"The Recommended Cribs Awards: The Most, Worst, And Most Bizarre …

Top 5 Recommended Cribs

When you purchase a crib you want it to be secure and sturdy. Look for solid construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It has four different mattress heights and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.

1. Sturdy

A baby spends most of their time in their crib, so it's important to find one that is sturdy enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with safety regulations and standards established 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 parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.

Find a solid frame and stay clear of slats that are too close together, as this can pose a risk of being suffocated. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides, as these features may be dangerous to your child.

Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can impact 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 can reduce the space in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy baby crib (intern.ee.aeust.edu.tw) because it meets all of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in most rooms. It's only downside is that it does not have a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs listed in this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, 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, however it could be a better option if you're planning to have your baby use the crib for a few years and would like it to last for longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

Modern mini cribs don't require the time of a whole day to put together unlike larger cribs. They are ready to use straight out of the box, and take just about 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit, which eliminates the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.

Always ensure that the crib is properly assembled and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to a baby. Also, be attentive to the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them up securely but not too much as this can cause the wood to crack or strip threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.

If you're thinking about buying a crib that requires an assembly, look for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list of essential tools, like washers and screws.

Besides design, size is an additional factor to consider. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your child, but not so large that it won't fit through a standard doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs because older cribs may not meet the latest safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic option for parents who are looking for a sleek and modern crib. It comes with three mattress height settings and is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than some of the other choices on this list, though, and some users have complained that it was more difficult to set up than needed due to mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.

3. Convertible

If you're seeking a crib that can last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that can be converted into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider a convertible crib if would like a crib that will last until toddlerhood. This will save space and money, and make it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.

Most cribs that transform into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought - you simply remove the side tots and cots replace it with a larger rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and looks nice in almost every nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser for an even more seamless appearance.

This crib is more substantial than others in our tests, and it could occupy more space in your nursery than the less expensive options However, it's a gorgeous piece that can stand the test of time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to put together even for those who don't have the skills. It also comes with three different mattress heights that can be adjusted which means you can begin your baby off in a low spot that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise 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 that can fit in the formal nursery cots. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, eliminating the need to buy those separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for some people.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs offer the best cot beds of both worlds, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your baby while encouraging sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions, as well as toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be made of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have an elegant design. They are typically simple to put together and convert, and some have a changing tray or dresser attached that can save space in the nursery.

Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs which can be transformed into an infant bed or a full-sized bed. They could also include additional features, like a built-in changing table or storage compartments. Whatever their capabilities to convert they must be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and frequent cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.

An excellent example of a crib that is eco-friendly 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 requirements. It is a great option for parents who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and also green.

Another option is the Namesake crib, which comes with a timeless style and high-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low 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 sturdy and well-built with firmly-fitted and secure hardware. Also, ensure that it complies with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's about the width of a soda can), no decorative cutout designs on the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or are very tall. Anything between is an opportunity for strangulation.

Keep all toys away from the crib, since they pose dangers of choking or even suffocation. If you want to use baby monitors, select one that has a clear line of sight that doesn't block your view. Also, make sure that any cords are kept away from your baby's reach and securely attached. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets, or baby cribs with positioners. These can pose the risk of suffocation or choke, and can be pushed down or kicked by your child.

Also, do not use old cribs as they may have construction elements that are outdated and can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, it may have slats that are not wide or lack hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint, or unsafe bolts and screws.

The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it may be too much to those who prefer a minimalist look. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1, have a similar style but less bells and whistles.