Top 5 Recommended Cribs

You want a crib that's both safe and durable. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It includes four mattress sizes and is made of 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, so it is important to choose a crib that is strong enough. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, think about avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough areas which could cause harm to your little one.

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

Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may influence your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib that has a small footprint, since it will make room in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.

The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib, since it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that might get stuck on toys or clothing and looks fantastic in all rooms. The only drawback is that it does not include a toddler rail, or as many slats like other cribs on this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs, but it meets all of our criteria and is easy to put together. It has only three levels of mattress, which is fewer than some other cribs. However, if you plan to use the crib for a longer period of time it might be more suitable for your needs.

1. Easy to Assemble

Modern mini cribs do not require an entire day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. Most are ready to use right from the box, and take only 30 minutes to put together with the tools included. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that saves you from having to buy separate pieces.

Of course, you must ensure that the crib is firmly assembled with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of hardware such as screws and bolts. Make sure they're securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which can lead to broken threads or wood cracks. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.

Look for cribs that have easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list of required tools, including screws and washers.

Beyond the design, size is a different factor to consider. A crib must be large enough to accommodate your child but not so large that it can't pass through a standard opening. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs, as older cribs might not meet the latest safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents who are looking for a sleek and modern crib. It is constructed of durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It is more exposed to the elements than other options on this list however, and some customers have complained that it was more complicated to assemble than needed due to mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.

1. Convertible

In contrast to car seats and strollers cribs aren't equipped with many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like design, cost, and how long the crib lasts. Consider an adjustable crib if you want a crib to last until the age of toddlerhood. This will free up space and money, and make it easier to replace the mattress as your baby grows.

Most cribs that transform into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought - you simply take the side off and replace it with a larger rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and can be incorporated into almost every nursery. You can also bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser for a more seamless look.

The crib is more substantial than others in our tests. It may use up more square feet of your nursery than some of the smaller options However, it's a gorgeous piece that can stand the test of time. It's easy to set up and durable even for parents who aren't skilled. It also has three different mattress heights you can adjust, which allows you to start your child in a low position that is easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they grow older.

The convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are looking for a crib to fit into an elegant nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, which eliminates the need to buy the rails separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for certain people.

1. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win situation. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful emissions and chemicals, and harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually made of solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and a lot of them are minimalist in design to minimize the impact on the environment. They are simple to put together or convert, and some come with an adjustable dresser or changing tray that is attached. This can help save space.

Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs which can be transformed into a toddler bed or full-sized bed. They could also include additional features, such as a built-in changing table or storage compartments. Whatever their conversion capabilities they must be strong and durable to withstand regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for babies are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.

Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood, and is free of 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 are looking for an eco-friendly crib that has a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.

Namesake is another option that offers an elegant design and top-quality construction at a low cost. The sturdy slats made of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies who have reflux.

1. Safety First

Safety should be the primary priority when selecting the crib. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built, with firmly fitted and secure hardware. Make sure it is in compliance with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no decorative cutouts in the headboard or the footboard, and corner posts that are in line with the panels at the end of the crib or extremely tall. Anything that is in between poses a possibility of strangulation.

Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they pose the risk of choking or suffocation. If you're considering using a baby monitor, choose one with a clear line of sight that does not block your view. Also, ensure that any cords are kept away from your baby's reach and securely connected. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets or positioning devices in the crib. These items could pose the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown off by your child or pushed down by older siblings.

Also, avoid using old cribs since they could contain outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it could have slats that are too wide or may be missing hardware. Additionally, old cribs may have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous screws or bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features for a reasonable price, but it might be too much for those who want a minimal look. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 have the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.