Top 5 Recommended Cribs (Wikimapia.Org)

When you purchase a crib, you want it to be safe and sturdy. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.

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

1. Sturdy

It's important that the crib is built to last because babies will spend the majority of their time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.

Avoid cribs with slats too close together, as this can cause suffocation. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts or drop-sides, since these options could be dangerous to your child.

Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they could affect your Baby Cot Bed's breathing and sleep. Instead, choose cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with a small footprint to minimize space and dust accumulation in your nursery.

The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a sturdy crib, as it meets the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that can be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks great in all rooms. The only drawback is that it does not have a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs on 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 also has only three mattress heights, which is less than some other cribs, however it might be preferable if you're planning to have your baby use the crib for a while and want it to last longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

In contrast to larger cribs the majority of modern mini cribs don't require a full day to put together. They're usually ready for use straight out of the box and take only 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some even have a built-in 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 well-assembled and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to a baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Be sure that they are securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which can lead to cracked wood or stripped threads. Choose a solid wood crib since it is considered to be safer than metal.

If you of time. It's easy to set up and durable, even for parents who don't have the skills. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights which means you can start your baby off in a low position which is easy for parents to lift and then raise as they grow older.

This convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are seeking a crib that will be a part of the formal nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, eliminating the need to shop for the rails 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 create a win-win scenario, providing an environment that is safe for your baby while promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful emissions and chemicals, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically made of solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and most have a minimal design to minimize the impact on the environment. They are easy to set up, convert and some even have a dresser or a changing tray that is attached. This can save space.

Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into a toddler bed or full-size bed. They may also have additional features, like a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand repeated use and clean. The best infant cribs eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic and non-toxic materials. They also are low-VOC in their finish.

Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood, and it does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents who want an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and is eco-friendly.

Another option is the Namesake crib, which comes with timeless design and top-quality construction at a reasonable price. The sturdy slats made from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be attached to the side to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.

5. Safety First

When selecting a crib, security should be the primary priority. Make sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Make sure it is in compliance with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or footboard, and corner posts that are aligned with the panels at the end of the crib, or very tall. Anything in between poses a danger of strangulation.

Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they pose dangers of choking or even suffocation. If you're planning to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one that has a clear line of sight, so it doesn't block your view. Also, make sure that any cords are not within your child's reach and are securely connected. Don't place any blankets, pillows or positioners inside the crib. These items could pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and could be thrown away by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.

Also, do not use old cribs as they may have construction elements that are outdated and could result in injuries. Even if the crib appears in excellent condition, it could have slats that are too wide or lack hardware. Old cribs may also be painted with lead or loose, dangerous bolts and screws.

The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a great price, but it may be too much for people who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 have similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.