Unusual shaped cribs, specifically round cribs, can be a great conversation starter. They make everyone who’s seeing the nursery room for the first time go “oooh and aaah”, wondering what made you decide on that, and curious about the pros and cons of round cribs.
Indeed, they look amazing in your baby’s room, but are they the right choice for you and your little one? And are they better than traditional cribs?
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Are Round Cribs Better?
When it comes to choosing a crib for your baby, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
Whether round cribs are better than traditional rectangular cribs depends on your specific needs and preferences.
I would recommend just getting a traditional, standard-size crib as it would be easier to look for crib mattresses and sheets.
But I digress.
Let’s delve into the pros and cons of round cribs to help you make an informed decision.
Pros and Cons of Round Cribs
Pros of Round Cribs
- No Sharp Corners
One of the significant safety benefits of round cribs is their lack of sharp corners. This minimizes the risk of your little one bumping into the edges while exploring their crib.
- Unique, Amazing Aesthetic
Round cribs are eye-catching and can add a touch of elegance and uniqueness to your nursery decor.
- Easier Access to Baby
The circular design provides better access to your baby from all sides, making it more convenient for nighttime feedings and diaper changes.
- Better Design Flexibility
Circular cribs allow for more creative nursery layouts. You can position them in various ways to achieve a unique aesthetic.
- Easier to Move Around the Nursery Room
Round cribs are often equipped with casters, making them easier to move around the nursery.
This mobility can be a significant advantage when you need to rearrange the room or clean those hard-to-reach spots.
Cons of Round Cribs
- Less Convertible Options
Circular cribs generally have a shorter lifespan compared to traditional cribs.
Additionally, they offer fewer convertible options, which might limit their usability as your child grows.
- Less Choices
They are not as popular as traditional cribs, so there are fewer brands or designs available to choose from.
- Can Waste Floor Space
Round cribs can be space hogs, which might be a drawback if you have a small nursery.
Their shape can make it challenging to fit other essential furniture.
- Harder to Resell
When it’s time to part with your crib, you may find it harder to resell a round crib compared to a rectangular one, as they don’t appeal to all parents.
- Less Bedding/ Mattress Options
Circular cribs often have fewer bedding and mattress options available on the market due to their unique shape.
- Less Crib Accessory Options
Finding accessories like crib mobiles specifically designed for round cribs can be more challenging.
- More Expensive
Circular cribs tend to be pricier than their rectangular counterparts, which can be a drawback for budget-conscious parents.
- Difficult to Move in Another Room
Round cribs usually come with wheels, making it easy to move around the room.
But it can be a different matter if you want to move it to another room, as the crib’s width usually is wider than most standard door frames.
- Customized Cribs Can Have Shipping Delays
If you opt for a customized round or oval crib, be prepared for potential shipping delays, as these unique designs may take longer to produce and deliver.
Round Crib vs. Traditional Rectangle Crib
The choice between a round crib and a traditional rectangle crib ultimately depends on your personal preferences, room size, and budget.
Traditional rectangle cribs have long been the go-to choice for many families. They offer a classic and timeless look that fits seamlessly into most nursery designs.
Their rectangular shape can be space-efficient, making them ideal for smaller rooms.
Additionally, rectangular cribs often come with lots of convertible options, allowing them to adapt as your child grows, which can be a substantial advantage in terms of longevity and cost-effectiveness.
However, they might lack the unique visual appeal of round cribs and can have sharp corners, requiring added safety precautions.
On the other hand, round cribs are all about making a statement.
Their unconventional design stands out and can give your nursery a distinctive and elegant appearance.
Round cribs offer better access to your baby from all sides, making nighttime checks and cuddles more convenient.
They’re mobile within the nursery, thanks to built-in casters.
However, they may consume more floor space and come with a higher price tag.
Their lifespan may be shorter, and finding accessories and bedding tailored to their unique shape can sometimes be a bit more challenging.
So keep those in mind, when deciding between a traditional crib and a round crib.
Round vs. Oval Crib
Oval cribs share some similarities with round cribs, but they have their own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Round cribs, with their circular design, are undeniably attention-grabbing and can instantly elevate the aesthetics of your nursery.
They provide excellent accessibility from all sides, allowing you to attend to your baby’s needs with ease.
The mobility provided by casters can be handy when moving the crib around your baby’s nursery.
However, it’s essential to remember that round cribs can be space-consuming, which might pose a challenge in smaller rooms. Their unique shape may limit the availability of accessories and bedding, and they are generally more expensive compared to standard rectangular cribs.
Round cribs often have a shorter lifespan and fewer convertible options.
Oval cribs, while similar to round cribs in their curvature, offer a slightly different appeal.
They, too, bring a touch of elegance and uniqueness to your nursery but in a more subtle way.
Oval cribs tend to fit well in a variety of room sizes and shapes, making them a versatile choice. Like round cribs, they provide easy access to your baby from all sides and may come with casters for mobility.
While oval cribs may also have limitations in accessory and bedding options, they often offer a longer lifespan and more convertible configurations than round cribs, making them a potentially more cost-effective choice in the long run.
Consider both options carefully before making a decision.
Best Round Cribs (and Oval Cribs)
Here are some round cribs and oval cribs to choose from:
What to Consider When Buying a Round or Oval Crib?
Before making your final decision, consider essential factors like room space, price, safety standards, longevity, and convertible options.
- Room Space
Start by assessing the dimensions and layout of your nursery.
Round and oval cribs, while elegant, can occupy a bit more floor space than traditional rectangular cribs.
Ensure that your chosen crib fits comfortably within the room, leaving ample space for other essential furniture and a safe environment for your baby to explore.
- Price
Determine your budget for the crib.
Both round and oval cribs often come with a higher price tag than standard cribs due to their unique designs.
Factor in the cost of the crib, as well as any additional bedding and accessories you may need.
- Safety Standards
Safety should always be a top priority when selecting a crib.
Ensure that the crib you choose meets all current safety standards, including proper spacing of slats, non-toxic finishes, and adherence to crib safety regulations.
- Longevity
Consider how long you plan for your baby to use the crib. Round and oval cribs, while stylish, may have a shorter lifespan compared to convertible rectangular cribs. If you’re looking for a crib that will grow with your child, check for convertible options.
- Convertible Options
Look into whether the round or oval crib you’re considering offers convertible features.
Convertible cribs can transform into toddler beds, daybeds, or even full-sized beds, providing extended usability and potentially saving you money in the long run.
Related Article: Are Convertible Cribs Worth It? (Pros, Cons, and More)
How Long Can a Baby Sleep in a Round Crib?
That would depend on the round crib and your baby’s temperament.
Round cribs like the Dream On Me Sophia Posh Circular Crib are designed for up to 40 lbs to 18 kg, but if your baby is starting to climb out of the crib, you may only be able to use it for less than a year.
Should I Buy a Round Crib with a Canopy?
A canopy can add a touch of elegance to your round crib, but it’s essential to ensure it meets safety standards and won’t pose any risks to your baby.
FAQ about Round Cribs
Are Round Cribs Safer?
No, round cribs are not safer than traditional ones, especially if you don’t adhere to safe sleep practices for your baby.
Any crib can be considered safe as long as it meets safety standards, and follows certain guidelines and parents strictly follow those.
Are Round Cribs Practical?
No, round cribs are not practical as it’s not easy to find crib sheets or mattresses for them. It’s also not easy to resell them once your baby outgrows them. So consider your priorities and lifestyle when making this decision.
Why Are Cribs Round?
Some cribs are round as they provide a unique and visually appealing alternative to traditional rectangular cribs. They offer distinct advantages in terms of accessibility and aesthetics.
What Are the Benefits of a Round Crib?
The benefits of a round crib include better access to your baby, a visually striking nursery, and the potential for creative room layouts.
Pros and Cons of Round Cribs: Takeaway
In conclusion, round cribs offer both unique advantages and disadvantages.
They can be a stunning addition to your nursery and provide easy access to your little one. However, they come with limitations such as shorter lifespans and reduced accessory options.
So before choosing a crib, carefully consider your room space, budget, and preferences.
Remember that the pros and cons of round cribs will vary from one parent to another, so choose what works best for your family’s needs and style.
I hope you find this article useful. If you like this guide, then make sure to check out our other articles, such as Best Farmhouse Baby Cribs, How To Choose A Safe Crib, and 7 Crib Placement and Nursery Layout Ideas.
