the environmental impact. They are generally easy to assemble and change, and some have an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached that can save space in the nursery.

Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs which can be converted into a toddler bed or full-size bed. Some cribs might have additional features, such as an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. Whatever their capabilities to convert they should be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and frequent cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.

A fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed of sustainable birchwood and has no harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib that has modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.

Namesake is another option, with a timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.

5. Safety First

When choosing a crib, security should be the primary priority. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy with firmly-fitted and secured hardware. Also, make sure it complies with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's about the width of a soda bottle), no decorative cutout designs on the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or very tall--anything between is the risk of strangulation.

Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they can pose the risk of choking or suffocation. If you're considering using baby monitors, select one that has a clear line of sight that does not block your view. Also, ensure that all cords are not within reach of your child and securely anchored. Finally, never keep cushions, blankets or other baby cribs with positioners. These items can pose the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.

Also, do not use old cribs since they could have outdated construction features that could result in injuries. Even if a crib is in good condition, the slats could be too wide or could be lacking hardware. Old cribs may also be painted with lead or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.

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