An infant spends roughly 80% of the time asleep, which is perhaps when the most growth and development happens. And considering that your little munchkin will tend to twist and turn uncontrollably, you need a safe place for them. Your large bed wont do the trick, and neither will your comfortable couch. You need a crib thats specifically designed for kids in terms of safety and comfort!
The crib should be safe, reliable, comfortable, versatile and convenient. It should be sturdy enough to keep your child from falling out, yet still, have an overall good aesthetic look to compliment the room. Some of these cribs are convertible as well, which means that it will transition as your baby grows and support them from their toddler years to later stages of their childhood as well. You might also need a frame that supports features such as mattress height adjustability, whereby, the higher the mattress, the easier it will be to scoop them out. Either way, the model you choose should comply with the current safety standards.
Considering all these important factors, we shall go ahead and look at some of the best baby cribs in the market to help you make a more informed decision.
Top 12 Baby Cribs Of 2020 Reviewed
1. Union 3-in-1 Convertible Crib
Baby Crib For Short Moms
If you want a no-frills crib that will easily fit in your modern, sleek, minimalist theme/design that you have for your nursery, then you might want to check out this one. Its an easy-to-assemble, lightweight crib that has 4 adjustable mattress positions that will grow with your baby.
Pros:
- Easy to assemble
- Really affordable price
- Sturdy
Cons:
- Cannot be converted into a full bed
- Paint chips
- Shorter than most crib rails
2. Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib
Baby Cribs On A Budget
Babyletto Hudson has a mid-century contemporary design thats sleek, smooth, and stylish. Aside from looking really cool, the spindle sides offer you to stay cool about leaving your baby inside the crib.
Youll be able to view your baby inside the crib at any angle. And like DaVinci cribs, the Hudson has GREENGUARD Gold Certification and meets ASTM international and US CPSC safety standards.
Pros:
- Comes with a toddler rail
- 4 adjustable height positions
- Hidden hardware constructions
Cons:
- Expensive
- Stickers/labels are hard to remove
- Easily scratched
3. Graco Benton Convertible Crib
Baby Cribs On A Budget
Like other convertible cribs on our list, this has 3 height positions, meets all government safety standards, and converts into a toddler bed, daybed, and full bed (parts sold separately).
With the Graco Benton, you get a sturdy, solidly constructed bed for your baby that wont put a huge hole in your pocket.
Pros:
- Easy to put together
- ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA certified
- Made of solid pine wood
Cons:
- Does not include a toddler rail
- Paint can chip
- Some users have complained of a strong chemical smell
4. BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light
Baby Travel Crib
If you and your baby are planning on experiencing the world, you may want to have a travel crib to ensure that your baby always has a safe place to sleep in no matter where you end up.
Its extremely light at 13 pounds and easy to set up (takes expert 90 seconds). Solid construction, machine-washable, and breathable mesh sides make this the best travel crib on our list.
Pros:
- Sturdy
- Easy to set up and take down
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Baby Bjorn sheets are expensive
- Not for short people
- Some buyers would prefer a removable bassinet for younger babies
5. DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Crib with Toddler Rail
Baby Crib Convertible
DaVinci is a popular brand because it is well-known for producing top quality cribs that are safe and convenient. Not only does this crib meet all the latest safety standards, it is also GREENGUARD Gold Certified screened for 360 VOCs and more than 10,000 chemicals including lead and phthalates.
The wood is made from sustainable forests. And you can be assured that this bed will grow with your baby over the years. More importantly, it comes in several finishes so you can find one that will fit your decor/theme.
Pros:
- GREENGUARD Gold Certified
- Made from New Zealand pine thats sourced from sustainable forests
- Comes with a toddler rail
Cons:
- Difficult to put together
- Paint scratches off easily
- Slight odor upon opening (disappears after airing)
6. Stork Craft Tuscany 4-in-1 Convertible Crib
Baby Crib For Small Space
This convertible crib from Stork Craft is JPMA certified, with an adjustable three-position mattress base support, a non-toxic finish, and a toddler rail for later conversion.
The crib is also made up of solid wood that will endure many years of use, from a teething baby to a rambunctious teenager.
Pros:
- Solid wood construction
- Superior metal spring mattress holder
- Affordable but very stylish
Cons:
- Assembly isnt that easy
- Some buyers complain about a strong smell that the crib gives off during the first few weeks after unboxing and assembly
- Converting the toddler bed into a full bed will require you to purchase the rails separately
7. Graco Packn Play with Reversible Napper and Changer Playard
Baby Crib And Changing Table Combo
If you want a small crib for your small space that is more than just a safe, secure place for your baby to sleep in, you might be interested in this multipurpose crib. Graco Pack N Play Playard with Reversible Napper and Changer is compact, portable, and comfortable.
It has a reversible station that can be used as a napper and changing table. And you also get a push-button folding system ensuring that packing it up for a trip will be easy-peasy.
Pros:
- Easy to assemble
- Lightweight
- Portable
Cons:
- Difficult to remove the reversible station
- Some buyers feel that the napper should be washable, not just surface clean
- The height of the changer is a little too low for new mothers
8. Dream On Me Violet 7-in-1 Convertible Life Style Crib
Baby Crib For Small Space
If you want a crib that will last a lifetime, from newborn to adulthood, then you might want to check out Dream On Mes Violet 7-in-1 Convertible Life Style Crib. The crib can be converted into a toddlers bed, a daybed, a twin bed with a footboard, a twin bed without a footboard, a full-sized bed with a footboard, and a full bed without one.
Aside from this versatility, the crib has 4 adjustable height positions that will accommodate your babys growth and safety requirements. Also, this ergonomically designed crib meets the ASTM and CPSC safety standards and is free of phthalate, latex, lead, and BPA.
Pros:
- Versatility
- A unique, elegant, and timeless design
- Affordable
Cons:
- Conversion kits not included
- hard-to-remove stickers
- Not easy to assemble
9. Delta Children Canton 4-in-1 Convertible Crib
Baby Cribs For The Money
A timeless design that will enhance the look of any nursery. Aside from the sleigh-style headboard, this JPMA certified crib has 3 height positions, a non-drop side design, and the toddler and daybed conversion kit.
Pros:
- Certified by the JPMA, CPSC, and ASTM
- Easy assembly
- Includes toddler and daybed rails
Cons:
- The width between the wooden bars is big enough to let a childs leg get through
- Some buyers have complained of a chemical smell
- Paint chips away
10. Dream On Me 4-in-1 Aden Convertible Mini Crib
Baby Crib For Small Space
A mini crib is a perfect solution for a small nursery. And fortunately, a small crib doesnt necessarily mean making do with less than stellar features.
The Dream On Me 4-in-1 Aden Convertible Mini Crib is sturdily built with three adjustable height positions. It can be converted into a toddler day bed and adult twin bed, ensuring your baby sleeps in comfort as he grows up over the years.
Pros:
- Easy to assembly
- Affordable
- Beautiful design
Cons:
- Conversion kits sold separately
- Hard to find crib sheets that fit
- Easily scratched/dented
11. DaVinci Jenny Lind 3-in-1 Convertible Crib
Baby Crib For Small Space
Only a handful of our top picks have the GREENGUARD Gold Certification and the DaVinci Jenny Lind 3-in-1 Convertible is one of them. Aside from being safe from VOCs, toxic chemicals, lead, and phthalate, this DaVinci crib also meets the ASTM international and US CPSC safety standards. And its made from 100% sustainable New Zealand pine wood. But what really makes it stand out (aside from its really classic design) is the four adjustable mattress positions.
Most cribs offer just three. You even get wheels to help you move the crib around the house if necessary.
Pros:
- GREENGUARD Gold Certified
- Affordable
- Classic turned spindles design
Cons:
- Paint chips
- Wood is soft
- The stickers (labels) are difficult to remove
12. DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 Convertible Crib with Toddler Rail
Baby Crib For Small Space
Similar to other DaVinci cribs on our list, the Jayden 4-in-1 Crib has GREENGUARD Gold Certification and meets ATSM international and US CPSC safety standards. In addition, this convertible crib is made from sustainable New Zealand pine.
So, what makes it different from other DaVinci cribs? First, the design includes an elegantly curved headboard and curved sides.
Pros:
- Elegant design
- GREENGUARD Gold Certification
- Comes with toddler rail
Cons:
- Difficult to assemble/ picture directions could be misleading
- Easily gets scratched
- Some quality control issues when bought from Amazon
Choosing The Best Baby Crib The Ultimate Buying Guide
Aside from your arms, your babys crib is his most secure place. Its his sanctuary, where he will feel comfortable enough to sleep and dream his days and nights away. Naturally, youd want a crib that would not only be comfortable but extremely safe.
With most cribs in the market today certified for safety by the federal government and JPMA, how do you know which one would be best for your baby? Well, we have the list above to help you out. But if you want to make your own choice, weve got a few tips to get you started.
Types of Baby Cribs
You will find baby cribs in all kinds of shapes and sizes. However, when looked at generally, baby cribs can be classified into three main categories standard, convertible, and portable cribs. To help you understand the difference among them, we provide a detailed discussion of each one of them below:
1. Standards Cribs
The standard cribs are those made using the traditional style. They are basically made in the form of miniature beds for the young ones. So as to last for a long time, these are made using durable materials. Due to the fact that they are large-sized and heavy, they cannot be carried from one place to another. Also, they are impossible to convert into infant beds.
2. Convertible Cribs
If you are looking for a crib that can easily transition to an infant bed, this is the type to buy. When the baby grows into a toddler and teenager in later years, he or she will still be able to use the same crib. Since you will be having it for a long time to come, make sure you choose the right crib.
3. Portable Baby Cribs
There are several baby cribs that come with wheels. These are easy to move from one room to another. They are convenient for mothers in need to nurse their babies as they tend to other activities in the kitchen or elsewhere. Only that they tend to be small. These cribs will come in handy when you want to travel together with your baby.
Product Conformity Certification
Make sure that your crib comes with all the necessary safety certifications from the CPSC (Consumer Products Safety Commission), ASTM International (American Society of Testing and Materials), and JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association).
Some cribs have even more certifications such as the GREENGUARD Gold Certification which ensures that the product was screened for more than 10,000 chemicals. Only a handful of cribs have this certification such as theDaVinci Jenny Lind 3-in-1 Convertible Crib, and Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib.
Find out the Right Height for Baby Crib
One of the most important features you need to consider is how high the rails of the crib will be. If you are short in stature, you may have difficulty placing your baby inside the crib if the crib has a height of more than 40 inches. The best crib we found that enables short parents to reach inside the crib easily is Union 3-in-1 Convertible Crib which is only 35 inches in height.
Looking for a Versatile Baby Crib?
To give you the most bang for your buck, it would be best to pick out a crib that would convert into a toddler bed and maybe even a full-sized one.
Now, most baby cribs today are convertible. But one thing you must consider is how easily convertible is the crib and if the conversion kit is sold along with the crib. For example, the Delta Children Canton 4-in-1 Convertible Crib comes with both the toddler and daybed conversion kits for less than $200.
The Right Installation of Crib for Baby Safety
Some cribs are easier to assemble than others. And this is an important consideration especially if youre going to be building it all on your own. Cribs that are known for easy assembly include Graco Pack n Play with Reversible Napper and Changer Playard, Graco Benton Convertible Crib , and the Dream On Me 4 in 1 Aden Convertible Mini Crib.
Choose the Right Crib for Your Room Space
You definitely do not want to end up with a crib that wont fit in your babys nursery or your room. If you live in a small apartment, its best to consider a mini crib for your baby. We recommend the Dream On Me 4 in 1 Aden Convertible Mini Crib and Graco Pack n Play with Reversible Napper and Changer Playard.
Distance between Slats on a Baby Crib
It is extremely important that the slats or rails are no more than 2 inches apart. This is around the size of a soda can. Anything wider will result in your babys legs getting stuck between the slats.
Heres one last tip: never buy a secondhand crib. Safety regulations change over the years. While passing down a family heirloom seems cool, it most likely wont be able to meet the safety standards set by the federal government. It might even contain lead paint.
Your babys crib is one of the most important things youll ever buy for your little one. Taking the time to do your research and learning all the crib lingo will ensure that you get the best and safest place for your baby.
Other Key Things to Pay Attention To
There are several features that help define the type of baby crib you should buy. Make sure you pay extra attention to the following important things.
Single Drop Gates
In the days gone by, baby crib manufacturers included drop sides. After reports of this feature leading to deaths, baby cribs are today allowed to have single drop gates. Instead of the whole side dropping, only a section does. So you should ensure that the crib you buy conforms to these standards. If it doesnt, the crib may turn out to be a safety hazard in your home.
Mattress Height
Baby cribs may have different positions for the mattress height. The number of positions may range from 2 to 4. For small babies, the height doesnt really matter. Once the baby begins to pull up or sit, the mattress should be placed at the lowest level. That way, you will stop him or her from falling over.
On the market, you will find models with varying levels of ease when it comes to adjusting the mattress height. Some may require tools while others dont. Regardless of the one you buy, it is important that the distance between the mattress and the top-level be 26 inches at the very least.
Type of Mattress Support
For the mattress support, most baby cribs use stiff springs on a metal frame. However, some may have a single-piece board as the support. The rest have metal hangers on which a wire grid frame with springs sits. Check that the mattress support can be adjusted to enhance the babys safety.
Teething Rails
The side rails and covered with smooth plastic to protect the babys teeth and gums when they gnaw on them. They also protect the crib from the effects of the gnawing. So, this is a feature you cannot afford to overlook. Make sure that the teeth rails are durable enough to hold into place for a long time to come.
The spacing of Side Railings
Side railings are used to prevent the baby from falling over. The standard governing this feature dictates that they should be spaced at most 2 3/8 inches apart. Since it is impossible to tell just by looking at a crib, you may want to carry a ruler to be sure. As for the corner posts, the protrusion should not be more than 1/16 inches. This ensures that the childs clothes are not caught in it.
Bottom drawer
Some baby crib models come with at least one drawer under the mattress. While these drawers may roll out from under the mattress, others are on the units short end. It is important to inspect the drawer and see that it can hold clothing or linens. Essentially, the bottom should be made of harder fiberboard for it to work perfectly.
Do I Need to Buy A New Crib each Time I get a Baby?
It all depends on the spacing you give yourself before getting a new baby. If it is a few years apart, buy a crib that is strong enough to remain durable as it is passed from one child to another. In that case, you will need a standard crib. If your plan is to give birth to only one child, then a convertible crib is the best.
You can adjust this as the child grows until he or she reaches a teenage. If you choose to pass a crib from one child to another, make sure you dont extend it beyond 10 years. By that time, the safety requirements might have changed and you may end up being found to be in default.
What is the Right Time to Move a Baby from A Crib to A Toddler Bed?
Most parents want their baby to stay in a crib for the longest time. But there comes a time when the baby must transition to a toddler bed. Experts recommend that the transition should happen at around the time the baby is 3 years old. At that time, the kid can safely sleep in a bigger bed. That is because he or she has already developed the ability to handle transitions.
While at it, dont be in a hurry to remove the baby from the crib. It is best that you slowly carry out the transition. Only make sure that the transition happens before the baby breaches the recommended weight limit.
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