5 Best Cribs For Every Need, Tested by Parents and Babies

When I was pregnant with my first baby, I had the perfect image of how I wanted the nursery to turn out. When it came to picking out the crib to match that vision, I quickly felt overwhelmed. Why are there so many options? What does “4-in-1” actually mean and do I really need it? It took until baby number two before the process felt a lot less daunting.

Fortunately, we’re here to help you cut through the confusing marketing claims of baby cribs so you can choose the right one the first time around. This round-up breaks down what features actually matter, what you’ll realistically use and what’s a nice-to-have bonus.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Baby Cribs

To help you pick out the best crib for your baby, we researched dozens of options and then put the top choices to the test. Here’s how we narrowed down the list:

• We tested 11 different cribs across 11 families with babies and toddlers ranging from 1-month-old to 4-years-old (using a convertible crib).
• Product testers used the cribs out over multiple nights of sleep and evaluated each one based on specific criteria including ease of setup, effectiveness, features, size and portability, style and design, quality and value for the money.
• Cribs were rated in each category on a scale from 1-10 with 10 being the highest score. We used those results to create our shortlist of top 5 products.
• We spoke with a pediatric sleep consultant for advice on what to look for in a crib and how to use one properly.
• Because no two families are alike, we conducted exhaustive market research, scouring message boards, forums and user reviews to see how these cribs worked for families across the country.

Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read more about how The Bump develops our product reviews.

Best Baby Cribs

What to Consider When Buying a Baby Crib

There’s a lot to think about when choosing a baby crib. To make the decision a little easier, here are the factors that actually matter:

• Safety. The safest baby cribs are newer models that meet current federal safety standards. Today’s cribs are built with stronger hardware and more durable slats to prevent breakage or loose parts. Any baby crib you buy new will have to meet CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) requirements, but that’s not necessarily true of used models. If you’re using a hand-me-down, double check that it hasn’t been recalled—and that federal safety standards haven’t changed since it was made. And for extra assurance, look for cribs that carry the JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association) seal.
• Size. If you’re tight on space or planning to room-share beyond the bassinet stage, a mini-crib can be a great option. Standard cribs are larger and once assembled, won’t fit through the doorway, which means you may want a different, smaller option for room-sharing. Otherwise you’ll probably need to disassemble the crib to move it from your room to your baby’s room once they’re ready to be on their own.
• Portability. Full-size cribs tend to be heavy and not meant to move. While this adds to their sturdiness, it makes it difficult to move around the room if you’re the kind of person who likes to redecorate. Mini cribs often come with wheels, which can be especially helpful if you want to move your baby from room to room during the day.
• Budget. The crib itself isn’t the only cost to consider. You’ll also need to budget for a crib mattress, which typically runs from $100 anywhere up to $500. And a non-convertible crib may cost less, but if you go that route you may then need a toddler bed down the line. And if you are buying a convertible crib, check whether conversion kits are included—many aren’t, and they can add a surprising amount to the total cost.
• Storage. Baby gear adds up quickly, so built-in storage can be helpful. Some cribs include a drawer underneath, but that can make it harder to stand close when lifting your baby in and out (you’ll likely bump your feet a few times). Others have attached dressers or changing tables, which save space, which save space––but they’re usually not removable, so you’ll always have a larger footprint.
• Add-ons. If you plan to convert your crib into a toddler bed later, consider purchasing the accompanying toddler rail or conversion kit at the same time. These pieces can go out of stock or get discontinued, so it’s better to have them on hand than to find out down the line that the necessary parts for the model you have are no longer available.
• Bedding. The good news: You don’t need (and for safety reasons, shouldn’t have) anything other than a fitted crib sheet in a baby crib. While a matching crib skirt is optional as a decorative touch, skip the bumpers, quilts and pillows, all of which pose safety hazards per the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

Baby Crib Safety Tips

Finding a baby crib that aligns with your unique needs is only half of the process—you’ll also want to make sure it’s set up and used safely. This way, you can create a sleeping spot for baby that’s comfy, dreamy and secure. Below, find safety tips to keep top of mind:

• Age. Depending on your preference, baby can sleep in a crib from day one. If you start with a bassinet, you’ll need to transition to a crib once baby outgrows the space or shows signs of rolling over or sitting up according to Jillian Thistel, a certified pediatric sleep consultant in Ontario, Canada. As your child approaches age 3, they’ll likely be ready for a toddler bed, but every child develops at their own pace, so follow their cues and move them when it feels right––or when they physically outgrow their crib––to avoid safety risks.
• Setup. Always follow the instructions given by the manufacturer carefully to ensure the crib is assembled correctly (without any loose screws or bolts!), says Thistel. If you lose any parts, such as screws and washers (because pregnancy brain!), don’t improvise. Instead, contact the brand for replacements. Most importantly, remember to build your baby’s crib in the room you plan to use it in—you don’t want to learn the hard way that it won’t fit through the door!
• Placement. Avoid placing their child’s crib near any outlets; furniture that could be a potential safety hazard; windows with blinds, cords or strings or walls with frames or hanging decor that could fall—the same goes for mobiles that attach to or hang over the bed. For baby’s comfort, the crib also shouldn’t be placed where direct sunlight hits, notes Thistel.
• Bedding. Make sure you’re up to date on all safe sleep guidelines from the AAP. For starters, when making your infant’s bed, use a fitted sheet only—nothing else should be in the crib with baby. Moreover, there shouldn’t be any gaps between the mattress and the bed. Once baby reaches their first birthday, you can introduce a small lovey, says Thistel, but the bed should remain free of bumpers, pillows, loose bedding and anything else that could pose a suffocation risk.
• Mattress height. Most cribs feature adjustable mattress height settings that adapt to your child’s changing needs. Thistle advises parents to lower the crib’s mattress height when baby shows signs of sitting up independently, rolling over or getting up onto their hands and knees.

What is a Convertible Crib? (And What Do You Actually Get?)

Convertible cribs can be extremely convenient for parents. They start as one type of crib and transform into different bed configurations as your little one grows. Some convert from mini crib to full-size crib, others from crib to toddler bed, and can be marketed as “3-in-1,” or even “4-in-1” with multiple stages.

The way you convert each version varies. Going from a mini-crib to a standard crib usually involves screwing in additional rails on each side of the crib to extend the frame. Converting to a toddler bed typically involves removing one sides of the crib and adding a guard rail. Depending on the model, these conversions can be quick 15-minute processes or can involve more time, tools and connecting many small parts.

The appeal of convertible cribs is obvious––when they work right, you don’t have to purchase multiple beds throughout your child’s sleep stages. Convertible cribs can also reduce the amount of storage space you need—you don’t have to put the crib in the attic once baby outgrows it, you just keep using it.

While this sounds ideal, there are some tradeoffs to consider. Many cribs don’t include the conversion kits required for each stage. These are often sold separately, adding to the overall cost––and frustratingly, that’s not always clearly stated upfront. And by the time you need the kit (or another piece, like a toddler rail), it may be out of stock or discontinued.

It’s also worth looking at what those “conversions” actually are. Sometimes brands exaggerate the number of modes, and you’re told something is a 4-in-1 when really you’re looking at two or three modes, tops—for instance, we tested one model that described a daybed and a sofa bed as two separate modes, even though the only difference was where you place the cushions (that weren’t even included). This doesn’t mean the crib was bad, mind you—in fact, we recommended it in this article! It just means that you need to keep your eyes open and be aware of what’s a real benefit and what’s marketing speak. And while the idea of converting to a full- or twin-size bed sounds great, parents sometimes find that it can involve buying extra kits, slats and a box spring. In those cases, you may find it’s more hassle (and more expensive) than just buying a new bed.

When it comes to choosing a convertible crib, consider how many conversions you’ll realistically use. Would a mini crib help with room sharing and eliminate the need for a bassinet? Do you want a standard crib to convert to a toddler bed? Whichever type you choose, read carefully whether you need to purchase any conversion kits separately. If a separate kit is required, purchase them at the same time as the bed so you’re not stuck tracking them down later.

Mini Crib vs. Standard Crib

Many parents opt for a bassinet to make room-sharing easy in the first few months of their newborn’s life. But once baby starts to push up and roll over—which can happen earlier than you’d think—bassinets are no longer safe, since the mattress height typically isn’t adjustable. At that point, switching to a standard crib can make room-sharing (which the AAP recommends for 6 to 12 months) more challenging, especially in smaller bedrooms.

Mini cribs are a great alternative. Their smaller footprint means they can usually fit alongside your bed, eliminating the need for a separate bassinet. Mini cribs are also usually a bit larger than bassinets which means they’re more comfortable for baby for a longer period of time. Many mini cribs include adjustable mattress heights, which helps keep your baby safe as they grow and become more mobile.

On average, the footprint of a mini crib measures around 24" x 38", compared to 28" x 52" for a standard crib and about 19" x 33" for a bassinet. That said, not all mini cribs follow standard sizing. Depending on the model and your baby’s size, some can be used up to 12 to 18 months. Since sizing varies, you may need to purchase a brand-specific mattress and bedding for your mini crib so it fits snug with no gaps.

Another option is a midi crib. These are slightly larger than mini cribs (about 29.75" x 37.5" on average) but still smaller than standard cribs. They offer a bit more room for your baby to grow, but the larger footprint may make room-sharing less practical depending on your space.

Mini and midi cribs can be great alternatives to a bassinet and can help extend room-sharing. Their smaller footprint makes them easier to fit into most rooms. However, many parents still transition to a standard crib eventually, depending on their baby’s size and mobility, especially once they start pulling up to stand. It’s also worth noting that most mini cribs don’t include built-in storage options like drawers or attached dressers.

About the writer:
Michelle Sabia, MPH, CPH, MWC is a public health professional, health educator and mom of two. With nearly 15 years of experience, she has focused her career on designing and implementing women’s health education programs. Having experienced several complications in pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period, Michelle is a fierce advocate for maternal health and maternal mental health. She brings her personal and professional experience to her writing, where she aims to support all parents through the new, chaotic chapter in their lives.