20 Fun Informational Facts About Recommended Cribs Top 5 Recommended Cribs

You want a crib that's both safe and durable. Look for solid construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.

One of our favorite picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress height settings and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It also comes with an infant rail.

1. Sturdy

A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in their crib, so it is important to choose a crib that is strong enough. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough surfaces that could harm your child.


Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause suffocation. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides as these features may be dangerous for your child.

Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, select cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select a crib with a minimal footprint, since it will make room in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.

The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib, since it is a good fit for the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could be caught on toys or clothing and looks beautiful in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't come with an infant rail and does not have the same amount of slats as some other cribs on this list.

Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more costly than some of the other options on this list, but it's stylish and is a perfect fit for our requirements, such as being extremely easy to assemble. It has just three mattress height levels which is less than some other cribs. However, it could be a better option when you're planning to let your child use the crib for a while and would like it to last for longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

Contrary to some of the larger cribs, most modern mini cribs do not require a whole day to put together. They're usually ready for use right out of the package, and take only 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some even come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit which will save you the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later.

It is essential to ensure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could snag the baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Be sure to tighten them up securely, but not too much, as this can cause the wood to crack or tear threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.

If you're considering a crib that requires assembly, look for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos for those who aren't used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list with the essential tools, like washers and screws.

Size is also crucial. A crib should be large enough for your child, but not too big that it can't fit through an opening of a standard size. Be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not meet current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic option for parents looking for a modern and sleek crib. It is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It has more exposed hardware than some of the other options on this list however, and some customers noted that it was more difficult to set up than they needed to due to the mislabeled components and confusing instructions.

3. Convertible

If you're looking for a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that can be converted into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. Consider a convertible crib if you would like a crib that will last well into toddlerhood. This will free up space and money, and make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.

Most cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like a gimmick--you just remove the side and replace it with a larger rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek, quality-made crib that transforms into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and can be incorporated into almost any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.

This crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It could occupy more space in your nursery than the other cribs, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand up to the test of time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to assemble, even for those who aren't skilled. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your baby in a seated position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they get older.

This convertible crib has more of a traditional design than the other two cribs on this list, and is great for parents looking for an option that looks stylish in a grand nursery. It is also simple to assemble, and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase them separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which could be a problem 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 can be found in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed from solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature an elegant design. They are easy to assemble or convert, and some come with a dresser or a changing tray that is attached. This can save space.

Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be transformed into a toddler bed or full-sized bed. Some cribs might have additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They must be durable and strong enough to withstand frequent use and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coatings.

Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. It is constructed of 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 good choice for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib that offers modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.

Another option is the Namesake crib, which has a timeless style and high-quality construction at an affordable price. The sturdy slats made of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.

5. Safety First

When choosing a crib, safety should be your top priority. Make sure that the crib is strong and well-constructed, with firmly fitted and secured hardware. Also, ensure that cots to tots is in line 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 container) and no cutouts with decorative designs in the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything between can pose the risk of strangulation.

Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they can pose dangers of choking or even 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 out of the reach of your child and are securely connected. Don't keep any pillows, blankets, or positioning devices in the crib. These can pose the risk of suffocation or choke and could be pushed down or kicked by your child.

Also, do not use old cribs because they could have outdated construction features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib appears in good condition, it could have slats that are too wide or be missing some 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 low price, but it might be too much for people who want a minimal look. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 have a similar look but less bells & whistles.