Mini Crib vs. Standard Crib: Which One Is Right for Your Nursery?

Mini Crib vs. Standard Crib: Which One Is Right for Your Nursery?

Whether you’ve been designing your new baby’s nursery in your mind for as long as you can remember, or hadn’t really thought about nurseries at all until you knew a baby was on the way, one thing is certain: there are a LOT of decisions to make when it comes to planning your perfect nursery.

We believe that every parent, in every budget, deserves a nursery space that functions well, feels good, and meets your needs and baby’s needs for great sleep. And for great baby sleep, you need a great crib. 

When it comes to choosing a crib for your nursery, there are two popular options: a mini crib or a standard crib. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to weigh your options carefully before making a decision. What was right for your friend or sibling might not be the best fit for your space, and that’s okay! With so many great products on the market, there’s an option for just about everyone.

Product in photo - Soho Crib

Let’s start with mini cribs. If you’re considering one of these cute, compact sleeping solutions, here are a few things to consider:

Mini Crib Pros:

Smaller size is ideal for small nurseries.

Mini cribs’ main selling point is pretty obvious - their small size is a great space saver. If you live in an apartment with small bedrooms, or in a situation where you’ll be sharing a room with your baby for a period of time, a mini crib can be a game-changing solution that allows you to create a sleeping space where a standard crib may not fit.

More portable than standard cribs.
A mini cribs’ small size and lighter weight makes it easier to move from room to room, or from house to house, which may be helpful if you’re planning a move or need to set up the crib on your own.

Often less expensive than standard cribs.
While not always the case, sometimes small size can equal a smaller price tag. A mini crib may save you money up front - but that saving might be offset by the need to upgrade when baby grows. Which brings us to…

Mini Crib Cons:

Useful for a shorter period of time.
The flip side of mini cribs’ small size is smaller weight, height, and developmental limitations. Unlike a standard crib, which can last up through toddler years (and beyond if it’s a convertible like ours), your baby will most likely grow out of a mini crib within the first year, leaving you needing to look for a new solution relatively soon.

May not have as many features as standard cribs.
In general, mini cribs tend to be single-function items with less versatility than their larger, standard siblings. You may sacrifice the ability to adjust the mattress height or convert the crib into a toddler or day bed. It may also be more difficult to find a mattress and crib sheets for a non-standard size crib mattress, and your options might be more limited.

Now let’s take a look at standard cribs:

Standard Crib Pros:

Can be used for a longer period of time.
The most obvious and practical pro for standard cribs: bigger size means more space, which means your baby can sleep comfortably for months and even years before needing to upgrade to a new bed. Many standard cribs, like those we design at dadada Baby, offer convertible options to transform into a toddler bed, floor bed, or day bed that can keep baby snoozing in comfort throughout their childhood.

 

Easier to find mattresses and accessories that fit well.
A well-fitting mattress and crib sheet are essential parts of sleep safety,
and it may be easier to find options for a standard size crib. You’ll have more versatility to choose sheets that meet your style and fiber preferences, are easy to find in a wide range of stores, and come in a variety of fabric options. 

More features than most mini cribs.
Standard cribs often offer more adjustability options than their mini crib counterparts, like adjustable mattress heights and the option to convert into a larger bed.

Standard Crib Cons:

Larger size may not be ideal for small nurseries.
If you’re dealing with a truly tight space, a standard crib simply might not fit. When you’re considering space planning, remember that it’s important for outlets, window treatments, and shelves with items that could be knocked over to be out of baby’s reach.

Can be more expensive than mini cribs.
A standard or convertible crib may cost you a bit more upfront. However, its longevity of use may save you from having to make another purchase in the near future, which might result in money saved over the life of the crib.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of crib is right for you is to consider your individual needs and preferences. If you have a small nursery or are on a budget, a mini crib may be a good option. If you want a crib that your child can use for a longer period of time, and you’re able to invest a little more up front, a standard crib may be a better choice, and save you money in the long run!

Whatever crib you choose, it’s not the furniture that ultimately defines the feel of your nursery - it’s the love, time, and memories you fill the space with. We’re wishing you a lifetime of good sleep, great snuggles, and memorable, messy, magical moments with your little one.