Best mini crib is a fantastic solution for small spaces, because it doesn’t take up as much room as standard crib in your baby’s nursery or your bedroom.
This article is NOT a substitute for medical advice. It contains affiliate links.
According to AAP safety sleep guidelines, babies should sleep on their back on a flat and separate surface1. Baby crib with firm mattress checks all boxes, but many cribs are quite cumbersome and take up a lot of space. What if you live in a small apartment?
Mini crib is the best solution for small spaces. It has slimmer design that takes up much less space, while still providing your little one with ample room.
Whether you are looking for the best foldable and portable mini baby crib, convertible mini crib, or you’re on a tight budget and searching for inexpensive mini crib – I’ve got you covered.
In this article I am going to share my favorite mini cribs with you and help you to find the right mini crib for your little one.
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Ranking Of The Best Mini Cribs For Babies
When I was choosing a small crib for my baby it was important for me to check all safety features and standards. After all, if babies spend so much time in a crib, their safety is priority. And the crib should be made from non-toxic materials.
Here’s a list of my favorite safe mini baby cribs that easily fit in small spaces and may be a good choice if you’re looking for a baby crib for living room.
In my ranking you’ll find mini cribs in various styles and in a wide price range. I hope it will help you narrow down your choice.
1. Babyletto Origami Mini Crib – Best Mini Crib In 2022
In my opinion Babyletto Origami is the best overall mini crib. It has a petite footprint therefore it doesn’t take up a lot of space. If you live in a small apartment and don’t have a lot of free room in your bedroom or nursery, Origami Mini is the perfect choice.
Even though this is a really compact crib, it provides ample sleep space for your infant.
It’s better than bedside bassinets (like the Snoo or Halo) because it has higher weight capacity and it will serve you much longer.
What I also like about Origami Mini is that it has lightweight and simple design with clean lines. It looks wonderful in all nursery styles and won’t compromise the style of parent’s bedroom.
By the way, I just LOVE how adorable in looks with Boho decorations.
What’s also important, it’s not excessively pricey!
Functionality
The mattress height is adjustable and there are two mattress positions. The higher setting is perfect for newborns and younger infants. When the baby learns to sit and stand, it’s time to switch to the lower mattress position.
What’s important Babyletto Origami Mini Portable comes only with 1″ mattress pad. To provide proper support for your baby’s spine and body, you should add a mini crib mattress. Its dimensions should be 37″ x 23.5″ (up to 23.875″), and up to 5″ thick. The best option for Origami is this hypoallergenic Babyletto Pure mini mattress.
Origami Mini dimensions are: 39.25″ x 25.75″ x 36″ and it weighs 50 pounds. Because it’s only 36″ high, it is one of the best cribs for short moms.
The good news is that it 4 caster wheels which means it’s so easy to move the crib from one room to another. You don’t have to lift it or carry it.
Each wheel locks independently therefore you don’t have to worry that your small crib will roll away when your baby moves and wiggles.
I think this is the best portable mini crib that won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
The wheels are removable and you can use the crib without them if you don’t need them. It still looks great.
Mini crib with wheels is a life saver for a new mom. Whenever you need to get out of the bed during the night you don’t have to scoot down, you can simply roll the crib away. This is SO CONVENIENT when you are all sore after giving birth.
When our baby got older and I was way over postpartum period, we decided to take off the wheels.
Another thing that you will love about Origami Mini Portable Crib is its foldable frame. This is another feature that makes it a fantastic choice for small space. It folds into a narrow package which makes it easy to store (for another child) or transport (to grandparents house).
| PRO TIP: If you’re looking for cheap portable mini baby crib, check out this Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Baby Crib. It has wheels and folds down which make it extremely portable. It comes with 1.5-inch mattress. |
Safety
Origami is one of the safest mini cribs and independent tests confirm that it’s free of BPA and BPS, PVC, VOCs, phthalates, formaldehyde and other nasty chemicals.
It’s made from sustainably sourced pine wood and it’s Greenguard Gold Certified. This small crib meets ASTM international and CPSC US safety standards.
For the mattress support the brand used TSCA-compliant wood. The slat can hold up to 149 pounds.
One last thing, Origami Mini is suitable from birth up to 18 months. However, you should stop using it when your child is 35″ tall or begins to climb, whichever comes first.
| PRO TIP: On Amazon you can also get Mini Babyletto Origami in white which looks so cute. It’s also available as a bundle: mini crib + mattress (check it here). |
2. DaVinci Dylan Mini Crib With Mattress – Best Foldable Convertible Mini Crib With Wheels
There are so many reasons to love this compact crib: it’s one of a few convertible mini cribs that have swivel wheels. Moreover it folds flat for easy storage which is a rare feature in expandable cribs. And its cheap price is the cherry on top!
DaVinci Dylan is definitely one of the best mini baby cribs for small spaces because it HAS IT ALL. This is the best value for money.
Functionality
There are four adjustable mattress positions: for newborns, for babies who can roll over, then sit up and stand up.
Dylan Mini is a convertible mini crib and has a pretty simple, traditional design with white or grey rods. It can be used until the baby reaches 35″ in height or starts to climb out of it.
After that you can expand it to a twin size bed that your kiddo can sleep in it even when he/she is all grown up. I only wish there was a middle options between the mini crib mode and twin bed mode (like a daytime bed). I guess it’s a small complaint and it is still one of the best affordable mini cribs.
This small crib is extremely portable because it has wheels so you can move it to whatever room you want. You can roll it all the way up to your bed which means it’s a fantastic alternative for a bedside bassinet.
It’s perfect for small spaces because it folds neatly. It makes it so easy to store in a small apartment or at grandparents house. This also makes it a good alternative for Pack n Play.
| PRO TIP: There are two buying options: You can purchase just the DaVinci Dylan Mini Baby Crib which comes only with a 1″ waterproof pad or choose this bundle Dylan Mini + Mini Crib mattress. I think the latter option is better because it’s cost-efficient and you can rest assure you’re getting a mattress that fits perfectly without any gaps or wrinkles. |
Safety
Just like other best mini cribs in this ranking, DaVinci Dylan Mini has been rigorously tested and it’s free of toxins that could be harmful for little ones (like VOCs, lead or phthalates). It’s also Greenguard Gold Certified.
This mini extendable crib is made from New Zealand pine wood and it’s coated with chemical-free paint. Thanks to rods on all four sides there is a good airflow inside the crib.
3. DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Mini Crib – Best Convertible Mini Crib
DaVinci Kalani is one of the best-selling mini cribs. It’s a great choice for parents who want a mini crib that grows with the child and converts into a toddler bed, but don’t want to spend a fortune on it.
Kalani comes in multiple color versions, but my favorite is the white one because it has this traditional, beautiful look of a crib with subtle curves. Whether you have a nursery or need to put baby’s crib in your bedroom, it will definitely match the decor.
What’s noteworthy, Kalani Mini is slightly bigger than Origami Mini and many other small cribs, but it’s still compact and doesn’t take up a lot of room. Its footprint is: 40″x 28.75″.
Functionality
Kalani 4in1 Mini Crib has four adjustable mattress positions which you can change as your child grows and learns to roll over, sit up and stand up.
The highest position is great for newborns, and you don’t have to bend over that much when taking the baby in and out (it’s really important during the postpartum period. The lowest position is best for babies who start to stand up.
>> Find out here what to do if your baby rolls over to their tummy during sleep in the crib.
This mini crib can accommodate a child up to about 2 years.
The best thing about DaVinci Kalani Mini is that it’s convertible. When your toddler is ready you can turn the mini crib into a mini toddler bed by removing the front rods and switching them for a guard rail. Or you can skip the rail and transform the crib into a day bed with one side open.
When you baby in all grown up, it’s time to convert Kalani Mini into a twin bed – you just need a special conversion kit.
The only thing that I could complain about is that DaVinci Kalani Mini doesn’t have wheels and it doesn’t fold down. But it’s a tradeoff for a convertible design. If you plan on keeping the small crib in one place, the lack of wheels should not be that big of a deal.
The good news is that the legs are strong and sturdy and keep the crib securely in place.
It’s important to keep in mind that Kalani Mini includes only 1″ waterproof mattress pad, therefore you will need to get a thicker mattress for proper support. DaVinci Slumber Mini Mattress is the best fit. Here you can purchase the crib + mattress bundle >>
Safety Features
Kalani Mini provides safe and healthy environment for baby to sleep in. It has been tested to be free of VOCs, lead, phthalates and other nasty chemicals, plus it’s coated with non-toxic paint. Similar to other best mini cribs, it’s Greenguard Gold Certified.
Another thing that I like about this mini convertible crib is that it has rods on each side, which means the air circulation is not blocked. This way it protects baby from sweating and minimizes the risk of overheating.
4. Dream On Me Jayden Mini Crib And Changer – Best Mini Crib With Changing Table
What distinguishes Dream On Me Jayden from other best mini cribs in this ranking is that it comes with a detachable changing table. It still has a compact size that is ideal for small spaces. What’s more it’s convertible and adjust to your growing child’s needs.
Functionality
What you are going to love about Dream On Me Jayden is that it grows with your kiddo and you can use it for many years. It will serve you throughout the infancy, toddlerhood, preschool years and beyond!
When you use it as a crib for your little one, you can set the mattress in 3 different heights.
As your baby grows, you can convert it into a mini day bed, and later into a twin bed.
Jayden is basically the only compact crib that comes with a 3-drawer changing station. With 3 drawers you will have plenty space for baby’s diapers, wipes, creams, burp clothes, onesies, teethers and more.
All baby essentials will be neatly organized and you will always have them at hand when changing a diaper or feeding your little one.
The best thing is that the changing table is detachable. Once your kiddo is all grown up and uses the twin bed, the changing table doubles as a night stand (you just need to remove the changing pad).
So how big is this mini crib with a changing table?
Mini crib with a changing table is basically just as big as a standard crib without the changing table. The footprint of Dream On Me Jayden is: 56.75″ x 29″.
| PRO TIP: If you don’t have a lot of free room in your apartment, it may be a better idea to buy just the small crib, and a changing pad like this one, that you can place on a low dresser or your bed, and store in a wardrobe when it’s not in use. It’s more space-saving solution. |
Safety Features
All Dream On Me cribs, including the Jayden meet or exceed applicable ASTM and CPSC safety standards. It’s finished with non-toxic materials.
It has durable safety rails that also ensure the air circulation is not blocked.
Moreover, the changing table is equipped with a safety strap to keep your baby securely in place.
This crib comes includes just a 1″ mattress pad and I recommend getting thicker mini mattress for proper support. All Dream On Me mattresses are Greenguard Gold Certified and non-toxic.
5. Delta Children Emery Mini Convertible Baby Crib With Mattress – Best Inexpensive Mini Convertible Crib
This one is not only an amazing choice for smaller space, but also for parents on a tight budget.
New parents are often overwhelmed with all those things they need to buy for their first baby. If you don’t have a flexible budget, Delta Children Mini Crib will be a great solution. It may not have ALL those fancy features, but it does the job.
Functionality
This baby crib has two adjustable mattress positions – higher one for an infant and lower one for a child that can sit independently and stand up.
This affordable crib is convertible and turns into a twin size bed with headboard. It can really serve your child almost until teenage years!
Keep in mind that conversion kit is sold separately.
In contrast to other best mini baby cribs, this one has narrow but longer footprint. Its dimensions are: 41.25″ x 25.75″.
| PRO TIP: If you’re on small budget and need more portable crib, don’t forget to check out this Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Crib. It has foldable frame and wheels, and it’s cheap. |
Safety Features
Delta Children Mini is JPMA certified and it meets or exceeds all CPSC and ASTM safety standards.
It’s made from sustainably sourced pinewood and uses non-toxic paints.
On each side there are rods that do not block the airflow.
It comes with a mini crib mattress (dimensions: 24″ x 38″ x 2.75″).
| PRO TIP: Lots of parents recommend buying higher mini crib mattress separately, because the one that is includes feels a bit too soft and flimsy. This Dream On Me mini crib mattress fits well. |
6. Stokke Sleepi Mini Crib – Most Adorable Mini Crib
Stokke Sleepi has unique oval shape which, according to the brand, creates nest-like environment that provides your little baby with a sense of security.
Sleepi Mini is the cutest small crib, and if you decide to add a matching canopy it will look so lovely. This oval crib will look gorgeous in your baby nursery or your bedroom!
What’s noteworthy, Sleepi Mini expands (with separately sold kits) and can serve your growing child even up to 10 years!
Functionality
There is height-adjustable mattress levels which you can adjust as your baby grows and learns to stand up.
There are lockable wheels so you can be sure the crib will stay securely in place. The wheels are very useful because you can easily move the Sleepi from nursery to your bedroom or living room without having to lift it.
One of the best things about Sleepi Mini is its ultra compact footprint, efficient in small apartments or shared nurseries. Its dimensions are: 32.67″ x 26.37″.
Stokke Sleepi Mini has quite a steep price. It’s all because of its adorable look and innovative design.
This is a convertible mini crib and with some add-ons it expands to accommodate a growing child. Thanks to this feature your kiddo can continue to sleep in their comfy, familiar bed.
The Sleepi Mini can be used from birth up to 6 months. Then, with this Sleepi Extension Kit you can convert it into a standard crib and a toddler bed which provides a lot of room to grow (up to 3 years).
When your preschooler is ready for a transition to a bigger bed, use this Junior Bed Conversion Kit. With ample growth space, they will be able to use this bed until their 10th birthday. With each extension, you will also need a bigger and thicker mattress and appropriate fitted sheets. And a flexible budget.
Safety Features
This oval mini crib is made from solid beech wood and it’s tested to be free of toxins and harmful chemicals like PVC or phthalates.
It comes with a perforated mattress bottom and rods which ensure good air circulation to keep your baby from sweating and overheating.
Moreover, the package includes a 1.5″ mattress made from hypoallergenic PU foam and it comes with a removable cover.
Keep in mind that it may be quite difficult to find fitted oval sheet for this mini baby crib. To avoid any extensive loose fabric, the best option is to choose this original Stokke sheet.
What Features To Look Our For In Mini Crib
Here’s a checklist that should be useful during your hunt for the best mini crib.
- Size – Most mini baby cribs have dimensions: up to 40″ x 29″. Make sure the one you’re about to purchase has small footprint that fits in your room.
- Safety standards – It should meet or exceed safety standards. It should be tested and proven to be non-toxic.
- Convertible & expandable design – Some of the small cribs are convertible and can be turned into toddler bed or twin bed. Look out for this feature if you want a crib that will grow with your little one through infancy, toddlerhood and even preschool years.
- Collapsible design – Some models are foldable which simplifies storage. It’s a useful feature if you have really small house or want to keep the crib for your next baby.
- Wheels – This is another life-saving feature if you need a crib that is easy to move around the house. For safety reasons choose locking wheels that will prevent the crib from rolling away.
- Adjustable mattress positions – If you want a crib that really grows with your kiddo, the mattress level should be adjustable.
- Included mattress – If you’re on tight budget, double check if the crib you’ve chosen includes mattress or just a thin pad. For proper support, get a baby mattress that is 3″-6″ thick.
- Airflow – I prefer small baby cribs that have rods on each side, instead of wooden walls. This way the air circulation is good and there’s lower risk of overheating.
| PRO TIP: If you are setting up your baby’s nursery, you should also consider getting a baby monitor. Here’s my comparison of Owlet vs. Angelcare – two wearable baby monitors. If you don’t like wearables, I recommend you to check two best video monitors with highest quality night vision mode: Nanit vs. Miku baby monitor. |
Best Mini Cribs In 2022 – FAQ
If you are still hesitating whether to get small crib or which one is the best, here’s more information and some safety tips.
Is A Mini Crib A Good Idea? – Reasons To Buy A Mini Crib
Mini crib is a good idea if you have limited space in your apartment. This is a great solution if you want to keep your baby’s crib in your bedroom. I also recommend them for small nurseries, and for parents who live in studio apartments.
Main reason to buy one of the best mini cribs is its space-saving design. It won’t take up a lot of space and won’t clutter your apartment, but your baby will have plenty sleep space.
Other reason is the price – small cribs are usually cheaper than full size cribs.
What Are The Differences Between Full Size Cribs And Mini Cribs?
The difference is the size. Mini baby cribs have smaller footprints.
Standard full-size cribs are designed to fit a standard mattress which has dimensions: 52″ x 28″. Mini cribs fit mini mattresses with dimensions: 38″ x 24″.
Are Mini Cribs Better?
Mini baby cribs are better than bassinets because they can serve you not only through the first 6 months, but even up to 18-24 months. Some of them even convert to a toddler or twin bed.
They are also better option than full size cribs if you have a small nursery or shared bedroom. Thanks to smaller footprint, they take up less space than standard cribs.
Is A Mini Crib Safe For A Newborn?
Generally speaking yes, mini cribs are safe for newborn babies. They provide enclosed sleep space, don’t block airflow and are rigorously tested for toxic chemicals.
To ensure a safe sleep environment for newborn, AAP recommend firm, flat surface, with fitted crib sheet, no bedding, blankets, loose fabrics, soft toys or pillow – they could pose a SIDS or suffocation risk. Crib or bassinet are the safest place for little baby to sleep in and AAP advises against co-sleeping.
>> Check out the best crib sheets for babies with eczema
What Age Is A Mini Crib For?
Most of the mini cribs are designed for the age 0-18 months (or 24 months). However, your baby should no longer sleep in a mini crib if they start to climb out of it or reach the height limit specified by the manufacturer.
Are Mini Cribs Convertible?
Some of the mini cribs are convertible and can be turned into toddler bed, as well twin size bed. Keep in mind that mini convertible cribs usually don’t come with wheels and don’t fold. DaVinci Dylan Mini is an exception.
Are Portable Mini Cribs Safe?
Portable mini baby cribs are equipped with caster wheels which make them easy to move from one room to another. If you want to make sure your portable mini crib is safe, choose one that has lockable wheels. This way the crib will stay in place even when your baby wiggles.
Is A Mini Crib Smaller Than A Pack N Play?
Mini cribs have very similar size to pack n plays, there may be an inch or two difference, depending on the brand and model.
However, the biggest difference is that pack n play doesn’t have adjustable mattress level. If you want to use it for a newborn, keep in mind that you won’t be able to raise the mattress.
Pack n play has only a thin pad that is not very supportive for baby’s sleep time. If you want to add higher mattress, you need to choose one that is specifically designed for pack n plays to avoid suffocation risk.
For the first few months you may want to get a bassinet for you newborn baby, and only after 6 months switch to a mini crib. For the best bedside sleepers and bassinets read this: >> Best Inexpensive Snoo Bassinet Alternatives & Knock Offs. If you’re unsure which one these two baby beds you actually need, check my comparison: bassinet vs. mini crib.
To ensure your child is feeling more comfortable at night in their nursery, you may want to add a sound machine and a night light or a 2in1 device like Hatch Rest or Rest Plus which offers plenty soothing sounds and white noises and colors for the lighting.
Sources of pictures:
- Pictures of Babyletto Origami belong to Babyletto Brand.
- Pictures of DaVinci cribs belong to DaVinci Brand.
- Pictures of Dream On Me Jayden belong to Dream On Be Brand.
- Pictures of Delta Children Emery belong to Delta Children Brand.
- Pictures of Stokke Sleepi Mini belong to Stokke Brand.
The purpose of this article is informative. It’s not a substitute for professional medical advice or medical care. Remember: safety first! Consult your doctor/pediatrician in case of any doubts. The author of this article does not accept any responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from any information or advice contained here.
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Hello Moms! I am Zooey. I am a wife and a mother of three amazing kids: almost 5-year-old Haley and 2-year-old twins Jesse and Matthew. I am a jogger, cooker and blogger.If you have a question or a comment, do not hesitate to write to me! 🙂