10 Things We Hate About Recommended Cribs

Top 5 Recommended Cribs

When you buy a crib, you want it to be secure and durable. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.

One of our top 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 sturdy because babies will spend the majority of his or her time in it. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough surfaces that could cause harm to your child.

Find solid frames, and avoid slats that are too close together, as this could increase the danger of suffocation. Also, look for a crib that does not include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, since these features can be an hazard for your child.

Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with a small footprint to save space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for babies because it meets all of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could get caught on toys or clothing and looks beautiful in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have a toddler rail and does not have the same amount of slats as other cribs on this list.

Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the other options on this list, however it has a sleek design and is a perfect fit for our requirements, including being super-easy to assemble. It only has three levels of mattress that is less than other cribs. If you intend to use the crib for a long time it might be more suitable for your needs.

2. Easy to Assemble

Many modern mini cribs do not require the time of a whole day to put together unlike larger cribs. They are ready to use straight out from the box, and require approximately 30 minutes to assemble with the tools included. Some even have an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which eliminates the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.

Of course, you must ensure that the crib is securely assembled without gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Also, pay attention to the quality of hardware, particularly bolts and screws. Be sure that they are securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which could result in broken threads or wood cracks. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.

Find cribs with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide an instructional video for those who are not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual should include a list with the necessary supplies, like screws and washers.

Besides design, size is another factor to consider. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not too big that it won't fit through an ordinary doorway. Be cautious about using cribs older than a year, as they might not meet the current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic choice for those who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It is made from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It has more exposed hardware than other options on this list though, and some users found it more complicated to assemble than necessary due to mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.

3. Convertible

If you're looking for a crib that can last through the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that converts into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. Consider a convertible crib if you would like a crib that will last well into the age of toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, and make it easier to replace the mattress as your cheap baby cots and tots (my response) grows.

While most cribs that transform into a full-size bed seem like a gimmick--you just remove the side and replace it with a wider rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and looks great in any nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser for an even more seamless look.

This crib is more substantial than others in our tests. It could occupy more space in your nursery than some of the smaller options however, it's a stunning piece that can stand the test of time. It's easy to assemble and durable even for parents who aren't skilled. It also comes with three different mattress heights that can be adjusted that means you can begin your child in a low position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they get older.

This crib is more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, which is perfect for parents who want a crib that will look nice in a stately nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, eliminating the need to shop for those separately. The only drawback is that it has some exposed hardware, which could be an issue for some.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs can be a win-win for everyone. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful chemicals and emissions as well as harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually constructed from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and a lot of them are designed to reduce the impact on the environment. They are easy to set up or convert, and some have an adjustable dresser or changing tray built-in. This can help save space.

Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to adapt to your child's needs and convert to an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They may also 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 best crib for newborn eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with a low-VOC coating.

A fantastic example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood and has no 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 clean and also eco-friendly.

Namesake is another option that offers an elegant design and top rated cots-quality construction for a reasonable price. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also features an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies suffering from reflux.

5. Safety First

When you are choosing a crib safety should be your top priority. Be sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, with solid hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. Also, ensure that it meets current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's approximately the size of a soda container) and no cutouts with decorative designs on the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything in between poses a strangulation risk.

Keep all toys away from the crib, as they pose the risk of choking or suffocation. If you want to use a baby cots on sale monitor, choose one with a clear line of sight so that it doesn't block your view. Also, ensure that all cords are not within reach of your child and are securely attached. Don't place any blankets, pillows or positioners inside the crib. These can lead to choking and suffocation risks, and can be pushed down or kicked by your child.

Avoid using old cribs as they could be equipped with outdated features that can lead to injury. Even if the crib is in good condition, it may have slats that are too wide or be missing some hardware. Also, old cribs could have paint that contains lead or have loose and dangerous bolts or screws.

The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it could be too much for those who want a simple design. Other options such as 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.