You want the best sleep for your baby and so you want the best crib. Because let’s face it, if your baby isn’t getting good quality sleep, you aren’t getting it either. Whether you are a new mom or not, it’s always good to know what’s out there. Manufacturers are always changing and improving on their designs and every so often the rules change. So even if you have had experience buying cribs before, you should still read on to find out as much as you can to help you make the best decision.
Not only do we tell you what to look out for in the best cribs below, but we also give you the best cribs for 2020 in our opinion. Read through our reviews and choose the one that best meets your needs. But first, let’s get into this buying guide.
Types of Cribs
There are a number of different types of cribs on the market as you may have already figured out as you searched. Here are a couple of the types you will encounter:
- Convertible Cribs – These are like regular cribs but have the ability to “grow” with your baby. This means they can convert into a toddler bed and then into a standard bed frame with the addition of conversion kits that will be purchased at an additional cost later. You will find convertible cribs labeled as 4-in-1 or 3-in-1. If you opt to go this route, the best bet is to purchase the conversion kit now when purchasing the crib, this way you won’t have to worry about the item being discontinued by the time your child is ready for a larger bed.
- Mini Cribs – These are smaller than a standard crib but larger in size than bassinets. They are used often for transitioning a baby to a full sized bed earlier in childhood instead of going the route of a standard crib, toddler bed and then standard bed. It is also a top pick for those who have limited space or those whose baby moves through multiple spaces often, say for example grandma babysits during the day at her house while you are at work.
- Travel Cribs – These are a more portable option of a mini crib. It is ideal for the above scenario where a baby moves between houses. Since they are designed for travel, they are lighter than mini cribs and break down easy for travel and moving around with.
Crib or Bassinet?
To help you decide which is better; a crib or a bassinet, it may be ideal for you to know the difference between the two.
A bassinet is a small bed that is a designated sleeping accommodation for an infant. A bassinet is supported by freestanding legs and has a wheeled base or a rocking base and has a stationary stand or frame. A bassinet is sometimes attachable to another surface. For example, there are ones that come with modern play yards or playpens. You will sometimes see some strollers that have a detachable bassinet as well.
A crib is also a sleeping accommodation for an infant but is defined by having specific interior dimensions. A full sized crib should have the interior dimensions of approximately 28 inches in width x 52 inches in length. On the other hand, a non-full sized crib has the interior dimensions of 55 inches or smaller than 49 ¾ inches, or an interior dimensional width more than 30 ⅝ inches or smaller than 25 ⅜ inches or both. A non full sized crib should also meet one of the requirements below:
- Collapsible or foldable without being taken apart
- Does not have screens, nets or mesh like a playpen
- Has removable hard sides and legs
- Is a non-standard crib shape example circular or hexagonal
There is an exception to the rule when it comes to hospital cribs. Those are designed to meet hospital regulations to ensure they can accommodate equipment. As such they do not follow the size and dimension guidelines above.
Features to Consider
Comfort
Your crib should be comfortable for your baby as well as should be comfortable for you as the parent. For your comfort you want the crib to be high enough so that you can reach the baby without having to bend over too much.
Convertible
A convertible crib is adjustable so that as your child grows it can change to meet their new mobility needs and give you a break from having to lift them into and out of a traditional crib.
Safety
Safety is a big factor when choosing a crib. There are so many things that can be a hazard for a newborn. You want your crib to be practical, but more so you want it to be safe. While newer cribs have to be made according to a lot of safety specifications, older cribs did not have to. And so if you get a “hand-me-down” family heirloom crib you must consider the potential hazards of the product before choosing to have your baby use it.
Some newer models may have had problems as well, so always check for recalled cribs. From time to time some cribs may be recalled due to safety issues.
Design
A good baby crib combines functionality and aesthetics. It must be able to fit in your home, apartment or condo and it should have the features that work best for you, your family and your living and support arrangements.
Size
There are a variety of crib sizes out there. You can choose from compact cribs to portable cribs and much more. How much floor space do you have for a crib? Take that into consideration before you choose your crib.
Lifespan of Crib
Some cribs are designed just for your baby up until they reach one year old. Then there are others that can transition with your baby into toddlerhood. If you are on a tight budget you should consider purchasing a crib that will last you for a couple years, so you don’t have to be purchasing a bed for your baby until they are a pre-teen or never.
Our Top 10 Baby Cribs to Consider
1. Delta Children Bentley S Series, 4-in-1 Convertible, Baby Crib
This convertible crib will grow with your baby from a crib, to a toddler bed, to a daybed and then to a full sized bed. It has an adjustable mattress height so that it can be lowered by three levels as your baby grows. This helps to lower the risk of your child being able to climb out and hurt themselves.
This crib is made with a sleek design and meets all standards for Chemical-Free and JPMA toxicity certifications.
2. Million Dollar Baby Classic Abigail 3-in-1 Convertible Crib
This crib is made with traditional joint metal castings and rails with intricate detailing. It is designed to look like your classic metal American crib. It is made from premium steel and features a non-toxic finishing process done by hand.
Built with four adjustable heights, this is a convertible crib that will move from a crib, to a toddler bed (when the baby gets to 50lbs and then to a daybed. The conversion kit for the toddler bed is sold separately.
3. Davinci Union 3-in-1 Convertible Crib in White, Greenguard Gold Certified
This crib can be converted to a toddler bed and to a daybed so you can use it over time. It is made to meet all US CPSC and ASTM safety requirements regarding a chemical-free and toxic free crib. Its finish is phthalate-free and lead-free to be entirely non-toxic. The mattress has four levels of adjustability and the crib comes with a 25-year warranty.
4. Dream On Me, Carson Classic 3 in 1 Convertible Crib in White, Full size crib
This is another affordable option if you are looking for a crib that will grow with your baby. It features three different height levels for your convenience and comfort as well as your baby’s safety. It has a classic appearance and is versatile enough to match a number of furniture pieces. It is designed to provide your baby with great airflow and is made from study pinewood and is free of toxins. It features wheels that are practical if you want a crib that you can move from room to room.
5. Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib with Toddler Bed Conversion Kit
This crib converts into a toddler bed and then into a daybed to accommodate your child up to 35 inches. It is made from New Zealand pinewood and is Greenguard Gold certified so you know it is free of toxic and harmful chemicals. It also comes with a 1-year warranty so you can be confident in your purchase of this item.
6. DaVinci Jenny Lind 3-in-1 Convertible Crib
Here is another 3 in 1 convertible crib. This option from DaVinci is made from renewable New Zealand pine wood for those who want to make a sustainable purchase. It is Greenguard Gold certified so you know our baby is safe. The crib is designed with four mattress heights and should serve you and your child until they are at least 3 years old.
7. Mika Micky Bedside Sleeper Bedside Crib Easy Folding Portable Crib
This is the perfect crib for those on the go. This is a bedside sleeper that you can keep within arms length. It is great for moms who want to breastfeed and have undergone a cesarean section and may find it hard to move around for the first couple weeks at home. So it makes nighttime feedings a breeze. It can be used as a portable crib and is made adjustable so it can fit a number of different bed heights.
It is made with breathable mesh on one side and its wheels have a locking feature, so they will stay in place. It is designed to sleep your baby up to 33lbs, younger than 5 months or until they can get into an upright position.
The bedside sleeper wheels go under the bed and so there must be space between your bed and the floor for that. The crib doesn’t need any tools for assembly.
8. Graco Benton 4-in-1 Convertible Crib, White, Solid Pine and Wood Product Construction, Converts to Toddler Bed or Daybed
This crib is a crowd favorite. It converts up to a full size headboard but of course you have to purchase the conversion kit separately. It is built to the highest safety certification and standards. It is CPSC, JPMA and STM certified and available for purchase in five non-toxic finishes. The mattress can be adjusted to three different heights and the crib is lightweight enough for one person to move it around a room.
This crib is a great long term investment that can last you your child’s entire pre-college life. That is of course if you purchase the necessary conversion kits for each stage.
9. Delta Children, Abby, Convertible Crib and Changer
This convertible crib has a convenient baby changing table attached. This makes it a great choice if you are working with limited space. It is designed with an elegant style and with a lot of functionality. It will seamlessly transform into a toddler bed and then into a full bed. It is complete with two drawers so your changing table will become a nightstand.
The crib is built sturdy and exceeds all government safety standards. This crib has been tested over 4 times the guidelines for federal crib impact testing. You are sure this crib is safe when you take it home.
10. Evolur Aurora 5-in-1 Convertible Crib
This is an ideal crib if you are looking for a crib with heirloom quality. This crib was featured on the Ellen Degeneres show. It is a great choice for those who want to invest in a crib that they will have for many years to come. The best part is that it is well priced when you look at the design and materials used to build this crib. It meets all safety standards and is certified by the CPSC.
Purchase this crib if you want something to take your child all the way into adulthood. It is more on the heavy side so it takes more than one person to move it around our nursery.
Conclusion
A crib is a very important purchase when you are taking a baby home. You want to make sure you get the best crib, the crib that meets your needs for space, functionality, design, aesthetics and one that fits your budget. Remember when considering your budget you want to consider how long the crib will last. It is better to make a solid purchase like the Evolur Aurora which will last your child up until adulthood than purchase a crib that will only last them up to a year old.
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