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

What Is a Mini Crib?

A mini crib is a smaller version of a standard crib, usually around 24" x 38" compared to a standard 28" x 52". It’s bigger than a bassinet, but smaller and lighter than a full crib. Many mini cribs are foldable or designed to move easily from room to room.

Mini cribs are popular in apartments, shared bedrooms, or homes where space is at a premium.

 

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.

What Is a Standard Crib?

A standard crib is the full-size crib most parents picture when they think of a nursery. At about 28" x 52", it offers more room for your baby and can often be used for years. Many standard cribs—like the ones we design at dadada Baby—are convertible cribs, meaning they transform into toddler beds, daybeds, or even full-size beds.

 

 

Standard Crib Pros

• Longer usability
  Standard cribs last well beyond the first year. With convertible designs like the Dadada Austin 3-in-1 or Spirit 8-in-1, your crib can grow with your child into toddlerhood and beyond.

• Easier to find bedding and mattresses
  Standard crib sheets and mattresses are widely available in stores and online.

• More features and versatility
  Adjustable mattress heights, convertible options, and a wider range of styles make standard cribs more adaptable.

Standard Crib Cons

• Takes up more space
  In very small nurseries or shared rooms, a standard crib may feel too large.

• Higher upfront cost
  While more expensive at the start, the longevity of a convertible crib often means you’ll save in the long run.

Feature	Mini Crib	Standard Crib
Size	~24" x 38"	~28" x 52"
Lifespan	Birth to ~18 months	Birth to 4+ years (longer if convertible)
Portability	Lightweight, some foldable	Heavy, stationary
Price	$150–$400 (average)	$300–$800 (average)
Bedding Availability	Limited, specialty sizes	Easy to find everywhere
Conversion Options	Few to none	3-in-1, 4-in-1, 8-in-1 options

 

How to Decide: Mini Crib or Standard Crib?

Ask yourself these questions:

• Do you live in an apartment or need to maximize a very small space? → A mini crib could be your best bet.

• Do you want a crib that grows with your child for years? → A standard convertible crib is the way to go.

• Are you buying a secondary crib for a grandparent’s house or travel? → A mini crib is often more practical.

• Are you planning on multiple children and want a durable, long-term solution? → A standard crib offers more value.

The Dadada Difference

At dadada Baby, every crib—mini or standard—is designed with safety, style, and sustainability in mind.

All our cribs are:

• JPMA certified

• Built to CPSC and ASTM safety standards

• Finished with non-toxic, baby-safe paints

• Made from renewable solid wood

• Available with GREENGUARD Gold certification on select models

✨ Our favorites:

• Soho 3-in-1 Convertible Crib – Compact and modern, perfect for smaller nurseries.

• Austin 3-in-1 Convertible Crib – Timeless, solid beechwood design that grows with your child.

• Spirit 8-in-1 Convertible Crib – Our most versatile crib, crafted for longevity and style.

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.