Convertible cribs, such as the 3-in-1 and 4-in-1, are the best options when you are looking for a crib that converts into a toddler’s or full-size bed.
At first, a crib seems like a big place for a small baby, but your little one will become a toddler in a couple months. Convertible cribs are perfect for parents who want a safe sleeping environment for their growing child without having to replace the whole bed every couple of years.
This article will cover:
- 3 in 1 crib (convert to a toddler bed)
- 4 in 1 crib (convert to full-size bed)
- Crib with drawer for storage
- Crib with changing table
After reading the following guide, you will know exactly which convertible crib is the best for your child.
Help to choose a convertible crib:
- How Does a Convertible Crib Work?
- What Are the Differences Between Each Type of Convertible Cribs?
- What Are the Benefits of a Convertible Crib?
- What to Look for When Buying a Crib?
- What Size of Mattress Do I Need for a Convertible Crib?
Uncertain about which mattress to get? Take a look at this list of the best crib mattresses. I have put lots of hours into this guide, for you to find the ideal mattress for your baby!
Best convertible baby crib
I have search through every major online store for the best cribs, and here’s my favorite pick. I have selected them for the quality of the materials and the originality of the design. Each convertible cribs is classified by category and/or special features.
3 in 1 crib (convert to a toddler bed)
The perfect crib for a modern nursery with a contemporary touch. This 3 in 1 convertible crib accommodates your kid at each stage of his life. From a baby crib to a toddler bed, your kid will be comfortable for many years.
Manufactured with iron railing, this crib has a classic design that fits almost any nursery decor. The crib converts into a toddler bed, but you’ll have to buy the conversion kit. However, this crib is a great choice.
If you like mid-century design, this is an excellent crib for your baby’s room decor. The white slats with natural wood legs are very stylish. Moreover, this crib converts into a toddler bed to better suit your growing child.
Inspired by the mid-century style, this crib is an instant classic. Moreover, that crib converts into a toddler’s bed, so your child can grow and sleep in the same bed for many years to come.
The folding functionality of this mini crib is exceptionally convenient when you have limited space in your home. Another great feature is the portability aspect because of the wheels and the lightweight material. Perfect to have your baby nap in the living room and sleep in your room.
What I love about this crib, it’s the versatility of its style. Depending on the color you pick, it fit a modern or vintage nursery decor. Also, this crib is mounted on wheels, which is excellent when it comes to cleaning the room or changing the sheets.
Such a cute crib for your precious little baby. Imagine your newborn taking a nap in this elegant crib. Or your toddler climbing in and out of his oval bed. This wooden crib is the perfect nest for your kid.
Besides the beautiful modern design, this crib is full of great features. The frame is mounted on wheels for portability, and the crib can be converted into a toddler’s bed.
Inspired by the mid-century design, this modern crib is made with solid wood and with a focus on the safety standards for cribs in the US. Easy to assemble, the crib also converts into a toddler bed.
This crib is designed to give a contemporary touch to your baby’s nursery room. The 2 tones colors with clean lines are what make the beauty of this crib. Like the other baby crib from Delta, this crib is JPMA certified.
A truly unique design, perfect for any contemporary or modern nursery decor. This 3 in 1 JMPA certified crib convert into a toddler bed and also has an adjustable mattress position.
Check out this mid-century inspired crib that converts easily into a toddler bed. The Hudon convertible crib by Babyletto comes in natural wood color, with rounded edges to prevent injuries.
This mid-century baby crib is a stunning contemporary centerpiece for your baby’s room. Built to last, that baby crib has an adjustable height of the mattress and the possibility to turn into a toddler’s bed.
Bottom wood line with the top slats portion in white, I love this 2 tones crib design! This crib would look marvelous in any modern nursery decor. The crib is Greenguard certified and meets all US safety standards.
Here’s a unique crib design for modern bedroom decor. The bars are composed of white iron, and the base is made of beech wood. The contrast between the material and the colors is lovely.
This 3-in-1 convertible crib is entirely made of non-toxic materials. The white and natural wood design would look stunning in modern nursery decor. I must admit, this design is one of my favorite from this baby crib list.
In my opinion, this crib as a vintage vibe, as well as a stylish mid-century design. This crib from Graco is not only famous become of its looks, but it’s also well built with kid-friendly material.
This convertible crib as an elegant design that would greatly fit into any nursery decor. The crib metal railing is made with non-toxic material, and the overall crib is built according to the highest safety standards.
This white crib as a modern design that could fit in any type of nursery decor. Whether you go with the contemporary decor or the mid-century vibe, this convertible crib might be the one you are looking for.
Well built, with kid-friendly materials, this crib will keep your baby safe every night. The 3 mattress height position and the convertible features, makes this crib useful for years.
Most mid-century inspired cribs are made of wood, but this one is different. The Monarch Hill Hawken from Little Seeds is a 3-in-1 Convertible Crib with gold metal railing and a fantastic look.
The Scandinavian style is trendy in kid’s room decor because of the clean-lines silhouette and natural colors. This 3 in 1 crib easily converts into a toddler bed when your child outgrows his crib.
This modern style crib by Mack & Milo as the ability to fit in every nursery decor. The black and white frame is crafted with sturdy wood and satisfies all the JPMA standards for a safe sleeping environment.
Created with solid wood, this 3 in 1 convertible crib was built to last. Also, the timeless mid-century design of the crib won’t go out of fashion soon. I would definitely consider this crib!
This crib is full of great features, such as an extra-large drawer under the mattress, plus it converts into a toddler’s bed. Moreover, the white mid-century modern frame is undoubtedly stunning.
4 in 1 crib (convert to full-size bed)
You can’t go wrong when choosing this crib. The crib is made of eco-friendly materials, and it meets the CPSC safety standards. Moreover, the crib comes with a conversion kit that transforms the crib into a full-size bed.
This fabulous mid-century style crib is an instant classic for a chic and modern decor. Made of non-toxic material and mounted on strong metal support for the mattress, this crib is built to last.
This might be the perfect crib for your little princess. Imagine your baby girl sleeping in this lovely crib. Moreover, the crib converts into a toddler bed and a full-size bed.
The quality of this crib is impressive, plus its JPMA certified. Therefore, you don’t have to stress over durability and safety. Moreover, the incredible design of the crib is absolutely brilliant.
Besides the beautiful design, this crib meets all the standards to create a non-toxic sleeping environment for your baby. Made of sustainable pinewood, it’s also an excellent eco-friendly choice for your nursery.
Another excellent option for a small apartment or loft is this mini crib by Dream On Me. Because of its size, you’ll be able to put the crib into your room. Later, you can convert the crib into a toddler or full-size bed for your kid.
With a simple but yet elegant and modern design, this crib from Delta Children fit in any style of room decor. Plus, this is a 4-in-1 convertible crib, which means it converts into a full-size bed.
Cribs by Million Dollar Baby Classic are always among the most sophisticated and beautiful you could find. This mid-century / vintage looking crib is made of metal railing and converts into a full-size bed.
Built with a focus on the highest safety standards, this black and white crib as an elegant style that fit in the decor of your choice. The crib converts into a toddler bed and a full-size bed, so you won’t have to buy a second bed for your growing child.
Roud cribs are definitely among my favorite when you want a stylish nursery decor. This round crib by Harriet Beet converts into a toddler bed, as well as being an excellent side bed bassinet for your newborn baby.
The timeless design of this crib is very unique. I especially love the size of the different slats and the brass legs. Besides, the crib converts into a cool looking toddler’s bed.
Crib with drawer for storage
With this modern looking crib, you won’t need to buy an extra changing station. This convertible crib as a built-in changing table with drawers for extra storage.
Storkcraft built quality cribs, and this model with the changing station is no exception. The all-white wooden frame is perfect for any modern nursery decor. But, the real strength of this crib is the built-in changing table along with the extra-large drawer.
Crib with changing table
You never have too much storage in a kid’s room, especially with all the baby gear you’ll need. This is why I love this convertible crib. It got the drawers underneath the mattress, the changing table in the side, plus a small dresser built-in.
This crib from Graco is a 4-in-1 convertible bed frame that can eventually become a toddler bed, a day bed, or a full-size kid’s bed. With Graco product, you are sure to have a kid-friendly non-toxic, JMPA certified crib that meets the CPSC and ASTM standards.
Convertible crib buying guide
Not sure which crib is best for your child or your budget. Read on to learn about the essential features of the convertible crib.
How Does a Convertible Crib Work?
Convertible cribs are more than a bed for babies, this piece of furniture is made to evolve as your child grows. However, not all convertible cribs are made the same, so here’s some helpful information.
Are all cribs convertible?
Not all cribs are made to be convertible. While most have different height options for the mattress to transform into a bassinet for newborns, not all baby crib change into a toddler’s bed or full-size bed. Only the cribs with the ability to turn into a kid’s bed are called “convertible.”
What is a convertible baby crib?
A convertible crib is a particular category of cribs that can be modified into different bed sizes for kids. They are designed to adjust to your growing child. Instead of replacing the whole crib, parents are capable of converting it into a standard kid’s bed.
What size bed do convertible cribs turn into?
All convertible beds can be transformed into a toddler’s bed. However, some models also become full-size bed without the side railing. Moreover, you’ll find convertible cribs that turn into daybeds.
How do you turn a crib into a bed?
With most convertible cribs, you can lower the mattress close to the floor, and remove the front side safety railing to get a toddler’s bed. The 4-in-1 convertible crib that turns into a full-size bed is a little bit more complicated to convert. But, basically, you’ll only keep the headboard and footboard, while extending the mattress frame.
There are different types of convertible cribs, and depending on the shape or materials, the instructions could be different.
Do convertible cribs convert to twin or full?
In general, a convertible crib turns into a twin-size bed. A crib mattress is 28 inches wide by 53 inches long, and a toddler’s mattress is the same size. A twin-size mattress is 53 inches wide by 75 inches long. Therefore, the orientation of the mattress is turned when converting into a twin-size bed. However, a full-size bed is 38 inches wide by 75 inches long. That is a 15 inches difference between the width of a full-size and twin-size mattress.
I came to the conclusion that some manufacturers are confusing the dimension of a twin and full-size mattress, so be careful and read the description.
Do convertible cribs need a boxspring?
No, you don’t need to add a box spring under the mattress or the crib, or the toddler’s adapted bed. However, to convert into a full-size bed, you’ll need a conversion kit that includes extra wood slats to hold the mattress.
What Are the Differences Between Each Type of Convertible Cribs?
Many convertible cribs are described as 2-in-1, 3-in-1, 4-in-1 and 5-in-1. The numbers indicated the number of bed options you can create.
Here’s how you can translate those indications:
What is a 2 in 1 crib?
The 2-in-1 is the most basic convertible crib. Design to convert into a toddler bed, this crib only as 1 mattress height option.
Therefore, the 2-in-1 crib is not the best option with a newborn because of the low mattress inside the crib. Nevertheless, this crib might be a good option for parents who are co-sleeping or using a side-bed bassinet for the first weeks and won’t need a crib for their newborn.
What is a 3 in 1 crib?
These convertible cribs are the most popular. A 3-in-1 convertible crib can be transformed into a toddler’s bed, but also into a day bed. They also have the bassinet option for newborns with the adjustable mattress height inside the crib.
What is a 4 in 1 crib?
A couple years ago, the 4-in-1 used to be the high-end convertible crib of the market. However, today, they became quite the norm. With 4 different bed configurations, parents can adjust their kid’s bed at every stage of their early life. Converting into a toddler’s bed, a day bed, and a twin-size bed.
What is a 5 in 1 crib?
Very similar to the 4-in-1, the 5-in-1 convertible bed as 1 extra trick up his sleeve. The 5-in-1 convertible crib transforms into a toddler’s bed, a day bed, and a full-size bed with headboard. The difference is the full-size bed version has a footboard option. I must admit, the fifth option is more aesthetic than functional.
What Are the Benefits of a Convertible Crib?
Investing in a piece of furniture that would need to be replaced in a couple years is not exciting. Especially when it comes to kids, things become obsolete in little to no time. However, convertible cribs are extending the lifespan of your purchase and allowing you at the same time to invest in a more quality bed for your kid.
Still not sure if you should get a convertible crib, here is the list of the major’s pros and cons:
- Your child has to keep the same bed for many years, even as a teenager.
- The reusability aspect of the crib makes it an eco-responsible purchase.
- Over time, you’ll save money and/or be able to invest in a more quality bed for your kid.
- However, convertible cribs sometimes have hidden costs, such as non-included conversion kits or safety rails sold separately.
- It could also be a benefit for some parents, but in my case, I’m a little disappointed that I won’t need to shop for another kid’s bed soon. I just love looking at kid’s furniture, plan an upgraded room decor and surprise my kids with a new addition to their room.
Is a convertible crib worth it?
In the long term, convertible cribs are worth it, because you have to keep the same bed frame for many years. However, because of the convertible aspect, they can have a higher price tag. Keep in mind, it’s an investment you’ll redeem over time
How long do convertible cribs last?
Depending on the type of convertible crib you get, you’ll be able to keep the same bed for your kid’s for 8 to 16 years. The 4-in-1 convertible crib that turns into a full-size bed can last from childhood to teenage years.
What age to convert crib to bed?
During the first year, your baby can safely sleep in the crib, surrounded by the safety railing. However, between ages 1 and 3, your baby becomes an adventurous toddler who could try to climb out of bed. Then the safety railing becomes a dangerous obstacle for your toddler. This is when you’ll convert the crib into a low-to-the-ground toddler’s bed. Around the age of 5 or 6, the toddler’s bed becomes too small, and your kid might require a full-size bed to be more comfortable.
What to Look for When Buying a Crib?
Just like any other type of crib, the convertible crib should be designed according to the highest safety standards. But, also the material uses to build the crib should be non-toxic, free of harmful chemicals, such as Lead paint or VOCs.
Here’s a quick reminder:
- Does the crib meet the safety standards from the ASTM and CPSC?
- Is the crib JMPA certified? This means it has been tested in an independent laboratory to make sure it was built with the highest safety standards.
- Are the slats distanced no more than 2 1/2 inches apart?
- Is the crib Greenguard certified? Tested for more than 10,000 chemicals, the Greenguard cribs are certified as low-emitting air pollution and chemical exposure.
Besides the safety aspect, you must consider the following points when buying a convertible crib:
- Does the height of the mattress can be adjusted?
- Do you need to buy an extra conversion kit?
- What is the weight capacity of the bed frame?
The previous points are a great indicator of the longevity and durability of your investment.
What Size of Mattress Do I Need for a Convertible Crib?
Another vital aspect to consider it the mattress. Some cribs are sold with the mattress, and for the other, you need to buy a mattress.
The crib and toddler version of the convertible crib has the same size of mattresses. However, you’ll need to buy another mattress when you convert into a full-size bed.
For more information on kid’s mattress, check out this guide, I create on how to choose a mattress for your child.
Takeaway
Trust me, kids develop quickly and will outgrow their crib before their second birthday. Convertible cribs are an excellent way to save money and the trouble of moving in about furniture form the house.
This list contains the best convertible crib you could choose for your baby’s nursery.
Happy crib shopping 🙂
In general, cribs don’t come with a mattress, and you should consider ordering one simultaneously as the bed. Don’t worry; I have simplified the selection by creating this list of the best crib mattresses. Or perhaps you need help, and you should visit this guide I made on choosing the ideal mattress for your baby crib.
Still unsure about the crib? Here are some other types and styles you should also consider for your nursery:
- Convertible cribs: Best for long term use
- Cribs with drawers: Best for extra storage
- Cribs with a changing table: Best for space-saving
- Mini cribs: Best for portability
- Mid-century cribs: For a timeless design
- Wooden cribs: For a natural look
- Metal cribs: Best for durability
- White cribs: For a dreamy nursery
- Round & oval-shaped cribs: Because they are so cute 😉
