Top 5 Recommended Cribs

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

One of our most favored picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It includes four mattress sizes and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also comes with a toddler rail that is included.

1. Sturdy

It is crucial that the crib is sturdy since a baby will spend a lot of his or her time in it. Look for cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.

Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause the child to suffocate. Also, search for a crib that does not feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these features can be a hazard to your child.

Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose a crib that has a small footprint, as it will make room in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.

The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy crib, as it is a good fit for the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that can get caught on clothing or toys. It also looks fantastic in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have a toddler rail and doesn't have as many slat levels as some 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 is a perfect fit for our requirements and is easy to assemble. It has only three levels of mattress which is less than some other cribs. However, if you intend to use the crib for a long time it might be better suited to your needs.

2. Easy to Assemble

A majority of modern mini cribs don't require the time of a whole day to put together unlike larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use out from the box, and require approximately 30 minutes to put together using the tools provided. Some even have an integrated toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you the expense and hassle of buying separate pieces later.

You should always make sure that the crib is properly assembled and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could catch a baby. Be sure to pay attention to the quality of the hardware, specifically screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them up securely, but not too much, as this can cause the wood to crack or tear the threads. Choose 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 offer a video tutorial for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list of essential tools, like screws and washers.

sale cot is also crucial. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your child, but not too big that it will not fit through an ordinary doorway. Be cautious about using cribs older than a year, as they may not meet the current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those who want a sleek, modern crib. It is made from durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It's got more exposed hardware than the other options on this list, however, some users have complained that it was more difficult to set up than they needed to due to mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.

3. Convertible

In contrast to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't consider other factors such as aesthetics, price and the length of time the crib will last. If you're looking for a crib which can last until toddlerhood and beyond, consider getting one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will save you money and space, and make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.

While most cribs which convert into full-size beds are a last resort, you simply remove the side and replace it by an extended rail. Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be turned into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and will look great in every nursery. You can also bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless appearance.

This crib is a little more substantial than others in our tests, and it could take up more space in your nursery than some of the other cribs However, it's a gorgeous piece that can stand the test of time. It's easy to assemble and durable even for parents who aren't handy. It also comes with three different mattress heights you can adjust, which means you can start your baby off in a low, comfortable position which is easy for parents to lift and raise as they grow older.

This crib is more of a traditional style than the other two cribs on this list, and is perfect for parents who want a crib that will look nice in a stately nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler rails that convert, eliminating the need to purchase the rails separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which may be a problem for some people.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs can be an ideal solution for everyone. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions as well as toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and many are minimalist in design to minimize the environmental impact. They are typically simple to put together and change, and some come with dressers or changing tables attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.

Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into an infant bed or a full-size bed. They may also have additional features, like a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. Regardless of their conversion capabilities they should be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are made of organic, non-toxic materials and have a low-VOC finish.

Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib with an elegant, modern 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 of the crib are made of high-quality hardwood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.

5. Safety First


Safety should be the top priority when choosing the right crib. Be sure that the crib is well-constructed and sturdy, with secure hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. Also, ensure it complies with the 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) and no cutouts with decorative designs in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything between is an opportunity for strangulation.

Keep all toys away from the crib, as they can pose choking or suffocation risks. If you want to use baby monitors, select one that is clear of sight that does not block your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of the reach of your child and securely anchored. Do not place blankets, pillows or even positioners in the crib. These items could pose suffocation and choking risks and could be thrown off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.

Avoid using old cribs, as they could have outdated features that can cause injury. Even if a crib is in excellent condition, the slats might be too wide, or they might be lacking hardware. Old cribs may also be painted with lead or loose, dangerous bolts and screws.

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