Best Baby Cribs (Highly Recommended by Parents and Experts!)

Looking for the best baby crib can be a daunting task, especially for first-time parents. 

With so many options available in the market, it can be difficult to determine what’s best for your little one. 

In this article, we’ll explore the best baby cribs available in the market and discuss important factors to consider when making your purchase. 

You’ll get to know the most highly recommended cribs from parents and experts – their pros, cons, and more.

Let’s get started with the 2 most notable baby cribs.

I hope you’ll love the products we recommend! Just a quick note: if you click on a product link below and decide to buy it, we may earn a small commission.

Best Baby Cribs For Babies and Toddlers

These 2 cribs keep showing up in almost everyone’s recommendations and parents and baby experts are just loving these two!

Overall, these are the best baby cribs according to tons of parents and baby experts:

Keep scrolling to learn more about their features and more.

Best Baby Cribs (Features, Pros and Cons)

Best Budget Crib: Ikea Sniglar Crib

best budget crib
  • Dimension: 53 7/8″ L X 29 1/8″ W X 33 1/8″H
  • 2 adjustable mattress height positions
  • Can convert into a toddler bed (comes with conversion kit)

The IKEA Sniglar Crib is the most highly mentioned and recommended crib by a lot of parents.

It’s a high-quality crib, even if it’s cheap and Ikea complies with the safety standard of every country they sell in.

It also has an adjustable height mattress base, which can be placed at two different heights, allowing you to lower the mattress as your baby grows and becomes more mobile. 

The crib is also lightweight and easy to move around. it’s also a perfect crib for short moms!

The Sniglar Crib is also easy to assemble, and it fits a standard-size crib mattress, which is sold separately. 

Related Article: Best Crib Mattresses (Highly Rated by Tons of Parents!)

It’s also very durable and some parents buy it second hand and it’s still in great condition!

The only issue is, since this crib is so popular, it’s always sold out! It’s hard to see and wait for another one to be available, especially if your delivery date is nearing. 

It’s also a bit challenging to assemble it, plus the mattresses and bed linens are not included (sold separately). 

Overall, the IKEA Sniglar Crib is a great choice for parents who want a functional and affordable crib that is also safe and eco-friendly. 

Pros

  • Affordable
  • High-Quality
  • Perfect for petite parents

Cons

  • Assembly can be tricky
  • Always sold-out
  • Mattresses and bed linens not included

Best Convertible Crib: Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib

  • Dimensions: 53.75″ x 29.75″ x 35.00″
  • 4 adjustable mattress height positions

Can be converted into a toddler bed and daybed (with an included toddler bed conversion kit)

This convertible crib is perfect for parents who want a long-lasting and sustainable option for their baby’s nursery.

The Hudson Convertible Crib is designed for 3-in-1 convertibility, transforming from a crib to a toddler bed and daybed. 

Related Article: Are Convertible Cribs Worth It?

It’s low profile design and 4 adjustable mattress positions make it easy to put a newborn to rest and adjust as your baby grows.

This crib is also made with sustainably sourced solid New Zealand pine wood, which is one of the most renewable woods available. 

And with hidden hardware, there are no visible screws or bolts on the exterior for a clean and sleek look.

The Babyletto Hudson Convertible Crib comes also with a non-toxic mattress made with a lightweight, fully recyclable polyester core. 

The only downside of this crib is its short walls. A very active and curious toddler can easily climb out of it!

A few also complained about their very active toddlers getting stuck between the crib railings. 

Related Article: How to Keep Baby’s Legs From Getting Stuck in Crib (9 Tips and Tricks)

Most parents just adjusted the mattress height to its lowest setting so the Babyletto Hudson Convertible Crib is still the top choice for a sustainable, stylish, and safe crib that will last for years to come.

Pros

  • Perfect for petite parents
  • Includes toddler conversion kit
  • Greenguard Gold certified

Cons

  • Tall, active toddlers can easily climb it
  • Expensive

Best Travel Crib: Guava Lotus Travel Crib

  • Dimensions: 45.5″ L x 31.5″ W x 25.5 H
  • Weight: 13 lbs/6 kg (including carry bag)
  • Mattress: 41.5″ L x 23.5″ W x 1.4″ H
  • Backpack: 24″ L x 12″ W x 8″ H
  • Folded (in Backpack) Length: 24”, Width: 7”, Height: 11”
  • Option to have the bassinet kit

This crib is perfect for parents who are always on the go and want a travel crib/ portable bassinet, that’s JPMA-certified and easy to set up and take down, without sacrificing comfort or safety.

It’s incredibly lightweight and compact. It weighs just 13 pounds and comes with its carrying case, which you can check in as a carry-on on a plane! 

But don’t let its lightweight and compact design fool you – this crib is built to last and is designed with your baby’s safety in mind. 

It features a sturdy aluminum frame and breathable mesh sides that provide excellent ventilation and visibility, so you can always keep an eye on your little one. 

The crib also comes with a comfortable mattress that is free of harmful chemicals and toxins, ensuring that your baby gets a safe and comfortable night’s sleep.

The only issue with the Guava Lotus is it doesn’t come with a mattress sheet and you still need to buy that separately.

This travel crib doesn’t come cheap and it gets more expensive when you need to get its sheets!

Related Article: Best Organic Crib Sheets (Certified Safe and Non-Toxic)

Nevertheless, it’s still a top choice for parents who want a crib that is both practical and stylish. 

It is versatile, easy to use, and provides a safe and comfortable sleeping environment for your little one, no matter where your travels take you.

Pros

Cons

  • Doesn’t come with mattress sheets
  • Expensive

Best Mini Crib: Babyletto Origami Mini Crib

  • Product Dimensions: 39.2″L x 25.7″W x 36″H
  • 2 adjustable mattress height positions

In addition to being a top pick among baby specialists, this mini crib is also highly recommended by tons of parents from well-known online communities!

The Babyletto Origami Mini Portable Crib is made of sustainably sourced solid New Zealand pine wood, making it an eco-friendly choice for conscious parents.

One of the standout features of this mini crib is its foldable frame, which has removable, locking caster wheels for easy storage and transport. 

This makes it a great option for parents who travel frequently or live in small apartments.

It also has 2 adjustable mattress positions that make it easy to put a newborn to rest, and the crib is suitable for babies up to 18 months old or 35 inches tall. 

It’s finished in a non-toxic multi-step painting and staining process that is lead and phthalate-safe, exceeding ASTM International and U.S. CPSC safety standards.

The Origami has undergone rigorous scientific testing and is GREENGUARD GOLD certified, ensuring that it contributes to cleaner indoor air and a healthier environment for your baby to sleep, play, and grow.

It has some complaints about its caster wheels and worryingly, even its legs breaking off. But I hope that’s just a minor hiccup in their manufacturing process.

Nevertheless, for most parents, it’s one of the best mini cribs in the market that’s both stylish and sustainable.

Pros

  • Greenguard Gold certified
  • Lightweight, can be moved into different rooms
  • Foldable
  • Well-priced

Cons

  • Has complaints of wheels breaking off
  • Has complaints of legs breaking

Best Crib with Storage: Delta Children Mercer 6-in-1 Convertible Crib

  • Product Dimensions: 54″W x 30.50″D x 40″H
  • 3 adjustable mattress height positions

This crib has been racking up positive reviews left and right thanks to its spacious storage drawers, adjustable mattress heights, and ability to convert into six different types of beds, including a full-size bed. 

Plus, it’s JPMA and Greenguard Gold certified, so you can rest easy knowing it’s safe and non-toxic.

Related Article: 7 Best Non Toxic Bassinets (With Proven Green Certifications!)

But what sets the Delta Children Mercer crib apart is its spacious storage drawers. 

Parents love how easy it is to store their baby essentials and how the drawers glide easily on the floor. There are a few complaints about its lack of storage lid but so far, not a lot of parents have issues with it.

Nevertheless, parents love how easy it is to bend and pick up their baby from this crib. And with three adjustable mattress height levels, this crib can easily accommodate your growing child.

While a few parents have complained about the color and lack of convertible kits, these are very minor issues when compared to the overwhelmingly positive feedback this crib has received.

Pros

  • Spacious storage drawer
  • Greenguard Gold certified
  • Can be converted into 6 different types of bed

Cons

  • No lid storage cover
  • Conversion kits are sold separately

Best Cribs for Tall Parents: Delta Children Bentley S Series 4-in-1 Convertible Baby Crib

  • Dimensions: 34.25” L x 54.25” W x 42.25” H
  • 3 adjustable mattress height positions

The Delta Children Bentley S Series 4-in-1 Convertible Baby Crib is a great option for tall parents who want a sturdy and well-built crib that can grow with their child. 

With three mattress-level positions, it can accommodate your growing baby and has a tall backboard that can deter climbing toddlers.

However, some parents have reported that it can be challenging to put together and have an overpowering chemical smell. 

Despite this, many parents are happy with this crib! Most appreciate that it can be converted into a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size bed with a conversion kit.

This crib is also non-toxic and made of sustainable New Zealand pine wood and TSCA-compliant engineered wood. 

Its JPMA certification adds to its safety features, ensuring that it meets or exceeds all safety standards set by ASTM.

This crib has a larger footprint than some other models, so it may not be the best choice for smaller nurseries. 

But overall, most tall parents are happy with this safe, durable, and non-toxic, convertible crib.

Pros

  • Built for tall parents
  • Can deter toddlers from climbing
  • Convertible

Cons

  • Not for small nursery rooms
  • Tricky to assemble

Best Cribs For Short Moms: Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib

  • Dimensions: 53.75″ x 29.75″ x 35.00″
  • 4 adjustable mattress height positions

Can be converted into a toddler bed and daybed (with an included toddler bed conversion kit)

If you’re a petite mom, the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib might just be the perfect crib for you and your baby! 

The height of the crib is ideal for shorter parents, making it easy for them to put in and take out their little ones without straining their arms or backs.

However, the shorter walls of the crib may pose a challenge for more curious and active babies who are keen on climbing out. 

One parent mentioned that her twins, who were less than 2 years old and in the 5th height percentile, were able to climb out of the crib quite easily. 

So if you have a very curious baby, you may need to adjust the mattress height to the lowest setting or take some extra safety precautions.

The Babyletto Hudson crib is also convertible, meaning it can be transformed into a toddler bed and daybed, giving you and your child years of use.

Overall, this crib is a great choice for parents who value both style and functionality. 

Pros

  • Perfect for petite parents
  • Includes toddler conversion kit
  • Greenguard Gold certified

Cons

  • Tall, active toddlers can easily climb it
  • Expensive

What To Look For In The Best Baby Cribs

The best ideal baby crib would IDEALLY, have the following features:

  • Safety

The crib should meet current safety standards, with no missing or broken parts, and should not have any sharp edges or corners.

  • Sturdiness

The crib should be sturdy and well-built, with a solid frame and a stable base.

  • Adjustable mattress height

This is a must to accommodate your growing baby and prevent them from climbing out.

  • Convertibility

A convertible crib can be transformed into a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed, making it a more economical option.

  • Non-toxic materials

The crib should be made from non-toxic materials, preferably using sustainable and eco-friendly resources.

  • Ease of assembly

The crib should be easy to assemble with clear instructions, and it should not take more than an hour to set up.

  • Height

The height of the crib should be suitable for the parent’s height to make it easier to reach and take out the baby.

  • Size

The size of the crib should fit the baby’s needs, with enough room for them to move around and grow comfortably.

  • Style

The crib’s design and style should match the parent’s taste and the baby’s nursery theme.

  • Affordability

The crib should fit within the parent’s budget without compromising safety and quality.

Baby Crib Alternatives

Here are some options if you’re still on the fence about baby cribs:

  • Bassinets

These are smaller and more portable than cribs and are designed to be used for newborns up to about four months old. They are often designed to be placed next to the parent’s bed for easy nighttime feedings.

Related Article: Best Bassinets For C-Section & Breastfeeding Moms

  • Pack ‘n Plays

These are playards that can also be used as portable cribs. They usually have a bassinet feature for infants and a playard for toddlers. They can be easily packed up for travel and can be used for sleeping and playing.

Related Article: Crib vs Pack N Play – Get One or BOTH? (Pros, Cons & More)

  • Co-sleepers

These are specially designed bassinets that attach to the side of the parent’s bed, allowing the baby to sleep close to their parents in a safe way. They are ideal for parents who want to co-sleep with their newborns but are concerned about safety.

  • Montessori floor beds

These are low-to-the-ground beds that are designed to allow babies to move and explore their surroundings. They are meant to promote independence and self-directed learning and are often used in Montessori-style nurseries.

FAQ: Best Cribs For Babies

What is the best baby crib on the market?

The best baby crib on the market, so far, seems to be the Ikea Sniglar crib and the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib. They have a lot of mentions and recommendations from parents and baby experts!

What are the safest types of cribs?

The safest types of cribs are those that meet the latest safety standards, including fixed-side cribs, cribs with adjustable mattress heights. nd those with slats no more than 2-3/8 inches apart. Convertible cribs are also safe if they meet the same standards as traditional cribs.

What kind of crib should I get for my newborn?

For a newborn, a safe and sturdy full-size crib with a firm, flat mattress, and an adjustable mattress height is recommended. It should be certified by a recognized safety organization and have slats no more than 2 3/8 inches apart.

Are Ikea cribs OK?

Yes, Ikea cribs are generally safe and reliable. However, it is important to ensure that they meet safety standards and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for assembly and use.

Best Cribs For Babies: Final Thoughts

Choosing the best baby crib for your little one can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. 

Whether you opt for a convertible crib that can grow with your child, a travel crib, or a standard crib, there are plenty of great options out there. 

Just make sure to prioritize safety, durability, and ease of use when making your decision. And remember, it’s always a good idea to do your research and read reviews from other parents before making a purchase. Happy shopping!

If you like this article, then make sure to check out these guides on Wood vs Metal Cribs, Best Luxury Cribs, and Mini Crib vs Cribs.