Making sure that you get everything set up at home before your baby comes can make you panic, but there are so many options out there for all the essentials. For example, one possible source of contention is what type of crib you should get.
There are undoubtedly many options out there to choose from, and it’s hard to know which one is best or a good value. One trend that some parents take advantage of is mini cribs. These cribs are smaller than traditional cribs and have all the awesome features that their counterparts offer.
Mini cribs are designed to have a small footprint, so they are able to fit just about anywhere you need them to go. If you have small rooms in your house or live in an apartment with a low amount of square feet, you can still utilize this type of product.
Furthermore, they are easier to transport around if you need to. Perhaps you are visiting a family member or going on vacation and need a crib. It will be a lot easier to take with you than a full size option. Many grandparents also opt to have this type of crib for when their grandkids are visiting. In addition, some items out there fold up nicely and can be stored when you aren’t using them.
Just like their full size cousins, there are mini cribs that will convert to different types of beds as well, so they can change as your child continues to develop and grow. You may have to buy conversion kits or other supplies, but it keeps you from having to buy new beds after huge growth spurts.
There are those out there that think that mini cribs aren’t viable for babies that are tall or grow fast, but this isn’t the case. There are some that your baby may grow out of quickly, but most people will not have a problem with this. Unless your child is almost too tall for one when they are born, or if you and your spouse are very tall, this isn’t something you should concern yourself with too much.
Here is a look at some of the most popular mini cribs you can buy and a look at what they have to offer.
Dream on Me Addison
This model has a traditional design and comes in multiple colors to choose from. You can adjust the mattress into 3 different positions and it is able to convert into 4 different types of beds over time, as your child grows.
Pros
- Comes with changing pad. There is a 1-inch changing pad that comes with it, which is enough to use. However, many people will opt to get a better mattress, or something that offers more support.
- Coverts into other types of beds. After you are done using it as a crib, you can convert it to a toddler bed, a day bed, and a regular twin size bed. This may cover you for a large number of years.
- Made of strong pine wood. It is made of New Zealand pine, so it is a piece of furniture that will stand up to use and movement.
- Easy to put together. Everything you need to put it together is right in the box, so it shouldn’t be hard to do. It won’t take long, and you don’t have to be a pro at assembling things to get it right.
Cons
- Must buy kit separately to convert. Although you can change it into different beds, you will have to buy a conversion kit and a new mattress to be able to upgrade it to a different type of bed.
Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Crib
You are able to utilize this one pretty much anywhere, since it is highly portable. It would be the perfect model to take with you on vacation. Some users choose it because it is the right size to use if a bassinet isn’t big enough, but you don’t want to make the switch to a full size crib.
Pros
- Mattress can be adjusted. The mattress can be adjusted to two positions, based on the size of your baby. You don’t want them being able to climb out of the crib by themselves and you do not want to have to lean over too far to get them out.
- Has caster wheels. The caster wheels on this make it so easy to move from space to space. You can push it right beside your bed and then move it to the corner or another room when you need to. No heavy lifting involved.
- Can fold up flat. Another impressive thing is that it folds up flat. This is why it is the perfect thing to take on the road with you or to put in the closet when you have company over. It folds up flat and won’t take up a lot of space.
- Holds up well. Like others in its class, it’s made of wood, so it will hold up well over time. When taken care of properly, it shouldn’t show many signs of wear.
Cons
- May need to order different mattress. You will want to get a different mattress than the 1.5-inch one that comes with this. It is up to you what you want. Just be certain to get the measurements right, so you can get the proper size.
Dream on Me Jayden
Here is a unique item that offers you a bit more than just a crib. You can be sure to get a lot of use out of this one. It has a great look to it, which is in a traditional sleigh style. You can adjust the mattress and you won’t have to look for your tools to put it together, since they are included.
Pros
- Has sturdy rails. The rails on this one are made of strong wood, so a child cannot easily damage or mess them up. There shouldn’t be many paint chips falling off either.
- Comes with changing table. You do get a changing table with it. This cute changer fits right onto the side of the crib, so you do not have to move around much to get the little one dressed and changed. If you no longer want it or need it, you can detach it too.
- Provides a storage solution. The changing table has drawers in the front, so you can put whatever you need inside of them. You could have diapers and wipes, favorite outfits, or other things within arm’s reach.
- Available in multiple colors. You can choose between 5 colors when you buy this one, including gray, black, and white.
Cons
- Tedious to put together. Since it has a changing table built into the design, it may be harder to get this one together. Be patient and perhaps get someone to help you as well.
Dream on Me Violet
Dream on Me makes a lot of cribs that look similar in style, but this one isn’t one of them. It still converts into different beds and has an adjustable mattress. It also will not be hard to put together and stay looking good over time.
Pros
- Distinctive design. The rails on this are more s-shaped than straight, which gives it a design that is fresh and attractive. It is a fun play on a traditional design.
- Meets multiple safety standards. It meets multiple safety standards and is free from lead and other harmful things that you don’t want in your house.
- Good value. It’s important to note that this one is quite affordable, and even if you don’t like it or can’t use it for many years, it is a good investment.
Cons
- Taller kids may grow out of it fast. If your child is on the tall side, they may grow out of it quickly because of its design.
DaVinci Kalani
The Kalani is more or less a cube shaped crib, which could make you feel better, since it will be harder for a baby to fall or climb out of. It may be purchased in a handful of colors and you can convert it into a twin size bed when you are ready.
Pros
- Has a low profile. The feet of the crib aren’t too high on the ground, so you don’t have to be really tall to use it. This makes it easier to get the baby out and good for parents that are not too tall.
- Comes with a 1-year warranty. It is protected by a 1-year warranty, so if you experience any issues, you can contact the company and get your issue handled.
- Free of harmful chemicals. The bed has been tested for over 10 thousand chemicals, which it doesn’t contain. You can be sure that it is safe for your child to sleep in.
- Lightweight. It doesn’t weigh so much that it is hard to move. It can easily be slid around if need be, without breaking your back.
Cons
- Finish may chip easily. You may notice chips in the paint, which might make you want to worry. However, since the finish is also non-toxic, this shouldn’t be a concern.
Babyletto Origami Mini Crib
The Babyletto Origami is a crib that essentially looks like a box. This can be a good thing, since it is unique in the fact that it is plain. You can adjust the mattress, and it comes with a pad to keep you covered.
Pros
- Collapsible. The entire thing is collapsible. It’s another one that is perfect for traveling or using at a loved one’s house.
- Wheels can be locked. It has caster wheels that make it easy to move around, but also can be locked, so it stays right where you want it.
- Has a simple look. The simple look is something you may or may not like. You can be sure that it won’t clash with other things in your room.
- Fits practically anywhere. The design also lets you know that it will not take up an awkward shape of space. This can be good if you are in a hotel room or need to put it next to your bed.
Cons
- Must take your time assembling it. You have to take your time getting all the joints and parts to line up just right. It might look like the pieces don’t fit together, but they do.
Dream on Me Aden
Again, this is another one you can convert to meet your needs for quite a while. It comes with a pad, you can adjust the mattress into multiple heights, and it comes in 6 colors to match your nursery.
Pros
- Can store things underneath. The way it’s built allows you to be able to store things underneath it. You can place a few small boxes beneath it, so you can have some extra supplies nearby.
- Good for tall parents. If you are tall, it will be easy to take your kid out of this crib. Of course, it you aren’t tall, the mattress height adjustment option can help out with this.
- May utilize crib skirt. Sometimes due to the design, you can’t put a skirt around the crib, but you can in this model. It hides all the stuff you don’t really want to see and it looks nice too.
- Has a safe finish. It is made of wood, which can be scratched up or dented slightly. However, the finish on the wood has been tested and won’t cause harm, so it shouldn’t be a problem to have around your infant.
Cons
- Instructions may be confusing. The instructions on this one might give you some grief. If this is the case, perhaps watch some assembly videos online to keep from pulling your hair out.