A Trip Back In Time: What People Discussed About Recommended Cribs 20 Years Ago Top 5 Recommended Cribs

When you buy a crib, you want it to be safe and durable. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It has four different mattress height settings and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.

1. Sturdy

A baby spends most of their time in the crib, so it is important to choose a crib that's sturdy enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on structural integrity. Also, think about avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots that could harm your child.

Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, since this can cause suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides, as these features may be dangerous for your child.


Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose the crib with the smallest footprint, as it will reduce the space in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib as it meets most of our requirements. Mini Cot Bed to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that might get stuck on toys or clothing and looks fantastic in most rooms. The only drawback is that it doesn't include a toddler rail, or as many slats like other cribs listed in this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list, but it meets all of our criteria and is simple to put together. It also has only three mattress height levels which is less than other cribs, however it might be preferable if you're planning to have your baby use the crib for a few years and want it to last longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

In contrast to larger cribs many modern mini cribs don't require an entire day to assemble. In fact, most are ready to use out of the box, taking around 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you the expense and hassle of buying separate pieces later.

You should always make sure that the crib is assembled properly and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could snag babies. You should also be aware of the quality of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure they're securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which can result in cracked wood or stripped threads. Choose a solid wood crib since it is thought to be safer than metal.

If you're considering a crib that requires assembly, search for one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers include a video tutorial, which is helpful for those who may not be accustomed to working with furniture components. A good manual will include a list with the essential tools, like screws and washers.

Size is also crucial. A crib must be large enough for your child, but not too big that it cannot fit through an opening of a standard size. Be cautious about using cribs that are older because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.

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

3. Convertible

In contrast to car seats and strollers cribs aren't equipped with a lot of "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like design, cost, and how long the crib will last. Consider a convertible crib if you would like a crib that will last well into toddlerhood. This will free up space and money, making it easier to replace the mattress as your child grows.

Although most cribs that transform into full-size beds are an afterthought, you simply remove the side and replace it by a wider rail. Oeuf has designed a stylish crib that can be converted into bed frames. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and will look great in any nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser for an even more seamless appearance.

The crib is much more sturdy than other cribs in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it will last for a long time. It's simple to put together and sturdy, even for parents who don't have the skills. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your baby in a seated position which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they grow older.

This crib is more of a traditional style than the other two cribs on this list, which is perfect for parents who want a crib that looks nice in a stately nursery. It is also easy to put together, and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase rails separately. The only drawback is that it does have some exposed hardware, which could be an issue for some.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs offer the best of both worlds, providing a safe sleep environment for your baby while encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that can be found in other cribs, as well as toxins like PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally made of solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and many are minimalist in design to minimize the environmental impact. They are generally easy to assemble and convert, and some include an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached that can save space in the nursery.

Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be transformed into an infant bed or a full-size bed. They might also come with additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. Whatever their conversion capabilities they must be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are constructed from non-toxic, organic materials and have a low-VOC finish.

A fantastic example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and is free of harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and also environmentally friendly.

Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which has a timeless style and high-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 features an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies suffering from reflux.

5. Safety First

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

Keep all toys away from the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. If you're planning to use baby monitors, select one with a clear line of sight so that it does not block your view. Also, make sure any cords are out of your child's reach and are securely attached. Do not place blankets, pillows or even positioners in the crib. These can cause suffocation and choking risks and could be thrown off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.

Avoid using old cribs because they may have outdated features that can lead to injury. Even if a crib appears in excellent condition, the slats could be too wide or it might be missing hardware. Also, old cribs could contain lead-based paint or have loose and dangerous screws or bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a low 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 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 have similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.