Top 5 Recommended Cribs

You want a crib that's both safe 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 favorites. It has four different mattress sizes and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.

1. Sturdy

It's important that the crib is strong because babies will spend a lot of their time in it. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards 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 with slats that are too close to each other, since this can cause suffocation. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides, as these features may 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, select cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select the crib with the smallest footprint, since it can save space in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib as it meets most of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks great in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include an infant rail and doesn't have the same number of 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, but it fulfills all our criteria and is simple to put together. It also has only three mattress heights, which is lower than other cribs. However, it's a good choice in the event that you plan to let your child use the crib for a while and wish to have it last longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

Contrary to some of the larger cribs, the majority of modern mini cribs don't require an entire day to assemble. In fact, most are ready to use right out of the box, taking just about 30 minutes to assemble using the tools provided. Some even come with built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which will save you the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.

Of course, you must always check that the crib is properly built with no gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware such as screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them securely but not too much, as this can cause the wood to break or strip the threads. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.

Find cribs that come with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those who aren't used to working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list of necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.

Size is also crucial. A crib must be large enough for your child but not so large that it will not pass through a standard opening. Be wary of using hand-me-downs, as older cribs may not meet the latest safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those looking for an elegant, modern crib. It is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other options on the market. Some users also noted that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.

3. Convertible

If you're looking for a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that converts into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib to last long into toddlerhood. This will reduce your costs and space and will make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows.

The majority of cribs that 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 stylish crib that can be turned into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and will look great in any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a seamless design.

The crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests, and it may use up more square footage of your nursery than some of the other cribs However, it's a gorgeous piece that can stand the test of time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to put together even for those who aren't skilled. It also has three adjustable mattress heights which means you can start your child in a low spot which is easy for parents to lift and raise as they grow older.

The convertible crib has more of a traditional style than the other two cribs on this list, and is great for parents looking for a crib that will look elegant in a formal nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, eliminating the need to purchase these separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which might be a problem for some.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win situation. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are found in other cribs, and also toxic substances like PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and many are minimalist in design to reduce the environmental impact. They are generally easy to build and change, and some come with a changing tray or dresser attached that can save space in the nursery.

Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into a toddler bed or full-sized bed. They could also include additional features, like an integrated changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their capabilities to convert, they should be sturdy and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coatings.

Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed of sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that offers an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.

Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which has an elegant design and top-quality construction for a low cost. 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 to create an even slope for infants with reflux.

5. Safety First

When choosing a crib, safety should be your top priority. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built with firmly-fitted and sturdy hardware. Also, ensure it complies with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between 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 the end panels or very tall--anything in between poses an opportunity for strangulation.

Likewise, keep all toys out of the crib as they can be choking or risk of suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby that has a clear line-of-sight so that it doesn't hinder your view. Also, make sure that all cords are not within reach of your baby and securely anchored. Don't keep any pillows, blankets, or baby cribs with positioners. These items can cause dangers of suffocation and choke and may be pushed down or kicked by your child.

Also, do not use old cribs since they could have construction elements that are outdated and can cause injuries. Even if a crib appears in excellent condition, the slats might be too wide, or they may be lacking hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may contain lead-based paint or have loose and hazardous screws or bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it might be too much for people who prefer a minimalist 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.