Top 5 Recommended Cribs

When you purchase a crib, you want it to be secure and durable. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.

One of our top picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress sizes and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.

1. Sturdy

A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in the crib, which is why it's crucial to choose a crib that's strong enough. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize the structural integrity of the crib. Also, consider avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots that could harm your child.

Avoid cribs with slats that are too close together, as this can cause the child to suffocate. Also, look for a crib that does not include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, as these features can be an hazard for your child.

Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they can affect your baby cot sets online (you could try these out)'s breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose a crib that has a small cot beds footprint, as it will make room in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for your baby because it meets the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could get snagged on clothing or toys and looks beautiful in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't have a toddler rail or as many slats like other cribs in this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list but it meets all of our criteria and is easy to assemble. It only has three mattress levels that is less than other cribs. However, if you plan on using the crib for a longer period of time it might be better suited to your requirements.

2. Easy to Assemble

In contrast to larger cribs most modern mini cribs do not require a whole day to put together. In fact, most are ready to use out of the box, taking approximately 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which saves you the expense and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.

You should always make sure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could snag a baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure they're securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which could result in broken threads or wood cracks. Choose a solid wood crib as it is believed to be safer than metal.

If you're considering a crib that needs assembly, look for one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos for those not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list of essential tools, like screws and washers.

Besides design, size is an additional factor to consider. A crib must be big enough for your baby but not so big that it can't be accessed through a standard doorway. Be wary of cribs that are older, as they might not meet the current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great choice for those who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It has three different mattress heights and is made of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than some of the other options on this list however, some users found it more complicated to assemble than needed because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.

3. Convertible

As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with a lot of "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like design, cost and the length of time the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib that will last into toddlerhood and beyond, consider buying one that can convert into a full-size bed or daybed. This will save you money as well as space, making it easier to swap out the mattress as your child develops.

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

This crib is a little more substantial than others in our tests, and it could take up more square feet of your nursery than some of the other cribs, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand up to the test of time. It's easy to assemble and sturdy, even for parents who don't have the skills. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to begin your child in a low position, which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.

The convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents looking for a crib that can fit into a formal nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, which eliminates the need to shop for those separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for some people.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs offer a win-win scenario, providing a safe sleep environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions, and toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed from solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature a minimalist design. They are easy to set up and convert, and some have an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached. This can help save space.

Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into a toddler bed or a full-size bed. They could also include additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand frequent usage and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are made of non-toxic, organic materials and are low-VOC in their finish.

An excellent example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood, and it does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and environmentally friendly.

Namesake is another option, with timeless design and high-quality construction at a low cost. The sturdy slats made from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be connected to the side of the crib to create an even slope for infants with reflux.

5. Safety First

Safety should be the first priority when choosing a crib. Make sure the crib is well-constructed and sturdy, with solid hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. Also, ensure that it complies with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between the 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 the end panels or extremely tall. Anything between is a strangulation risk.

Also ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib because they can pose choking and dangers of suffocation. If you want to use baby monitors, select one that is clear of sight, so it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure any cords are out of your baby cot online's reach and are securely connected. Also, do not keep cushions, blankets or other positioning devices in the crib. These items can cause dangers of suffocation and choke, and can be pushed or kicked by your child.

Also, avoid using older cribs because they could have outdated construction features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, it could have slats which are too wide or lack hardware. Old cribs may also have lead-based paint, or unsafe bolts and screws.

The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a low price, but it may be too much for people who want a simple design. Other options such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 have a similar style but with fewer bells and whistles.