September 18, 2024

These days, traditional cribs just are not cutting it for all sorts of parents around the globe. They're too big, for one thing-- many parents complain that regular cribs simply take up way to much room-- and there is no tangible benefit this, particularly if space is of the essence. Accordingly, mini cribs are becoming more and more popular, and not just for folks living in smaller houses and apartments. The fact of the matter is that, for some, a regular-sized crib is just wildly inefficient. A mini crib is able to provide everything that a regular crib does, while using way less space and often saving you money. Plus, as you will see as this list continues, many of the best names in the mini crib industry are coming up with ingenious ways to provide value for your dollar, including conversion possibilities that will see mini cribs grow with babies as they become toddlers.

Baby crying and have no time to read? Here's our top pick of 2020. Stay strong my queen(or king).

Sale
Dream On Me Aden 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib In White, Greenguard Gold Certified, Non-Toxic Finish, New Zealand Pinewood, With 3 Mattress Height Settings
  • LONG LASTING - Made of New Zealand pinewood, the Aden 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib is both durable and stylish. A clean design and small footprint allow it to fit into any nursery theme. All tools for assembly are included
  • 4-in-1 CONVERTIBILITY OPTIONS - The Aden grows along with your child. You can convert the crib into a mini daybed and a twin size bed and it has a convenient 3-position mattress support system(Twin Size Rail and Bed frame sold separately)
  • YOUR SAFETY MATTERS - The Aden 4-in-1 is JPMA Certified to meet or exceed all safety standards set by the CPSC and ASTM. All of our products are tested by 3rd party labs for lead and other toxic elements to meet or exceed CPSC and ASTM safety standards
  • SMALL WONDER - Compact dimensions mean the Aden occupies a small footprint. But internally it is very spacious, making it ideal for small nurseries, co-sharing or when you have multiple kids to tend to
  • MATTRESS COMPATIBILITY - The Aden measures 39”Lx28"Wx37”H. For the best fit, we recommend any Dream On Me, non-toxic.

Like all relatively fresh products entering the marketplace, however, a wide range of mini cribs are now available-- and they represent a drastic range of quality. So, we set out to find the top cribs on the online market and review them so that you can buy the best mini crib imaginable for your baby.

But what makes one mini crib better than the rest? And how did we decide which as best? These are good questions, of course. We looked at many mini cribs and examined their ability to suit your needs; adjustability of mattress positions, whether there are options to convert to suit the growth of your baby into a toddler, and whether the crib can be folded and easily transferred.

In the end, we landed on a few mini cribs that really stand out and set themselves apart from the pack for all sorts of reasons. We truly believe that each of the options we selected has its own unique perks and special characteristics. If you want to make sure your baby has the perfect bed, continue reading!

Best Mini Cribs of 2020

1) Dream on Me Aden Convertible 4-in-1 Mini Crib

Sale
Dream On Me Aden 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib In White, Greenguard Gold Certified, Non-Toxic Finish, New Zealand Pinewood, With 3 Mattress Height Settings
  • LONG LASTING - Made of New Zealand pinewood, the Aden 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib is both durable and stylish. A clean design and small footprint allow it to fit into any nursery theme. All tools for assembly are included
  • 4-in-1 CONVERTIBILITY OPTIONS - The Aden grows along with your child. You can convert the crib into a mini daybed and a twin size bed and it has a convenient 3-position mattress support system(Twin Size Rail and Bed frame sold separately)
  • YOUR SAFETY MATTERS - The Aden 4-in-1 is JPMA Certified to meet or exceed all safety standards set by the CPSC and ASTM. All of our products are tested by 3rd party labs for lead and other toxic elements to meet or exceed CPSC and ASTM safety standards
  • SMALL WONDER - Compact dimensions mean the Aden occupies a small footprint. But internally it is very spacious, making it ideal for small nurseries, co-sharing or when you have multiple kids to tend to
  • MATTRESS COMPATIBILITY - The Aden measures 39”Lx28"Wx37”H. For the best fit, we recommend any Dream On Me, non-toxic.

When we first looked into this crib and saw the amount it was being sold for, we thought the price might just be too good to be true. Fortunately for you, the deal is legitimate and this amazing mini crib can be yours at a price which represents simply incredible value. Like any ideal mini crib, the adjustable mattress can grow with your baby, as the convertible mini crib becomes a toddler bed with several stages in between. Unlike a standard crib, Dream on Me mini cribs give all sorts of versatility.

Obviously, a bed like this is perfectly suited for small spaces, but this crib is also excellent in a bigger room-- why waste space, no matter where you are? The 4-in-1 feature is immaculate and yet simple, as each of the four options is going to match the needs of your little one as they grown from a baby to a toddler. In terms of height, there are three settings. But the real dynamic element of the Dream on Me 4-in-1 mini crib is that it changes from a basic mini crib, and then can evolve into a twin bed that is perfect for a toddler. The twin-size bed is just as cozy, stylish, and functional as the crib in its infancy, making it a perfect bed for the first several years of the life of your baby.

This bed, "the Aden" for short, is the best on the market for all of these reasons. Functional, stylish, adjustable, and cost-effective. What else can you ask from the best mini crib on the market? There is definitely some solid competition for the Aden, but most mini cribs fail to achieve all of these features so perfectly and still be so affordable. If you're looking for a standard mini crib, a bed for your toddler, or a portable crib, this serves the purpose of each and is able to save space for you in the process.

To summarize, this mini crib can be set to three different heights, is incredibly sturdy and built from high-quality materials, has stationary sides, and can be purchased in one of seven colors, ranging from black and white to cherry and espresso.

2) Dream on Me Addison 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib

Dream On Me Addison 4-In-1 Convertible Mini Crib In White, Greenguard Gold Certified, Non-Toxic Finishes, Built Of New Zealand Pinewood, Comes With 1” Mattress Pad
  • MODERN DESIGN: Built of New Zealand pinewood, its minimalist design features gentle, smooth arches & sturdy spade feet, The contemporary styling allows it to blend easily into any nursery decor
  • BEAUTIFUL FINISHES: The Addison is available in beautiful non-toxic baby-safe finishes which can match perfectly with whatever nursery theme you choose, Let your imagination reign supreme
  • MANY BENEFITS: The crib has a 3-position adjustable mattress height setting & Comes with a 1" OEM Mattress pad, For additional aftermarket mattress purchase, we recommend any Dream On Me, non-toxic, Greenguard certified mini crib mattress.
  • SCORES HIGH ON SAFETY: All Dream On Me cribs meet/exceed applicable JPMA, ASTM & CPSC standards, Product dimensions are 38L x 24W x 32H inches and the maximum weight limit is 50 lbs, All tools/assembly instructions included

Unique to this crib is a remarkable aesthetic. There is something quaint and particularly charming about the curvature of this little bed, which sets it apart from many other mini cribs on the market. As well all know, particularly with today's generation of parents, style matters. But this mini crib isn't just about style and certainly does not sacrifice substance. It is well-built and versatile, making it a perfect crib for babies as they grow into toddlers.

Initially, this mini crib works excellently for newborns. As they grow, it converts into several more positions to match the development of your baby. Eventually, this converts into a twin-size bed and a day bed, so it will be years before you have to buy another bed for your growing child. Is it the best mini crib on the market? Not quite, as there are a few elements that are slightly imperfect. For example, the mattress is not as comfortable as it should be. This common complaint is usually addressed by simply upgrading the mattress, which is definitely doable-- but this mini crib is already priced slightly higher than many others, so buying a new mattress for the crib is not necessarily ideal. And yet this thin mattress is not the end of the world. It's still a fantastic crib with lots of potential for your child, functioning as an excellent toddler bed as well. The mattress keeps it from being the best, but there are many reasons why it deserves to be so close to the top of this list of mini cribs.

To conclude, we love the ergonomic, stylish design. From the curves to the authentic finish of pine, as well as five choices of color, this is a beautiful crib and that must not be overlooked. The three positions are all important and allow for your baby to grow with the crib and the mattress.

3) Dream on Me Violet Mini Crib

Dream On Me Violet 4-In-1 Convertible Mini Crib In Black, Greenguard Gold Certified, JPMA Certified, 3 Position Mattress Height Settings, Non-Toxic Finish
  • CONVERTIBILITY OPTIONS: The Violet/Piper 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib keeps pace with your growing child. Starting as a mini crib, you can convert it into a mini daybed and twin-size bed (bed rails sold separately)
  • COMPACT DESIGN: Built of solid pinewood, it boasts a minimalist, flowing design. It occupies a small footprint, making it ideal for compact spaces or when you are co-sharing with your child. Choose from 6 pleasant finishes and design a chic space.Do not use window cleaners or cleaning abrasives
  • MATTRESS MATTERS: The Violet/Piper has a 3-position adjustable mattress height setting for adaptability. It comes with the regulatory 1” mattress pad. Choose a DOM non-toxic, Greenguard Gold certified mini or portable crib mattress for a perfect fit
  • PRIORITIZING SAFETY: All our cribs are JPMA certified and are tested for lead and other toxic elements to meet or exceed applicable ASTM safety standards
  • PRODUCT SPECS: Product dimensions are 42Lx25Wx36H inches. The maximum weight limit is 50 lbs. All tools/assembly instructions included

The Violet mini crib is fantastic if you are looking for a high-quality, top of the line crib which is not going to disrupt your finances all too much. Playing on the curvy crib aesthetic, this is a stylish crib which is also undoubtedly of high quality. You can choose between five colors, as well, which will help you match the style of the room in which the mini crib will be located.

As your baby develops and flourishes and gets bigger, it is very easy to convert the crib into a mini daybed and eventually a twin bed. Unfortunately, the build of this crib calls for a mattress which is merely 2 inches or less, and it comes with a 1-inch mattress. Many children prefer a thicker and cozier mattress pad, so this would likely be the source of most dissatisfaction with this particular mini crib. Otherwise, it still beats your standard mini crib, and the mattress can always be reinforced for greater comfort.

Is this the best crib on the market? Not quite. Nonetheless, it is a very good crib with adjustable mattress positions, a fine mattress pad, and a convertible design. Choose between five colors and enjoy the sturdy, aesthetic quality of the New Zealand pine. This is a very good crib for your baby, and considering the price, it is of wonderful quality.

4) Delta Children Portable Mini Crib

Sale
Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Baby Crib with 1.5-inch Mattress - Greenguard Gold Certified, Cherry
  • GREAT CRIB FOR SMALL SPACES OR TRAVEL: Crib includes casters for easy mobility; Folds flat for easy travel and storage; The included mattress (size: 37.5 Inches L x 23.25 Inches D x 1.5 Inches ) stores right in the crib when folded
  • GROWS WITH BABY: The 2 position mattress height adjustment on this crib allows you to lower the mattress as your baby begins to sit or stand
  • BUILT TO LAST: Strong and sturdy wood construction helps create a dream nursery where you’ll spend plenty of Mommy and Me/Daddy and Me time; Easy assembly
  • WE PUT YOUR BABY’S SAFETY FIRST: This crib is JPMA certified to meet or exceed all safety standards set by the CPSC & ASTM; Tested for lead and other toxic elements to meet or exceed government and ASTM safety standards
  • SIZE: 39 Inches W x 25 Inches D x 37.25 Inches H; Cuna para bebé que cuenta con dos alturas de colchón para mantenerse al día con su pequeño/pequeña en crecimiento

If you are looking for portability, this mini crib by Delta is a fantastic option. Unlike some other cribs, this comes with lockable wheels, making it very easy to move from place to place. As far as exclusively portable mini cribs go, this is likely the best on the market. It is extremely light, easy to fold, remarkably convertible, and can conveniently be stored in small spaces when not being used. Is it the best mini crib in general? Not quite. But this mini crib is ideal for guests, or to keep at grandparent's houses. As such, it is not as aesthetically pleasing as some of the others, as it is definitely meant as a means to an end, rather than a full-time crib. Still, the mattress pad is comfortable, it can be adjusted into two different alignment as to be worked as a bassinet or a playpen, as well. At the end of the day, this is a really good bed for your baby or toddler, but not as an everyday option. Compared to other mini cribs, the price is excellent. You can choose between three different neutral tones, as well. It loses points because it is not a convertible mini crib in the same sense as others, many of which turn from newborn nest into toddler bed, but it is still the best portable crib on the market by value and by functionality. Defined by its lockable wheels, convenient portability, extremely affordable price, and spatial efficiency, this is a great choice for a secondary mini crib.

5) DaVinci Kalani 2-in-1 Mini Crib and Twin Bed

Sale
DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib in Chestnut, Greenguard Gold Certified
  • GREENGUARD GOLD CERTIFIED: This product has undergone rigorous scientific testing for over 10,000 chemical emissions and VOCs It contributes to cleaner indoor air, creating a healthier environment for your baby to sleep, play, and grow
  • GROWS WITH BABY: Four adjustable mattress positions that can be lowered as your baby begins to sit and stand Easily converts to mini toddler bed, daybed, and twin-size bed (mini toddler conversion kit #M20399 and twin-size conversion kit #M4799 sold separately)
  • QUALITY MATERIAL: Made of solid sustainable New Zealand pinewood and TSCA compliant engineered wood -only the best for your baby
  • FOR YOUR BABY'S SAFETY: Say goodbye to toxic chemicals! Finished in a non-toxic multi-step painting process and lead and phthalate safe
  • COMPLETE THE LOOK: Shop Kalani-3-Drawer Dresser & 6-Drawer Dresser for a coordinated nursery While this crib is a standard size mini crib, for a best fit we recommend DaVinci's non-toxic, GREENGUARD gold mattresses Includes 1” waterproof pad

A more traditional convertible mini crib, this 2-in-1 option is spatially efficient and cost-effective. Not to mention, it is stylish and comfortable, as well. There are four different mattress positions you can choose from, which gives you the freedom and ability to match the crib to the needs and desires of your growing baby as they become a toddler. Unlike some other options, this change requires the purchase of a conversion kit. The conversion kit is easy to use, however, and the price is totally reasonable. Compared to other mini cribs or a standard crib, this is an affordable but high-quality option that, while lacking in 'wow' factor, is still aesthetically pleasing and impressively built. In terms of the mattress pad, this is yet another example of a 1-inch mattress which some people think could be thicker or more comfortable. Many parents have decided to purchase a thicker sprung mattress for this crib, though this is certainly not essential.

Choose from five stylish colors, adjust between four mattress positions, and do not forget to purchase the conversion kit so this crib can evolve with your baby as they become a toddler.

6) Babyletto Origami Mini Crib

Babyletto Origami Mini Portable Crib Folding with Wheels in White, 2 Adjustable Mattress Positions, Greenguard Gold Certified
  • URBAN STYLE AND SIZE: Designed for urban living with a foldable frame with removable, locking caster wheels for easy storage and transport. It's a smart and stylish alternative to a bassinet, suitable for a growing babe from newborn to beyond 18 months. Safe to use until 35" tall or starting to climb.
  • GREENGUARD GOLD CERTIFIED: The Origami has undergone rigorous scientific testing for over 10,000 chemical emissions and VOCs. It contributes to cleaner indoor air, creating a healthier environment for your baby to sleep, play, and grow.Do not use abrasive chemicals for cleaning
  • ADJUSTABLE MATTRESS HEIGHT: The low-profile design and 2 adjustable mattress positions make it easy to put a newborn to rest. The Origami is a standard mini size crib which includes a 1" mattress pad. We recommend additional support with our Pure by babyletto mini crib mattress (37" x 23.5").
  • SUSTAINABLE DESIGN: Made with sustainably sourced solid New Zealand pine wood, one of the most renewable woods available. The mattress support is TSCA compliant engineered wood.
  • SAFE FOR BABE: We go the extra step to ensure your babe's safety. Finished in a non-toxic multi-step painting and staining process that is lead and phthalate safe which exceeds ASTM International and U.S. CPSC safety standards.

The Babyletto Origami mini crib is a wonderful crib if you are tight on space and need something cute, functional, and cost-effective. The lockable wheels also add to its versatility. This is certainly not the flashiest or best of the cribs on the market today, but the adjustable mattress levels, lockable wheels, and the impressive mattress support make it a crib worth mentioning!

The downside of this particular crib is that it is not very affordable, but you definitely get what you pay for-- a very high quality, sturdy, moveable mini crib which affords conveniences which many others on the market do not.

Mini Crib FAQ: You Asked, We Answer

How long can you use a mini crib for?

This is a very common question. Because most of these mini cribs are convertible, they are meant to last for the entire duration of your baby and their journey into toddlerhood. Unlike regular cribs, this is an adjustable choice that allows for years of growth on behalf of your baby. Eventually, your toddler will outgrow the crib, but that does not mean that the crib itself will be ready to retire either-- many parents use the same mini crib for their next child or children, and all of the mini cribs on this list are designed to last for more time than just the one baby would imply. Sometimes it will be necessary to purchase certain replacements, such as a new mattress every few years, but generally, these are sturdy products that are meant to last a while!

What is the best mini-crib?

This is a tough question, of course, because different situations call for different cribs. In determining the best of the best, we decided to look for versatility, cost-effectiveness, adjustability, comfort, and style. For these reasons, we decided upon the Dream on Me Aden Convertible 4-in-1 mini crib, which is great for newborns and even becomes an exceptional twin bed for toddlers. Nonetheless, we realize that our judgment, while quite well-informed, is not going to be universally agreed upon by all parents-- and, perhaps more importantly, nor will it be agreed upon by all babies!

What's the difference between a mini crib and regular?

Well, as implied by the name, the biggest difference is of course in the size of each type of crib. While a mini crib can often be extended into a twin bed for a toddler, they are still considerably smaller than a regular crib. Generally, a mini crib comes in at about 65% the size of a standard crib, sometimes even smaller. Whereas standard cribs are meant to stay in one place, mini cribs are often used as portable cribs, whether that is because they are being moved within the home or being taken to and from different locations.

Can a newborn sleep in a mini crib?

That depends on the mini crib! Many parents will choose to purchase a convertible mini crib which can be used from the earliest weeks of a baby's life until decently far into toddlerhood. Of course, if this is your intention, you want to make sure you are buying a model that is specifically designed to be used for newborns!

If you have any questions or concerns about mini cribs, feel free to ask us. We are committed to providing you with the best information possible regarding everything you want to know about your potential purchase of a mini crib. Canada and its parents are becoming increasingly curious about this type of crib, so perhaps its time you investigate!

About the Author Tom Brewer

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