Top 5 Recommended Cribs

You need a crib that is both safe and durable. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It comes with four different mattress height settings and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.

1. Sturdy

It is essential that the crib is sturdy since a baby will spend a lot of the time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, think about avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots that could cause harm to your child.

Avoid cribs with slats too close together, as this can cause suffocation. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts or drop-sides, as these features may be harmful to your child.

Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could affect your baby’s breathing and sleep. Instead, choose cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose the crib with the smallest footprint, since it will make room in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.

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

Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than some of the other cribs on this list, but it's sleek and stylish and meets nearly all of our criteria, including being super-easy to assemble. It only has three levels of mattress which is less than other cribs. However, if you plan to use the crib for a longer period of time it might be more suitable for your needs.

2. Easy to Assemble

A majority of modern mini cribs do not require the time of a whole day to put together unlike larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use right out of the box, and take just about 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some even have 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 assembled properly and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to the baby. Be sure to pay attention to the quality of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Be sure to tighten them properly but not too much as this can cause the wood to crack or tear threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.

If you're considering a crib that requires an assembly, search for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos for those who are not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list of necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.

In addition to the design, size is a different factor to consider. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your child, but not too big that it won't fit through a standard doorway. Be wary of cribs that are older 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 are looking for a sleek and modern crib. It has three mattress heights and is constructed from durable, 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 mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.

3. Convertible

As opposed to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have many "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like aesthetics, cost and how long the crib lasts. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib to last until toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, making it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.

Although most cribs that transform into full-size beds are an afterthought and you have to remove the side and replace it by a wider rail. Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be turned into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and is a great addition to any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.

This crib is more substantial than other cribs we've tested tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for a long time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to put together even for those who don't have the skills. It also comes with three different mattress heights you can adjust which means you can begin your baby in a low position that is easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they get older.

This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are looking for a crib that can fit in a formal nursery. It is also easy to put together, and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase them separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for certain people.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs are an ideal solution for everyone. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions, as well as toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and most are designed to minimize the environmental impact. They are generally easy to assemble and convert, and some include a changing tray or dresser attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.

Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be transformed into a toddler bed or full-sized cot bed sales. They might also come with additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They must be durable and sturdy to withstand repeated use and clean. The best cots uk eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coating.

An excellent example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood and does not contain harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents who want an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and is green.

Namesake is another option that offers a timeless design and high-quality construction at a low cost. The sturdy slats that are constructed of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies suffering from reflux.

5. Safety First

Safety should be the top priority when selecting a crib. Make sure the crib is well-built and small cot beds (http://idea.informer.com/) sturdy, with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. Also, ensure that it complies with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's about the width of a soda container) and no cutouts with decorative designs on the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything in between poses the risk of strangulation.

Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, since they pose dangers of choking or even suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby that has a clear line-of-sight to ensure it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are kept away from your baby's reach and securely connected. Don't keep any pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These items could pose 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 outdated construction features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good cribs condition, it could have slats that are not wide or be missing some hardware. Old cribs could also be painted with lead or loose, dangerous bolts and screws.

The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features for a reasonable price, but it may be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 have a similar style but less bells & whistles.