Do you want your baby sleeping in an unsafe bed or the best baby crib on the market? Find out which crib ranks highest in our reviews.
Easy to assemble
Toddler bed conversion kit (with toddler rail) already included
Some users found some pre-drilled holes do not align perfectly
Short legs make under crib storage limited
Elegant style
Fits well in small spaces
Doesn’t include mattress and toddler conversion kit
Flimsy wood which breaks easily and may not withstand a jumping toddler
Versatile and lightweight
Easy to set up and take down
Some babies and toddlers can outgrow after a few months
A few users complained of a chemical smell when new
BABYBJORN Cradle
Rocking motion soothes most babies but cradle useful only until baby is six months old.
Low profile and transparent side mesh allowing close supervision of baby
Gentle, calming rocking motion: happy (or sleeping) baby means a happy parent
Expensive for only six months of use (if your baby doesn’t outgrow it earlier)
Too low for tall parents or mothers with C-sections to bend over
Stork Craft Portofino 4-in-1 Fixed Side Convertible Crib and Changer
Conveniently multifunctional but also very large and heavy.
Elegant sleigh design
Assembly straightforward for some users
Thin changing pad
Changing table part unit not detachable during crib, toddler bed, and day-bed stages
Great value
Lightweight yet sturdy
Sides are a bit high, which makes picking up/putting down baby a little difficult for short people
Chemical smell needs to off-gas for the first few days
Dream On Me Synergy 5-in-1 Convertible, Crib
Good value but crib mattress and toddler guard rail not included
Easy to assemble
Included plastic guard rail cover for teeth
Crib mattress and toddler guard rail not included
Paint chips off and wood nicks easily
10 Safe and Solid Baby Crib Reviews 2020
He works in a large company as an interior designer. Art critic and professional in the field of design.
Mingmei LiangParents want the best baby cribs for their sleeping angels, who’re hard at work growing, developing, and adapting to the outside world.
What more peaceful sight is there than a slumbering baby? Newborns usually sleep in short stretches adding up to 16 to 17 hours each day. Parents want the best baby cribs for their sleeping angels, who’re hard at work growing, developing, and adapting to the outside world.
Babe in the Woods
Selecting a crib from the dizzying array of models out there can be bewildering to new parents. Different sizes and styles, varying prices and features, safety regulations, and more can make you want to jump back under your covers!
Take a Breath
Your research will pay off eventually when your precious pumpkin naps angelically in a well-constructed crib. Best of all, you can rest assured you chose well and hopefully get some rest yourself! Future parents, give yourself a little TLC with a full-body pillow!
Boasting a modern and sleek silhouette with hidden hardware construction, the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib with Toddler Bed Conversion Kit is described by many new parents as “beautiful” with “clean lines”. Constructed with eco-friendly, non-toxic materials–like sustainable New Zealand pine wood and a non-toxic finish free of lead and phthalate safe–this convertible crib was screened for 360 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and more than 10,000 chemicals to earn the GreenGuard Gold certification.
It’s not just a pretty face.
We noticed users find the crib to be solid and safe. Many people, including a handful of very pregnant mothers-to-be, comment crib assembly is fairly quick (30-60 minutes), easy, and quite manageable with lightweight pieces.
Even better…
With four adjustable mattress positions, as well as an included toddler bed conversion kit, the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib with Toddler Bed Conversion Kit grows as your infant blossoms from baby to toddler. The manufacturer advises discontinuing crib use when your child begins to climb or reaches 35 inches in height. Already spending money on other baby paraphernalia, new parents especially appreciate the savings and convenience of this model and its seamless convertibility into a toddler bed and a day bed.
However …
If you want to turn the toddler into a regular bed, you’ll need to purchase the Junior Bed Conversion Kit directly from the manufacturer. In any case, users are quite pleased they can get at least a few years out of the lovely and sturdy Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib with Toddler Bed Conversion Kit.
The Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib with Toddler Bed Conversion Kit has a one-year limited warranty and a handy instruction manual. The crib pairs well with Babyletto Hudson 3-Drawer Changer Dresser with Removable Changing Tray.
Easy to assemble
Toddler bed conversion kit (with toddler rail) already included
Some users found some pre-drilled holes do not align perfectly
Short legs make under crib storage limited
Many parents praise the classic elegance of the vintage-style DaVinci Jenny Lind Stationary Crib. This convertible crib transitions to a toddler bed and daybed, extending its use past your child’s infancy. The manufacturer advises to stop using the crib when the baby begins to climb and/or grows to 35” tall (whichever comes first). The toddler bed can accommodate a maximum weight of 50 pounds. Users also like the feature where the crib adjusts to four mattress heights. The only drawbacks are that the toddler bed conversation kit and mattress are sold separately.
What many parents really like is that the DaVinci Jenny Lind Stationary Crib checks many health- and environment-friendly boxes. It is:
One reviewer even spoke with a customer service representative and learned the glue used to adhere the crib slats is formaldehyde-free, water-based, and non-toxic.
Most people find the DaVinci Jenny Lind Stationary Crib to be easy to assemble, lightweight yet sturdy, and good for small spaces. This model has an instruction
Elegant style
Fits well in small spaces
Doesn’t include mattress and toddler conversion kit
Flimsy wood which breaks easily and may not withstand a jumping toddler
Will you be taking your little one on overnights to see grandparents? Does your family like traveling and plans to continue after Junior’s arrival? When you’re at home, do you want to keep your baby near you? Or do you want your baby to nap during the day in a place other than the nursery? If so, the Graco Pack 'n Play might be just what you need.
The Pack ‘n Play Crib is perfect for on-the-go napping for the newborn as well as the older baby. While reading countless reviews, we found parents really appreciate this model’s convenience and versatility.
Weighing less than 20 pounds, it folds up compactly at the push of a button and fits into a carrying bag for travel and storage.
Its infant bassinet makes a cozy sleeping spot for the young baby. Adding to the coziness factor is the removable canopy with soft toys. When your child weighs more than 15 pounds and/or becomes able to push up on hands and knees (whichever comes first), simply remove the bassinet to open up the larger portable play yard/nap area.
Users also love that the Graco Pack 'n Play is lightweight, easy to move, and easy to assemble (both set-up and take-down). Many parents note this model–which is 20% smaller than traditional play yards–is space-efficient and great for fitting in tight quarters (e.g., apartments, hotel rooms, camp tents, etc.).
One short mother commented she can reach down to the bottom of the crib safely because this model is smaller than most play yards.
Scrub-a-Dub-Dub
The Graco Pack 'n Play is easy to clean: simply use household soap and water to wipe down. A few users, however, don’t like that the bottom pad cover can’t be removed for washing. The carrying bag, though, is machine washable.
Also, if you take the crib to the beach (which you can!), be sure to shake all sand out of the play yard and carrying bag to prevent sand from clogging the wheels.
This play yard has an instruction manual as well as a limited one-year warranty from the date of initial purchase (sales receipt required for proof of purchase).
To see how the Graco Pack 'n Play is used in different stages, watch this video.
Versatile and lightweight
Easy to set up and take down
Some babies and toddlers can outgrow after a few months
A few users complained of a chemical smell when new
While perusing reviews, we noticed most users were drawn to the Graco Freeport 4-in-1 Convertible Crib is simple design yet beautiful classic look. What we found the most disagreement on, however, was the crib’s assembly and instructions. Many buyers, including an elderly grandmother and a very pregnant mother-to-be, thought the crib was easy to assemble with clear directions. Other (and seemingly fewer) users through the assembly process were difficult, needed at least two (and up to four) hours, and included poorly written directions.
What users could agree on was the crib’s versatility. The mattress platform of the Graco Freeport 4-in-1 Convertible Crib adjusts to three different heights. Even better, it converts into a toddler bed (guard rail not included), a daybed and then into a full-size bed with a headboard (footboard not included). It really can grow with your child from infancy through teen years. Also, many new parents feel the crib is lightweight, yet sturdy enough to last a long time.
Nuts and Bolts
The Graco Freeport 4-in-1 Convertible Crib has an installation manual and a limited one-year warranty from the date of initial purchase (sales receipt required for proof of purchase). See this one parent’s video review.
Beautiful appearance
Lightweight but sturdy
Wood scratches easily during assembly
Chemical smell when new
For most people, the name “Baby Bjorn” conjures up images of the well-known front-body baby carrier. This Swedish company has branched out into other baby accessories, including the BABYBJORN Cradle, a bassinet suspended between two elegant wooden legs atop sturdy steel bases. Parents love being able to soothe their baby by rocking (or letting the baby’s own movements gently bounce) the cradle. Users also praise the cradle’s lovely, simple and practical design.
Perfect for newborns and babies under 6 months old, the cozy the BABYBJORN Cradle is lightweight and easy to move from room to room. Parents who want to keep a close eye on their tiny tykes appreciate a reassuring view afforded by the cradle’s low height and transparent mesh fabric sides.
In fact, at least one user commented on the advantage of the cradle’s low profile: the ability to see and/or reach in to pick up the baby without even having to climb out of bed. The mesh fabric also allows for plenty of air circulation and lets your baby breathe freely even when his or face is very close to the sides.
Finally, the mesh is removable and washable, as are the cradle’s included mattress and mattress cover. A matching breathable mesh canopy makes a cozy yet sheer covering.
Greenness of the white cradle
Finally, health- and safety-conscious parents felt good about the fact that the cradle’s fitted sheet is made of organic cotton fabric and contains no hazardous substances. Tested and approved in accordance with safety requirements, the BABYBJORN Cradle meets both European and American safety standards.
See the cradle’s manual for more information and watch this informative video review by BabyGizmo.com.
Features
Low profile and transparent side mesh allowing close supervision of baby
Gentle, calming rocking motion: happy (or sleeping) baby means a happy parent
Expensive for only six months of use (if your baby doesn’t outgrow it earlier)
Too low for tall parents or mothers with C-sections to bend over
“Beautiful”, “sturdy”, and “solid” were adjectives we frequently heard from new parents’ reviews of the Stork Craft Portofino 4-in-1 Fixed Side Convertible Crib and Changer.
With its graceful sleigh design as well as pine wood and composite construction, this crib-and-changer combination offers not only good looks but also practicality. This unit has three drawers, three shelves, and three different mattress height adjustments. It can convert from a crib into a toddler bed, a daybed, and even a full-size bed.
With all that storage space and versatility, what more can users want?
Ay, there’s the rub
While parents loved the convenience of this crib-changer combination, they conceded two side effects:
Also, the toddler bed and full-size bed conversion kits are sold separately from the manufacturer, so just be aware of the added expense. Nonetheless, considering how long you can use the Stork Craft Portofino 4-in-1 Fixed Side Convertible Crib and Changer as your child grows into a young adult, these extra expenses may be worth the convenience.
Back to babies and basics
The changing table comes with a water-resistant vinyl change pad some users felt was too thin but others thought was fine or simply switched out. A handful of parents warned that a gap between the crib and attached table may tempt curious babies to stick their arms through and get caught. Users did note, however, that the changing able design was space efficient (i.e., didn’t run the length of the crib).
The Stork Craft Portofino 4-in-1 Fixed Side Convertible Crib and Changer has a Limited one-year manufacturer’s warranty and instruction manual.
Watch this video of a parent demonstrating how to convert the crib to a toddler bed.
Elegant sleigh design
Assembly straightforward for some users
Thin changing pad
Changing table part unit not detachable during crib, toddler bed, and day-bed stages
You may not want your kid to live with you forever, but here is another infant-to-adult bed: the Dream On Me Ashton 5 in 1 Convertible Crib. This “lifetime” crib has a solid wood frame which converts to a toddler bed, a day bed, and finally a full-size bed (with or without a footboard). Users also like the crib’s ability to adjust to four mattress heights. The manufacturer suggests using the Dream On Me Spring Crib and Toddler Bed Mattress (sold separately). Some users were disappointed a toddler rail is not included.
On one hand…
Parents commented that the crib is sturdy, yet lightweight and easy to move. Many were pleasantly surprised that the Dream On Me Ashton 5 in 1 Convertible Crib is sturdier than expected.
On the other hand…
We did find in our research complaints that the crib’s wood is weak and thus scratches and bends (noticeable after delivery and during assembly). Nonetheless, people liked the look of the finished and assembled crib.
Speaking of assembly
All tools for assembly are included. For a fun video of a parent demonstrating the crib’s set-up, watch this. The Dream On Me Ashton 5 in 1 Convertible Crib has a manual and a limited three-month warranty from the date of the original purchase.
Great value
Lightweight yet sturdy
Sides are a bit high, which makes picking up/putting down baby a little difficult for short people
Chemical smell needs to off-gas for the first few days
Another sleeping unit which grows with your child to adulthood is the Dream On Me Synergy 5-in-1 Convertible, Crib. This crib converts to a toddler bed, a day bed, and finally a full-size bed (with or without a footboard). In crib mode, it adjusts to four different mattress heights. The manufacturer suggests using the Dream On Me Spring Crib and Toddler Bed Mattress (sold separately). While many users were disappointed the toddler rail was not included, some appreciated the plastic guard rail for teething.
Parents commented on the crib’s solid, simple and “no-frills” design. One conflicting issue we found in our research, though, was the crib’s sturdiness. Many users described the Dream On Me Synergy 5-in-1 Convertible, Crib as sturdy while others feel the wood frame is not sturdy enough. Another issue is assembly: many people thought the crib was easy to assemble while others complained about missing hardware and misaligned screw holes. At least all tools for assembly are included.
The Dream On Me Synergy 5-in-1 Convertible, Crib comes with a helpful manual as well as a limited three-month warranty from the date of the original purchase.
Easy to assemble
Included plastic guard rail cover for teeth
Crib mattress and toddler guard rail not included
Paint chips off and wood nicks easily
“Space efficient” is how at least one parent described the Babyletto Origami Mini Crib. This petite crib is perfect for use in small spaces, such as one-bedroom apartments or even within the master bedroom, during the baby’ first few months of life.
Smaller than a standard crib but larger (and thus can be used longer) than a bassinet, this crib is not cavernous for a newborn, which parents like. The manufacturer advises parents to stop using it when baby begins to climb or reaches 35 inches.
One parent noted that finding sheets and crib linens which fit the petite Babyletto Origami Mini Crib may be tricky but possible and worth the hassle.
Cute, convenient, and eco-conscious
Like origami, this crib folds up and collapses neatly for easy transport and storage. Other handy features include two adjustable mattress levels, a one-inch mattress pad, and four caster wheels for rolling it from room to room. Users like the fact that the Babyletto Origami Mini Crib is made from sustainable New Zealand Pine Wood and Carb II Compliant medium density fiberboard. It also has a lead- and phthalate- safe, non-toxic finish.
Short and sweet
The Babyletto Origami Mini Crib has a Manual as well as a one-year limited warranty. For a quick parent review, watch this video.
Features
Convenient size–between a bassinet and a full-size crib
Lightweight
Large, difficult-to-remove warning stickers
Paints chips easily (especially during delivery)
Parents of the boomerang generation may be interested in the Evolur Aurora 5-in-1 Convertible Crib. It converts from a crib into four additional positions to follow your kid from infancy to adulthood: a toddler bed (with a guard rail sold separately), a daybed, a full-size bed with a footboard, and a full-size bed without a footboard (full bed conversion kit also sold separately).
And users seem to agree this crib is worth keeping for the aesthetic appeal. “Gorgeous” and “beautiful” are descriptions we often spotted while culling over reviews. Made of hardwood, the Evolur Aurora 5-in-1 Convertible Crib has a lovely, curved headboard, elegant spindles, Queen Anne-style pedestal feet, and ribbon scrollwork that are displayed no matter which position it is in.
Users are wooed not just by the crib’s fine appearance. In our research, we noticed people also find the Evolur Aurora 5-in-1 Convertible Crib to be well-built and sturdy. Conveniently, it adjusts to three different mattress heights and fits a standard size crib mattress. Not so conveniently, though, the mattress is not included.
Parents found the Evolur Aurora 5-in-1 Convertible Crib easy to assemble. It has a one-year limited warranty, and all claims must be made in writing with proof of purchase. In addition, photos of any problems must be submitted. For more information, see its manual and watch this video review.
Gorgeous design
Solid and sturdy
Expensive
For the price, should (but doesn’t) include mattress and toddler rail
We want to make this busy time of endless decisions less stressful and more fun by educating you about what to look for and previewing what you’ll see when shopping for a crib. After reading our in-depth reviews, hopefully, you’ll feel confident when picking the right baby crib for you and your baby’s needs.
After evaluating over 30 of the most popular baby cribs, we winnowed the list down to these top picks. We consulted industry leaders and paid close attention to advice from consumer safety and pediatric organizations to select the 10 best cribs.
Most importantly, we listened to new parents describe their experiences using these models to give you the skinny on specific cribs.
Fair enough?
Our goal is to provide objective reviews that are useful to you, the consumer. Rest assured, we do NOT accept products directly from manufacturers.
You want your little bambino to have the safest, most comfortable place to sleep. Naps and overnight slumber are important for babies’ growth and health.
Safety is the most important factor to consider when investigating cribs. Also, you’ll want to think about where you plan to put the crib, how you plan to use it, how long you plan to use it, how important its appearance is, what features are included, and more.
Our reviews of different crib models hopefully will help you wade through the sea of sizes, shapes, and styles to find what you really need. No matter how much you’re willing to pay, you can always find something fitting for its future diaper-clad inhabitant.
You might ask, “Why does my baby even need a crib?”
Members of older, less affluent generations often grumble their little tykes (i.e., you, your parents, your grandparents) slept in a basket, a blanket-lined cardboard box, or even a dresser drawer and were just fine.
Indeed, earlier generations and immigrants often needed to resort to makeshift containers to hold their sleeping babes.
And, yes, they did turn out just fine.
Considering you’re reading a review of the best cribs available, I think it’s safe to say you don’t.
Today, many parents might not put their baby to bed in a crib right away. In fact, parents often (but not always) elect to have their newborns sleep in bassinets or co-sleepers near them.
This early sleeping arrangement is convenient because a young baby wakes up every few hours for feedings. After a couple of months (or maybe longer), when the infant sleeps in longer stretches, parents might move the baby to a crib.
As your little munchkin grows from infanthood to young toddlerhood, he or she will need more room to stretch out and, eventually, roll and crawl.
A crib gives the baby a lot more space to move and execute these activities safely–before falling asleep, while asleep, and right after waking up–than a bassinet or co-sleeper does.
If the crib has an adjustable mattress height (more on that feature under the section, “Different Types of Cribs” below). Depending on your child’s weight, height, and climbing abilities, you might be able to use the crib (with modifications) until he or she is even four or five years old.
If your baby loves to climb and develops into an escape artist, you’ll need to move him or her out of the crib due to safety concerns. However, in most cases, parents often transition their children into a toddler- or twin-size bed around the age of two to three years regardless of their offspring’s climbing abilities.
Some kids just want to move to a “big boy/girl” bed and are ready, while others may have no choice if a younger sibling is on the way.
But before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s look at what we’re dealing with.
Especially for new parents, we understand it’s not easy to anticipate what kind of crib will best suit you and your baby’s future needs.
Start by thinking about or even writing down a list of factors to narrow down the field.
Thinking about these things in advance can eliminate a lot of stress in the future! But, what does this mean for you?
Deciding what kind of crib you want marks the first step in choosing one. Different types of cribs can certainly accommodate answers to all of the above questions.
Both convertible and multifunctional cribs are more expensive than standard cribs, but you’re getting more features for your money.
Now that you’ve learned about and maybe even decided on what type of crib you’d like to purchase, consider their many features and qualities to help you determine your final choice.
Look closely at the following factors when investigating different models:
you can convert it to a toddler bed. Problem solved! Simply remove the front side and replace it with a toddler rail (usually included). The toddler rail makes the bed partially open on one side–not enclosed like a crib.
This gives your toddler some independence but prevents him or her from rolling out of bed. When your budding “big kid” is ready for a daybed, remove that partial rail. Some models even convert into a full-size bed for the “tween” and teenage years, using the back and front sides as a headboard and footboard.
Check to see if the crib is has earned certification from
Now that you know what features and qualities to look for in a crib, there are conditions you should not find in a crib made after June 28, 2011, when the CPSC issued more stringent safety regulations to manufacturers. By law, a crib’s production date must be printed on the crib itself as well as its shipping carton. Older crib models might not meet current safety standards or have weakened wood and hardware due to wear and tear.
Sure, you can save money by using a hand-me-down model or snagging a used crib at a yard sale.
Any great bargain you find or any amount of money you save, though, may not be worth the risk of having your precious tot snoozing in a potentially (and probably, if the crib is over 8 years old) unsafe crib.
For your peace of mind, be on guard for the following red flags:
Whew! We’ve presented a lot of information, but hopefully, we haven’t overwhelmed you. In the next section, we did some legwork and broke down research we discovered about ten top baby cribs.
Congratulations! You’ve selected among the best baby cribs and brought your bundle of joy home! It’s an exciting time in your life, but, you are wondering…
Do you want your baby sleeping in an unsafe bed or the best baby crib on the market? Find out which crib ranks highest in our reviews.
Do you want your baby sleeping in an unsafe bed or the best baby crib on the market? Find out which crib ranks highest in our reviews.
Do you want your baby sleeping in an unsafe bed or the best baby crib on the market? Find out which crib ranks highest in our reviews.
Although your newborn might not sleep in a crib right away, it is a good idea to look at cribs before the baby is born and life gets super busy. You’ll probably want to buy and then set up the crib before the big day arrives.
The decision to purchase a convertible model really depends on personal choice (and wallet size). Some parents like the convenience of a crib which quickly changes to a toddler bed. Other parents opt to skip the toddler bed altogether and don’t even consider a convertible model.