Top 5 Recommended Cribs

You need a crib that is both safe and durable. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It has four different mattress heights and is constructed from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail included.

1. Sturdy

A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in the crib, which is why it's crucial to find one 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, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough surfaces that could cause harm to your child.

Choose a solid frame and avoid slats which are too close together as this could increase the risk of being suffocated. Also, you should look for a crib that doesn't feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these can pose a hazard to your child.

Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can impact your Baby Cot Bed's breathing and sleeping. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose the crib with the smallest footprint, as it will save space in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.

The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a solid crib as it fulfills the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could be caught on toys or clothing and looks beautiful in a variety of rooms. The only drawback is that it doesn't have a toddler rail or as many slats like other cribs in this list.

Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than some of the other options on this list, but it has a sleek design and is a perfect fit for our requirements, such as being super-easy to assemble. It has just three mattress height levels, which is lower than other cribs, however it's a good choice in the event that you plan to let your baby use the crib for a few years and wish to have it last longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

A majority of modern mini cribs don't require an entire day of assembly unlike larger cribs. They are ready to use right out of the box, taking approximately 30 minutes to assemble with the tools included. Some even come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit which eliminates the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.

Always ensure that the crib is well-assembled and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could catch a baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of the hardware, especially bolts and screws. Be sure that they are securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which can lead to cracked wood or stripped threads. Choose solid wood cribs as it is thought to be more secure than metal.

Look for cribs that have simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list of needed supplies, like washers and screws.

The size of the crib is also important. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your child but not too big that it can't pass through a standard opening. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs because older cribs might not meet the latest safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those looking for an elegant, modern crib. It is constructed from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It has more exposed hardware than the other choices on this list, though, and some users found it more complicated to assemble than needed due to mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.

3. Convertible

If you're looking for a crib that can last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that can be converted into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib that lasts well into toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, and make it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.

The majority of cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought--you simply take the side off and replace it with a larger rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek, quality-made crib that transforms into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with a matching trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless appearance.

This crib is more robust than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for a long time. It's easy to assemble and durable, even for parents who don't have the skills. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your baby in a seated position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.

The convertible crib has more of a traditional style than the other two cribs on this list, which is ideal for parents who want a crib that looks 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 buy these separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which can be an issue for certain people.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs can be a win-win for everyone. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are present in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed from solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature simple designs. They are generally easy to build and convert, and some have a changing tray or affordable cots dresser attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.

Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child and convert to a daybed, toddler bed, or full-size bed. They may also have additional features, like a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand repeated usage and cleaning. The best cot newborn eco-friendly baby cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.

Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood, and it does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents who want an eco-friendly crib that has a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.

Namesake is another option that offers timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable cost. Its sturdy slats 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 to create an even slope for infants with reflux.

5. Safety First

When you are choosing a crib safety should be your top priority. Make sure the crib is well-constructed and sturdy, with solid hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Also, ensure it is in line with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's approximately the size of a soda container) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs on the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or extremely tall. Anything in between poses a strangulation risk.

Likewise ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib because they can be choking or dangers of suffocation. If you're planning to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one with a clear line of sight, so it does not block your view. Also, make sure that all cords are out of reach of your child and are securely connected. Don't keep any pillows, blankets, or positioners in the crib. These items can pose the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown away by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.

Beware of cribs that are older as they could be equipped with outdated features that can lead to injuries. Even if the crib is in great condition, the slats may be too wide or it may be missing hardware. Old cribs could also have lead-based paint or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but could be too much for those who prefer a minimalist look. 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 with fewer bells and whistles.