The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Crib for Your Baby

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Navigating the world of baby gear can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to selecting a safe and comfortable crib for your little one. As seasoned SEO experts and top-tier copywriters, we've meticulously analyzed and synthesized extensive research to bring you the definitive guide to the best cribs available. Our goal is to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision, ensuring your baby has a secure and cozy place to sleep for years to come.

In this comprehensive article, we delve into the top crib contenders, evaluating their features, durability, versatility, and overall value. We've rigorously examined various models from leading brands, including DaVinci, IKEA, and Pottery Barn Kids, to bring you our expert recommendations.

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Everything We Recommend:

Our in-depth testing and research have led us to recommend several exceptional cribs, each catering to different needs and preferences:

Top Pick: The DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Crib stands out as the best overall crib for most families. This sturdy and traditionally styled crib offers exceptional versatility, converting from a standard crib to a toddler bed, daybed, and finally, a full-size bed, promising years of use. It's constructed from sustainable New Zealand pine and is Greenguard Gold certified for low emissions, providing peace of mind for health-conscious parents.

• Buying Options: Available at Amazon and Wayfair.

Also Great: The IKEA Sundvik offers a simple, modern aesthetic and robust construction from durable beechwood. While it doesn't convert to a full-size bed and has fewer mattress height adjustments than our top pick, its solid build and attractive design make it a strong contender.

• Buying Options: Available exclusively at IKEA.

Also Great: The DaVinci Jenny Lind 3-in-1 Convertible Crib brings a touch of vintage charm with its distinctive spindle posts and convenient (removable) wheels. This crib converts to a toddler bed and is known for its ease of assembly and conversion. It's also available in a wide array of modern colors.

• Buying Options: Available at Amazon and Wayfair.

Upgrade Pick: For those prioritizing exceptional sturdiness and a pristine look, the Pottery Barn Kids Kendall Convertible Crib is our upgrade pick. Crafted from solid poplar hardwood, this crib is highly resistant to nicks and dings and boasts a classic design.

• Buying Options: Available at Pottery Barn Kids.

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Top Pick:

Our top recommendation is the DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Crib. Its combination of durability, versatility, attractive design, and reasonable price point makes it the ideal choice for most families. The ability to convert to a toddler bed and then a full-size bed ensures long-term value, potentially saving you money in the long run.

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Buying Options:

You can purchase the DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Crib from major retailers like Amazon and Wayfair. Be sure to check for the best deals and consider any potential shipping costs.

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Runner-Up:

Our runner-up selections include the IKEA Sundvik and the DaVinci Jenny Lind 3-in-1 Convertible Crib. The IKEA Sundvik is a fantastic option for those who appreciate minimalist design and a sturdy build. Its beechwood construction offers excellent durability. The DaVinci Jenny Lind stands out with its unique vintage style, mobility thanks to its wheels, and ease of assembly.

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Budget Pick:

While not explicitly tested as a top pick, the IKEA Sniglar and IKEA Gulliver are known as more budget-friendly options within IKEA's crib line. While they might lack some of the features of the Sundvik or our top picks, they can still provide a safe sleeping environment for your baby.

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What to Consider When Buying a Crib:

Choosing the right crib involves several important considerations:

• Safety: Ensure the crib meets all current safety standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Look for sturdy construction, proper slat spacing, and non-toxic finishes.
• Versatility: Consider whether you want a convertible crib that can adapt to your child's growing needs, potentially saving you the cost of purchasing additional beds later.
• Materials and Durability: Look for cribs made from solid wood or high-quality engineered wood that can withstand years of use.
• Ease of Assembly and Conversion: Consider how easy the crib is to assemble and convert between different configurations. Busy parents will appreciate straightforward instructions and simple processes.
• Size and Space: Ensure the crib fits comfortably in your nursery and consider the overall dimensions, especially if you have a smaller space.
• Mattress Height Adjustments: Multiple mattress height options allow you to adjust the crib as your baby grows, starting with a higher setting for newborns and lowering it as they become more mobile.
• Style and Aesthetics: Choose a crib that complements your nursery decor and personal style.
• Price and Value: Determine your budget and compare the features and benefits of different cribs within that range.

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How We Picked the Best Cribs:

Our selection process involved a rigorous approach, including:

• Extensive Research: We spent over 20 hours researching hundreds of cribs from various manufacturers, analyzing their features, materials, customer reviews, and safety certifications.
• Expert Consultation: We consulted data from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) on safe sleep guidelines and spoke with experts on the AAP task force on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
• Parent Feedback: We gathered insights from numerous parents via surveys, social media, and personal interviews to understand their experiences, preferences, and what they considered most important when choosing a crib.
• Manufacturer Interviews: We interviewed designers and representatives from leading crib manufacturers like Million Dollar Baby (parent company of DaVinci and Babyletto), DaVinci, Babyletto, Nursery Works, and Crate and Kids to gain a deeper understanding of their design processes, materials, and color palettes.
• Competitive Analysis: We reviewed crib guides from reputable sources like Baby Bargains and Consumer Reports to cross-reference our findings.
• Hands-On Testing: We assembled and converted 20 different crib models over three days to evaluate their ease of assembly, sturdiness, and conversion processes. This allowed us to experience firsthand the challenges and benefits of each crib.

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Why You Should Trust Us

Our recommendations are built on a foundation of thorough research and rigorous testing. In 2020, our team dedicated significant time and effort to understanding the intricacies of crib design, safety standards, and parental needs. We didn't just rely on online reviews; we actively engaged with experts, parents, and manufacturers to gain a comprehensive understanding of the crib market. Our hands-on testing involved assembling and converting a wide range of cribs, allowing us to identify the strengths and weaknesses of each model. This commitment to in-depth analysis ensures that our recommendations are trustworthy and based on real-world experience. We meticulously evaluated factors like sturdiness, ease of assembly, versatility, and overall value to provide you with unbiased and reliable guidance.

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Who This Is For

This guide is designed for expectant parents, new parents, and anyone looking to purchase a safe and reliable crib for an infant or toddler. The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes the importance of a firm mattress in a safety-approved crib as the safest sleeping environment for babies. Whether you're setting up a dedicated nursery or finding a cozy corner in your own room, choosing the right crib is a crucial decision. Our research indicates that most families utilize a crib for approximately four years, often transitioning to a toddler bed or daybed around the age of 3 or 4. For parents seeking a longer-term solution, convertible cribs that can transform into full-size beds offer extended usability throughout childhood and beyond. This guide caters to a variety of needs and budgets, helping every parent find the perfect crib for their family.

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How We Picked

Our selection process began with an exhaustive list of nearly 30 crib manufacturers, ranging from AFG Furniture to Westwood Design. We conducted preliminary research on each brand, noting their price points, availability, and online reviews. The "Baby Bargains" review of over 50 crib brands served as an invaluable resource during this initial phase. We also consulted the Consumer Reports crib guide for additional insights. This initial screening helped us narrow down the field by eliminating brands that were too expensive (over $600), had limited availability, or consistently received negative reviews. We then compiled a condensed list of brands and identified specific crib models for further consideration.

Brands like IKEA, DaVinci, Graco, and Pottery Barn had multiple models that met our initial criteria. For each of these cribs, we gathered detailed information on price, user ratings, materials, dimensions, color options, convertibility, and special features. We also reached out to parents through social media and personal networks to learn about their crib-buying experiences and the brands and models they favored. IKEA, DaVinci, Pottery Barn Kids, and Graco emerged as frequently mentioned favorites. Based on this comprehensive research, expert consultations, parental feedback, and our own experiences, we established key criteria for what constitutes a great crib. These criteria included safety (compliance with CPSC standards), quality materials (durability for at least four years), affordability (most parents preferred to spend under $250), ease of assembly and conversion, versatility (convertibility to a toddler bed was essential, with bonus points for full-size bed conversion and included toddler rails), adjustability (at least three mattress height levels), and availability in multiple colors and designs. We also noted when a crib was part of a larger furniture collection and whether it had features like a low-profile design or a plastic teething guard.

Our initial shortlist consisted of approximately eight crib brands with strong online and in-person reviews and wide availability. Six of these were reasonably priced, while two were more premium options with excellent reputations. We ultimately decided to test models from these brands in person to gain a firsthand understanding of their quality and functionality. The DaVinci Kalani stood out due to its numerous positive reviews and frequent appearance on "best-of" lists. The DaVinci Jenny Lind was another popular model consistently mentioned by parents.

Pottery Barn Kids' Kendall Convertible Crib was chosen as one of their most popular and affordable models. For other brands, we reviewed model specifications and consulted with marketing representatives to identify their most popular models and understand their key selling points. This led us to include the Babyletto Hudson, the newly launched Carter's by DaVinci Colby, the newer Graco Solano (over the older Lauren model due to its universal toddler rail compatibility and optional features), the budget-friendly Storkcraft Pacific, and the highly-rated Fisher-Price Newbury 4-in-1 Convertible Crib (although it was ultimately unavailable for testing). Finally, based on feedback from IKEA users and a representative, we selected the popular IKEA Sundvik over the less expensive Sniglar and Gulliver models. In the end, we curated a diverse selection of 10 cribs, ranging in price from just over $100 to nearly $500, for our in-depth testing.

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How We Tested

Our testing process involved a hands-on approach to simulate the experience of new parents. We had 20 cribs delivered in flat-pack boxes to our office, where we enlisted the help of an assistant with significant furniture assembly experience. This assembly marathon spanned two full days, one of which was during an intense heatwave that overwhelmed our office's air conditioning – a testament to the dedication we brought to this task. For each crib, we meticulously timed the assembly process from the moment the box was opened. While our assistant was comfortable with furniture assembly, this project presented a unique challenge, even requiring us to learn about tools like Allen wrenches.

We unpacked all the components, inventoried the pieces, and followed the written instructions to assemble each crib. Upon completion, we recorded the assembly time and noted any challenges or mistakes encountered during the process. We found that assembly times varied significantly, ranging from just over 15 minutes for some cribs to well over an hour for others. Once assembled, we placed a crib mattress inside each one to ensure a proper fit. We then conducted a thorough evaluation of each crib's sturdiness and build quality by moving it around, shaking it, and gently pulling on the bars, noting any areas prone to nicks or dings. For our top contenders, we also tested the mattress height adjustment mechanisms and performed the toddler bed conversions to assess the ease of these processes. Along with timing and rating the assembly and conversion, we systematically analyzed each crib based on our established criteria, including price, materials, color options, and online reviews, before making our final recommendations.

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Our Pick: DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Crib

The DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Crib emerged as our top pick due to its exceptional balance of sturdiness, quality materials, versatility, and affordability. Priced around $200, the Kalani offers remarkable value for parents seeking a crib that will last for years. It boasts Greenguard Gold certification for low VOC emissions and, weighing in at 56 pounds, feels significantly more robust than other cribs in its price range, featuring thicker legs and side panels. Notably, it's the only one of our top four picks that converts to a full-size bed. The Kalani is constructed from solid New Zealand pine, a sustainable wood that, while relatively soft, provides excellent sturdiness in this particular model. Its traditional design lends itself well to both classic and contemporary nurseries.

Despite its substantial appearance, the crib has a low profile (35 inches from floor to the top of the front rail), making it easier for shorter parents to reach in and out. It's available in a range of seven colors, including white, gray, black, and four wood finishes, with the rich espresso being the most popular choice. The Kalani is the best-selling model from DaVinci, a brand under the Million Dollar Baby Company, and has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews, including over 4,000 on Amazon. A half-width toddler rail can be purchased separately for around $80, and a full-size bed conversion kit is available for approximately $100. The crib consists of 14 pieces (excluding the wire mattress support). While the instructions are clear and the pieces are well-labeled, the assembly process took our team over an hour, longer than any of our other top picks.

However, the conversion to a toddler bed is much simpler, taking one person about 15 minutes. Adjusting the wire mattress support to one of the four available positions is also relatively easy, offering more versatility than many other cribs that typically have only three height options. We spoke with several parents who own the DaVinci Kalani, and all reported high levels of satisfaction. One member of our team mentioned that after initially using a Graco Pack 'n Play for her first child, she opted for the Kalani for her second based on recommendations from other parents. She found the setup manageable and is now using the same crib for her third child. Another parent from New York expressed similar satisfaction with her Kalani purchase for her second child, describing it as "a great crib." All DaVinci furniture comes with a one-year warranty, and the Kalani is part of a larger collection that includes three- and six-drawer dressers, allowing parents to create a cohesive nursery set.

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Flaws but not Dealbreakers

Despite its numerous strengths, the DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Crib does have a couple of notable flaws. The first is its relatively complex assembly. Unlike our other top picks, which typically have only four main parts plus the mattress support, the Kalani comes with 14 pieces. Its sleigh-like design also means that the front and back pieces are distinct and must be oriented correctly. While all pieces are labeled, we found the instructions relied heavily on graphics, which could be challenging for some users. The hardware includes bolts of five different lengths, barrel nuts, wood dowels, and two types of washers, requiring both the included Allen wrench and a Phillips screwdriver (not included). Our assembly process was marked by several mistakes and a fair amount of frustration. While many Amazon reviewers report an assembly time of around one hour, our experience took 90 minutes, making it the second-longest assembly time among the 15 cribs we tested and a full hour longer than some of the easier options.

The second flaw is the softness of the New Zealand pine used in its construction. During testing, we accidentally dropped a sleigh piece from a short distance, resulting in a small crack. Additionally, a dropped screw caused a noticeable scratch on the inside of one of the wood pieces. Parents who own this crib have also noted the softness of the wood. One parent mentioned that her child extensively teethed on the side rails, leaving significant marks, necessitating the purchase of teething guards. While the vast majority of Amazon reviews for the Kalani are positive (four or five stars), many of the one-star reviews mention the easily damaged wood, with some buyers reporting that their crib arrived with scratches or cracks. It's important to note that most cribs in this price range are made of pine, which is a consistent wood type crucial for both aesthetics and passing stringent safety and strength tests. Pine, particularly New Zealand pine, is readily available, sustainably sourced, and significantly more affordable than hardwoods like poplar, ash, oak, walnut, or maple. While these flaws are worth considering, they didn't outweigh the Kalani's overall value and versatility in our assessment.

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Also Great: IKEA Sundvik

The IKEA Sundvik presents a compelling alternative with its simple, modern design and robust construction. Made from durable beechwood, a hardwood known for its strength, the Sundvik comes in white, black-brown, or grayish brown finishes. While it doesn't offer the full-size bed conversion of our top pick and has only two adjustable mattress heights compared to the Kalani's four, its solid build quality and attractive aesthetic make it a strong contender. Many parents we surveyed on Facebook simply answered "IKEA!" when asked about their favorite crib. Our research suggests that many parents prioritize a basic, well-functioning crib, and the Sundvik fits that bill perfectly. IKEA's crib line includes two even more affordable options, the Sniglar and the Gulliver. Personal experience within our team confirms the Sundvik's durability. One of our testers used two Sundvik cribs for their twins for over four years, including disassembling and reassembling them for a cross-country move, with minimal wear and tear. The cribs were also successfully converted to toddler beds using the IKEA toddler rail and recently reassembled as toddler beds for visiting family without any issues. The Sundvik's sturdiness stands out compared to some other IKEA products.

All of IKEA's cribs are made of solid beechwood. According to a product designer from Million Dollar Baby, beech is stronger and more structural than pine, allowing for thinner slat designs. Unlike our other picks, the Sundvik also incorporates fiberboard (MDF) with a foil finish for the solid side panels. The assembly of the Sundvik took two people 25 minutes, significantly faster than the Kalani. The process was straightforward, though some users might find IKEA's pictorial instructions unique. The front and back panels are identical, as are the two side panels, simplifying the process. The most challenging part was fitting the wooden and mesh mattress support, which contributes to the difficulty of adjusting the mattress height. Converting the crib to a toddler bed (by removing one side) also proved slightly more difficult than with our other top picks, taking two people another 25 minutes. The Sundvik collection includes additional nursery furniture like a dresser/changing table combo and a kid-size table and chairs. IKEA generally offers a generous one-year return policy for undamaged items.

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Also Great: DaVinci Jenny Lind 3-in-1 Convertible Crib

The DaVinci Jenny Lind 3-in-1 Convertible Crib offers a distinctive vintage style with its retro spindle posts and the unique feature of (removable) wheels, making it exceptionally easy to move around a room for cleaning or rearranging. Of all the cribs we tested, it's the only one with wheels. Weighing 45.5 pounds (about 10 pounds lighter than our top pick), the Jenny Lind comes in a vibrant array of modern colors, unlike typical cribs that stick to neutrals. Options include emerald green, cherry red, coral, navy, and lagoon blue, alongside the standard white, black, and gray shades. It's made from the same New Zealand pine as our top pick and holds the same Greenguard Gold certification for low VOC emissions.

However, it doesn't feel quite as sturdy due to its thinner spindle slats and legs. The Jenny Lind stands out as one of the easiest cribs to assemble among those we tested, and by far the easiest of our top four picks. Two people assembled it in just 16 minutes, and one person could later convert it to a toddler bed in about 12 minutes. Like the Kalani, the Jenny Lind offers four mattress height adjustments. The wheels, while uncommon on modern cribs, can be a significant advantage for parents in smaller spaces who might want to move the crib between rooms for naps or bedtime. While the wheels lack a locking mechanism, they can be removed if desired.

We received positive feedback from parents who have used the Jenny Lind. One mother of three from Minnesota immediately recommended it. Another mother from Chicago shared on Facebook that she purchased this crib on sale for her oldest two children, and one was even passed down to a younger sibling, stating, "It's so simple, and I loved it." A mother from Saint Louis, who had a negative experience with a more expensive crib for her older son, opted for the Jenny Lind for her daughter and was very satisfied. The DaVinci Jenny Lind furniture collection also includes a changing table and a standalone toddler bed, though these are not available in as many color options as the crib. The crib comes with a one-year warranty from DaVinci.

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Upgrade Pick: Pottery Barn Kids Kendall Convertible Crib

For parents who prioritize exceptional sturdiness and want a crib that maintains a pristine appearance, the Pottery Barn Kids Kendall Convertible Crib is our upgrade pick. Constructed from solid poplar hardwood, this crib is significantly more resistant to nicks and dings compared to the softer pine used in our other top picks. The handsome, classic design is relatively easy to assemble and also holds a Greenguard Gold certification for low emissions. If maintaining the flawless look of your furniture is a top priority, the Kendall, available in white, seadrift, weathered white, weathered navy, and gray, might be the ideal choice.

However, it comes with a significantly higher price tag, typically costing about twice as much as our top pick. While a toddler bar can be purchased separately, the Kendall does not convert to a full-size bed like the DaVinci Kalani. The solid poplar construction ensures exceptional durability, making it a worthwhile investment for parents who value longevity and a blemish-free aesthetic. The classic design also ensures it will remain a stylish piece in your nursery for years to come.

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The Competition

During our research and testing, we considered several other cribs that didn't quite make our top picks but are still worth mentioning. The Babyletto Hudson is a stylish option with a modern design and good reviews, but it didn't stand out significantly in terms of value compared to our top picks. The Carter's by DaVinci Colby, a newer offering, showed promise but lacked the extensive track record of the Kalani or Jenny Lind.

The Graco Solano offered some unique features like an optional under-crib drawer and attached changing table, but its overall build quality and ease of assembly didn't surpass our top recommendations. The budget-friendly Storkcraft Pacific is a basic option that meets safety standards but lacks the versatility and robust feel of our main picks. The Fisher-Price Newbury 4-in-1 Convertible Crib, while frequently appearing on "best-of" lists and receiving positive reviews, was unavailable for our hands-on testing. Other popular IKEA models, the Sniglar and Gulliver, are more budget-conscious options that some parents have found satisfactory, but the Sundvik offered a better balance of features and durability in our assessment.

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Care, Use, and Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance are essential for ensuring the longevity and safety of your baby's crib. Regularly check all screws and bolts to ensure they are tight. Clean the crib regularly with a damp cloth and mild soap, avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the finish or pose a risk to your baby. For convertible cribs, carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions when transitioning between configurations. Ensure that any additional parts, such as toddler rails or full-size bed conversion kits, are properly installed and securely fastened.

Avoid placing the crib near windows where drafts or direct sunlight could affect your baby's comfort or the crib's materials. If your child begins teething on the crib rails, consider using teething guards to protect the wood and prevent your baby from ingesting any paint or wood fragments. Regularly inspect the crib for any signs of damage, such as cracks, loose parts, or sharp edges, and discontinue use if any safety concerns arise. Always use a crib mattress that fits snugly without any gaps to prevent entrapment.

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Sources

Our research and recommendations are based on a variety of credible sources, including:

• American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines on safe sleep.
• Expert interviews with members of the AAP task force on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
• Direct feedback and surveys from numerous parents regarding their crib purchasing experiences.
• Interviews with designers and representatives from Million Dollar Baby (including DaVinci and Babyletto), DaVinci, Babyletto, Nursery Works, and Crate and Kids.
• Information obtained from the design team at Crate and Kids.
• Reviews and guides from reputable sources such as Baby Bargains and Consumer Reports.
• Insights from specialists at Storkcraft, the parent company of Graco.
• Conversations with representatives from IKEA.
• Personal experience and hands-on testing of 20 different crib models.

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Final Thoughts

Choosing the best crib for your baby is a significant decision that impacts their safety and comfort. Our comprehensive research and testing have led us to confidently recommend the DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Crib as the top overall choice for most families due to its versatility, durability, and value. The IKEA Sundvik and DaVinci Jenny Lind 3-in-1 Convertible Crib offer excellent alternatives with their unique strengths, while the Pottery Barn Kids Kendall Convertible Crib stands out as a premium, exceptionally sturdy option. By considering your individual needs, budget, and preferences, along with the insights provided in this guide, you can confidently select the perfect crib to create a safe and cozy haven for your little one. Remember to prioritize safety, consider long-term usability, and choose a crib that brings you peace of mind.

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Key Takeaways

• The DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Crib is our top pick for its versatility, sturdiness, and value.
• The IKEA Sundvik is a great option for those seeking a simple, modern, and durable crib.
• The DaVinci Jenny Lind 3-in-1 Convertible Crib offers vintage style, mobility, and easy assembly.
• The Pottery Barn Kids Kendall Convertible Crib is our upgrade pick for its exceptional sturdiness and classic design.
• Consider safety, versatility, materials, ease of assembly, and your budget when choosing a crib.
• Regular care and maintenance will help ensure the longevity and safety of your baby's crib.