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When you have a little one, one of the most important items you are going to need is the crib. Choosing the right crib for your bundle of joy can prove to be challenging for new parents. Don’t fret, we’re here to help you choose the right crib for you and your little one!
You first want to ask yourself, do you need a crib? Are you looking for a full-size crib or mini crib? Next, you want to keep in mind that you must stick to safe sleeping habits for babies. That is for babies to lie flat on their backs, no blankets, bedding, or stuffed animals/toys, on a firm mattress with a fitted sheet.
Babies should share a parent’s room from six months to a year. If you choose to first use a bassinet that’s fine but you should consider purchasing a crib even if you don’t plan on using it right away.
Being first-time parents, you might be a little overwhelmed by choosing the right crib for your baby. There are so many cribs on the market, that it might be hard to choose which is the best fit for you and your baby. But how do you choose the right crib for the job?
That can be a bit difficult, just keep in mind all the things you want to get out of your baby’s crib, as well as your budget. You want to look for the best crib within your price range, and go from there. That’s all you need to worry about, leave the rest to us, and here are the ten best cribs on the market, today.
Types of Baby Cribs
First, we’ll look at different types of cribs that you can consider. There are many different types of cribs out there, and you must choose the one that is right for you and your baby.
Traditional/Standard Cribs – These are full-sized cribs with four sides.
Convertible Cribs – These convert into toddler beds, and sometimes full-sized beds or daybeds. These require conversion kits to morph into the different styles of beds. Sometimes these are included with the initial purchase sometimes not. Be sure to check, and be sure to purchase all the conversion packs with the crib in case of discontinuation.
Mini-Cribs – Exactly how it sounds, a smaller version of a traditional crib. It is slightly a bit bigger than a bassinet. Mini-Cribs usually come on wheels for easy portability. Some even fold flat for easy storage. Mini-Cribs are great for places with limited space or if you want something you can move around. Depending on the model of the mini-crib they usually are suitable for infants up until the age of three.
Travel Cribs – Easy to set up and break down, these cribs are more suitable for travel. If you are staying overnight at someone’s house, this would be perfect.
How to Choose a Crib
To be perfectly honest, most parents choose the right crib for their family by looking at style, size, price, or all three. However, there are a few other things to keep in mind when you are choosing your crib.
Crib Must Meet Standards
Your new crib must be manufactured after 2011, and meet all standards set by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Be sure never to purchase a second-hand crib. Cribs are held to high safety standards that are always changing, plus cribs see a tremendous amount of wear and tear. So always buy your crib new. Another thing you want to be sure of is to always check for recalls. Stop using your crib immediately if it has been recalled and contact the manufacturer for a follow-up.
Well-Made
Always look over all components before and after assembly. This is to make sure everything is in good working order and stable for your baby. Make sure there are no loose parts, broken or cracked slats, etc. You also want to measure the space between the slats and it should be no more than 2 3/8 inches apart or your crib isn’t safe to use.
Mattresses
You want to also be sure that your crib has at least a few adjustable settings for the mattress. When your little one is an infant you want the mattress high enough that you can reach them easily but as they grow you want it low enough they can’t climb or fall out. Also, make sure that the mattress is a good snug fit. Basically, if you can fit more than two fingers between the mattress and the crib, the mattress isn’t right.
Best Baby Cribs of 2022
Babyletto Hudson 3 In 1 Convertible Crib with Toddler Bed Conversion Kit
This sleek modern nursery sits nicely on budget. The crib itself sits a bit lower than most full-sized cribs, making it perfect for tinier parents. The crib will last your family for years because of its toddler conversion and then to the daybed.
It also comes in a variety of washes and wood. It’s Greenguard Gold certified, tested for 360 VOCs and over 10,000 chemicals. It is New Zealand Pine, with a non-toxic finish, and is lead and phthalate-free, and was used by Meghan Markle, making it a Royal Crib!
Dimensions: 53.625” x 29.625” x 34.875”/ Usage: Crib: Stop using when the child begins to climb or reaches 35”; Toddler bed, up to 50 lbs./ Convertible: Converts to a toddler bed and a daybed with the included conversion kit./ Mattress Settings: 4 adjustable mattress levels
Advantages
- Eco-conscious design
- Retro modern look
- Grows with Child
- Non-toxic finish
- 4 level adjustable mattress support
- Toddler rail included
- Solid wood construction
- Sturdy
Disadvantages
- Mattress Support is seen on higher settings
Dadada Soho 3 in 1 Convertible Crib
This crib is light and airy while remaining sturdy. It’s made in Italy, of solid beech wood, and has a baby-safe finish. This crib is both safe and stylish. It will look great in any nursery, and your baby will love it.
It easily adjusts to your baby’s growth, with three conversions. Crib, toddler bed, and day bed. Though conversion kits are sold separately. The crib is a bit expensive, but well worth the money.
Dimensions: 53.15” x 29.95” x 36.7” / Usage: Crib until child is 50 lbs. / Convertible? Converts into toddler bed and day bed with separate kits. /Mattress settings: 3 adjustable mattress settings.
Advantages
- Greenguard certified
- Lead and phthalate-free
- Converts to toddler bed and day bed
- 2-year warranty
Disadvantages
- Conversion kits sold separately
- Standard Mattress is a tight fit
Delta Children Essex 4 in 1 Convertible Baby Crib
You’ll be happy to know that this crib is affordable. It is also sturdy and sits at a cool mid-century design. Made of New Zealand Pine, this crib also converts into a toddler bed, daybed, or sofa.
With its 3 adjustable mattress settings, it allows you to lower height as your baby grows. At the price it sells for, you are looking at a quality crib that meets standards. What’s better than that?
Dimensions: 54” x 29.50” x 34” /Usage: up to 6 years or 50 lbs. /Convertible: Converts to a toddler bed, daybed, or sofa. Daybed/sofa rail included; toddler bed rail sold separately. /Mattress Settings: 3 adjustable mattress settings
Advantages
- Converts to a toddler bed and daybed
- Adjustable height
Disadvantages
- Conversion kits sold separately
- Doesn’t convert to full or twin bed
Davinci Union 4-in-1 Convertible Crib
This crib is extremely affordable. But don’t let its price fool you either. It’s still completely safe for your baby, is sturdy, and can last for more than one child. This is actually one of the safest cribs on the market.
It comes with only one finish but will go well in any nursery. It also converts into a toddler bed, so the crib will grow with your child. The best part is the kit comes with the crib. So you don’t have to worry about purchasing extras.
Dimensions: 53.5” x 29.5” x 32 5/8” /Usage: As a Crib, until child weighs 50 lbs /Convertible: Converts to toddler bed with included conversion kit /Mattress Settings: 2 adjustable settings
Advantages
- Affordable
- Convenient to store
- Converts into a toddler bed
- Well designed
- Aesthetic
- Durable
- Safe
Disadvantages
- Some found the toddler bed conversion to be difficult
Million Dollar Baby Classic Abigail Crib
The Million Dollar Baby Classic Abigail Crib is a nod to classic metal cribs. It is made of premium steel and has a non-toxic finish. It will look good in any nursery and might be just what you’re looking for.
With its 4 adjustable mattress settings, this crib also doubles as a toddler bed and day bed, but the conversion kits are sold separately and usually run at about $140 extra. However, don’t let that stop you because this crib could be the one for you.
Dimensions: 53.89” x 29.52” x 43.89” / Usage: Crib: Until the child climbs out or reaches 35”; Toddler bed: Up to 50 lbs / Convertible: Converts to toddler bed and day bed with separate kits. / Mattress Settings: 4 adjustable levels.
Advantages
- Sturdy
- Easy to assemble
- Well-made
Disadvantages
- Rails low enough child may climb out
Babyletto Harlow Acrylic 3 in 1 Convertible Crib with Toddler Bed Conversion Kit
Extremely modern, sophisticated, and futuristic, the Babyletto Harlow Acrylic 3 in 1 Convertible Crib with Toddler Bed Conversion Kit rings true to its word. Of course, this crib is a bit pricey.
The Acrylic slats, give you a clear view of your baby and rest assured your little one will be safe and secure in this beautiful crib. Please keep in mind that the acrylic slats need to be wiped much more frequently, than that of another crib.
Dimensions: 53.4” x 29.9” x 34.6” / Usage: Crib: Climbing or reaches 35”; Toddler bed, when the child weighs up to 50 lbs. / Convertible: Converts to a toddler bed with included kit / Mattress Setting: Has 4 different levels
Advantages
- Unique
- Unobstructed view
- Grows with your child
- Toddler bed guardrail included
- Modern design
- Eco-Friendly
- 4 Adjustable Mattress Settings
- Safe
- Affordable for acrylic crib
Disadvantages
- High Cost
Delta Children Archer Solid Panel 4-in-1 Convertible Baby Crib
With a price set for a medium-sized budget, the Delta Children Archer 4 In 1 Convertible Baby Crib is well worth it. The crib also converts into a toddler bed, day bed, and full-size bed. So the bed can potentially grow with your child, and stay with them most of their childhood.
Of course, the conversion kits are sold separately. One side of the crib also transforms into a headboard for a full-sized bed. This crib truly is a one-of-a-kind option for your little one. You’ll be missing out if you over look this crib, because let’s face it, you want a nursery that rocks!
Dimensions: 55.75” x 30.50” x 43.25” / Usage: Newborn to child 6 years of age or 50 lbs. / Convertible? Converts into a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size bed and comes with a headboard. Daybed rail included. The toddler rail and full-size bed frame are sold separately. /Mattress Setting: 3 adjustable levels
Advantages
- Greenguard certified
- Non-toxic/ lead and phthalate-free
- Grows with your child
- The crib converts into a daybed, toddler bed, and full-sized bed
- Adjustable mattress height
Disadvantages
- Conversion kits sold separately
Babyletto Origami Mini Crib
Simply designed and with a variety of different colors available, the Babyletto Origami Mini Crib is another great option. The best part of all this crib doesn’t take up much space, with its unique and highly convenient folding feature, it is easy to store.
The Babyletto Origami Mini-Crib is the perfect alternative to a crib when you don’t have a lot of space. Or if you plan on sharing a room with your baby, which is of course highly recommended. These cribs might not be convertible, but they still have mattress levels, to help your back!
Dimensions: 38 5/8” x 25 3/8” x 36” / Usage: Until climbing or reaches 35” / Convertible: No / Mattress Settings: 2 adjustable levels
Advantages
- Comfortable
- Quality
- Smooth gliding casters have a reliable locking mechanism
- Modern design in multiple colors
- Folds down without disassembly
- A more long-term alternative for a baby bassinet
- Adjustable mattress support
- Durable and lightweight
- A safe sleeping environment for your baby
Disadvantages
- Higher price
- Isn’t convertible
- Only 2 adjustable levels
Storkcraft Portofino 4 in 1 Fixed Side Convertible Crib Changer
Sleek, pretty, and functional. This crib comes equipped with three drawers and open side shelves for storage. Looking at the price, you might be thinking it’s a bit steep for a crib, and we agree with you on that.
This crib comes with extra storage for small apartments with little to no room. Who wouldn’t want extra storage space? The crib also converts into a toddler bed, but of course the kit is sold separately.
Dimensions: 32.91 x 70.78 x 43.11 / Usage: Up until 50 lbs. / Convertible: Converts to toddler bed with a separate kit. / Mattress Settings: 3 Adjustable levels
Advantages
- Sturdy
- Well-made
- Great for limited space
- Storage room
- Converts to toddler bed
Disadvantages
- Pricey
- Toddler bed conversion kit sold separately
Frequently Asked Questions
Q – How many different types of cribs are there and what are they?
A) There are 4 different types of cribs on the market. They are Traditional/standard, Convertible cribs, Mini-Cribs, and travel cribs.
Q – What are the three things I should look for when looking to purchase a crib?
A) You should look for style, price, and size.
Q – Are there other things I should look for when purchasing a crib?
A) Purchase a new crib, manufactured after 2011, and make sure that the crib you are purchasing hasn’t been recalled.
Q – How should I assemble my crib?
A) Be sure to look over all components, this assures you that everything is in good working order. Make sure there are no loose parts, broken or cracked slats, etc.
Q – How far apart should the slats of the crib be?
A) No more than 2 3/8 inches apart.
Q – Should my crib have mattress settings?
A) Yes. There should be at least a couple of adjustable levels so that you can change them as your baby grows.
Q – Should the mattress be a snug fit?
A) Yes, you want the mattress to be 4 1/4 inches wide by 51 5/8 inches long and no more than 6 inches thick. Basically, if you can fit more than two fingers between the mattress and the crib, the mattress isn’t right.
Conclusion
That’s about all there is to choosing a crib for your little one. If you choose one of the cribs we’ve recommended, or you choose another one suited more to your needs or budget, the crib is the most important piece of baby furniture for your nursery.
The best part is that you could potentially use your crib for more than one child, so long as it doesn’t get outdated or recalled.
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