When it comes to preparing for a baby, a crib is a necessity. Even if your baby starts off in a bassinet, eventually they’re going to need a crib. The big decision comes down to what type of crib to buy. One look down the crib aisle at any store or one scroll through the pages online, and you know you have your work cut out for you.
While some people have plenty of room to put any crib they choose, other people are more limited. That’s where mini cribs come in. A mini crib can solve your space problem while still providing a safe and cozy place for your baby to sleep.
We’re going to take a look at how a mini crib is different from a traditional crib as well as what to look for so you can choose the best mini crib for your baby.
In this article
- Don’t Want to Wait? Here are our Top Picks!
- What is a mini crib?
- How long can my baby sleep in a mini crib?
- Reasons to get a mini crib
- Features to look for in a mini crib
- 10 Best Mini Cribs
- #1. DaVinci Emily 4-in-1 Mini Crib
- #2. Dream On Me Ava 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib
- #3. Dream On Me 4-in-1 Aden Convertible Mini Crib
- #4. Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Crib
- #5. DaVinci Alpha Mini Rocking Crib
- #6. Dream on Me Violet Mini Crib
- #7. DaVinci Dylan Folding Portable 3-in-1 Mini Crib
- #8. Bloom Alma Urban Mini Folding Crib
- #9. Dream on Me Jayden 4-in-1 Convertible Crib with Changer
- #10. Babyletto Gelato 2-in-1 Mini Crib
- Bottom Line on the Best Mini Cribs
Don’t Want to Wait? Here are our Top Picks!
| Title | Price | Prime | Buy | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Top | DaVinci Emily 4-in-1 Mini Crib and Twin Bed | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
 | Dream On Me Ava 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib in Blush Pink | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
 | Dream On Me 4 in 1 Aden Convertible Mini Crib | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
 | Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Baby Crib with Mattress | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
 | Davinci Alpha Mini Rocking Crib in Slate | PrimeEligible | Buy Now |
What is a mini crib?
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As you probably guessed, a mini crib is a smaller version of a traditional crib. The main difference is the size. While the average crib mattress is 28-inches wide and 52-inches long, the average mini crib mattress is 24-inches wide and 38-inches long. Since there is a noticeable size difference, you’ll have to buy a special mini crib mattress as well as mini crib sheets to go with the smaller dimensions. Some mini cribs come with a one-inch mattress, but that’s usually not plush enough for a baby, so you’ll want to buy a new one.
Keeping all of that in mind, you should be able to measure your space and decide whether you would benefit from a mini crib. Some mini cribs come with wheels so you can move your child easily from room to room. Others can be folded to fit in a closet.
How long can my baby sleep in a mini crib?
Usually, a baby can stay in a mini crib until they’re two-years-old. But, it’s more about their height rather than their age. Since the mini cribs are smaller in length, you’re going to want to see how tall your baby is to determine when they grow out of it. Generally, two-year-old range between 34-37 inches in height.
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Some mini cribs are convertible meaning that they can be turned into a toddler bed when they outgrow the crib. This allows you to use it until your toddler gets too tall to sleep in it. One thing to note is that if a bed is convertible, you will likely need to buy the conversion kit. That is usually sold separately. It’s a good idea to buy this kit when you buy the crib in case the model gets discontinued. If it does, finding a conversion kit is nearly impossible and you’ll have to buy a new bed when you could have just converted what you had.
Another thing to consider is that even if your baby still fits in the crib, a clear sign that they need a bigger bed is when they start to climb the crib rails. This is extremely dangerous. To prevent this, get them out of the crib and into a big kid bed as soon as possible.
Reasons to get a mini crib
One of the main reasons why people get a mini crib over a traditional crib is to save space. Whether it’s because the nursery is small or because you have twins, some people just don’t have the room for a regular crib.
Besides getting a mini crib to save on space, there are other reasons why people choose a mini crib.
Your baby stays with relatives frequently. If your baby stays with relatives frequently, you want them to have a safe space to sleep. Many people buy mini cribs for this purpose. It gives their baby their own space when they’re sleeping out while not taking up a lot of space in someone else’s home. Since some of these models fold up, this is the perfect option.
Your baby is growing quickly. If you use a bassinet for the first month of your baby’s life and realize that they’re growing quickly and haven’t bought a crib yet, you may want to take a close look at mini cribs. This way, you won’t spend a lot of money on a crib since you’ll have to transition to a toddler bed sooner rather than later.
You travel frequently. Families that take a lot of road trips often choose the folding version of a mini crib so that their baby has someone safe to sleep. If the mini crib folds, you can put it in your trunk easily and unfold it when you reach your destination. This works out better and is safer than having the baby sleep in the bed with you.
Features to look for in a mini crib
If you’re shopping for the best mini crib, there are several features you’ll want to keep in mind.
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Mattress thickness
As we mentioned above, many mini cribs come with a thinner mattress. Since they are often moved around a lot, they don’t tend to come with thicker mattresses. If you’re going to move it around, you’ll want to keep this in mind. If you’re just buying a mini crib to save space in your home and plan on keeping it stationary, you may want to purchase a thicker mattress for your baby’s comfort.
Convertible cribs
Many mini cribs are convertible. That means they can turn into a toddler bed and even a twin or full-size bed as your child grows. This allows you to get more use out of your mini crib. You only make one purchase (plus the conversion kit) for years to come. Many parents like this option and go for the convertible mini crib.
Portability
If you plan on taking the crib with you on the road, consider its portability and whether it’s foldable. Portable mini cribs tend to have wheels on them which is great for grandma’s house because the crib can easily be moved from room to room.
Other mini cribs fold easily. This is helpful if you want to bring the crib to a relative’s house or bring it with you on a road trip. If you’re using it while visiting a relative you can also fold it up so that it’s not taking up much space when it’s not in use.
Now that we’ve sorted out the reasons why you would want to buy a mini crib as well as what to consider, let’s take a look at the ten best mini cribs on the market right now.
10 Best Mini Cribs
- DaVinci Emily 4-in-1 Mini Crib
- Dream On Me Ava 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib
- Dream On Me 4-in-1 Aden Convertible Mini Crib
- Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Crib
- DaVinci Alpha Mini Rocking Crib
- Dream on Me Violet Mini Crib
- DaVinci Dylan Folding Portable 3-in-1 Mini Crib
- Bloom Alma Urban Mini Folding Crib
- Dream on Me Jayden 4-in-1 Convertible Crib with Changer
- Babyletto Gelato 2-in-1 Mini Crib
#1. DaVinci Emily 4-in-1 Mini Crib
When you’re looking for the best mini crib, this model from DaVinci checks all the boxes. That’s why it’s our number one pick. The biggest plus here is that it’s only a mini crib, which makes it smaller than the average crib, but it’s also a convertible crib so you don’t have to spend money on buying another bed when your baby grows out the crib.
It converts to a mini toddler bed, daybed, and twin-size bed. You have to buy the conversion kits separately, but they are much cheaper than having to buy new beds.
Even before that happens, there are four adjustable mattress positions so you can lower the height as your baby starts to sit and stand. DaVinci is also Greenguard gold certified. This means it’s been tested for over 10,000 chemicals. It is also finished in a non-toxic multi-step painting process that is lead and phthalate safe.
You can choose to buy the mini mattress that is suggested for this crib or you can purchase another one. This crib fits any standard size mini crib mattress. Be sure to get the sheets that go along with it. Standard crib sheets will be too big. Whether you choose to buy just the crib or the crib and mattress, the price is extremely reasonable, especially since this is a 4-in-1 crib.
Pros:
- 4-in-1 crib so it can be used as the baby grows
- Made with toxic-free paints
- Has four adjustable mattress positions
- Reasonably priced
Cons:
- Does not come with a mattress
#2. Dream On Me Ava 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib
This is another favorite when you’re looking for the best baby mini crib. It has a classic look that matches perfectly to any nursery. It’s also another 4-in-1 model that can be converted into a mini toddler bed, daybed, and twin-size bed. You will have to buy these conversions kits separately.
There are three different height options for the mattress that accommodates your baby as she grows. It’s easy to clean which is great because we know babies’ hands can get messy.
When it comes to safety, this crib meets or exceeds all required and voluntary safety standards. Although this crib does come with a thin mattress, you’ll most likely want to buy a thicker one. This one is probably too thin and will be uncomfortable for your baby, even if you’re only using it for travel.
It is a little more expensive than our top pick but does have a nice finish to it which many parents like.
Pros:
- Converts to different bed styles as the child grows
- Has 3 adjustable mattress levels
- Meets all safety standards
Cons:
- Comes with a thin mattress pad, but you’ll likely want to buy another one
- A little more expensive than some other cribs
#3. Dream On Me 4-in-1 Aden Convertible Mini Crib
Here is another Dream on Me crib that we love because it’s also convertible. It has a bit of a different look than our second pick, as this one doesn’t have a solid backboard. It has the same crib railings all the way around.
It still converts into the same bedding options as the other model with conversion kits that can be purchased separately and has three different mattress height options.
This crib also meets the same safety standards. This crib does not come with a mattress, so you’ll have to buy one separately. But, for the price, this is reasonable for a mini crib that converts.
Pros:
- Converts into three other bed positions
- Meets all safety standards
- Reasonably priced
Cons:
- Does not come with a mattress
#4. Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Crib
If you’re looking for a mini crib that is folding and portable, you’ll want to take a look at this model from Delta. It folds flat for easy travel and storage. There is a small mattress that comes with this crib which may be suitable enough for travel. If you plan on using this crib at home, you may want to invest in a thicker mattress.
There are two mattress height adjustments to grow with your baby as they sit or stand. The construction is sturdy and is built to last and meets all safety standards. When it comes to price, you really can’t beat it. That’s another reason why we love this crib. For the features and the price, it’s a good deal.
Pros:
- Foldable and portable
- Comes with small mattress
- Adjustable height
- Great for travel
Cons:
- Does not convert to any other size bed
#5. DaVinci Alpha Mini Rocking Crib
We like this crib as one of the best mini cribs because it’s not only space-efficient, but it also has rolling wheels. This is a great feature if the crib is staying at grandma’s house because she can easily move it from room to room. The wheels are locked to keep the crib stationary once you get it where you want it.
There are three different mattress positions, so it grows with your baby. As with other DaVinci products, this crib is also Greenguard gold certified and has been tested for over 10,000 chemicals. Parents can feel at ease that their baby is in a safe crib space.
This crib does come with a 1” waterproof pad, but you’ll want to buy a mini crib-size mattress for comfort. If you’re not looking for a convertible mini crib and want one that is more portable, this would be a good option. It is reasonably priced for its use.
Pros:
- Comes with wheels that also lock in place
- Comes with 1” waterproof pad
- Greenguard gold certified
- Three adjustable mattress positions
- Meets all safety standards
- Reasonably priced
Cons:
- Not convertible
#6. Dream on Me Violet Mini Crib
The design on this mini crib is eye-catching, which is one of the reasons why we chose this one for the list. It’s made from New Zealand pine wood, giving it a wonderful look. It also converts to a daybed and a toddler bed, so it’s a good investment although it is priced higher than many other mini cribs.
You will need to buy a mattress for the mini crib as well as any conversion kits for the larger beds. When the baby is using the crib, you can position the mattress to three different levels as the baby grows.
There is a 1” changing pad that is included as a small bonus.
Pros:
- Converts to daybed and twin bed
- Stylish look
- Can position to three different levels
- Comes with tools needed for crib assembly
Cons:
- Expensive
- Does not come with a mattress
#7. DaVinci Dylan Folding Portable 3-in-1 Mini Crib
If you’re looking for a simple mini crib that is more functional and less stylish, this DaVinci model may be for you.
This has 3-in-1 convertibility that allows you to switch it from a rolling bassinet to a stationary mini crib. It can also fold and convert to a twin bed. So, if you want this mini crib to grow with your child and use it to travel or save space, this one is a keeper. You can save a great deal of money especially since this crib is reasonably priced and actually priced lower than some other models.
It also comes with rolling wheels so you can move it easily from room to room and then lock it into place. You can also fold it up so it won’t take up a lot of space if you’re bringing it along to someone else’s home. As with the other DaVinci products, this mini crib is also Greenguard gold certified, meaning that it is free of chemicals.
Pros:
- 3-in-1 convertibility
- 4 different mattress heights that grow with your baby
- Rolling wheels that lock
- Portable and foldable
- Reasonably priced
Cons:
- Does not come with a mattress
#8. Bloom Alma Urban Mini Folding Crib
This mini crib is designed for smaller spaces as well as a grandparent’s home. It has a beautiful wood design that many parents like because of its chic look. Many parents also like this crib because it’s easy to put together.
You can use it as a bassinet with an extended use as a mini crib. It folds easily and compactly for storage. There is also a storage bag that can be purchased separately. Two mattress position adjustments grow with your baby. No indication in the product description indicates that it comes with a mattress. Also, this crib is more expensive than other models, even those that convert to other types of beds. So, once the baby outgrows the crib, you’ll have to get rid of it.
Pros:
- Beautiful design
- Start with use as a bassinet with an extended use as a mini crib
Cons:
- More expensive than other cribs
- Does not convert to larger bed styles
- Only has 2 mattress positions to grow with your baby
#9. Dream on Me Jayden 4-in-1 Convertible Crib with Changer
If you’re looking for a mini crib as well as a small changing area, this could be an option for you. We like this as one of the best mini cribs because it not only converts to a daybed and twin size bed but also has a small changing table and storage space below. So, if you have a little more room, this is a nice, compact piece of baby furniture.
You’ll need to buy the mattress as well as the conversion rails for the twin size bed. This mini crib is reasonably priced, especially since it comes with a small changing area. There is a 1” changing pad that is included.
Pros:
- Can convert to a daybed and twin bed
- Comes with a small changing table area
- Reasonably priced
- Comes with a 1” changing pad
Cons:
- Does not come with a mattress
#10. Babyletto Gelato 2-in-1 Mini Crib
Here’s another option if you’re looking for a standard mini crib. This crib has a basic look but also converts to a twin-size bed with the optional conversion kit. It is made with sustainable New Zealand pinewood and has a non-toxic finish.
Two adjustable mattress levels grow with your baby. It does include a 1” mattress pad, but you may want to buy another mattress that has more padding.
Pros:
- Converts to a twin bed
- Comes with a 1” mattress pad
- Meets all safety standards
Cons:
- Only has two mattress adjustable heights
Bottom Line on the Best Mini Cribs
When you’re shopping for a mini crib, you want to think about whether you’re looking for a mini crib that converts or a mini crib that is more portable. This will make it easy to narrow down your choices.
We chose the DaVinci Emily 4-in-1 Mini Crib because it is a convertible crib. This will help save you space and money down the road. Since it converts to a mini toddler bed, daybed, and twin-size bed, you won’t have to buy another bed set, even though you have to buy the conversion kits.
There are also four adjustable mattress positions, while many other mini cribs only come with three. This combined with the fact that the DaVinci cribs are environmentally safe makes it a great pick.
Once you consider the most important features to you, you can choose this crib or any other of our picks for the best mini crib. Happy shopping!
