Best Baby Crib Reviews (Ultimate Buyer’s Guide)

Do you know that your little prince/princess will spend about 14 to 17 hours per day sleeping? Yes, you heard that right, and that’s why you must ensure they have a nice place to lay down and rest.

Now, if you have a newborn or if you’re expecting one and you’re looking for the best baby crib for your infant then search no more because we’ve got you covered.

We took the time to research the best guide/resources to choosing the best cribs for your baby so you won’t make a bad choice —  knowing how difficult it can be for you to make a choice among the numerous cribs in the market especially if you’ve never purchased one before.

Therefore, I want to assure you that you will get all you need to purchase the perfect baby cribs that will suit your needs here.

In this post, you’ll get to learn:

• All you need to know about baby cribs
• Best baby crib review
• Baby crib and bassinet
• How to choose a baby crib
• Different types of baby cribs
• Why you need a baby crib
• Ultimate baby crib buying guide
• Etc

Let’s get started.

Best Baby Cribs | Comparison Table

What is a Baby Crib?

A baby crib (also known as an infant bed), is a small bed specifically for infants and very young children. Baby cribs are a historically recent development intended to contain a child that is capable of standing.

Therefore, when considering the items you will need to purchase for a new arrival to the family, a crib will certainly appear high on the list and with so many types, styles and budgets to choose from, we are sure you will have lots of fun shopping for the safest cribs on the market after reading this buying guide.

Why You Need a Baby Crib

When you consider the fact that a newborn baby is very likely to spend more time asleep than awake, finding a good and comfortable place for them to sleep can feel like a minefield.

Statistics have shown that a newborn baby will typically sleep for around 16-hours in every 24-hour period. This sleep is usually taken in 3 to 4-hour blocks of time throughout the day and night.

By the age of 4 months, a baby should be settling into a routine which will include around 14-hours sleep in any 24-hour period, much of which will be taken at night-time. Even toddlers and children up to the age of 3 years will require a day-time nap.

Furthermore, the cage-like design of a crib restricts the child inside it to the bed. Around two or three years of age, children are able to climb out and are moved to a toddler bed to prevent a harmful fall while escaping the bed.

With all these in mind, you must agree with me that having a crib is very necessary for a family.

That said, below are the best baby cribs to get for your newborn:

Best Baby Crib Review

To enable you to make an informed decision on the best baby crib you’ll buy for your newborn, I’ve listed the 10 high quality baby cribs I consider to be of great value for your money, after which I will take time to review each of them one after the other.

1. Stork Craft Tuscany 4-in-1 Stages Crib: Best Pick

This is a four-in-one fixed side convertible baby crib. It’s certainly one of the best out there and it’s a product of Stock Craft. It comes with a very beautiful solid construction with a magical sleigh design which makes it a royal centerpiece for your nursery.

It might interest you to know that all the four sides of this crib are stationary and include an adjustable one-piece mattress support base to add to its security and stability.

It equally comes with a well-built construction made of solid wood and wood products, offered in a selection of non-toxic, durable finishes.

The Stock Craft Tuscany 4-in-1 stages crib is designed for multiple stages of life which made it a good choice. First, it converts from a full-size stages crib to a toddler bed and then to a daybed also, you can convert it to a full-size bed.

This crib also Meets/exceeds all US and Canadian safety standards and it’s also very easy to assemble with permanently attached instructions on the body.

2. Stork Craft Portofino 4-In-1 Convertible Crib

This is one of the most versatile baby cribs out there, and it won’t be bad to get it for your little prince and princess.

The crib has a stunning solid construction that makes a royal center of attraction for your nursery and features three adjustable mattress positions.

Furthermore, the changer and crib are stationary to ensure your child’s safety – and if you’re looking for a crib that is made of durable material, solid wood, and a non-toxic finish, then this is a fantastic option!

With this convertible baby crib, you are guaranteed of saving money since it can convert to a toddler bed, full-size bed, and even a day bed.

Finally, the Stork Craft Portofino is one of the best rated baby cribs in the market today. The changer features a waterproof vinyl change pad, and it does not require a kit to convert it into a toddler bed, however, you’ll need a bed frame for the full-size bed.

3. DaVinci Kalani 4-In-1 Convertible Crib with Toddler Rail

Davinci is a product of Kalani which is known for their quality and trusted products. The DaVinci is a clean, non-toxic and green baby crib. Environmental sustainability and energy efficiency are DaVinci family values; each stylish collection is constructed from New Zealand Pine grown in sustainable forests.

It is built with non-toxic finishes for perfect safety and reliability. When it comes to baby’s nursery, you want something that will stand up to time and nothing does that better than DaVinci’s Kalani Crib. The Kalani 4-in-1 Crib’s tasteful and subtle design brings out its elegant wood grain.

This crib includes a softly curved rail which made it pleasant to look at and easy on Mom and Dad when they reach in to hold their little one. It also comes with four adjustable mattress levels which allow you to set the height just right for baby as they grow.

Just like the Stork Craft Tuscany, you can easily convert this product from crib to day bed, toddler bed and full-size bed. This infant bed is an Award-winning and with rave reviews from happy parents, Kalani is one of the most reliable and sought after cribs today.

4. Athena Naomi 4 in 1 Crib with Toddler Rail

This is also a very beautiful, safe and durable convertible baby crib. When choosing a cot for your newborn, comfort is one of the things that should be considered and this is what made this cot-bed exceptional.

The graceful curves on the Naomi 4 in 1 convertible crib resemble a blossoming flower bringing beauty and vigor into the world. Its unique style combines different elements for safety and ease of use.

Made of pine solid hardwood with a non-toxic finish, the Naomi crib has stationary sides for added safety in addition to a wide, thick board for extra sturdiness.

This convertible crib features 3 level adjustable mattress height support, and conversion to a toddler bed or day bed with the included guardrail, or full size bed (conversion rails sold separately) to accompany your child’s growth.

5. BABYBJORN Cradle

This is actually a bassinet that is designed for newborns of up to six months old. The BabyBjörn Cradle is a very compact, cozy cradle that soothes your baby with soft rocking motions and its most parents favorite.

However, parents can rock the cradle themselves or let their baby’s movements gently move the cradle back and forth.

With a spring suspension system similar to a stroller, the cradle rocks smoothly in all directions and won’t get stuck in any position. Discontinue use at 18 pounds or when your baby can sit up, kneel, or stand unaided.

It will also be more fun if you add the BabyBjörn Canopy for Cradle which is usually sold separately to make the cradle even cozier for your infant.

The sheer canopy screens and softens ambient light for a comforting atmosphere. The BabyBjörn Fitted Sheet for Cradle is a perfect fit and it’s also sold separately in most cases.

This bassinet is ideal for those early months when your newborn alternates between short periods of sleep and wakefulness, it is easy to move anywhere in your home, so you can always keep your baby close by. Furthermore, its durable foot grips keep the cradle steady without damaging your floors.

6. Delta Childrens Products Canton 4 in 1 Convertible Crib

You can not mention the best baby crib out there without including this awesome convertible baby crib. The Delta Childrens Products Canton 4 in 1 Convertible Crib is also among the bestseller lists in Amazon and many parents are saying lots of mouth-watering things about it.

However, the Canton Crib is the ultimate in both style and functionality when it comes to cribs. With its gorgeous finish and impeccable design.

This piece of furniture is sure to become a focal point in your home for years to come. This beautiful crib converts easily to a toddler bed, day bed and full-size bed with headboard so it’s not only stylish but, it’s equally very functional and economic.

The furniture features three-position mattress support so your little one can sleep in ultimate comfort and it’s built of solid hardwoods with a non-drop side design for the ultimate in safety.

This baby crib is JPMA/ASTM certified and contains no lead. Some assembly is required (tools included). Matches perfectly with the Canton Dresser in Espresso which is usually sold separately.

7. Delta Children Sweet Beginnings Bassinet, Falling Leaves

The Delta Children Sweet Beginnings Bassinet is also one of the best bassinets out there which offers a unique style, convenient features & elegant fashions for contemporary moms.

This is a full-size bassinet; designed for infants up to 15 pounds; adjustable, and with a removable canopy.

The Bassinet also comes with easy-roll casters with locks Quilted and some soothing sounds offering a selection of pre-loaded lullabies which will help gently send your newborn to sleep.

Apart from that, it equally comes with a hanging deluxe storage organizer & diaper stacker. Additionally, it has mesh side windows which provide an increase in air-flow.

Finally, this bassinet is designed to be used by infants up to 3 months of age or up to a weight of 15 pounds, and should no longer be used by a child who can push himself/herself up on hands and knees.

8. Union 3-in-1 Convertible Crib

This is another wonderful baby crib that is currently making a lot of waves. It has fixed side rails and can easily be converted to a day and toddler bed.

The Union 3-in-1 baby crib is durable, stable for a modern nursery, and also made of non-toxic lead and phthalate finish and is constructed sturdily from sustainable New Zealand pine.

This is one of the sweetest and safest places for your baby to rest on. It also comes with a conversion kit which is sold separately, and also takes a standard size mattress which you will equally buy separately.

If you’re yet to decide on which baby crib to go for then, you might want to consider this one as I’m sure you will love it.

9. Storkcraft Calabria Crib N Changer

The Storkcraft Calabria baby crib is a life changer in the industry. It’s so versatile and will ultimately grow with your baby because it can be easily converted to a toddler bed, to a daybed and finally to a full-sized bed. Similarly, the changer that comes with it can also be repurposed as a dresser or nightstand.

This simply means that if you get this crib today, you will still be using it for many years to come as your child grows bigger, isn’t that an amazing investment?

Interestingly, this baby nursery is very specious and can accommodate two infants when turned to a bed. If your baby is the type that likes playing, he can freely play and move around inside the crib with total comfort.

According to Storkcraft, their mission is to provide families with the most reliable and safest children products. They’re highly committed to innovation and state of the art technology; this has positioned them as the industry benchmark for quality and superior products.

This company has been producing amazing kid’s products including cribs for the past 60 years and has exceeded their customer’s expectations. With all these in mind, there is no doubt that whatever you get from them will be well worth it so, why not give this superb baby crib a test?

The good thing is that the crib can be assembled easily without any knowledge of how it works, this is because it comes with a user manual which will help guide you through the whole assembling process. Furthermore, it is sturdy and durable, is made of high-quality wood.

However, the only downside side of it is that it’s very heavy as a result of the hardwood used and inclusion of more parts. Aside from that, the wooden parts usually suffer from dents and scratches if the wood wasn’t well treated before it’s used to make the crib.

I assure you that purchasing it will be one of the best decisions you’ll make this year 2019.

10. Dream On Me Violet 7 in 1 Convertible Life Style Crib

This is one of the best baby cribs out there as it’s built to last a lifetime which means you won’t be wasting money buying something you won’t be needing after some time.

Like some of the other cribs mentioned here, the Dream on Me baby crib is convertible and can be used as it is. It has an adjustable mattress height which reduces the danger of your baby climbing or falling out. Dream on me products is always focused more on your child’s safety.

It’s sturdy and elegant design is what sets it apart from its competitors. One other good thing is that it is very versatile; have seven set up options (Including with and without footboard for the full and twin size bed setups)

This crib comes with:

• 
  Strong wood construction
• Meets all ASTM and CPSC standard
• Is free of phthalates, latex, lead and BPA
• Includes toddler bed rail
• Has a four-position support system for the mattress
• Etc.

I didn’t see any drawback to this crib, however, if you’re considering converting it to a full-size bed later in the future then, you should be aware that it’ll require additional rail which is sold separately.

Overall, this crib will be a smart choice for your family especially for the fact that you will be using for long. Most cribs are usually needed for s short time after which it will be sold or giving away but with this one, your baby grows with it.

Different Types of Cribs in the Market

Like I mentioned earlier, there are different types of cribs and different styles of baby cribs to choose from and in most cases, if you don’t know exactly what you want, you might end up purchasing a crib that will not fully satisfy your wants.

However, each crib in the market comes with different features, advantages, and disadvantages so, choose wisely.

1.Convertible Cribs

Convertible baby cribs (also known as a cot-bed) are generally larger in size and of stronger construction than a traditional crib as they have the ability to be converted to a full-sized child’s bed as the baby grows.

Most of them feature fixed sides due to safety reasons and instead have a base that can be made lower or higher depending on the age of the child and the height of the parents or career.

Convertible cribs have become increasingly popular due to a longer useful life for the furniture. By removing both sides it becomes a toddler bed with unusually high head and footboards, or removing just one side it becomes a daybed.

The good thing about this type of crib is that it is everlasting because it can see your newborn baby through from six months to five years old thereby saving you lots of money.

2. Canopy Cribs

The Canopy-type cribs are made up of a high cover curtain usually covering the open space over its roof.

Visually, the curtains often close three-quarters of the way around the crib, creating a cozy, tent-like environment or they feature curtains that tie back on each side. In most cases, this type of crib takes a circular shape.

3. Standard Crib

This type of baby crib is the basic and most common among all the other baby cribs. They typically come in a traditional rectangular plain frame and, they tend to fit industry standard size mattresses.

However, these models do not usually come with additional crib accessories.

4. Round Crib

This is another type of baby crib and it comes in a circular shape. These modern cribs can feature a plain and classic style, but most feature elaborate unique details with good customization capabilities.

This uniquely shaped baby crib requires mattresses that are round in shape which may be very difficult to find in most cases.

However, mattresses and other similar round accessories may come with these cribs on a purchase, or they may be sold separately.

5. Portable Cribs

A portable crib is one of the cribs that people love and cherish a lot because of its simplicity and mobility. It folds easily for storage and repositioning purposes.

The interesting thing is that you don’t have to worry about space when you’re buying this crib because they can easily fit in small spaces.

Furthermore, portable cribs feature wheels for mobility which enables easy movement from one room to the other. It can also be used sometimes for traveling. Portable cribs are particularly versatile, packable, lightweight and convenient.

However, some models may come with 2-4 mattress levels and 1-inch thick mattress pad. You can even find portable cribs that also convert into daybeds.

There are also other types of cribs like Sleigh-styled cribs and Eco-friendly or Green Cribs but, I’m not going to write much about them here because the ones I’ve already written about above are the most widely used baby cribs.

Choosing Between a Baby Crib and a Bassinet

Often times, some people usually get confused as to whether they should purchase a crib or a bassinet for their newborn babies and because of this, I’ve also taken the time to differentiate between the two items so you will know exactly what you need and when you need it.

Generally, bassinets and baby cribs are both designed for infants but, they serve different purposes. A bassinet (also known as a cradle) is a bed specifically for babies from birth to about four months, and small enough to provide a covering that small babies find comforting.

On the other hand, a baby crib is typically used after it is no longer safe to leave the baby in a bassinet. They have a lower center of gravity, more mass and a broader base of support which can hold a larger baby than a bassinet.

Furthermore, baby cribs are generally more stable than bassinets and as such become required when a baby can roll, transferring inertia with their actions; a bassinet may tip but an infant bed won’t without concerted effort.

Finally, around 2 or 3 years of age children are able to defeat their confinement and should be moved to a toddler bed to prevent an accident while escaping their bed.

You need to understand something here, except you’re thinking of to co-sleep with your newborn baby, you’ll probably need a crib at some point, though it might not be necessarily right away.

However, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that one of the safest places for your child to sleep to prevent SIDS is in their parents’ bedroom.

Having your baby nearby also makes feeding him at night much easier but of course, you can always move a crib into your bedroom if you have space, though many parents prefer putting their newborn child to sleep in a smaller, more womb-like space such as a bassinet.

More so, many parents put off buying a crib until their baby reaches a few months old, but Ali Wing, the founder of the baby store Giggle recommends that new parents make the crib their first nursery purchase, even if they won’t be using it for a while.

As you might already know, there are fewer choices in baby cribs than there are in other furniture items. She equally explains that, once you have a crib, it will affect how you approach other nursery purchases.

“Don’t get me wrong: We love bassinets,” she says. “They’re beautiful, they’re really fun, but it’s important for parents particularly those on a limited budget to differentiate between what they need to have and what’s fun to have.

Baby Crib Buying Guide | What to Look For in a Baby Crib

Bearing in mind that your newborn will mostly spend the majority of their time either sleeping or just resting on their crib, it is therefore very important to think of, safety, space, quality, and adaptability when choosing the best crib for your baby.

1. Consider Space

Baby cribs come in so many different sizes and features therefore, one of the things to worry about before you end purchasing a particular crib is the place you will keep the crib.

It will be a waste of money if you ended up buying a crib that cannot fit into the place you want it to be so, ensure that the space you will keep the furniture will very well accommodate it before buying.

2. Think of Height

It will be so painful when you spent hours trying to make your baby to sleep and finally wake her up when trying to lay her inside the crib.

This might be because the crib you purchased is a bit higher than your reach and if this is the case, you will be finding it hard to lay your baby inside it and also more difficult to get her out.

So, you need to also consider the height of the best baby crib you want to purchase, ensure you can easily and comfortably lay your child inside and also get her out of it.

3. Think Quality

When buying a crib for your baby, you also need to focus on quality. It’s not only important that the crib should look good and be sturdy.

If the crib is painted make sure it doesn’t peel away too easily, this is because during teething babies tend to bite and chew on the crib bars and you don’t want to worry about the paint coming off too easily.

Also, go for a crib whose board is no wider than 2 3/8’’ apart to avoid your baby’s arms and legs getting caught between the slats.

It is also important to ensure that the corner posts of the furniture do not project any further than 1/16 inch above the end panels. Corners that project further could tangle your child’s clothing.

Finally, avoid painted hand-me-downs. Paint can contain lead, a substance that is toxic to your child and, looks for cribs that are made from hardwoods because, the metal screws holding your baby’s crib together are much less likely to get loose from hardwood cribs made of ash, maple, birch, or oak.

The last but definitely not the least is to consider the fact that newborn needs constant care and if you don’t wish to have bassinets in every room of your apartment then, you might consider buying a crib that has movable wheels so that you can easily move your baby to any room you want in the apartment.

Baby Crib Frequently Asked Questions

How much should I spend on a crib?

It all depends on your choice and budget. If you want a stylish, super deluxe nursery for your little one, you can spend up to $4,000.

But you can also find a high-quality and safe crib for babies under $500. Again, it all boils down to how much you’re willing to spend on your baby nursery.

When should I lower my baby’s crib?

When to lower your crib mattress. You don’t have to adjust the crib height to the lowest setting right away, but you do want to lower it as soon as your baby can sit up. As soon as a baby sits up, they’re on their way to pulling themselves up to a standing position.

Are cribs safe for babies?

Yes, cribs are typically safe for babies; however, you need to follow some simple rules to keep your babies sleeping safely.

To avoid suffocation, never place thick quilts or pillows in a baby crib. You also don’t want to use modified or broken cribs.

Finally, ensure your chosen baby crib adheres to JPMA, CPSC, and ASTM safety standards

What should I look for when buying a crib?

There are many things to consider while buying a baby crib, such as ensuring it’s made of safe and quality wood, conforms to the US. And international safety standards, etc.

We’ve already covered this on the article, scroll up a bit to check it out.

Can babies hurt themselves in the crib?

Basically, babies don’t have enough muscle to hurt themselves. However, it’s important to always place your little one on his/her back to sleep to prevent the risk of SIDS.

Best Rated Baby Crib | Conclusion

I know how tedious and time consuming it can be to shop for baby nurseries (Crib precisely) especially when it’s your first child which means, you’ve not done it before and, that’s why I took my time to provide you with this ultimate guide to buying the best baby cribs that will give you all the satisfaction you want.

I hope that this guide has served its purpose therefore, I will leave you now to finally make a decision on the one you want to buy but, remember to make a wise choice.

If you have any question regarding this buying guide, feel free to contact me via the contact form. Happy shopping!