Top 5 Recommended Cribs

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

One of our favorite choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress sizes and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.

1. Sturdy

A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in the crib, so it is important to choose a crib that is solid enough. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize the structural integrity of the crib. Also, think about avoiding older cribs that might have loose parts or rough areas which could cause harm to your little one.

Find solid frames, and avoid slats that are too close together, as this can pose a danger of being suffocated. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides as these features may be harmful to your child.

Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can influence your baby's breathing and sleeping. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose a crib that has a small footprint, since it will save space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for babies as it meets most of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that can get stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in most rooms. It's only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail, or as many slats as other cribs listed in this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, but it meets all of our criteria and is easy to put together. It also has only three mattress height levels which is less than some other cribs, but it's a good choice when you're planning to let your child use the crib for a few years and would like it to last for longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

Unlike some larger cribs, many modern mini cribs don't require an entire day to put together. They're usually ready for use right from the box, and only take 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from having to buy separate pieces.

Always ensure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to a baby. You should also pay attention to the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them securely but not excessively because this could cause the wood to break or strip the threads. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is thought 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 offer a video tutorial for those who aren't used to working with furniture pieces. A good manual should include a list of needed items, such as washers and screws.

Size is also important. A crib should be large enough for your baby but not too big that it can't be accessed through a standard doorway. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not be up to the latest safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a sleek and modern crib. It is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. 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 assemble.

3. Convertible

Unlike strollers and car seats, cribs don't have many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like aesthetics, cost and the length of time the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib which will last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider purchasing one that converts into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will help save space and money, and make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.

The majority of cribs that transform into a full-size bed feel like an afterthought - you simply remove the side and replace it with a larger rail--Oeuf designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and is a great addition to any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a seamless design.

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 a long time. It's easy to set up and sturdy, even for parents who aren't handy. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to begin your child in a low position which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they get older.

The convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents looking for a crib that can fit into an elegant nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized rails that convert, eliminating the need to buy these separately. The only drawback is that it has some exposed hardware, which could be a problem for certain.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs create the best of both worlds, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your cheap baby cots (Www.cots4tots.co.uk) while promoting sustainable practices for the environment. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions, and harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be made of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature simple designs. They are simple to put together and convert, and some come with a dresser or a changing tray attached. This can help save space.

Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to adapt to your child's needs and convert to a toddler bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They may also have additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They must be durable and sturdy to withstand frequent use and clean. The most eco-friendly cribs are made from non-toxic, organic materials and come with a low-VOC finish.

A fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and it has no toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who want an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and also environmentally friendly.

Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which has an elegant design and top-quality construction at a reasonable price. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be connected to the side of the crib to create an even slope for infants with reflux.

5. Safety First

When you are choosing a crib safety should be the top priority. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built with firmly-fitted and secure hardware. Also, make sure it complies with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's approximately the size of a soda bottle) and no cutouts with decorative designs in the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or extremely tall. Anything between can pose an opportunity for strangulation.

Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. Choose a baby monitor that is in a clear line of sight to ensure it does not hinder your view. Also, make sure that all cords are out of reach of your baby and securely anchored. Do not place blankets, pillows or positioners inside the crib. These can cause dangers of choking and suffocation, and can be kicked off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.

Beware of cribs that are older because they may have outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if a crib is in great condition, the slats could be too wide, or they may be lacking hardware. Old cribs may also be painted with lead or unsafe bolts and screws.

The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist style. 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 without the bells and whistles.