Best Cribs
Find the best cribs for your nursery.
Delta Children Essex 4-in-1 Convertible Crib
- ✓Converts from crib to toddler bed, daybed, and sofa
- ✓Adjustable mattress height with 3 positions
- ✓Solid pine construction with natural finish
Delta Children Essex 4-in-1 Convertible Crib
- ✓Converts from crib to toddler bed, daybed, and sofa
- ✓Adjustable mattress height with 3 positions
- ✓Solid pine construction with natural finish
Graco Premium Crib & Toddler Mattress
- ✓100% polyester with polyurethane foam core
- ✓OEKO-TEX and GREENGUARD certified safe
- ✓CertiPUR-US certified for baby safety
Graco Premium Crib & Toddler Mattress
- ✓100% polyester with polyurethane foam core
- ✓OEKO-TEX and GREENGUARD certified safe
- ✓CertiPUR-US certified for baby safety
Dream On Me Aden 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib
- ✓Converts from mini crib to twin bed in four stages
- ✓3 adjustable mattress heights for growing babies
- ✓New Zealand pinewood with non-toxic finish
Dream On Me Aden 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib
- ✓Converts from mini crib to twin bed in four stages
- ✓3 adjustable mattress heights for growing babies
- ✓New Zealand pinewood with non-toxic finish
Dream On Me Ivy 5-in-1 Convertible Crib
- ✓Converts from crib to toddler bed to full-size bed
- ✓Adjustable mattress height for comfort at each stage
- ✓Grows with child from newborn through adulthood
Dream On Me Ivy 5-in-1 Convertible Crib
- ✓Converts from crib to toddler bed to full-size bed
- ✓Adjustable mattress height for comfort at each stage
- ✓Grows with child from newborn through adulthood
Graco Hadley 5-in-1 Convertible Crib
- ✓Converts from crib to toddler bed to full-size bed
- ✓Built-in full-size storage drawer for bedding
- ✓Adjustable mattress height with 3 positions
Graco Hadley 5-in-1 Convertible Crib
- ✓Converts from crib to toddler bed to full-size bed
- ✓Built-in full-size storage drawer for bedding
- ✓Adjustable mattress height with 3 positions
KoolerThings 3-in-1 Baby Bassinet
- ✓Standalone bassinet converts to bedside sleeper
- ✓Portable design for bedroom, living room, travel
- ✓Adjustable height matches most bed frames
KoolerThings 3-in-1 Baby Bassinet
- ✓Standalone bassinet converts to bedside sleeper
- ✓Portable design for bedroom, living room, travel
- ✓Adjustable height matches most bed frames
Dream On Me Carson Classic 3-in-1 Convertible Crib
- ✓Converts from crib to toddler bed to daybed
- ✓4 adjustable mattress heights for safe positioning
- ✓Made from renewable wood construction
Dream On Me Carson Classic 3-in-1 Convertible Crib
- ✓Converts from crib to toddler bed to daybed
- ✓4 adjustable mattress heights for safe positioning
- ✓Made from renewable wood construction
Delta Children Heartland 4-in-1 Convertible Crib
- ✓Converts from crib to toddler bed to full bed
- ✓3-position mattress adjusts as baby grows
- ✓Solid wood construction with non-toxic finish
Delta Children Heartland 4-in-1 Convertible Crib
- ✓Converts from crib to toddler bed to full bed
- ✓3-position mattress adjusts as baby grows
- ✓Solid wood construction with non-toxic finish
Dream On Me Cape Cod 5-in-1 Convertible Crib
- ✓Converts from crib to toddler bed to full-size
- ✓4 adjustable mattress heights for safety
- ✓Made from renewable wood materials
Dream On Me Cape Cod 5-in-1 Convertible Crib
- ✓Converts from crib to toddler bed to full-size
- ✓4 adjustable mattress heights for safety
- ✓Made from renewable wood materials
Dream On Me Synergy 5-in-1 Convertible Crib
- ✓5-in-1 Convertible Crib – The Synergy grows
- ✓Adjustable Height For Comfort- Features three
- ✓Quality Craftsmanship – Built
Dream On Me Synergy 5-in-1 Convertible Crib
- ✓5-in-1 Convertible Crib – The Synergy grows
- ✓Adjustable Height For Comfort- Features three
- ✓Quality Craftsmanship – Built
Buyer's Guide
Convertibility and Longevity
Cribs range from standard fixed models to 4-in-1 or 5-in-1 convertible designs that transform into toddler beds, daybeds, and full-size beds. Convertible cribs cost $150-400 but can serve your child for 10+ years, while standard cribs ($100-250) last only until age 2-3. Consider whether you'll actually use conversion stages—many parents move children to twin beds by age 3, making a 5-in-1 unnecessary. Conversion kits for full-size beds typically cost an additional $100-150.
Mattress Support and Adjustability
Look for cribs with 3-4 adjustable mattress height positions. Newborns need the highest setting (24-26 inches from floor) for easy lifting, while mobile babies require the lowest (8-10 inches) to prevent climbing out. Metal spring platforms are sturdier than wood slats. Mini cribs (38x24 inches) fit small nurseries but require special mini mattresses and offer less room as babies grow compared to standard cribs (52x28 inches).
Safety Certifications and Construction
All cribs must meet CPSC and ASTM standards, but verify JPMA certification for third-party testing. Slat spacing must be 2-3/8 inches maximum to prevent head entrapment. Solid wood (pine, birch) cribs are sturdiest but heavier; engineered wood with non-toxic finishes is budget-friendly. Avoid drop-side cribs (banned since 2011) and models with decorative cutouts or corner posts over 1/16 inch high.
Mattress Compatibility and Firmness
Cribs don't include mattresses—budget $80-200 separately. A proper fit allows no more than two fingers between mattress and crib frame. Foam mattresses (density 1.5+ lbs/cubic foot) are lighter and cheaper than innerspring (150+ coils), but both work if firm enough that they don't conform to baby's shape. Waterproof covers are essential for inevitable accidents.