Top 10 Best Baby Cribs Available Today

Your baby’s sleep is extremely important, and what’s the biggest factor when it comes to nap time at night time? Naturally, that’s the crib.

Finding the best crib for your baby should be one of your priorities as soon as you know he or she is coming along. But the absolute best baby cribs can be hard to track down. There so many on the market these days and so many crib reviews to weed through that actually narrowing down your choices can be like working a full-time crib research job!

That’s where we come in. Below, we’ve outlined all of the best crib reviews out there. And with this information, we can help you make a confident final decision on the best crib for your baby.

Top 10 Best Baby Cribs Comparison Chart

What You Need in Your Crib

I’ve had several children already, so I know a thing or two about the best baby cribs. Believe me. I probably know too much!

But during my time as a parent and a consultant to other moms, the good thing is that I’ve come to know what to look for in the best baby cribs. I know the features that you absolutely must have and the added features that are highly recommended.

Below is a list of the top things that I recommend you look for when reading through crib reviews and making your final choice.

• JPMA and Other Certifications

First, make sure that your crib meets all of the following safety standards.

• JPMA: Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association
• CPSC: Consumer Product Safety Commission
• ASTM: American Society for Testing and Materials

• Convertibility

Most cribs can be converted from baby cribs to toddler beds to day beds to full-sized beds. This may sound impossible, but I assure you that it’s not, and this convertibility can save you a lot of money as your child grows.

Make sure that the cribs that you’re considering are convertible to at least two other types of beds.

• Rails for Toddler Beds and Full-Sized Beds

You know that you need a crib that can be converted to different types of beds, but you should also know that not all cribs come with the essential parts for making these conversions. In other words, you need full-sized and toddler bed rails.

Read the crib reviews carefully to make sure that the crib that you are considering comes complete with these rails. Otherwise, you’ll need to shell out more money.

• An Adjustable Mattress Platform

Finally, as your baby grows, you’ll want to adjust the mattress platform. Newborns’ mattresses can be set closer to the top of the crib because they can’t pull themselves up yet.

As your baby grows, however, they will be able to pull themselves up by the rails, so you must then be able to lower the mattress so that they cannot crawl or fall out of the crib. Look for at least 3 adjustable mattress settings.

Why Having A Good Baby Crib Is Important

The best baby cribs can be hard to find, but if you scour crib reviews and put in the work of comparison-shopping, it will be well worth it in the end. That’s because having the best possible baby crib is absolutely essential.

If you need more proof, however, I get it. Without further ado, here are the key benefits of having a top quality crib for your little one.

• You can relax knowing that you’re baby is safe.

Safety is a main concern when it comes to cribs and mattresses. A high-quality crib will put your mind at ease where safety is concerned.

• Your baby will get a quality rest and be healthier because of it.

One of the most important things that your baby needs to grow is quality sleep. A mattress that is lumpy or uncomfortable or a crib that creaks and makes noises when your baby moves will not offer quality sleep, and this could hurt your baby’s health.

• Your baby will be happier.

We all know what babies who don’t get quality sleep are like. They’re fussy, and they cry all day long. A great crib will help them get the rest that they need to feel happier.

• You can let your baby sleep soundly while you do other things.

Most parents get things done while their babies are sleeping, but if you baby can’t fall sleep because their crib is not well-made, you’ll pay the price.

• You can have your own bed to yourself.

Some parents think that even newborns should sleep in bed with them, but this can make the boundaries between parents and babies blurry. It’s better to keep your own bed to yourself. With a great crib, teaching your baby to sleep in their own space is much easier.

When to Buy The Crib

Soon-to-be mommies often ask when they should buy their baby crib. In fact, they often ask this more than they ask how to choose a baby crib! This always strikes me as funny because you naturally need to pick one out before you can buy it.

But in my experience, when to buy crib beds for your little one depends on your due date. In general, the sooner that you can find the best rated crib and buy it, the better.

This is because you want to have everything prepared before your baby arrives. Don’t forget that the last few weeks and often the last few months of your pregnancy are going to be more difficult. You won’t want to be shopping and reading through crib reviews during this time.

As an expert, I can clearly see the families that have an easier transition time after their babies are born. These are the families that have done the work ahead of time and bought their crib months before their due date.

As a side note, don’t be afraid to wait slightly longer on the bedding for your crib. If you buy the bedding and put it on the crib mattress too early, it will get dusty, and you definitely don’t want dusty sheets for your newborn.

Top 10 Best Baby Cribs Reviews

What is the best baby crib? Below, we outline the top 10 best cribs on the market.

1. Best Overall: DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Crib

Review

Out of all of the best convertible cribs, the DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Crib is the best baby crib on this list. This crib is lightweight yet sturdy and available in a number of beautiful colors. It meets or exceeds all health and safety standards, including CPSC, ASTM and GREENGUARD certifications.

I love this bed because you can convert it into three different beds in addition to using it as a crib. For example, use the unit as a day bed, full-size bed or toddler bed. Unlike some other cribs, this one is extremely easy to assemble or convert.

Features

• 56 pounds
• 54.5 x 34.5 x 42 inches
• Colors Available: Cherry, Espresso, Grey, Honey Oak, Ebony, Chestnut and White
• 4 adjustable mattress positions
• Crib converts to full-size bed, toddler bed and day bed
• Meets U.S. CPSC safety standards
• Meets ASTM international standards
• GREENGUARD Gold Certified

Overall Value for the Money

The DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Crib is not only the best convertible crib, it’s the best baby crib overall. The Kalani is highly sought after and extremely reliable, and it has also won many awards. It’s a safe and stylish crib for any baby, and I highly recommend it.

2. Stork Craft Princess 4 in 1

Review

As one of the best rated cribs, the Stork Craft Princess 4 in 1 is a great could crib choice for your child. What I like about this crib is that it is especially cute for girls. In the description, you’ll see that the design of this crib originates from the world of fairy tales, this is definitely apparent.

There is elegant bow detailing in the wood on both the back and front panels, and these can later be used as a head and footboard for a toddler bed, day bed or full bed. Assembly is straightforward. If replacement parts are ever needed, these are free through the manufacturer.

Features

• 99.2 pounds
• 57.7 x 29.3 x 52 inches
• Colors Available: White
• 3 adjustable mattress positions
• Crib converts to toddler bed, day bed and full bed with purchase of new mattress rails

Overall Value for the Money

The Stork Craft Princess 4 in 1 sounds at an average to high price, but the quality of this crib is well worth the cost. Keep in mind that if you want to use this crib as a toddler bed, you’ll need to purchase a new mattress, but the toddler rail and conversion kit are included in the package.

3. Graco Freeport Convertible Crib

Review

With the Graco Freeport Convertible Crib, we have another great product from Graco and definitely one of the best cribs overall. This crib comes in five different colors, and it has a simple, modern design. If you want to have a more modern looking nursery instead of an ornate one, this is the perfect crib for that look. The crib comes with a one year limited warranty from the manufacturer.

As with all Graco products, this crib has JPMA, CPSC, ASTM and several other safety and health certifications, so it’s extremely safe for your child. Conversion to a full-sized bed, toddler bed or daybed is possible as well, but keep in mind that you will need to purchase a new bed frame and mattress.

Features

• 56 pounds
• 29.8 x 55.2 x 42.1 inches
• Colors Available: Black, Espresso, White, Cherry and Pebble Gray
• 3 adjustable mattress positions
• Meets CPSC safety standards
• Meets ASTM standards
• JPMA Certified

Overall Value for the Money

Overall, you’re getting an excellent deal with the Graco Freeport Convertible Crib. In fact, this is one of the least expensive cribs on the market, but it has an expensive looking design. It is simple and classic, and it won’t take up too much room in a small nursery either

4. Dream On Me Ashton 5 in 1 Convertible Crib

Review

Dream On Me cribs reviews rave about the Dream On Me Ashton 5 in 1 Convertible Crib, calling it one of the best convertible cribs on the market. I would have to agree. I used to own this crib myself for my twins, and it was a great choice for us.

I love that you can easily convert the unit into five different bed types. That’s one more than most cribs will convert to. Furthermore, no matter how you have convert it, it looks great. Putting the crib together is simple as long as you follow the instructions. Choose from many different colors to match the design in your nursery.

Features

• 35 pounds
• 54 x 34 x 44 inches
• Colors Available: Espresso, Black, Cherry, Natural, Royal Blue, Pearl White and Mystic Gray
• 5 adjustable mattress positions
• Converts to twin-sized bed and day bed

Overall Value for the Money

Having owned this crib myself, I definitely back it as a wonderful investment for your baby and your nursery. Dream On Me is one of the best crib brands out there, and this model is available at a steal of a price. If you like the design, for the benefits that you will receive with this purchase, it’s well worth it.

5. Union 3-in-1 Convertible Crib

Review

The Union 3-in-1 Convertible Crib is strong, durable and long-lasting. It has U.S. CPSC and ASTM international certifications. You can use this as a day bed or a toddler bed, and of course you can use it as a crib. Converting the crib is a simple matter.

There are four mattress levels. The finish on this crib is made with phthalate-safe, non-toxic and lead-free paint. I like this style of crib. It’s basic and simple, yet it lends a certain class and elegance to any nursery. The wood is sturdy and made of sustainable New Zealand pine.

Features

• 39.6 pounds
• 53.5 x 30.5 x 33.5 inches
• Colors Available: Espresso, Lagoon, Grey, White and Sunshine
• 4 adjustable mattress positions
• Crib converts to toddler bed and day bed
• Meets CPSC safety standards
• Meets ASTM standards

Overall Value for the Money

This is a good quality crib. The Union 3-in-1 Convertible Crib may not be the best convertible crib as it only converts into three styles as opposed to four or five, but it’s made well and has suited many families.

6. DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 Convertible Crib

Review

Another one of the best cribs for babies is the Jayden 4-in-1 Convertible Crib from DaVinci. The crib has a simple and sophisticated design. You’ll love the classic curves it offers, and of course, you can use the conversion kit that comes with the crib to convert it into three different types of sleeping arrangements. This crib can be converted into a day bed, a toddler bed or a full-sized bed.

Because of the high quality of this crib, it’s guaranteed that you’ll be able to use it for multiple babies if necessary. It has a timeless look that any mother and father will love

Features

• 59.5 pounds
• 58.2 x 31.1 x 48.4 inches
• Colors Available: Slate, White, Espresso and Ebony
• Crib converts to day bed, toddler bed and full-size bed with purchase of separate conversion kit
• Meets U.S. CPSC safety standards
• Meets ASTM standards
• GREENGUARD Gold Certified

Overall Value for the Money

The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 Convertible Crib is sold at a medium range price. There are certainly cribs on the market that cost less than this model, but it’s still a great choice if you have a little more room in your budget. It’s a well-made product that’s going to last and stay looking nice.

7. Graco Bryson 4-in-1 Convertible Crib

Review

Here is another of the best cribs from Graco. The Graco Bryson 4-in-1 Convertible Crib is an excellent product from this company. As you know, Graco is a leading producer of baby and child products, and this crib is a great example of their quality merchandise.

The design is elegant and simple. The back wall panel is slightly higher than the front panel and goes up into a soft arch. You’ll need to purchase your own mattress for use with this crib, but this allows you some room for finding the perfect mattress for you baby, which many parents appreciate. It will fit all types of standard sized mattresses.

Features

• 63 pounds
• 30.6 x 56.6 x 45.8 inches
• Colors Available: Pebble Gray, Espresso and White
• 3 adjustable mattress positions
• Crib converts to day bed, full size footboard and headboard and toddler bed
• JPMA Certified
• Meets U.S. CPSC safety standards
• Meets ASTM standards

Overall Value for the Money

The Graco Bryson 4-in-1 Convertible Crib will give you years of use for one or multiple children. Graco makes products for babies and children that are built to last, and this product is no exception. Again, you’re getting a great deal here because you can convert this crib into a day bed, a full-sized bed or a toddler bed.

8. babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib

Review

The babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib is made with high-quality sustainable New Zealand pine. The CARB II compliant, and it meets or exceeds all national and international safety standards.

The bed has a simple design with thin, elegant spindle railings on all sides. Each side of this crib is the same height as well, which makes it a great model for putting in the center of the room if this is the design that you are going for.

Features

• 56.5 pounds
• 54 x 29.8 x 35 inches
• Colors Available: Washed Natural, White, Espresso, Espresso and White, Gray, Gray and White
• 4 adjustable mattress positions
• Crib converts to day bed and toddler bed
• Toddler bed conversion kit included
• Meets U.S. CPSC safety standards
• Meets ASTM standards
• GREENGUARD Gold Certified

Overall Value for the Money

It’s important to keep in mind that the babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib is more expensive than most of the other crib on this list. With that being said, the crib gets amazing reviews and is super sturdy and high-quality. You’ll be able to use this crib with multiple children or use it as toddler bed and day bed as your baby grows. If you have a larger budget, I highly recommend this product.

9. Stork Craft Tuscany 4-in-1

Review

For a more ornate crib with thicker slats and more detail, I recommend the Stork Craft Tuscany 4-in-1. This crib is offered in five different colors. You can use the crib as a bed in three different ways, and the toddler rail is even included with the assembly kit if you do decide to convert it to a toddler bed.

This crib meets all Canadian and United States safety standards, and you also get a one year limited warranty from Stork Craft.

I especially like the construction on this crib. It has all solid wood parts and a durable, non-toxic finish on all surfaces. This is more of an extravagant crib, so if you want less of a simple look, this might be what you want.

Features

• 79.8 pounds
• 54.2 x 33 x 43 inches
• Colors Available:Black, Cherry, White, Gray and Espresso
• 3 adjustable mattress positions
• Crib converts to day bed, toddler bed and full-sized bed with purchase of new full bed rails
• JPMA Certified

Overall Value for the Money

Because of the ornateness of this solid wood crib, the price tag is slightly higher than average. If design is important to you, however, this may be a good choice for your nursery. The design is definitely more elegant and ornate, and the structure is strong and durable.

10. DaVinci Emily 4-in-1 Convertible Crib

Review

The DaVinci Emily 4-in-1 Convertible Crib is a high quality crib that can be converted into a toddler bed, full-sized bed or day bed. The crib features 4 adjustable mattress positions.

This is one of the the sturdiest beds on this list. New Zealand pine is used for the structure to give the crib a solid build. Hardware is hidden for safety and a sleek look. Da Vinci prides itself on over 25 years of service making high-quality sleeping products for babies and toddlers. Keep in mind that you must buy a mattress separately for this bed.

Features

• 80 pounds
• 56 x 38 x 6 inches
• Colors Available: Natural, White, Cherry and Ebony
• 4 adjustable mattress positions
• Crib converts to full-size bed, toddler bed and day bed
• Meets U.S. CPSC safety standards
• Meets ASTM international standards
• GREENGUARD Gold Certified

Overall Value for the Money

This crib from Da Vinci consistently receives some of the best crib reviews out there, and I love it myself as well. It’s wonderfully-made and sold at a reasonable price that any parents should be able to afford. If you want a classical style in your crib, definitely check out this model.

Is It Hard To Assemble a Crib?

Many parents are nervous about the preparation stage of having a child. After all, many things go into preparing for a brand new human to be in your life. Not only will you need to find the best rated crib for your new baby, but you’ll also need to buy him or her new clothes, diapers, bottles and tons of other products.

This is not to mention that in addition to buying all of these things, you’ll also need to assemble them! You have your crib to assemble, but you’ll also need to put together strollers, play structures, toys, car seats, carriers and lots of other baby products. This can be like a full-time job for you and your partner.

Of course, one of the most difficult items to assemble is the crib. The best rated baby cribs should be super easy to put together. This is part of the added price that you will pay for a great quality crib. When you buy it, you’ll get complete, easy to understand instructions as well.

But with that in mind, not all crib assembly instructions are super easy to read and follow. I recommend that parents set aside at least half a day to get this job done. You definitely don’t want to rush the assembly, and there are a number of reasons why.

Most importantly, you should never rush the assembly of your baby crib because if you cut corners and forget key steps, the safety of your baby could be at stake. Baby cribs are made to be sturdy and strong. They’re also made not to have hazards for your child. For example, most cribs will have hidden hardware so that your baby could not accidentally unscrew one of the screws and choke on it.

But if you miss something important in the assembly of your crib, the safety measures may not be effective. Always set aside a long while to construct your crib and check it completely before putting your baby inside.

Not Feeling Confident? There’s Another Way

Even though it’s generally not too difficult to assemble most cribs, some parents may feel that they’re not up to the challenge, or they may just have too much on their plate to worry about assembling their crib alone.

If this is the case for you, there’s nothing to worry about. Services are available that can take care of crib assembly for you.

Crib Assembly Service at Amazon

By contacting Amazon Assembly Services, someone from Amazon can come to your house and put your crib together for you. The thing to keep in mind here is that not all regions are currently being served by this service. Check at the Amazon website to see if you can benefit from this service!

Should You Buy Used?

Having a baby is a huge expense. There’s no way around it. One of the biggest expenses will be furniture, and particularly, we’re talking about the crib.

Naturally, the best baby furniture for your baby should brand new, but you already know that the best rated baby cribs are going to be slightly more expensive. With that being said, it’s understandable that some parents will be looking for more affordable alternatives and may consider buying used products.

I do not recommend that parents purchase used cribs because believe it or not, cribs often have expiration dates on them. This means that the materials that were used to create the structure are only guaranteed to last for so long. Furthermore, if you buy a used crib at a thrift store, you don’t know if something serious went wrong with the crib before it was given away.

The good news is that there are a number of less expensive cribs on the market. And the best affordable cribs can be just as good as the more expensive products. You just need to read guides like this one and do your research.

FAQ on All About Baby Cribs

These are the most asked questions that mothers ask about buying baby cribs.

Are mobiles okay to be used over cribs?

Mobiles can be cute and entertaining place to put over your baby’s crib, but it’s important to make sure that they are solidly intact and won’t fall. It’s also time to take a mobile down when your baby can stand in their crib and reach the mobile. This is because if babies can grab the pieces, they may try to put them in their mouths.

How do I safely assemble a crib?

All cribs come with different assembly instructions, and it’s important to follow these specific directions as you assemble your product. It is also essential to ensure that each and every connection is secure before putting your baby inside their crib.

What is the best position for babies to sleep in?

Sleeping position is important when it comes to babies and cribs. Make sure that your baby sleeps on their back, or if necessary, they can sleep on their side. Never place a baby on their stomach to sleep, and don’t use blankets in cribs. Babies may slip underneath a blanket and could suffocate.

What safety hazards are important to take care of in my baby’s crib?

You need to make sure that your baby cannot slip between the mattress and the side of their crib. For this reason, always make sure that the mattress fits snugly inside the side bars. Make sure the side bar slats are tight as well so that your baby’s fingers can’t get caught in the spaces.

When can babies move from a crib to a standard child’s bed?

Of course, if your baby has started to climb out of their crib, it’s time to move to a bed. But also, when the mattress of your baby’s crib is at its lowest position and your baby can stand slightly higher than the rails, you’ll need to start putting them in a child’s bed at night.

Concluding and Making the Decision

As a mother of three with another on the way, a preschool teacher and a community parent counselor, I get lots of questions about raising children and write my articles on things such as breastfeeding and choosing the best breast pumps.

What are the best cribs for newborns? What are the best beds for toddlers? What are the top baby cribs and beds that are also affordable?

The first thing to note here is that it’s wonderful to ask questions. As I tell all parents, if you are losing your mind over finding the best rated cribs and the absolute best baby furniture and other products, you can at least rest assured that you’re going to be a great parent! After all, it’s all about taking this job seriously. Being a parent is the hardest job that you’ll ever have, but it’s also the most amazing.

All in all, the best rated cribs can be found by doing the hard work and reading through crib reviews. I’ve done most of this leg work for you, and now it’s up to you.

Pick two or three of the best baby cribs from the guide above and scrutinize the different aspects of them. Read through the baby crib reviews online and see what other parents think. Once you’ve done that, pick one!

Now, the only thing left to do is buy it. I recommend that you purchase your new baby crib well in advance of your due date so that you can be adequately prepared.

Good luck!