Top 5 Recommended Cribs

When you buy a crib you want it to be secure and durable. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It has four different mattress height settings and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It also comes with a toddler rail that is included.

1. Sturdy

A baby spends most of their time in the crib, so it is important to choose a crib that's sturdy enough. Find cribs that comply with safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.

Find solid frames, and avoid slats that are too close as they could pose a danger of being suffocated. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts or drop-sides, because these can be dangerous to your child.

Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, choose a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select a crib that has a small footprint, Baby Crib since it can reduce the space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for babies as it meets most recommended cribs of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could be snagged on clothing or toys and looks beautiful in a variety of rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't have a toddler rail and does not have the same amount of slats as some other cribs on this list.

Another recommended cribs crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is easy to assemble. It has only three mattress levels which is less than some other cribs. However, if you plan to use the crib for a longer period of time, it may be more suitable for your requirements.

2. Easy to Assemble

Contrary to some of the larger cribs, the majority of modern mini cribs don't require a whole day to put together. They're usually ready for use straight from the box, and only take 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit, which eliminates the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.

Of course, you should ensure that the crib is properly built without gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Be sure to pay attention to the quality of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Be sure to tighten them securely but not excessively because this could cause the wood to crack or strip threads. Choose a solid wood crib as it is believed to be safer than metal.

Find cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those who are not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list with the required tools, including washers and screws.

Beyond the design, size is a different factor to consider. A crib should be large enough for your child, but not so big that it will not fit through an opening of a standard size. Be cautious when using cribs that are older 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 sleek and modern crib. It is made from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It has more exposed hardware than the other choices on this list, however, and some customers have complained that it was more difficult to put together than needed because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.

3. Convertible

In contrast to car seats and strollers cribs aren't equipped with many "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like aesthetics, cost and how long the crib will last. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib that lasts well into toddlerhood. This will save space and money, as well as make it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.

While most cribs that can be converted into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought--you simply take the side off and replace it with a wider rail--Oeuf designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and looks great in any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.

This crib is a little more substantial than others in our tests. It could take up more square footage of your nursery than the other cribs, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand the test of time. It's simple to put together and durable even for parents who aren't skilled. It also comes with three different mattress heights that can be adjusted, which means you can begin your baby off in a low position that is easy for caregivers to lift and raise as they grow older.

This convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two cribs on this list, which is great for parents who want an option that looks nice in a stately nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, which eliminates the need to purchase these separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which can be an issue for certain people.

cots 4 tots. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs are an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful emissions and chemicals, and toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have an elegant design. They are simple to put together and convert, and some come with a dresser or a changing tray that is attached. This can save space.

Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to adapt to your child's needs changing into a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. They might also come with additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. Whatever their conversion capabilities they must be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The best cot bed eco-friendly baby cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.

A fantastic example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and is free of harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that offers a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.

Another option is the Namesake crib, which has timeless design and top-quality construction at a reasonable 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 has an optional reflux foot that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.

5. Safety First

Safety should be the first priority when selecting a crib. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. 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 the footboard, and corner posts that are either flush with the panels at the end of the crib, or very tall. Anything in between poses a possibility of strangulation.

Likewise ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib because they can pose choking and risk of suffocation. If you're considering using a baby monitor, choose one with a clear line of sight that doesn't block your view. Also, ensure that all cords are not within reach of your child and securely anchored. Do not place blankets, pillows or even positioners in the crib. These can lead to choking and suffocation risks and could be pushed down or kicked by your child.

Do not use cribs that are old as they could be equipped with outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, the slats might be too wide or it may be lacking hardware. Also, old cribs could contain lead-based paint or have loose and dangerous screws or bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but could be too much for those who prefer a minimalist look. 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.