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All About the Best Baby Cribs

Updated February 04, 2022

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13 min read

best baby cribs

One of the most important purchases you’ll make when buying baby gear is the crib. This is where your little one will spend countless hours sleeping, so of course you want the best. The best baby cribs need to be safe and comfortable, but you might also appreciate cribs that have some extra features, like ones with a changing table or those that are portable. To help you navigate your options, we surveyed more than 6,500 Pampers Parents to find out which baby cribs they think are the very best.

Different Types of Baby Cribs

A crib is one of those baby gear essentials you’ll need either before your little one arrives, or soon after (if you’re using a bassinet for the first few weeks).

Before browsing our list of the best baby cribs, take some time to think about what kind of crib you’d like, as they come in a few different styles:

Standard baby cribs. These are your typical rectangular cribs that serve only as a crib and nothing more. They suit the purpose perfectly, but you’ll need to buy a changing table separately and upgrade to a toddler bed or a single bed when the time comes.
Multipurpose baby cribs and sets. These baby cribs and sets typically come with a changing table and usually extra storage in the form of shelves or drawers. You might prefer these multifunctional cribs if space is limited. In some cases, it might be cheaper to buy one of these, or purchase a baby crib set, rather than purchasing the other parts separately.
Convertible baby cribs. This kind of crib can grow with your baby, as it converts into a toddler bed, a daybed, and (sometimes) a full-size bed with a footboard. You can get many, many years out of the original purchase, but be aware that most convertible cribs require a conversion kit and additional items such as a larger mattress and bed frame as your child grows. But even with these extra purchases, this type of crib might still be a money-saver in the end.
Portable baby cribs. If you’d like a small baby crib that’s lightweight for travel, you might like to purchase a portable crib as well. This style is also great for moving from room to room. Some Pampers Parents noted that they purchased one portable crib for travel and another for the nursery.
Round or oval baby cribs. Although round and oval baby cribs didn’t make the Pampers Parents’ list, they are still an option. There are some downsides: These aren’t usually convertible, they can sometimes come with a bigger price tag, and the irregular shape may also make it trickier to find a mattress and fitted sheets that fit. Nevertheless, round or oval baby cribs can be a beautiful centerpiece for your little one’s nursery.

What to Consider When Buying a Crib

When you buy a crib, you're basically investing in your baby's safety, comfort, and healthy development, so of course you want what’s best. That means that safety features and design are important to keep in mind when searching for the best baby cribs. Here are some top safety considerations:

General safety. Above all else, check that the crib meets federal safety standards, is certified by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA), and hasn’t been recalled. It’s generally best to buy a new crib, as it will meet the latest safety standards. Although you might like the look of antique or retro cribs, they’re unsafe to use—and, in fact, it’s illegal to sell a crib purchased before 2011. If you’re considering a used crib that was originally purchased after 2011, you’ll need to carefully check that it meets today’s standards and isn’t broken or defective in any way.
Slats should be no more than 2 3/8 inches apart. Double check that the crib you’re buying meets this requirement. Closely spaced slats help prevent your little one’s head from getting trapped.
Drop-down side rails are banned. Although you might remember that some cribs used to have sides that parents could push down, this design is unsafe and now prohibited.
Look for a design without cutouts or elevated corner posts. Experts recommend avoiding a crib with decorative cutouts on any of the sides, as these cutouts can be a hazard, trapping limbs or your little one’s head. Designs with corner posts that are higher than the sides should also be avoided as clothes can snag on these, becoming a choking hazard.
Adjustable mattress height settings. Many of the best baby cribs let you lower the mattress base as your child grows, which will help prevent your baby from falling or crawling out of the crib. As your little one learns to sit, adjust the mattress so that they can’t fall out—even if they try to pull themself over the rail. Then, by the time your little one can stand, place the mattress at the lowest available setting. Check with your baby’s healthcare provider if you’re unsure about when or how much to lower the mattress.

The other category to consider is design. Think about the size of the nursery, your budget, whether you have twins, or how often you need to travel with a baby crib. Then consider the following:

Size. If space is limited in your baby’s nursery, look carefully at size. Also check the size so that you can buy the appropriate mattress and fitted sheet for the crib. An irregular design may make it harder to find a matching mattress and bedding.
Convertibility. Some baby cribs can be converted into a toddler bed or even a full-size bed, which is great for growing babies and twins. This means you’ll get lots of use out of your original purchase. But remember that converting the crib often requires additional purchases, which is usually called a “conversion kit.” You may also need to buy a larger mattress and bed frame.
Does the baby crib come with a changing table? Some cribs come with a built-in changing table. The benefit of this is that you may not need to buy an extra changing table, and it can also save on space. However, you may not like having the changing table right next to the crib, or you may find that your little one grows out of the changing table sooner than the crib itself. If this is the case, consider baby crib sets with components that you can move around as needed.
Overall design. The crib tends to be the focal point of the nursery, so if possible, pick something you'd be happy to look at for months and years to come. If you would like all your nursery furniture to match, check to see if the manufacturer sells baby crib sets with matching products like a changing table, chests of drawers, and other furniture pieces.
Price. The price of baby cribs can vary. A cheaper baby crib that still meets all the latest safety standards may be just as good as a pricey crib. Sometimes the extra cost is associated with the design; for example, a round baby crib may be more expensive than a standard rectangular one. However, the crib is an important purchase, so it may be worth spending a little extra.

Best Cribs With a Changing Table

Now that you’ve considered the different types of cribs, safety concerns, and design elements, take a look at what our Pampers Parents voted as the best baby cribs, starting with those that also offer a changing table.

Delta Children Abby Convertible Crib and Changer

Why pick this one? This was voted as the third-best baby crib according to Pampers Parents, but the favorite among cribs with a changing table. The big benefit of this product is that it’s both multipurpose and convertible.

Besides the changing table, this baby crib also comes with two shelves and two drawers. Plus, as your little one grows, it can convert into a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size bed.

Keep in mind that you’ll need to buy some extras like the toddler guardrail and metal bed frame when you’re ready to transform the crib, so there will be some additional costs involved.

Made of solid wood, this crib is a product you can get lots of use out of over the years.

Highlights: The changing table comes with a water-resistant changing pad, too.

Price*: about $349 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents pros and cons:

Graco Solano 4-in-1 Convertible Crib and Changer With Drawer

Why pick this one? Another great option for a baby crib that comes with a changing table is this Graco version.

Under the changing table there are two big open shelves (which you might like to organize with baskets), and directly under the crib is a large drawer for additional storage.

Although you might find that the drawer under the crib is a little too low for everyday use, it's handy for items that you only need occasionally, such as spare bedding or out-of-season clothes. The drawer holds plenty and will keep items out of sight.

The changing table comes with a water-resistant changing pad, which has a strap to help secure your little one—though you should always keep a hand on your baby, too.

The versatility of this baby crib keeps going, as it converts to a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size bed. Eventually, you can use the bell-shaped side rail as a headboard when it’s a full-size bed. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to purchase the full-size mattress and bed frame separately, plus the guardrail.

Highlights: The company has been manufacturing high-quality nursery and children’s room furnishings for 70 years, so it has a trustworthy track record.

Price*: about $299.99 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents pros and cons:

Best White Baby Cribs

White baby cribs tend to make the list of the best, as this color is a popular choice for a sweet newborn. If you’re interested in a white crib, check out the options below, but if you’re not in the market for white, many of these cribs come in other colors too!

Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib

Why pick this one? This crib by Babyletto has a mid-century modern style with a flush top, round slats, and angled feet. If you’re looking for a white baby crib to suit your nursery, you might like this polished, classic look!

Unlike some other convertible cribs, the toddler bed conversion kit is included. So, when the time comes to transform the crib into a toddler bed, you won’t have to buy an additional side rail, as you’ll already have it at home and ready to go.

Another benefit of this crib is that it has four mattress level settings. You can place it higher when your little one’s still a newborn, and then lower as your baby learns to sit and stand. Most cribs only offer three mattress heights.

Highlights: This baby crib is made of solid pine sourced from New Zealand and comes in several two-toned options (see below) for a classy look.

Price*: about $399.00 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents pros and cons:

Evolur Aurora 5-in-1 Convertible Crib

Why pick this one? For a white baby crib that’s decorative, consider the Aurora by Evolur. The crib comes with a ribbon and bow detail on the sideboard and headboard, which curve elegantly. The cabriole legs add a special touch to the design.

This product converts all the way from a crib to a full-size bed with a footboard. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to purchase the conversion kit separately.

In addition to white, this baby crib is available in several unusual colors that not many cribs offer (see below). The color choices along with its beautiful design mean that this crib could be just the one to tie the look of your baby’s nursery together.

One thing to note with this product is its hefty price tag. At about $600, this baby crib doesn’t come cheap—it’s the most expensive crib on our list.

Highlights: You can complete the baby crib set by purchasing the double dresser, bookcase, tall chest, and nightstand from Evolur’s Aurora collection.

Price*: about $599 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents pros and cons:

Best Modern Baby Cribs

Some of the best baby cribs as voted by Pampers Parents feature modern designs, as these tend to fit any baby nursery with a timeless aesthetic. Those that made the list come in several colors and can convert as your child grows older.

Graco Benton 4-in-1 Convertible Crib

Why pick this one? This baby crib was voted as the best overall by Pampers Parents. If you're looking for a reasonably priced, modern baby crib, this one could be the perfect choice.

You can get several years of use out of this product, as it converts from a crib to a toddler bed, then to a daybed, and finally a full-size bed with a footboard.

You’ll need to buy the toddler bed guardrail, full-size bed conversion kit, and full-size mattress separately. However, you may find that it’s still a better value than buying a new bed each time your child is ready for an upgrade.

Highlights: In the crib configuration, there are three mattress levels to choose from; in the daybed setting you can set the mattress at two different heights.

Price*: about $159.99 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents pros and cons:

Delta Children Canton 4-in-1 Convertible Crib

Why pick this one? This simple, minimalistic, modern baby crib by Delta Children was Pampers Parents’ second-best choice overall.

As a convertible crib, this one changes to a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size bed for your growing child! It also offers three mattress positions, so you can adjust the entire bed as your baby grows and develops. Although the toddler and daybed rails are included, you’ll need to purchase the full-size rails and mattresses separately.

With a sleigh-style design, this baby crib is best for any parent looking for a twist on a classic. And rest assured knowing this bed has won 10 awards, ranging from “best baby crib” to “must-have baby gear.”

Highlights: This crib is made from sustainable pine sourced from New Zealand with 100 percent nontoxic materials.

Price*: about $249.99 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents pros and cons:

Dream On Me Synergy 5-in-1 Convertible Crib

Why pick this one? This baby crib has an undeniably modern and sleek look. The no-frills style crib would suit almost any nursery décor but might be an especially good choice if your baby’s nursery has a modern aesthetic with clean lines and a focus on minimalism and functionality.

This product can be used in five different ways, from a crib all the way to a full-size bed with a footboard.

As with many other convertible baby cribs, the toddler safety rail on this one needs to be purchased separately. When it’s time to convert the crib to a full-size bed, you’ll need to buy the bed frame and mattress separately as well.

Highlights: Although all options on our list meet the necessary safety standards, this crib goes the extra mile and uses eco-friendly and child-safe water-based paint to create fun color options (see below).

Price*: about $135 to $298 (depending on color) on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents pros and cons:

Best Small and Portable Baby Cribs

Some parents like to have a portable baby crib on hand or purchase two cribs so one is easier for travel. Pampers Parents preferred the following small and portable baby cribs.

Graco Travel Lite Crib With Stages

Why pick this one? If you’re looking for a small and portable baby crib that you can take on vacation or a visit to the grandparents, then consider this Graco Travel Lite Crib. It weighs less than 20 pounds and conveniently folds into a matching travel case.

This crib has two mattress heights, and you can eventually convert it into a play yard.

The crib has an overhead canopy, which you can use to block out a little light. The hanging plush toys that attach to the canopy may be fun for your little one to look at, though you'll want to remove them for safety's sake once your child can reach up and pull them down.

Pampers Parents also like that the mesh sides are breathable and allow you to see into the crib more easily. The wheels assist in moving the crib from room to room, and it comes with a quilted mattress pad.

Highlights: There are two buttons you can push to easily fold the crib for travel or storage. The bag that's included has a convenient handle.

Price*: about $147.99 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents pros and cons:

BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light

Why pick this one? For a small, light, and portable baby crib that’s simple in design but functional, look no further than this BabyBjorn Travel Crib.

Although this is a simple crib with just one mattress height setting (the mattress is just above floor level), it offers a great place to put your baby down to sleep if you're out and about or visiting relatives.

The manufacturer says parents can use it from the newborn stage until about 3 years old. (Just remember to stop using the crib if your toddler can climb out of it!)

The crib comes with a mattress and the mesh lining provides ventilation and visibility from all sides. This portable baby crib folds up kind of like a tent and fits in a case with a handle.

Highlights: The fabrics of the crib and the mattress cover are removable and machine washable, so you won't have to worry about getting rid of baby drool or even dirt from outdoor use.

Price*: about $229.99 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents pros and cons:

A Note on Crib Safety

Crib safety is very important, so keep the following in mind once you’ve chosen your baby’s crib:

Safe sleeping environment. No matter which crib you choose, always practice safe sleep guidelines for babies, such as putting your baby down to sleep on their back. It’s also important to keep the crib free of objects like bumpers, toys, and blankets to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). In terms of bedding, you only need a waterproof mattress cover and a fitted sheet—nothing more.
Safety checks. Regularly check your baby’s crib once it’s in use. Check the hardware to make sure it’s still in place, and that there aren’t any broken parts, splintered bits of wood, or missing slats. Don’t replace any loose or missing nuts and bolts with hardware store alternatives—contact the manufacturer to ask for the correct replacements.
Conversion timeline. Babies are ready to move to a toddler bed when they are 35 inches tall, or when the side rail of the crib is at or under their nipple line when standing on the lowest mattress setting—whichever happens first. Some crib manufacturers also list a maximum baby weight. If you’re in doubt about when to switch to a toddler bed, ask your baby’s healthcare provider for personalized advice.

The Bottom Line

With this list in hand, you'll be able to choose the best crib for your baby. Once you’ve purchased a crib, don’t forget to buy the matching mattress size and a couple of fitted sheets to go with it. Then you’re all set to give your little one a great place to snooze!

For more advice and insight on top-voted baby gear, you can rely on Pampers Parents. And don’t forget to download the Pampers Club App to earn rewards on all those diaper changes!

Recall Notice

Before buying a product, always check that it’s approved and hasn’t been recalled on sites like the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

*Prices are subject to change.

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