6 Best Cribs for Small Spaces (2024 Update)

Best Cribs for Small Spaces

Putting a crib in a small space can be very challenging. Cribs take up a lot of space but are an essential item in your baby’s nursery. When you consider putting in a changing table and dresser, the room can begin to feel a bit snug-especially if the nursery is on a smaller scale, to begin with. 

One thing that can help you conserve space while keeping your little one comfortable is using a mini crib. Mini cribs come in many different styles and shapes, making them suitable for a small nursery in an apartment or home. Mini cribs are also ideal if your baby is going to be sharing a room, either with you or with a sibling. 

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Best Cribs for Small Spaces Reviews

There are many different mini cribs available. Here is a look at the best cribs for small spaces based on size, function, and reviews. 

Babyletto Origami Mini Crib

Dimensions39.2L x 25.7W x 36H inches
Color OptionsWhite, Natural, Black, Gray, Navy, Mint, and Pink

The Babyletto Origami Mini Crib is a versatile design that comes in multiple colors, from standard black and white to beautiful pastel blue and blue. Gray, navy, and natural tones are thrown in for good measure. The crib can be folded up and has lockable wheels.

The crib is also Greenguard certified, which means that it is free from over 10,000 different chemical emissions and VOCs.The crib is also made of sustainable New Zealand pine wood, a highly renewable wood source. The multi-step painting process is also non-toxic, keeping the air your child will be breathing all night long free of toxins. The mattress height has two adjustable positions and is safe for babies to sleep in until they are at least 35 inches tall or begin to climb. 

Pros:

  • Wheels can be removed
  • Mattress adjusts for safety
  • Greenguard Certified
  • Lead and phthalate safe

Cons:

  • Only fits babies up to 18 months
  • Mattress pad is only 1” thick

DaVinci Kalini Mini Crib

Dimensions39.88L x 28.63W x 38H inches
Color OptionsWhite, Gray, Black, Espresso, and Chestnut

The DaVinci Kalini Mini Crib comes in many different colors, so you should be able to find one that coordinates with your nursery. The mattress has four different positions to grow with your baby. The crib also converts from a crib to a mini toddler bed to a daybed. Finally, it transitions into a twin-size bed. 

The DaVinci crib is toxin-free and GreenGuard Gold Certified. It underwent vigorous testing to ensure your child’s safety while they sleep. You can be sure your child won’t be breathing in off-gassing from VOCs and other contaminants with this crib. It is made of solid New Zealand Pinewood. It is also TSCA compliant. The crib measures 28 inches wide by 38 inches long and weighs about 38 pounds. 

Pros:

  • Grows with your baby
  • Small footprint
  • Greenguard Gold certified
  • Can purchase matching pieces

Cons:

  • Separate conversion kit for each conversion
  • Be sure to buy the correct size mattress for no gap

Dream On Me Aden Convertible 4-in-1 Mini Crib

Dimensions39L x 23W x 36H  inches
Color OptionsFrench White, White, Natural, Gray, Black, Cherry, and Espresso

The Dream on Me Aden Convertible crib is another one that is made from New Zealand pine wood. The design is simple but stylish, plus it has a small footprint. It comes in many different colors, perfect for fitting into your small nursery design. 

It also is convertible with three different mattress positions and can transition into a mini daybed or a twin-size bed. It is JPMA certified and meets or exceeds all of the safety standards set in place by the CPSC and ASTM. A third party also tests the cribs for lead and other safety hazards to exceed standard levels. The bed measures 23 inches wide by 36 inches long and weighs about 40 pounds. 

Pros:

  • Easy to assemble
  • Comfortable size for baby 
  • Stable design
  • Simple to adjust

Cons:

  • The 1-inch mattress maybe a little thin
  • Have to purchase conversion kit separately

Babyletto Gelato 4-in-1 Mini Crib

Dimensions39.75L x 26W x 35H  inches
Color OptionsWhite and Natural

The Gelato 4-in-1 Mini Crib is a small footprint convertible crib that comes in two basic colors, white and natural. The bed can grow as your little one does, going from a crib to a toddler bed to a daybed and finally into a twin-sized bed. The bed is also GreenGuard Gold Certified, making sure your baby isn’t breathing in chemicals as they are sleeping. The paint and stain used on the crib are also non-toxic and are lead and phthalate-safe. 

Another bonus of this crib is that the hardware is hidden safely so your baby cannot accidentally get scratched on any exposed screws. The crib measures 26 inches by 35 inches long and weighs around 40 pounds. It is small enough to fit inside a closet if need be, making it an excellent option for a small space. 

Pros:

  • Four mattress levels
  • Sturdy construction
  • Easy to move from room to room
  • Classic style

Cons:

  • The included mattress is thin
  • Assembly can take a little bit of time

DaVinci Alpha Mini Rocking Crib 

Dimensions38.38L x 26.13W x 35H  inches
Color OptionsWhite, Natural, Gray, Black, Espresso, and Cherry

The Alpha Mini Rocking Crib comes in six different colors and is GreenGuard Gold certified safe from chemical emissions and VOCs making for a safe sleeping environment for your little one. The crib is small in size, saving you space in whichever room you decide to put it in. It also has wheels, so you can quickly move it from one room to another as needed. It also has over three adjustable positions to easily transition as your baby grows to keep them safe inside their crib. 

The paint used in this crib is also safe for your little one. It is lead and phthalate safe and non-toxic. The crib measures 26 inches by 35 inches and is about 26 pounds, 

Besides having a small footprint, one of the most exciting features of this crib is its rocking feature. You can gently rock your baby back and forth as they lay in the crib, which is especially helpful if your baby wakes up as soon as you put them down into the crib or do not have enough space for a rocker. The crib is made of New Zealand pine wood and TSCA compliant MDF. 

Pros:

  • Removable and lockable wheels
  • Gentle rocking motion
  • Easy assembly
  • Has a “rock stop” when you do not want a swinging motion 

Cons:

  • Some reviewers complained of a smell
  • Customer service tends to be slow to respond

Child Craft Forever Eclectic London Mini Folding Crib

Dimensions39.75L x 25.625W x 31.25H  inches
Color OptionsWhite and Gray

The London Mini Crib folds up to go into a closet when you do not need extra space. You do not have to disassemble any of the parts to get it to fold either. It is 40 inches long by 26 inches wide and weighs about 44 pounds. The crib is made out of solid wood for sturdy construction. The crib can be adjusted to two different heights as your baby begins to sit up and stand on their own. 

It is JPMA certified and meets or exceeds all of the safety standards set in place by the CPSC and the ASTM. It is also straightforward to assemble and has wheels making it simple to move from room to room. 

Pros:

  • A great travel or spare crib
  • It folds down for easy storage
  • Simple assembly
  • Small footprint

Cons:

  • It may be too small for some babies
  • Does not convert

What is a Mini Crib?

A mini crib is just what it sounds like, a smaller version of a standard size crib. There are many different styles. Some come with wheels making them incredibly portable and easy to pull up to your bedside for those frequent late-night feedings. Others can be folded up to store either in a closet or even under a bed, which can be an excellent option for places you visit frequently. 

Babies can use a mini crib for just as long as a traditional crib, even though they are smaller. Most babies will transition into a toddler bed around the age of two or three, maybe sooner if your little one is a climber and you are concerned for their safety. Luckily, mini cribs can transition into a toddler-size bed or even a twin-size bed, giving them the same life span as a convertible standard-size crib. 

Mini cribs have their very own crib mattresses and crib sheets to choose from. Crib mattresses typically measure 24 inches wide by 38 inches long. In comparison, a standard crib mattress is 28 inches wide by 52 inches long. Make sure you keep these measurements in mind when you are shopping for mini crib bedding. You want the sheet to have a snug fit to keep your little one safe while they sleep. 

While many mini cribs come complete with their own crib mattress, they are often on the thin side, and you may want to get one of your own, especially if you plan on having your child in the mini crib for a long time. 

Benefits of a Mini Crib

The size of a mini crib is not the only benefit to choosing this style over a conventional crib, though it usually is the main attraction. Here is a look at some of the other benefits of using a mini crib for your child. 

Ideal for Room Sharing

Baby’s sleeping in the same room as their parents have become an incredibly popular option. For some, it is out of necessity, and for other parents, they feel it is safer. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics is now recommending that parents and babies share a room for at least the first six months of their life. Ideally, the AAP feels that babies should sleep in their parent’s room for up to a year. The AAP emphasizes your child sleeping in your room, not in your bed, in order to keep them safe. 

Since mini cribs have a smaller footprint than traditional cribs, they are a perfect addition to your bedroom. Sometimes parents will opt to use a bassinet for their bedrooms. However, the lifespan of a bassinet is short, whereas some mini cribs can even convert into toddler or twin beds. 

Maximize Space

If you live in an apartment or have a smaller master bedroom, a mini crib makes sense. It allows you to have your little one safely in your room with you while leaving you some extra space in the master. Besides, there is nothing worse than the feeling of wall-to-wall furniture. Stuffing a full-size crib into an already tight space won’t make anyone feel comfortable with their new sleeping arrangements. 

If you are putting your child into their room but have a small space, a mini crib can make a smaller nursery feel a little bit bigger. It may also give you enough room to sneak in a much-needed nursery glider or rocker. 

Portable

When many parents think of portable sleeping options, they automatically think of pack ‘n plays. While pack ‘n plays are very portable and easy to store, they aren’t the most comfortable beds for your baby and are not a long-term solution. 

Mini cribs are just as portable as a pack ‘n play, making it simple to take them from room to room as needed. Mini cribs do have a leg up on pack ‘n plays though they are softer and more comfortable for babies to sleep on, and mini cribs are sturdier. 

Confined Safe Space for Baby

Babies do not need a lot of room. Newborns are freshly sprung from a tight space and are content with being confined. Since they were so comfortable in your womb, sleeping in the ample space that a traditional crib provides may be a bit overwhelming for some babies. If your little one is having a hard time sleeping and swaddling them is not doing the trick, a mini crib may be your best solution. 

Things to Consider when Choosing a Mini Crib

While the size of your space may be the first thing on your mind when considering a mini crib, there are some other factors to look into. Here is a deep dive into the top four things to consider when you are picking out a mini crib for your baby. 

Size

Since the U.S. government does not regulate mini cribs, they are not all the same size like most standard cribs. Generally, they are 24 by 38 inches with a mattress between 1 and four inches thick. 

When considering a mini crib for your space, make sure you measure where you want to place the mini crib, so you have an exact measurement. This way, you can narrow down your choices to exactly the size crib you will need. 

Versatility

Mini cribs have many different features. If you are looking for a crib that you can get a long life out of, then you may want to consider purchasing a convertible mini crib. However, if you are more concerned about moving the crib around your home or apartment, then a mini crib with wheels will be your best bet. Some mini cribs can be folded flat for storage. 

If you are looking for a versatile mini crib, you will want to consider the flexibility you will need in your home and purchase the model that best suits those needs. 

Safety

There are many things to consider when it comes to your child’s safety, especially while they are sleeping. You will want to make sure: 

  • The crib slats are not further apart than 2 ⅜ inch
  • All the hardware is intact and tightened
  • Corners are not sharp
  • Posts are not too high to catch clothing
  • Zero cutouts in the headboard and footboard
  • The mattress adjusts to keep the rail 26 inches above it at all times
  • No drop sides, they are not considered safe anymore
  • Check for locks on crib wheels

After you put the mini crib together, you will want to do a final safety check before you put your child in it to sleep. Make sure: 

  • No screws or nails are sticking out anywhere 
  • Nothing is peeling, and there is no visible glue
  • Give it a good shake to make sure nothing is wobbly
  • Make sure the crib sheet fits tightly
  • Do not put in any blankets, crib bumpers, or stuffed animals

Following these tips will help you choose a mini crib that will keep your child safe as they sleep. 

Materials

You want to make sure you are comfortable with the materials that the mini crib is made of. Most mini cribs are made out of wood or a wood composite. There are some acrylic mini cribs on the market if you are looking for something a little more modern. 

The sturdiest cribs are made of solid wood and metal supports. This model will last you the longest, and the metal supports will ensure that your baby will not sag or sink through the bottom. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Mini Cribs

To help you answer your pressing questions about mini cribs, here is a round-up of the most commonly asked questions and their answers. 

How long can a baby stay in a mini crib?

A baby can sleep in a mini crib for the same amount of time as a traditional crib. Most babies will need to transition to a toddler bed between the ages of two and three. If your child likes to climb, it may be closer to 18 months. 

Whichever boat you find yourself in with your child, you can be sure that your baby will sleep well in the mini crib until the time comes to move on to the next stage. But always check the manufacturer’s weight limits to ensure that it is still safe for your baby to continue sleeping in the mini crib. 

Are mini cribs convertible?

Yes! Some styles of mini cribs are convertible, just like a conventional crib. Mini cribs have conversion kits that are sold separately, just like their full-size counterparts. Models are available that transition into a toddler bed and then move into a twin-size bed with a headboard and footboard. Some can even become daybeds for later use or for a comfy but functional couch in an extra room. 

Is a mini crib bigger than a pack ‘n play?

Mini cribs and pack ‘n plays are not the exact sizes. When comparing a mini crib vs. a pack ‘n play, a mini crib is going to be about 2 inches shorter in length and 4 inches smaller in depth. However, both of their dimensions are not regulated by the U.S. government like standard crib sizes are. ,

What is the difference between a mini crib and a regular crib?

The most significant difference between a mini crib and a traditional crib is the size. A regular crib generally measures around 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. Conversely, a mini crib measures 24 inches wide and 28 inches long. While you may not be saving a whole lot of room in width, every inch counts when you are trying to make the most of a small space. You are also saving a lot of space in length. 

Final Thoughts on Cribs for Small Spaces

Mini cribs are perfectly safe for your little one to sleep in and maybe the perfect solution for your space problems. Remember to measure your space carefully to ensure the perfect fit. When choosing your mini crib, make sure you consider which features fulfill your needs now and in the future. 

If you opt for a convertible mini crib, make sure you pick up the necessary conversion kit at the same time you buy your crib. While you may not need the kit anytime soon, you will want to have it in hand when the time comes. You also do not want to risk it getting discontinued or being out of stock when it is time to switch over to a toddler or big kid bed. Most transition kits are easily stored under a bed or in a closet. 

Hopefully, this guide helped you on your journey to picking out the perfect mini crib for your baby. There are so many options available to suit you and your baby’s needs, but ultimately it comes down to what fits your lifestyle and needs.

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