Updated: May 9, 2015

Baby Crib Reviews:

When choosing a baby crib, there are several factors you should consider before buying. You need to be satisfied with the safety features (that's the #1 priority), quality, finish, and style. Cribs come in 4 basic types - standard cribs (single and double drop sides), convertible cribs (convert from standard crib to toddler bed and then full sized bed), canopy cribs (four posts on corners of the bed which keep up a metal frame for placing fabric canopies), round cribs (usually have single drop side). As we mentioned, safety is a key feature to consider when buying a baby crib since too many infants die in their cribs due to safety issues. Make sure the width between crib slats is no more than 2 3/8 inches, dropsides (when lowered) are at least 9 inches above the mattress support, dropsides need to at least 26 inches above the mattress support when raised, the crib mattress needs to fit snugly with no more than 2 fingers width between crib side and mattress, locking mechanism on dropside should be secure, no rough corners, edges, splinters, or peeling paint. Also, make sure the crib has an adjustable mattress height, rolling coasters and a teething rail (don't want your child chewing on wood). Recalls do happen so be sure to keep an eye on whatever brand you go with to make sure a particular model hasn't been recalled for safety issues.


Once you have decided on a style, we suggest going to local stores like Target or Babies R Us. After getting an idea on prices and styles you can then shop online and perhaps save some money. Convertible cribs tend to be more expensive since you can use them throughout your toddlers life without having to buy a new bed. We bought a 3-in-1 crib for our daughter and she now sleeps in the full sized bed that it converted into and she's nearly 6. It's saved us time and money in the long haul and was easy to convert (we did have to buy a convertor board for $90 to make the full size bed). One of the top selling convertible cribs is the DaVinci Emily Convertible Baby Crib. Canopy cribs are pricey (upwards of $1700) and really more for show than functionality. Top brands include names like DaVinci, Graco, Baby Miro, Lajobi, Simplicity, Angel Line, and Stork Craft. In terms of reviews, we found the most customer comments and feedback on Amazon. For almost every baby crib you can read dozens of owner reviews to find out just which features are worth while and which ones are worth skipping. Check out the most popular baby cribs online here.


Convertible Baby Crib:

A GREAT VALUE is the Delta Children's Products Hampton 3-in-1 Convertible Crib comes in 3 colors (white, cherry, natural). Converts from crib to toddler bed to day bed. Features double drop sides, stabilizer bars, and a childproof rail release. The crib has a 5 position posture perfect mattress support and it meets all ASTM and JPMACP standards for safety and quality. Convertible cribs are definitely the way to go since babies outgrow cribs so fast. Why not be able to change with them and have a bed that will last for years. It's worth the extra $$ so you can switch to a toddler bed and a day bed as they grow up. You can see the best selling convertible cribs online here.


Round Cribs:

Round cribs are becoming more popular, although I don't recall seeing them even 5 years ago when I went crib shopping with my wife. They are circular with a drop down side (usually) and often come in themed styles (Carousel Rocking Horse, Winnie the Pooh, Cottage Garden, etc.). Due to the extra work that goes into rounding the wood, the round cribs are quite expensive. The Disney Winnie the Pooh couture-inspired round crib sells for $999 on Crib.com and that is just for the crib itself. The bedding is usually another $500. Unless you absolutely have to buy a round crib, I would stay away from them only because they cost so much and they appear smaller in size than traditional, or standard cribs. You can view the most popular round baby cribs here.