Top 5 Recommended Cribs

When you purchase a crib, you want it to be safe and durable. Look for solid construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.

One of our favorite choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress height settings and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It also comes with a toddler rail that is included.

1. Sturdy

It is crucial that the crib is built to last because babies will spend a lot of the time in it. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.

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

Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib with a minimal footprint, since it will reduce the space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for your baby as it meets most of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that can be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't come with a toddler rail and does not have as many slat levels like other cribs on this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list but it fulfills all our criteria and is easy to assemble. It has only three levels of mattress which is less than some other cribs. If you plan to use the crib for several years it might be more suitable for your requirements.

2. Easy to Assemble

Contrary to some of the larger cribs, most modern mini cribs do not require a whole day to assemble. Most are ready to use right from the box, and only take 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit, which will save you the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.

Of course, you should always ensure that the crib is securely built with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. You should also be attentive to the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Make sure they're securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which could result in cracked wood or stripped threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.

If you're looking at a crib that requires an assembly, search for one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos that provide instruction which can be useful for those who may not be used to working with furniture parts. A good guide should include a list of tools, including washers and screws.

Beyond the design, size is a different consideration. A crib should be large enough for your baby but not so big that it won't fit through a standard doorway. Be cautious when using cribs that are older, as they may not meet the current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those looking for an elegant, modern crib. It comes with three mattress heights and is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed metal hardware than other choices on the market. Some customers also complained that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to put together.

3. Convertible

As opposed to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have 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 seeking a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider purchasing one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. This will help save space and money, as well as make it easier to replace the mattress as your baby cots on sale grows.

While most cribs that can be converted into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought--you simply remove the side and replace it with a wider rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek high-quality crib that can transform into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and will look great in every nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle cot beds and dressers to create a seamless design.

This crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for years. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to put together even for those who aren't skilled. It also comes with three different mattress heights you can adjust, which means you can begin your baby off in a low, comfortable position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they grow older.

The convertible crib has more of a traditional design than the other two on this list, which is perfect for parents who want a crib that looks nice in a stately nursery. It is also easy to assemble, and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase them separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for some people.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs create an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child, Baby Beds while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are found in other cribs, and also toxic substances like PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed from solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have a minimalist design. They are typically easy to build and convert, and a few have dressers or changing tables attached, which can help save space in the nursery.

Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs that are designed to adapt to your child's needs, converting to an infant bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features such as an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. Regardless of their conversion capabilities they should be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and frequent cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic and non-toxic materials. They also are low-VOC in their finish.

Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood and has no toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and green.

Namesake is another option, with timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified cot for sale low chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be affixed to the side to create an even slope for infants with reflux.

5. Safety First

When you are choosing a crib security should be the primary priority. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built with firmly-fitted and secure hardware. Also, ensure it is in line 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 can), no decorative cutout designs on the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or are very tall. Anything between can pose a strangulation risk.

Also make sure that all toys are out of the crib as they can pose choking and risk of suffocation. If you're planning to use baby monitors, select one that has a clear line of sight so that it doesn't block your view. Also, make sure that all cords are not within reach of your child and securely attached. Never place pillows, blankets or even positioners in the crib. These items could pose suffocation and choking risks and could be thrown away by your Baby Cot or pulled down by older siblings.

Also, do not use old cribs since they could have outdated construction features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it could have slats which are too wide or may be missing hardware. Also, old cribs could contain lead-based paint or have loose and hazardous screws or bolts.

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