The 6 Best Baby Cribs

1

Best Overall Crib

Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1

$280 at Amazon

Dimensions: 29.5 x 58" | Convertible: Yes (parts sold separately)

REASONS TO BUY

Modern aesthetic

Easy Assembly

Primarily solid wood

Minimally exposed fasteners

REASONS TO AVOID

Lower mattress height

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is a modern take on a familiar classic with simple styling and playful crisscross end caps. This primarily solid wood baby crib has chip-resistant paint and a sturdy stance and is one of the easiest in our tests to assemble (setup under 30 minutes). We like the overall appearance, which at least attempts to hide or disguise fasteners, unlike most contenders that leave them exposed. This frame converts to a toddler or daybed with parts you must buy separately.

The Equinox has one of the lowest sitting mattress levels, which can be a blessing and a curse. While its depth is excellent for standing or climbing toddlers, petite parents can find it challenging to reach deeper into a crib to soothe a distressed baby. The mattress height is adjustable, which will alleviate some potential problems, but not all of them. If your budget is a bit tighter, the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 is a similar minimal-style crib that costs less but has similar features. Overall, we love the unique look of the Equinox and find the design complements most modern nurseries with a subtle look that allows other elements to shine.

2

Best for Longevity

Dream On Me, Ashton 5-in-1

$130 at Amazon

Dimensions: 33 x 53.3" | Convertible: Yes (parts sold separately)

REASONS TO BUY

Durable construction

Solid wood

3rd party tested for toxins

REASONS TO AVOID

Harder to assemble

Exposed hardware

The Dream On Me, Ashton 5-in-1 is a sleigh-style bed that uses solid wood for a sturdy build. This crib feels like it will last for multiple siblings and still look good. It is a 5-in-1 convertible bed that transitions as your child grows, with parts sold separately. It comes in various finishes, so there is almost certainly something to match your nursery style. This crib has one of the tallest mattress heights in the group, making it a good choice for shorter parents worried about reaching a low-sitting mattress. However, the crib walls are somewhat taller than the more minimalistic choices.

This option's assembly is more complicated than it needs to be, with mislabeled parts and confusing instructions. We had to take some of it apart to swap parts around before figuring out the parts were improperly labeled. It also has a lot of exposed hardware, which some may find distracting from the overall look. If you want something with a more modern design, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a simple crib that looks sharp. However, if traditional is your style, the Ashton is sturdy and feels like it will stand the test of time. One tester used this crib through two children and passed it on to another family who used it for two more, proving it has what it takes for the long haul.

3

Best Bang for Your Buck

Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1

Check price at Amazon

Dimensions: 29.7 x 55.7" | Convertible: Yes (parts sold separately)

REASONS TO BUY

Simple modern design

Inexpensive

REASONS TO AVOID

Softer wood

Paint can chip

The Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 is an unassuming, lovely option that lets your baby and fitted sheet shine like a framed, priceless work of art. This product lets other nursery pieces stand out with a simple rectangle, slat design, and contrasting color scheme. This crib is solid wood with multi-step, non-toxic paint. It is also GREENGUARD Gold Certified and includes four mattress heights. The Colby was one of the easiest in the group to assemble, taking only 40 minutes with fewer dowels and bolts than some competitors.

The wood on the Colby feels somehow softer than much of the competition, and it easily dents (we experienced this during our limited testing), or the paint might transfer to objects that knock into it. We think this crib might show its age before it has outlived its usefulness, which is something to consider if you find long-term perfection necessary. However, we do not think this will impact its longevity. If you like simple but want a little more detailing, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 has a modern design that offers closed ends and a bit of style. Overall, we love Colby's simplicity and peacefulness and think most parents will love it as much for what it is as they will for what it isn't.

4

Budget-friendly Traditional Option

Graco Benton 4-in-1

$160 at Amazon

Dimensions: 30 x 56.8" | Convertible: Yes (kits sold separately)

REASONS TO BUY

Multiple color options

Wallet-friendly

Mostly Wood

REASONS TO AVOID

Paint could chip

The front rail feels less sturdy

Visible hardware

The Graco Benton 4-in-1 convertible crib is a wallet-friendly wood crib with a traditional style. This crib is primarily wood, with a hardboard on the back under the arch. It felt sturdy and was easy to assemble in our tests. It comes in various fashionable colors, including a natural option, and ours came with the paint in good condition.

Because this option is painted, like other painted cribs, there is a chance the paint could chip under everyday use. The Dream On Me, Ashton 5-in-1 comes in multiple finishes that might fare better over time. Also, the front rail doesn't feel as sturdy as the competition, though it isn't flimsy or fragile. Overall, the price is right on this traditionally styled crib, and we think parents looking for a simple convertible crib will like this Graco product's look and price tag.

The Benton 4-in-1 crib has been discontinued. We are now linking to the Benton 5-in-1 crib.

5

Best for the Tightest Budget

Union 3-in-1

$139 at Amazon

Dimensions: 30 x 53.5" | Convertible: Yes (parts sold separately)

REASONS TO BUY

Easy setup

Budget-friendly

Solid wood

REASONS TO AVOID

Uninspired design

Soft wood

If budget is a concern, you can still find a stylish winner in the Union 3-in-1. This simple, understated crib is a go-to must-have for families pinching pennies or wanting to put their baby money into more fun things without compromising safety or looks. This crib has a fashionable modern aesthetic, is easy to assemble, has an unconfusing design, and gets the job done. It is solid wood and boasts non-toxic paint. It can convert to a toddler or day bed (with purchase), and the mattress has four adjustable levels. The crib is GREENGUARD Gold Certified.

The wood on this crib is soft and dents easily, and the paint could chip over time. We think there is a chance this baby crib could look shabby as your toddler grows and spends time banging into it or hitting it with toys. However, for the price, it is a sturdy crib that will stay together even if it looks a little worn. If you can stretch your budget a bit and want a little more detail, the two-tone look of the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 makes it a similar but unique option compared to the Union. However, we think it would be hard for families on a budget to find a nicer, all-wood crib without sacrificing something.

The Union 3-in-1 crib has been discontinued. We are now linking to the Union 4-in-1 crib.

6

Best for Quality

Evolur Julienne 5 in 1

$450 at Amazon

Dimensions: 31.5 x 55.7" | Convertible: Yes (parts sold separately)

REASONS TO BUY

High-quality

Fancy

Hardwood

REASONS TO AVOID

Too fancy for some

High-dollar

If you plan to give birth to the next royal baby, the Evolur Julienne 5 in 1 might be the fancy sleeping arrangement you've been hunting for. With intricate detail designs on the high back, four corners, and scrollwork aplenty, this high-end crib stands out from the pack with bling to spare. This crib is easy to assemble at just over 30 minutes, and it has three mattress positions for changes as your baby grows. Much of this crib is hardwood, which is more substantial and better quality than the New Zealand Pine we saw in the competition.

While this crib is high-quality, no doubt, the additional details might be more than some parents want. This crib is unlikely to be your thing if you aren't into bling. If minimal is your goal, options like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 might be more the ticket. Alternatively, less fancy than the Evolur but more traditional than other options, the Dream On Me, Ashton 5-in-1 hits a sweet spot between them. However, many parents want the best and enjoy the look of a detailed finished product, making this their crib of choice, as most modern-day cribs lack the frills you'll find on this brand's cribs.

Dimensions: 29.5 x 53.5" | Convertible: Yes (Included)

The Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 is somewhat of a standout in the group as one of the few that includes the conversion kit with nothing else to buy. This modern-style crib comes with everything you need for a baby to toddler graduation and still manages to look good doing it all. We like the simple style of this crib and the lower mattress height options. Its low-profile design is great for smaller spaces and minimalist style, and the solid wood constructions mean it can make it through toddlerhood without breaking a sweat. It is also GREENGUARD Gold Certified.

This baby crib is one of the most difficult to assemble, taking our expert assembler over an hour. That being said, you typically only assemble a crib once, so don't let that scare you from this crib, but do plan extra time for setup. The wood is also reasonably soft, meaning nicks and dents are likely in your future, even if you are careful. The price is also somewhat high, and it could be a no-go for a smaller budget. The Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1 has a similar straightforward style and costs less. Overall, we think the Hudson is a stylish wood crib that will work for most nurseries and is a shoo-in for smaller abodes.

Dimensions: 32.35 X 55" | Convertible: Daybed rail included

The modern-looking Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1 is an excellent choice for smaller spaces or those with a minimalist flair. This simple low-profile crib uses sustainable wood and can convert to a toddler bed or headboard with parts sold separately. It includes the daybed rail, which is helpful but not found in most competitors.

This crib only has three mattress height levels, which is true for about half the competition. While not a deal-breaker, four levels often translate to a longer lifespan as it creates a space harder for toddlers to escape. Also, the wood is somewhat soft, which could impact the crib's look as it ages with your baby. If you like this crib, the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 has a similar look and might have different features to meet your goals. Overall, we like the look and feel of this crib and think most parents will, too.

Dimensions: 31.1 x 58.2" | Convertible: Yes (parts sold separately)

The classic DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 is a solid wood crib with four mattress-level heights and sturdy construction. It is GREENGUARD Gold Certified and can be converted to a toddler bed, daybed, or headboard with the purchase of additional parts. The Jayden has a traditional look, and you can buy matching furniture options to coordinate your nursery. It is available in white or slate grey to help match almost any nursery decor.

This baby crib is more substantial than much of the competition, and while they all take the same size mattress, this one will use square footage in your home than some of the smaller options in this review. It also has more exposed hardware than some, which somewhat distracts from the overall look. Minor flaws aside, we like the traditional high-back style and think it will appeal to parents looking for a classic feel or a more stately nursery standout piece.

Dimensions: 30.4 x 54.6" | Convertible: Yes (parts sold separately)

If you need a full-size crib on wheels, the DaVinci Jenny Lind 3-in-1 could be your go-to choice. With very few cribs offering a sleep surface on wheels, this crib stands out from the rest of the review with its easy mobility. While not a bassinet, you can roll the baby closer to your bed for easy nighttime peeking or easily place it across the room for some privacy. We like the solid wood construction, four mattress height levels, and that it is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. The Jenny Lind comes in various colors, and other furniture pieces are available for coordinating your nursery.

This crib has a traditional look and feel, and some might even find it more feminine than they'd want for a boy's room. While this is good news, if it fits your design plan, it isn't for everyone. Also, the wheels can be annoying if you do not need to move your crib. The Dream On Me, Ashton 5-in-1 has a similar look but doesn't have wheels. While the Jenny Lind may not be for everyone, we think it fills a niche and could be the exact thing some parents have been looking for, which is why it is a style that has been around longer than some parents have been alive.

How We Test Baby Cribs

We researched more than 15 cribs to determine which were the most popular and best options to include in our review. We considered materials, ease of assembly, and quality in our selection process. We purchased and built each competitor to compare them side-by-side. We considered features, quality, materials, design, and more to rank the cribs and determine award winners. We also considered how difficult the cribs were to assemble. While it will only happen once for most folks, it can be an easy or frustrating experience, depending on the crib and the manual.

Why You Should Trust Us

We at BabyGearLab have been testing baby gear since 2013. We evaluate and test products, taking them through side-by-side comparisons to determine which competitors are real standouts in their categories. Bob Wofford, the Senior Test Analyst, built the cribs in this review and put them through their paces in our lab to rank how easy they are to assemble, how easy they are to use, and their overall quality to determine which options are the best. Wendy Schmitz, Senior Review Editor at BabyGearLab since 2014 and mom to two boys, researched and assessed the contenders to determine the award winners.

How to Choose a Baby Crib

Choosing a baby crib is often one of the more fun items to pick as it influences the nursery and is used daily. Finding the best one for your family can be easy if you consider a few things when choosing.

Nursery Style

The nursery style is often influenced by or influences the style of crib you choose. Whether you want a minimalist nursery or an elaborate one, the crib is a large piece of furniture that sets the stage. Choosing one that matches your overall style or intended nursery decor can bring a feeling of peace when spending time in the nursery.

Overall Footprint

While crib mattresses are relatively standard, the outer dimensions of a crib can vary widely. You should measure your intended space to determine which cribs will fit where you want the crib to go. Also, the size of your home can influence how much of an impact you want the crib to have on the overall feeling and living space. Often, less is more, and choosing a simple crib can give you the calm feeling babies enjoy.

Pair with Your Mattress

Many parents are very particular about their mattresses, and the materials used in the mattress could be non-negotiable. Since your baby will spend a significant amount of time sleeping and inhaling any off-gassing materials beneath them, we think it is important to choose your mattress first, then make sure it fits in your intended crib mattress space. Check for gaps and ensure the two marry nicely in a way that helps prevent potential harm and isn't so tight that changing sheets will be a problem. If they do not work well together, we recommend keeping the mattress and returning the crib.

Analysis and Test Results

We evaluated a variety of cribs before settling on top options from various brands and styles to help you find the right fit for your needs and your wallet.

Ease of Use

You might think all cribs are the same, and in some regards, for safety reasons, this is true. All baby cribs sold in the US must adhere to specific safety guidelines, and these restrictions often make them very similar in design and materials. This review's options are primarily wood, with most being sustainable New Zealand Pine and one being hardwood. They all have adjustable mattress levels with three to four variations and come unassembled.

However, they all have different designs, styles of slats, overall dimensions, and mattress heights. Mattress height, conversion capabilities, and crib size can all impact how easy they are to use or how much use you will get from them.

Only a handful of the competition came with parts for converting the crib to a toddler or day bed. These include the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and the Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1. The rest of the competition requires an additional purchase. This feature is cool if you use it. However, we don't think many parents use the conversion kit. They often reserve the crib for the next child or are tired of looking at it and want to mark the transition to a big kid bed with the purchase of something new and exciting. Often, parents lose the parts and hardware required to make the switch. Plus, a new bed can encourage the change from sleeping in the crib to a more traditional bed. However, some parents will use this feature, and if you think you might, it can save you money to buy a crib that includes the parts you'll need to make this change.

Mattress height options varied in this group between three and four height levels. Both variations are acceptable, but four potentially give you a longer lifespan for crib use, as taller toddlers will find escaping a lower-sitting mattress more challenging (though not impossible). Alternatively, a determined Houdini will escape no matter what height you offer (trust us), and climbing toddlers usually indicates a toddler or big kid bed is due. More importantly, we think the higher levels genuinely help some parents as some petite parents won't want to or can't bend down into the abyss to retrieve their baby. We think one is about the same as another unless you have a physical reason for needing something special.

Another consideration for ease of use is the overall crib footprint. Depending on where your crib will reside, some options might fit better than others. If you plan to keep it in your bedroom, you may need one of the smaller options. A larger, more stately crib might be what you want if you have a vast new nursery that echos due to size. The smaller cribs include the Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson. Like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1, some cribs can be up to 5 inches longer than the smaller minimal-style cribs.

All of the baby cribs have a similar mattress opening size. Still, experience has taught us that a headache could be waiting around the corner as crib mattresses seem to vary slightly in size, resulting in a pair that doesn't play well together. If your mattress fits too tightly, this will be a frequent frustration as you'll lift the entire thing out to change a sheet (frequently). If there is too much gap, the combination isn't safe as little arms and legs could become entrapped (or worse). Since sheet changes could be daily, you'll want to check your mattress size with your crib opening as soon as you get it to ensure a proper fit before your return period is over. Most of our review options had a 1-1 3/4 inch gap on one or both ends of the mattress, with a snug fit or up to 1/2 inch gap on the sides. You want a snug fit for safety, but if it is too snug, it will have you cursing in the middle of the night, changing sheets after a diaper blowout.

Ease of Setup

Many of the cribs were similar in parts, instructions, and design. We suspect some come from the same manufacturing plant. However, there was variation in assembly difficulties. The Babyletto crib was more challenging than most, and the Hudson took over an hour to put together with poor instructions and backward pictures, which required us to start over. The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 was the quickest setup with a time of just under 30 minutes and straightforward instructions. The parts are labeled well, as are the pictures in the instruction guide. The Graco Benton 4-1 is also a quick setup with an assembly time of 32 minutes, though this option is probably easier with two people. The Dream on Me Ashton had mislabeled pieces that threw us off for a while and added time to the assembly, resulting in 47 minutes from start to finish. Most were all under an hour, but only a few were closer to 30 minutes. On the upside, they all came with a wrench for setup, and typically, you only need to assemble them once or twice.

Quality

Except for the Evolur Julienne 5 in 1 (which is hardwood), the majority of the cribs use similar materials and have the same quality level. All of the options in our review boast wood construction with New Zealand Pine and non-toxic finishes, with more than half claiming GREENGUARD Gold Certifications. All those we built felt sturdy and solid and not rickety. The wood is soft and dents easily, but this was true for most cribs we tested, making it hard to use as a deciding factor concerning quality. You might notice the main quality difference is exposed hardware (visible screws) versus hidden. This difference is a level of detail that can create a sleek, more finished look or leave visible distracting bolts. This issue is more of an aesthetic thing than how well the cribs are built. While it doesn't appear to affect the functionality or longevity, it does indicate more effort and consideration to the crib's overall design, which might translate to better quality. The cribs with the most exposed hardware are the Dream On Me, Ashton 5-in-1 and the Graco Benton 4-1, and yet, they feel sturdy, and we know from experience that the Ashton (at least) can go the distance through multiple siblings and still stand tall.

A real standout for quality in our group is the Evolur Julienne. This fancy-schmancy crib feels sturdy, is mostly hardwood, and offers impressive attention to detail with intricate scrollwork and some features we didn't see on other contenders. However, it also comes with a list price that is double or triple the cost of the competition.

Conclusion

Your baby's crib might take center stage as a nursery centerpiece and the most used piece of furniture. Parents often choose to decorate their nurseries or create a theme around the crib style, further indicating its importance in the schema. Your crib's style, quality, and ease of use can impact long-term happiness with your choice, the ability to use it with another child or to donate it to a friend. This is why finding the right crib for your needs might be more important than you thought. We think you'll find enough information in our detailed analysis and first-hand experience to choose the perfect crib for your baby and your nursery.