Top 5 Recommended Cribs

You need a crib that is sturdy and safe. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.

One of our favorite picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four mattress height settings and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.

1. Sturdy

A baby spends most of their time in the crib, so it's important cots to tots choose a crib that is solid enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with 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. Also, you should avoid older cribs that may have loose parts or rough spots that could harm your child.

Find a solid frame and stay clear of slats that are too close together, as this can pose a risk of suffocation. Also, look for a crib that does not feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these could pose dangerous for your child.

Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may influence your baby's breathing and sleeping. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with tiny footprint to help minimize space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib because it meets all of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that might get stuck on toys or clothing, and it looks great in a variety of rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't come with an infant rail and it doesn't have the same number of slat levels as some other cribs on this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's a bit more expensive than some of the other cribs on this list, but it has a sleek design and is a perfect fit for our requirements, such as being incredibly easy to put together. It has just three mattress heights, which is lower than other cribs, however it might be preferable if you're planning to have your baby use the crib for a few years and cheap Baby cots for sale want it to last longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

Contrary to some of the larger cribs, the majority of modern mini cribs don't require a whole day to assemble. They are ready to use out of the box, and take around 30 minutes to assemble with the tools included. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from the need to purchase separate pieces.

Of course, you must ensure that the crib is firmly built without gaps or rough spots that could hurt your cheap baby cots. Be aware of the quality and quantity of the hardware, especially bolts and screws. Be sure to tighten them properly, but not too much as this can cause the wood to crack or strip threads. Look for a solid wood crib as it is thought to be safer than metal.

Look for cribs that have simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list of items, such as screws and washers.

The size of the crib is also important. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your cheap baby cots, but not so big that it won't fit through the standard doorway. Be cautious when using cribs older than a year, because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those who want a sleek, modern crib. It comes with three mattress height settings and is constructed of durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than the other options on the list. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.

3. Convertible

If you're looking for a crib which will last until the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that can be converted into a daybed or a full-size bed. Consider a convertible crib if you would like a crib that will last until toddlerhood. This will reduce your costs as well as space, making it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.

Although most cribs that convert into full-size beds are an afterthought they can be removed from the side and replace it by a wider rail. Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be converted into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and will look great in any nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for a more seamless appearance.

This crib is more substantial than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for years. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to assemble, even for those who aren't handy. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your child in a seated position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.

This convertible crib has more of a traditional style than the other two cribs on this list, which is great for parents who want an option that looks elegant in a formal nursery. It is also simple to put together, and comes with toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase them separately. The only downside is that it has some exposed hardware, which might be an issue for some.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win for everyone. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child while promoting 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 tend to be constructed from solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature an elegant design. They are simple to put together or convert, and some come with a dresser or changing tray built-in. This can help save space.

Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to adapt to your child's needs changing into a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. They might also come with additional features, like a built-in changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their conversion capabilities they should be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coatings.

Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and is free of harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and is eco-friendly.

Namesake is another option that offers 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 comes with an 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 built well and sturdy, with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. Also, make sure it meets 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 bottle), no decorative cutout designs on the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything between is the risk of strangulation.

Additionally, keep all toys out of the crib as they could pose choking and risk of suffocation. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight so it does not hinder your view. Also, ensure that all cords are not within reach of your child and are securely connected. Also, do not keep cushions, blankets or other baby cribs with positioners. These can cause suffocation and choking risks and can be kicked off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.

Also, avoid using old cribs as they may have construction elements that are outdated and baby crib can cause injuries. Even if the crib appears in good condition, it may have slats that are not wide or be missing some hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may have paint that contains lead or have loose and hazardous screws or bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist style. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 have a similar style but without the bells and whistles.