The mini crib is one that many new parents consider when buying a smaller crib for the new baby boy or a girl. Sometimes a full size one will not do the trick, or you just need a second crib some place else.
I am here to help you through this process. In the Dunn household, with multiple kids, it seemed we always had two full sized cribs and a mini crib over the time I had my four children.
Around the six month mark many parents decided it’s time to look for a crib as baby grows out of their bassinet or playpen. I want year many kids are moving into the crib.
We’re gonna talk about three key factors today in determining if mini crib is there a crib for you and your family. Obviously with the cost of things these days as important to find a cost effective but yet safe trip.
Cribs have many features but safety should be paramount determining if it is right for your new boy or a girl.
Height is important for the parents as back issues can arise from bending over many times a day. I know my back still hurts me if I even think about it!
Also it is important to know to continue to practice safe sleep protocols with even children one year old.
Table of Contents
- Mini Crib vs Regular Crib
- Mini Crib Comparison Table
- Delta Mini Crib
- Ikea Mini Crib
- Dream On Me Mini Crib
- Bloom Baby Alma Mini Crib
- Pottery Barn Mini Crib
- Step 2 : What accessories will I need?
- Step 3: Do I need a mattress with the mini crib?
- Final Words
Mini Crib vs Regular Crib
Step 1:
Determine if you need a regular crib or just a mini crib. How you ask? It mostly depends on space. If you have a small area such as a apartment or bedroom where space is vital a mini crib may be the best fit.
However, your child is more likely to grow out of them quicker. Most people in my friends circle choose to get a mini crib for the babysitter’s house, a parent’s house, or as a secondary space like a finished basement or upstairs area away from the main crib.
Mini Crib Comparison Table
Name | Overall Rating | Cost | Summary |
Delta Mini Crib | 9.3 | 4.5 / 5.0 | Pro: Great for small spaces. Con: Will outgrow quickly. |
Ikea Mini Crib | 8.8 | 4.6 / 5.0 | Pro: Most affrodable. Con: Style lacking. |
Dream On Me Mini Crib | 9.4 | 4.4 / 5.0 | Pro: Balance of quality and affordability. Con: Some may not like design. |
Alma Mini Crib | 9.3 | 3.8 / 5.0 | Pro: Elite design and style. Con: Cost prohibitive. |
Pottery Barn Mini Crib | 9.2 | 4.0 / 5.0 | Pro: Brand loyalty. Con: A little more pricey than others. |
The above is my executive summary version. We will go into more detail below.
Delta Mini Crib
The Delta Classic mini convertible crib comes with a 2.75 inch thick mattress that is very supportive. Also meets the required safety requirements of CPSC and ASTM. A good mix of style vs substance this crib gets two thumbs up from most of my friends that a talk to with babies.
Size: At roughly 41.2 inches wide by 38.25 inches tall and 25.75 inches deep this mini crib fits well in most smaller areas.
Weight: 37.20 pounds. Even if you are afraid of lugging the entire crib up steps, you can always carry one piece at a time up the steps to avoid fall risk. Do not be a hero.
What do parents say: A classy crib at an affordable cost. The Delta Classic meets their needs and does not break the budget.
Easy to put together? Yes, if you are decent with a few simple tools you can do it.
Pros: Easy to assemble. Good for small spaces. Looks like it belongs.
Cons: The stickers can make the finish peel. Odd smell at first.
Ikea Mini Crib
The Sniglar Ikea is a a low cost, but not low quality, mini crib you can get at Ikea. A simple but effective design that can be put together quickly and is lightweight.
Size: 27.5 inches wide by 53 inches long by 33 inches tall
Max Load: 50 Pounds
New mother opinion? If cost is your #1 concern, then this crib is for you.
Easy to put together? Yes, if you like how Ikea does things.
Pros: Low cost.
Cons: Reported quality control issues with bolts, holes, etc. Some may not like the IKEA look.
Dream On Me Mini Crib
Another solid option that is a good mixture of cost vs affordability. Dream On Me is a well respected brand who offers a quality product.
Size: 40 x 25 x 33 inches
Weight: 50 LB limit
Parent advice: A good balance of cost vs function and the look is useful for different types of decor.
Easy to put together? Yes.
Pros: The convertible cribs are a nice option. 30 min to assemble. Classy.
Cons: Some complaints of a chemical smell. Our testing did not reveal that though.
Bloom Baby Alma Mini Crib
From Bloom, this is the elite mini crib option if you have no budget. It looks the best. It is the best quality and yes you will pay for it. Includes the mattress in most cases.
Size: 39.50 x 25.50 x 22.63 inches
Weight: From newborn to 12 months
Feedback: High quality touches on this fine mini crib.
Easy to put together? Easy 20 minute setup.
Pros: Classy and elegant look. Simple setup. Lasting quality.
Cons: Cost.
Pottery Barn Mini Crib
The Babyletto mini crib is a solid high end performer that will not let you down. A bit costly, but not as expensive as the Bloom models.
Size: 25.5 x 39 x 34 inches
Weight: 44 pounds.
Comments / Concerns: Most parents have solid reviews. 9.4 / 10 average rating over multiple review outlets.
Easy to put together? Yes, the average person should have no issues getting it together. My rule of thumb is if it says it takes 1 hour then it will take me 3 hours. But that is all on me!
Step 2 : What accessories will I need?
Mini Crib Sheets & Bedding
You will need sheets, but the good news is they come in basic uniform sizes. You can always share as well, especially if you have great family members like mine who tossed around different kid items through the years like we were a mini marketplace! Most companies will try to sell you their own brands, which is fine, but all are rather close in size.
One safety item though, is make sure the sheet does not become untucked! The child could suffocate or get entangled, so be certain the sheet is snug.
Step 3: Do I need a mattress with the mini crib?
If the crib you purchase does not come with one, then yes, you will need a mattress for your little crib. Be sure to check the detail closely to determine if yours comes with one. And if you happen to buy used, it is recommended to never reuse old mattresses. However, if it is from a trusted source, one may want to consider it. A dollar saved is a dollar earned in my eyes.
Final Words
As I sign off from another installment of Sharon Dunn’s kid advice, I want you to remember that no matter how perfect the crib looks on day one, you will get stains, scratches, dents, etc. from your kids, pets, husband, in laws, the list goes on.
It will be time soon enough for another holiday shopping season, so get your research done on which crib you would like then keep an eye out for bargains.
That is normal so do not freak out when your dream crib is not flawless anymore.
Just be happy that hopefully one day you can pass the crib down to your kids.
Sharon
