Top 5 Recommended Cribs



You want a crib that's sturdy and safe. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.

1. Sturdy

It's important that the crib is built to last because a baby will spend the majority of their time in it. Find cribs that comply with the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.

Choose a solid frame, 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 because these can be dangerous to your child.

Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Instead, select a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib with a minimal 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 as it fulfills the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks great in most rooms. It's only downside is that it doesn't have a toddler rail or as many slats like other cribs in this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs, but it meets all of our criteria and is easy to put together. It only has three levels of mattress that is less than other cribs. If you plan on using the crib for a long time it might be more suitable for your requirements.

2. Easy to Assemble

Many modern mini cribs do not need a full day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. They're usually ready for use right from the box, and require only 30 minutes to put together with the tools included. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from having to buy separate pieces.

Of course, you should ensure that the crib is firmly assembled with no gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Also, be aware of the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them up securely but not too much as this can cause the wood to break or strip the threads. Look for a solid wood crib since it is believed to be more secure than metal.

Find cribs that come with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial which can be useful for those who may not be accustomed to working with furniture components. A good manual will include a list of essential tools, like screws and washers.

The size of the crib is also important. A crib must be large enough to accommodate your child but not too big that it cannot fit through an opening of a standard size. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs because older cribs may not be up to current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those looking for a sleek, modern crib. It is constructed of sturdy, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It is more exposed to metal hardware than the other options on the list. Some customers also complained that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.

3. Convertible

Unlike strollers and car seats cribs aren't equipped with many "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like design, cost and the length of time the crib lasts. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib that lasts long into toddlerhood. This will save you money as well as space, making it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows.

While most cribs that transform into a bed of a larger size feel like a gimmick--you just take the side off and replace it with a wider rail--Oeuf designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and looks nice in almost every nursery. You can also bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser for an even more seamless appearance.

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 stunning piece that can stand the test of time. It's easy to set up and sturdy, even for parents who don't have the skills. It also has three different mattress heights you can adjust that means you can start your baby off in a low spot which is easy for parents to lift and then raise as they get older.

This convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, which is ideal for parents looking for a crib that will look elegant in a formal nursery. It is also simple to assemble, and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase them separately. The only drawback is that it does have some exposed hardware, which may be an issue for some.

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 chemicals and emissions that are present in other cribs, and also toxic substances like PVC, phthalate, MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed from solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature an elegant design. They are usually simple to put together and change, and some have dressers or changing tables attached that can save space in the nursery.

Some brands make eco-friendly cribs that are designed to adapt to your child's needs, converting to a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features, such as a built in changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their ability to convert, they should be sturdy and durable enough to stand up to regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for babies are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coating.

Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood, and is free of harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents who want an eco-friendly crib that offers modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.

Another option is the Namesake crib, which offers a timeless style and high-quality construction for a low cost. https://zenwriting.net/celerythrill46/baby-crib-tips-from-the-best-in-the-business are made of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies suffering from reflux.

5. Safety First

Safety should be the first priority when choosing the crib. Make sure that the crib is strong and well-constructed with firmly-fitted and sturdy hardware. Verify that it complies with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes: less than 2.375 inches between the slats; no decorative cutouts in the headboard or the footboard and corner posts that are either aligned with the end panels of the crib or very tall. Anything in between is a risk of strangulation.

Likewise make sure that all toys are out of the crib because they could pose choking and risk of suffocation. Choose a baby monitor with a clear line of sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, ensure that all cords are not within reach of your child and are securely anchored. Never place pillows, blankets or even positioners in the crib. These can cause the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.

Also, do not use old cribs since they could have construction elements that are outdated and could cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, it could have slats which are too wide or lack hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may have paint that contains lead or have loose and hazardous bolts or screws.

The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a great price, but it could be too expensive for those who want a simple 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 without the bells and whistles.