Mini cribs are the ideal solution to many problems that parents face, they are smaller in size, easy to move around, and are perfect for newborns. Mini cribs mimic the coziness of the intrauterine phase, that’s why they’re especially suitable for newborns.
Mini cribs also solve the problem of portability. Let’s say, for instance, that you’re going on a summer vacation, you won’t be able to bring a regular-sized crib with you. But you can bring a mini crib as they are smaller, lighter, and some are even portable.
So, we’ve scoured the world wide web in search of the best mini cribs, and our scouring wasn’t in vain, as we’ve crafted a list containing some great mini cribs.
Contents
Comparison Table:
| Model | Dimensions (inches) | Weight (lbs.) |
| DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Mini Crib | 39.9 x 28.6 x 38 | 38 |
| Dream On Me Aden 4-in-1 Mini Crib | 39 x 23 x 36 | 20 |
| Babyletto Origami Mini Portable Crib | 39.2 x 25.7 x 36 | 49.6 |
| BABY JOY Rocking Bassinet | 37.5 x 23 x 28 | 16 |
| Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Baby Crib | 39 x 25 x 37.8 | 34 |
The 5 Best Mini Cribs in 2022
Now, we can cut to the chase and get to fully understand the fantastic mini cribs that we’ve picked especially for you.
1. DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Mini Crib
We start with the DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Mini Crib, which is our number one pick for many reasons. It stands at 39.9 x 28.6 x 38 inches and weighs 38 pounds. It’s somewhat heavy for a mini crib, in fact, it’s the second heaviest mini crib on our list, however, that doesn’t take a single thing away from all its amazing features that we’ll get to know.
This crib is made to last and grows with your children, as not only is it a mini crib, but it can be converted into 4 different types of cribs. The manufacturers claim that this mini crib can last your babies until their early teens as it can function as a twin bed, daybed, toddler bed, and a crib. However, in order to change this mini crib into any form of the previously mentioned ones, you’ll have to purchase the conversion kit, which is sold separately.
The DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Mini Crib is made from high-quality materials that can withstand long years of usage. It’s GreenGuard Gold certified, which means it’s incredibly safe for your babies. Even though the soft finish is easy to scratch, the DaVinci Kalani has been screened for more than 10000 chemicals and 360 volatile chemicals. This means that your child will never inhale or lick any dangerous chemical/material. Furthermore, this crib has exceeded the ASTM’s international standards and those set by the U.S.A’s CPSC.
Finally, despite that, it comes with an A1 washable mattress that is extremely safe for your baby. It’s not the most comfortable. If you want a more comfortable mattress for your baby -which is always recommended, then you’ll have to purchase a separate one.
What We Like:
- Exceeds the international safety standards set by the ASTM as well as those set by the U.S.A’s CPSC
- GreenGuard Gold certified
- 4 different configurations
- Safe
What We Don’t Like:
- Mattress not comfortable
- Need to buy conversion kit separately
Final Verdict
The DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib is a fantastic mini crib and one of the best currently on the market. It has four different bed configurations that can suit your baby till early teen years, yet in order to enjoy such privileges, you’ll have to purchase the conversion kit separately.
2. Dream On Me Aden 4-in-1 Mini Crib
Another 4 in 1 mini crib, the Dream On Me Aden 4-in-1 Mini Crib is packed with fantastic features. It weighs 20 pounds, making it the second lightest mini crib on our list and stands at 39 x 23 x 36 inches.
One of the best things about this crib and probably the thing that sets it apart from its peers is that it sits lower to the floor than other mini cribs. It’s ideal for parents of any height who face trouble when trying to get their babies in and out of the crib.
However, we know this could prove to be a hindrance for tall parents or ones with back injuries. The good news is that the mattress can be adjusted to three different heights, eliminating trouble for tall parents or ones with back problems.
Since the Dream On Me Aden 4-in-1 Mini Crib is a convertible crib, it can be converted into a twin-sized bed or a mini daybed. So, you no longer have to worry about your child outgrowing his/her mini crib. Plus, you can easily convert it into a daybed without purchasing a conversion kit as all the necessary parts come with the crib. Unfortunately, if you want to change it into a twin size bed, later on, you’ll have to buy the conversion kit.
This crib is exquisitely easy to assemble, you won’t need any extra tools as everything you’ll need comes with the crib. Moreover, the user’s manual is pretty clear and will provide with every detail you’ll need.
Even though the Dream On Me Aden 4-in-1 Mini Crib is not GreenGuard Gold certified, it has exceeded the international standards set by the ASTM and those set by the U.S.A’s CPSC. Hence, it’s free from any toxic or harmful materials.
However, as we said before, you’ll need to purchase the conversion kit to change it into a twin-sized bed. And the mattress isn’t included as well.
What We Like:
- Sits lower than most models
- Adjustable mattress positions
- Exceeds the international safety standards set by the ASTM as well as those set by the U.S.A’s CPSC
- Lightweight
- All parts to assemble it are included
What We Don’t Like:
- Mattress not included
- Need to purchase the conversion kit to change it into a twin-sized bed
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for a mini crib that is lightweight, portable, with a straightforward assembly process, then the Dream On Me Aden 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib is the product for you. However, it doesn’t come with a mattress, and you’ll need to buy the conversion kit to change it into a twin-sized bed.
3. Babyletto Origami Mini Portable Crib
A foldable mini crib like no other, the Babyletto Origami Mini Portable Crib excelled in many different aspects. Starting off with its weight, it weighs 49.6, making it the heaviest mini crib on our list, and its dimensions are 39.2 x 24.7 x 36 inches.
Don’t let the weight of this mini crib fool you, it’s foldable and has wheels. Both these features make moving and storing it a breeze. You can easily fold up the Babyletto Origami Mini Portable Crib and store it anywhere in your household when you’re not using it. Also, when folded, you can easily fit through almost any doorway, and you can even take it with on trips.
The wheels are another excellent addition, they provide you with the ability to move the crib around your house easily. The wheels are durable and made from high-quality material. Plus, they are locking wheels, this means that you’ll no longer have to worry about the crib moving when your child learns how to rock his/her crib back and forth. You can easily lock the wheels, and that will prevent the crib from moving an inch.
The Babyletto Origami Mini Portable Crib is a safe crib, it’s free from any toxic chemicals or materials, and it’s GreenGuard Gold certified. Nonetheless, many parents have complained about the chemical-like smell that lingers for a while after they buy the crib.
The mattress has two adjustable heights, which will come in pretty handy. You can choose to buy the Babyletto Origami Mini Portable Crib with a mattress or without it. However, it always comes with an A1 mattress pad. You can opt to use that pad as a mattress, but it’s not comfortable for your child even if it’s safe to use.
Sadly, there is no product in the market without some cons or faults, and the Babyletto Origami Mini Portable Crib is no different. It may not be suitable for babies from 6 months up, and it has a chemical-like smell when purchased new.
What We Like:
- Portable
- Foldable
- Locking wheels
- GreenGuard Gold certified
What We Don’t Like
- Heaviest crib on our list
- Not suitable for babies from 6 months old and up
- Has a chemical-like smell when bought new
Final Verdict
The Babyletto Origami Mini Portable Crib is the perfect crib for parents who like to move their baby’s crib around a lot. It can be folded, has lockable wheels that make moving it around easy, and is free from any toxins or chemicals as it’s GreenGuard Gold certified. Nonetheless, it’s only suitable for babies less than six months old.
4. BABY JOY Rocking Bassinet
Not your regular cup of tea, the BABY JOY Rocking Bassinet is a bit different from all the other mini cribs on our list. It weighs only 16 pounds making it the lightest on your list and one of the lightest mini cribs in the market. Its dimensions are 39 x 25 x 37.8 inches.
We begin with its all-around mesh lining that’s completely breathable and washable. The mesh lining is a perfect fit for newborns as it regulates the airflow and keeps the crib warm and cozy. You can also have the option of an additional zippable cloth that you can add to the crib when it gets cold.
One of the best things about it is its inclusion of a rocking mode. While its legs are stationary, you can and, at any time, change the legs to allow you to rock your child to help them sleep.
A great thing about the BABY JOY Rocking Bassinet is the fact that it can be easily packed and folded, which makes carrying it from one place to another a breeze. Additionally, there is an easy pull tab that folds the whole crib in a single motion.
Unfortunately, due to this crib’s lightweight design, it’s not suitable for older babies. It can accommodate baby’s that weigh up to 33 pounds only.
What We Like:
- Foldable
- Lightweight
- Breathable mesh all-around
- Rocking mode
What We Don’t Like:
- Can accommodate babies up to 33 pounds only
Final Verdict
As we previously said, the BABY JOY Rocking Bassinet is not your everyday mini crib. Still, with all its spectacular features like its ability to fold, all-round breathable mesh, rocking mode, it really stands out amongst its peers. However, it will only accommodate babies who weigh less than 33 pounds.
5. Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Baby Crib
An excellent mini crib for all parents, the Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Baby Crib weighs 34 pounds and stands at 39 x 25 x 37.8 inches.
We begin with the thick, high-quality, included mattress. It’s always recommended to get your newborn a thick and firm mattress that will fully support their heads and necks. The mattress included with the Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Baby Crib will do that perfectly. Furthermore, the mattress has two adjustable heights, that you can alter between to suit both your needs and those of your child.
Transporting this mini crib from one room to another is easy, due to the presence of four wheels. Also, the crib folds flat with the mattress inside it, this means that if you need a crib that you can move around or take on vacations, this is the crib for you.
Despite the Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Baby Crib not being GreenGuard Gold certified, it has exceeded all the safety standards set by both the ASTM and the CPSC. It’s also free from any toxic materials.
But, it produces a chemical-like smell for the first two or three days after you buy it. And the process of assembling it isn’t easy and will require some time.
What We Like:
- Foldable
- Wheels
- Exceeds the ASTM’s and the CPSC’s safety standards
What We Don’t Like:
- Assembling it is hard
- New ones have a chemical-like smell for two or three days
Final Verdict
To wrap up this mini crib, it’s foldable, has wheels that make it easy to move around, and comes with a thick, high-quality mattress. Nevertheless, you ought to be wary of the chemical smell that it produces after buying it
How to Choose a Mini Crib
Now that we’ve fully known which mini cribs are the best. It’s time that we become familiar with the factors that you must consider before buying a mini crib. These factors and elements range from its size to its portability, the safety measures included, and many more.
Size
Size is split into two pathways, the size of the crib and your child’s size. First, you should know that most mini cribs are 24 inches wide and 38 inches long, even though they are not fixed in every mini crib, but they are the most popular and most used sizes.
The first thing you should do is measure the place where you’ll want to put the crib and know for sure whether it’ll fit or not. Also, if you plan on moving your crib from one room to another -which you’ll most undoubtedly do-, then you must measure your doorways to know whether or not you’ll be able to maneuver the crib through them.
When it comes to your baby’s size, you should know that most babies outgrow mini cribs quickly. So it would be wise to purchase a larger mini crib so that your baby isn’t cramped inside it, especially if your precious one is taller than average.
Safety
It comes without saying that your baby’s safety is your number one priority, especially when it comes to buying a mini crib where your baby will spend a lot of time. The safety measures of a mini crib don’t differ from that of a regular one.
For starters, avoid anything with drop-side rails as they have been the reason behind many child mortalities, and all cribs with them should’ve been removed from the market.
Look for a mini crib with reinforced slats, as they’ll come in really handy when your child grows and can stand on his/her own. Plus, having a low VOC paint goes a long way to ensure your baby won’t lick anything toxic.
Finally, if your mini crib has wheels, then they must be automatic locking wheels. As the automatic lock prevents the mini crib from moving in case, your child throws a fit and starts to wobble the crib.
Portability
Portability is a key point when it comes to mini cribs, and it’s one of the main reasons the parents opt to buy them instead of the relatively larger ones. Their smaller size, lighter weight, wheels, and sometimes ability to fold make them highly portable.
Usually, with regular-sized cribs, you don’t have the luxury of moving them around. For instance, if your baby wants to nap, and you’ve got a regular-sized crib, then you won’t be able to keep an eye on your little bundle of joy unless you’re in the same room or by using a baby monitor.
Even if your mini crib isn’t foldable or doesn’t have wheels, once the mattress is removed, deconstructing and reconstructing a mini crib is relatively easy and takes a few moments at most.
Mattress
You need to choose a high-quality mattress that is both firm and breathable. Newborns have tender and soft heads, so they need a firm and strong mattress to help support their heads. Also, the mattress needs to have adjustable heights as these will help you with putting your child into the crib and lifting him/her up.
Conversion
Babies tend to outgrow mini cribs quickly due to the crib’s smaller size. So many of them can be converted into a multitude of different types of cribs. However, if you plan on converting your mini crib later on, then you’ll need to purchase the conversion kit -sold separately-. Converting the crib will make it last for you for a longer time and will save you the money and effort that you’ll spend later on to buy another crib.
It’s strongly advised that if you plan on converting the mini crib that you buy the conversion kit along with the mini crib. As this will save a lot of effort later on as you’ll need to match the crib to the conversion kit.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Are all Mini Cribs the Same Size?
Simply no, they differ in their width and length, so save the mattress and linen shopping till you know the exact dimensions of the crib.
How Long can a Baby Use a Mini Crib?
There is no exact limitation here, babies grow at different rates. However, many claim that mini cribs accommodate babies until they reach nine months old. But, if you ever feel that your baby is cramped or can’t move, you must move him/her into a larger crib.
Final Thoughts
We know that the search for the best mini crib is hard and tiring. Every parent wants the absolute best for his/her babies, so let’s get to some recommendations.
The DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib is the absolute best with its four different configurations and GreenGuard Gold certification, it really exceeds expectations.
If you need a crib that sits closer to the floor than most, has a mattress with height adjustability, and many more, then the Dream On Me Aden 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib is the one for you.
Finally, the Babyletto Origami Mini Portable Crib is an excellent choice if you need a mini crib that is foldable and has locking wheels to help you steer it through your household.
