Every crib has its own unique pros and cons. However, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib’s design is something of a unanimous winner, any way you look at it. We’ll explore why and what else you should consider when purchasing a crib for short moms (or dads).
No mom wants to struggle to get their child into their crib, especially when it takes so long to get them to the point of sleep! Tall people don’t need to worry about cribs. Most are designed for a long upper body that accommodates movement. Short people will have issues with the standard crib. The following recommendations take into account the various factors that you’ll need to consider when choosing the best crib to suit your needs.
- My Top Picks
- How to Choose the Best Crib for Short Moms (or Dads)
- Why you need a crib
- Features to help you select the best crib
- How to pick the best crib for your height
- Best overall – Dream On Me 4 in 1 Aden
- Most stylish – Delta Children Bentley S Series
- Best Runner-up – Babyletto Hudson Crib
- Best budget option – Storkcraft Hillcrest Fixed Side Convertible Crib
- Best classic option – Dream On Me, Carson Classic 3 in 1
- Final Word
My Top Picks
- Best overall – Dream On Me 4 in 1 Aden
- Most stylish – Delta Children Bentley S Series
- Best runner-up – Babyletto Hudson Crib
- Best budget option – Storkcraft Hillcrest Fixed Side Convertible Crib
- Most classical design – Dream On Me, Carson Classic 3 in 1
How to Choose the Best Crib for Short Moms (or Dads)
Shopping for a crib is not about walking into a store and picking a color. There is more to it than meets the eye. Keep these tips in mind to choose a crib that will serve you and your child for a long time.
Price
Your budget is always the biggest determinant in any purchase. Don’t be in a hurry to buy. Expensive cribs aren’t necessarily the best, and cheaper options don’t have to be of low quality. Instead, determine how much you are willing to spend and the features you need.
Functionality
What can the crib do? Can you adjust it to your height? These are some of the questions you should ask yourself while looking at any crib’s specifications. The functionality will help you make an informed choice on what you should get. It’ll also ensure you have an option that is a perfect fit for your needs, especially your height.
Durability
As with all purchases, you will need something that lasts. As your newborn continues to grow, you’ll need a comfortable place for them to sleep at all times. A crib with a sturdy build will ensure you don’t keep buying newer options because of breaks and cracks. For instance, a convertible crib can last until your child is in her early teens.
Appearance
Having something aesthetically pleasing in your house will give you peace of mind. Don’t buy what you can’t stand to see. Shop for a crib before arranging your nursery so that they match. Alternatively, based on your nursery arrangement, buy a crib that complements the look you’re going for.
Why you need a crib
Safety
A crib ensures you to have somewhere safe for your baby to sleep. It proves extremely handy once your baby starts to turn on their own and even sit up. Leaving a baby on an ordinary bed may lead to accidents since children naturally love to explore.
Sometimes, you need to put your little one down so you can sort out things around the house. Whether you are doing house chores or answering work emails, you can safely leave your munchkin in the crib as you work. Remember not to leave them unsupervised as it can be a health hazard.
Independence
Different studies show that some babies who are placed in cribs early start developing some independence. That enables them to find ways to fall asleep without fussing. As a result, you’re sure that whenever your baby gets tired, you don’t need to rock them endlessly. You can cover them up in their crib, and they’ll fall asleep on their own.
Features to help you select the best crib
Size of the crib bars
Many designs come with side rails or slats. These make it possible for you to monitor your child from afar. Widely spaced bars are a health hazard. The bigger the gaps, the more likely your child can get an arm or leg stuck. Even worse, they may get through and fall out.
Presence of wheel locks
A crib with wheels is an excellent option if you need to move it around sometimes. Whenever you look for a variant with wheels, make sure they come with safety locks. These will ensure that the crib only moves when you are pushing it.
Design
Do you want a crib with safety rails or one that can function as a day bed? The layout you require will guide you to the best design options available. Ensure all parts mentioned come as part of your purchase.
The mattress density
Some cribs come with mattresses added to the purchase. These are a bargain as you don’t need to shop around for a mattress that fits your crib. However, be sure to test the mattress’s density. A baby requires a firm yet comfortable mattress. Check the specifications on the mattress as your child won’t tell you if they’re uncomfortable. They’ll simply fuss and give you restless days.
The crib’s material
There are different materials used to make them. These include wood, metal, or even plastic options. Whatever the case, ensure the material used meets specifications by child safety regulators such as the JPMA and the CPSC. These regulators check the material and the finishing applied before certifying the product as baby-friendly.
Headboard design
Not all cribs come completely slatted. In case you opt for an option with a headboard, make sure it has a smooth finish. Intricate detailing could have sharp edges that can harm your child. Selecting a plain headboard is the best option. To beautify the crib, add decorative stickers where the baby cannot pull them off.
Smooth edges and other parts
Some cribs come with raised posts along the frame. Leave these options alone as they may become a safety hazard. Your child could knock themselves on them or even use them to climb out of the crib. Also, keep an eye out for cribs with hardware that stands out of the frame. These include screws, bolts, or unevenly cut edges. Opt for cribs with smooth sides from top to bottom.
Convertibility
Even if a product package says that you’re getting a crib with multiple functionalities, make sure you’re getting such. If the manufacturer says you can convert the crib for older children, ensure that the parts to change it are either included or they’re easy to purchase. If not, you should look for a brand that makes it easy for you to transition from one layout to another.
How to pick the best crib for your height
Can the height be adjusted?
Most have standard dimensions. But if you’re not in a hurry, you could find variants that allow you to adjust them to suit your height. Some come with adjustable legs to allow you to lower them to your desired height. Another option for shorter moms is baby cribs that are closer to the ground or low-profile cribs.
Can the mattress height be adjusted?
If changing the crib’s height doesn’t do it for you, find options that allow you to adjust the mattress. You can place the mattress as high as necessary for easy access to your baby.
Best overall – Dream On Me 4 in 1 Aden
Product info:
- Dimensions: 39x23x36 inches
- Material: Pine Wood
- Weight: 20 pounds
- Color: Espresso, Natural, French White, Cherry, Grey, Black, White
What makes it a good option
First, you’ll notice the crib’s height. Its base is much lower than most mini-cribs’, bringing its overall height down. Additionally, you can still adjust the mattress level to a comfortable point, so it’s easier to put your little munchkin to bed. There are four adjustment levels.
Since it’s a mini crib, you can easily fit it into small spaces. It can be changed into a mini daybed as well as a twin-size bed to give your child more room as they grow. Assembling it is also easy. All the hardware is nicely tucked into the frame to keep your baby out of harm’s way.
Who it’s ideal for?
The Dream On Me 4 in 1 Aden is best suited for preemies, newborns, and infants. It can also work for small toddlers. This brand is also my top choice in the dual Dream On Me Crib vs Delta Cribs.
Pros:
- Ideal for newborns and up to one-year-olds
- Can be converted into a day bed or twin-size bed
- Easy to assemble
- Meets both the ASTM and the CPSC safety standards
- Offers mattress adjustment levels
- Lower than most cribs
- Has a smooth frame
- Compact enough to fit small spaces
- Can handle a weight of up to 40 pounds
Cons:
- The twin-size rail isn’t included in the purchase
Most stylish – Delta Children Bentley S Series
Product info:
- Dimensions: 54.25×42.25×34.25
- Material: hardwood
- Weight: 68.4 pounds
- Color: Chocolate, Black Cherry Espresso, Dark Chocolate, Bianca White, Grey, White
What makes it a good option
If you need a crib that remains useful even as your child grows, this might be your best option. Besides The Delta Children Bentley S series crib can convert into full-sized bed once your little one becomes bigger. It can also be modified into a day bed and toddler bed as required. You’ll receive the full bed size footboard and headboard which are useful when you’re ready to convert the bed. It’s a good value for money since you won’t need to make any additional purchases when your child is older. The crib is excellently crafted with smooth finishes and no protruding edges. Unlike some other options, the Delta Children Bentley S Series crib doesn’t have any strong chemical smells. Perhaps the most important feature is the ability to adjust the mattress to a height that best suits you, so you don’t struggle to put your little one to bed and to pick them up once they are awake.
Who it’s ideal for?
Moms who want a bed that will be functional for older kids.
Pros
- Fits any standard sized crib mattress
- Converts into a day bed, toddler bed, and a full-size bed
- Can be used by newborns up to grown toddlers
- You can adjust the mattress to three different heights
- Comes in six color variants
- It has all accessories for a full bed conversion included
Cons
- Crib conversions and the toddler guard rail aren’t included
Best Runner-up – Babyletto Hudson Crib
Product info:
- Dimensions: 53.5×29.75×35.0 inches
- Material: New Zealand Pine Wood
- Weight: 53 pounds
- Color: Grey, Black, Natural, Grey/White, Espresso, White, Espresso/White, White/Washed Natural
What makes it a good option
The Babyletto Hudson Crib has a modern design that makes it perfect for any nursery. You have a variety of colors to choose from, with even two-tone options available. The hardware is tucked into the frame, leaving no pointed screws or bolts. The mattress can be moved lower by four different levels. It makes it possible for short mom to reach their babies with ease. The different levels enable you to lower the mattress as your baby grows and becomes more mobile, thus, ensuring their safety. You can use a standard-sized mattress on this crib and turn it into a day bed or toddler bed.
Who it’s ideal for?
Ones who want to use this crib with newborns, infants, and toddlers as well.
Pros
- GREENGUARD Gold certified
- Mattress can be raised through four levels
- Can be converted into a toddler bed and a day bed
- Fits average crib size mattresses
- Comes in over five color variations
- Has a modern look
- Has a low profile for easy use with shorter parents
- Non-toxic finishing processes to guarantee its phthalate and lead-free
Cons
- Bit pricey
Best budget option – Storkcraft Hillcrest Fixed Side Convertible Crib
Product info:
- Dimensions: 54.5×30.75×34 inches
- Material: Pine Wood
- Weight: 41.2 pounds
- Color: Espresso, Pebble Grey, White, Grey
What makes it a good option
The four panels are slatted so you can see your child from any angle. Its simple design helps it blend in with any nursery decor. You’ll find no engravings or sharp edges and hardware that may harm you or your child. The mattress base is adjustable in three different heights, making this crib a great option for short moms. It’s certified by leading safety bodies to guarantee it doesn’t bear any toxic materials. You get value for your money as the crib will grow with your child. You can reassemble it into a day bed, toddler bed, and finally a full-size bed suitable for adolescents.
Who it’s ideal for?
Any age, from infants to grown children, can use this crib as it’s convertible.
Pros
- Certified by JPMA, CPSC, and ASTM International
- Slatted layout for easy monitoring
- Can convert into a full bed, toddler bed, and day bed
- Made with a non-toxic finish
- Smooth finish
- Has an adjustable mattress base
- Easy to switch to different layouts
- It’s lightweight but a sturdy build
- Affordable
- A low-profile crib
Cons
- Assembly instructions are a bit hard to understand
- Slats are a bit too spaced
Best classic option – Dream On Me, Carson Classic 3 in 1
Product info:
- Dimensions: 54x31x40 inches
- Material: Pine Wood
- Weight: 36 pounds
- Color: White, Cherry, Black, Steel Grey, Natural, Espresso,
What makes it a good option
Dream On Me is the only option on our list that comes with wheels. These come in handy, especially when you need to move the crib around for whatever reason. The wheels also come with safety locks, so once in place, you can secure them to keep the crib stationary. You have six color palettes to choose from, depending on your nursery color scheme. The mattress levels can be adjusted, giving you an easier time to get your child and put them to sleep. This also means you can adjust it to whatever height you are most comfortable with. You can convert the bed into different layouts, depending on your child’s age. For infants and newborns, the crib setup will do. As your baby grows and becomes mobile, you can switch it to a day bed or toddler bed.
Who it’s ideal for?
From newborns to toddlers.
Pros:
- Comes with wheels with safety locks on them
- Can be converted into a day bed and toddler bed
- Lightweight
- Mattress adjustable to three levels
- Available in six colors
- Comes with detailed instructions for assembly
- Stylish
- Easy to assemble
- Affordable
Cons:
- Convertible parts must be purchased separately
Final Word
For shorter moms, we recommend you set your eyes on the Babyletto Modo 3-in-1 Convertible Crib. The fact that it’s naturally low means that you’re sure to have an easy time reaching your child. To add to that advantage, the mattress level is adjustable helping you achieve the perfect height. With this crib, you’ll also have completely slatted frames that can be converted into a day bed or a toddler bed once your child grows. The crib can also hold up to 50 pounds. That means you won’t need to purchase another crib for at least two or more years, depending on how fast your child grows. But before you make your purchase, have a look at other available options. Some have wheels and others can get converted into a full bed. Choose an option that will best suit your needs.
Last update on 2024-07-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
