Top 5 Recommended Cribs

When you purchase a crib you want it to be safe and sturdy. You should look for sturdy construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.

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

1. Sturdy

It is essential that the crib is strong since a baby will spend most of his or her time in it. Find cribs that comply with safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.

Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, since this can cause suffocation. 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) as they can affect your baby cots on sale’s breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select the crib with the smallest footprint, as it will save space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for your baby as it meets most of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in the majority of rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have an infant rail and doesn't have the same amount of slats as some other cribs on this list.

Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs, but it meets all of our criteria and is easy to put together. It also only has three mattress height levels which is lower than other cribs, but it could be a better option if you're planning to have your baby use the crib for a while and want it to last longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

Contrary to some of the larger cribs, most modern mini cotbed cribs do not require a whole day to put together. Most are ready to use right from the box, and require only 30 minutes to put together with the included tools. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from the need to purchase separate pieces.

Of course, you should ensure that the crib is properly assembled with no gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of the hardware including screws and bolts. Make sure they're securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which could lead to stripped threads or cracking wood. Find a solid wood crib as it is considered to be more secure than metal.

If you're considering a crib that requires an assembly, choose one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list of items, such as screws and washers.

The size of the crib is also important. A crib must be large enough for your child, but not too big that it cannot pass through a standard opening. Be cautious when using cribs older than a year, because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those looking for a sleek, modern crib. It is made from durable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It's got more exposed hardware than some of the other choices on this list, however, some users have complained that it was more difficult to set up than needed due to the mislabeled components and unclear instructions.

3. Convertible

If you're seeking a crib that can last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that converts into a daybed or a full-size bed. If you're looking for a crib that will last into toddlerhood and beyond, consider buying one that can convert into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will reduce your costs and space, and make it easier to swap out the mattress as your child grows.

While most cribs that can be converted into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought - you simply take the side off and replace it with a longer rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into an actual Cot Bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and online Cots will look great in every nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for a more seamless appearance.

This crib is a little more substantial than others in our tests, and it could occupy more square feet of your nursery than the less expensive options however, it's a stunning piece that will stand the test of time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to put together even for those who aren't handy. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your baby cots on sale in a low position which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they grow older.

The convertible crib has more of a traditional style than the other two cribs on this list, which is great for parents looking for a crib that looks nice in a stately nursery. It is also easy to assemble, and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy the rails separately. The only drawback is that it has some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for certain.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win situation. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful chemicals and emissions as well as toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically made from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them have a minimal design to minimize the impact on the environment. They are easy to set up, convert and some even include a dresser or a changing tray that is attached. This can reduce space.

Some brands make eco-friendly cribs that are designed to adapt to your child's needs and convert to an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand frequent usage and cleaning. The Best cot for newborn eco-friendly cribs are made of organic and non-toxic materials. They also come with a low-VOC finish.

Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood, and it does not contain toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and environmentally friendly.

Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which has timeless design and top-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats that are constructed of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.

5. Safety First

When choosing a crib, security should be the primary priority. Make sure the crib is strong and well-constructed with firmly-fitted and secure hardware. Verify that it complies with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes: less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or the footboard and corner posts that are either in line with the ends of the crib, or very tall. Anything in between poses the possibility of strangulation.

Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they can pose dangers of choking or even suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby that is in a clear line of sight to ensure it does not hinder your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of reach of your baby and securely attached. Don't keep any pillows, blankets, or positioners in the crib. These items can cause dangers of suffocation and choke and could be pushed or kicked by your child.

Do not use cribs that are old, as they could have outdated features that can lead to injuries. Even if a crib appears in good condition, the slats could be too wide, or they could be missing hardware. Old cribs may also have lead-based paint or unsafe bolts and screws.

The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features for a reasonable price, but it could be too much for those who want a minimal look. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 offer a similar design but with fewer bells and whistles.