Are you searching for the right crib for your baby’s nursery? Looking through the many brands and varying models on offer can be overwhelming. You might already have shortlisted a few options for further review. If those options include Graco and Storkcraft then this article is for you. Just how do Graco vs Storkcraft cribs compare in terms of durability, versatility and safety? Keep reading as I investigate these crucial features.
Graco and Storkcraft both produce cribs of varying sizes, making it easy to find a full-size crib or the smaller mini crib. Both brands also provide options that include different types of storage such as changing tables or drawers placed under the crib. The only real difference between the two is the varying styles and designs in each range.
Is Storkcraft the same as Graco?
If you’re struggling to tell Storkcraft and Graco apart in terms of quality and style, there’s a good reason for that. Storkcraft actually manufactures baby cribs for Graco. Despite being a well-established baby product brand, Graco’s crib manufacturer went bankrupt, resulting in Storkcraft stepping in. Graco has about 18 various crib designs and you can expect high-quality products from both brands.
Graco vs Storkcraft Cribs – Similarities and Differences
As I’ve mentioned, both brands’ cribs are manufactured by Storkcraft which means they are similar in many aspects. There are however a few key differences in design, style, and size in the individual ranges. Knowing what’s available from each brand will make it easier to choose a favorite.
Full-size cribs (with and without changers or drawers)
Full-size cribs are great for the simple reason that they can accommodate your little one from birth to early toddler years. Depending on the option you’ve selected, you might even be able to convert a full-size crib into a toddler or daybed for use as your little one grows.
Ordinarily, a full-size crib is 28” in width and 52” in length. I’ve listed a few of the more popular full-size cribs from both brands. It’s also worth noting that both full-size ranges offer options with drawers or combined changing tables.
Graco
Storkcraft
Here’s a quick comparison between a Storkcraft and Graco full-size crib to highlight some of the significant differences.
| Features | Graco Benton 5-in-1 Convertible Crib | Storkcraft Portofino 5-in-1 Convertible Crib with changing table |
| Size | 29.72 x 56.73 x 41.68 inches | 71 x 32.5 x 43 inches |
| Convertible type | 5-in-1 (crib toddler bed, daybed, full-size bed) | 5-in-1 (crib, toddler bed, daybed, full-size bed, changing table can also be used as separate drawers) |
| Mattress height adjustment | 3 height adjustment options | 3 height adjustment options |
| Safety Certification | ASTM and CPSIA safety standards, JPMA certified | GREENGUARD Gold Certified, JPMA certified |
| Material | Pine | Wood |
| Available colors | White, driftwood, Espresso, grey, black | Espresso, cherry, white, grey |
| Additional features | Stylish headboard | Changing table with storage |
Mini cribs
Mini cribs aren’t that much smaller than full-size cribs. However, if you’re living in an apartment or have a small space, those few inches could end up making a huge difference! On average, a mini crib is 24” wide and 38” long, making it 4” shorter in width and 13” shorter in length.
This may vary between the different options. Always measure the space you have available and compare it to the models you’ve shortlisted. Let’s look at a few common favorites.
Graco
Storkcraft
Here’s a quick comparison between the two mini crib favorites if you have a smaller space.
| Features | Graco Stella 4-in-1 Mini Crib | Storkcraft Petal 5-in-1 Mini Crib |
| Size | 27.52 x 43.39 x 41.57 inches | |
| Convertible type | 4-in-1 (crib, daybed, twin size bed, headboard) mattress included | 4-in-1 (crib, daybed, twin-sized, headboard) |
| Mattress height adjustment | 3 height adjustment options | |
| Safety Certification | JPMA Certified, ASTM & CPSIA safety standards | JPMA Certified, Meets ASTM & CPSIA safety standards |
| Material | Pine | Pine wood |
| Available colors | Pebble grey | White, Espresso, grey |
| Additional features | Mattress included | Mattress included |
Portable cribs
Portable cribs are ideal if you need to move the crib around or if you travel a lot. With this in mind, portable cribs are often referred to as travel cribs. They’re easy to fold and usually lightweight enough to carry around.
Graco has a wide range of playards that double as portable cribs if you don’t mind a different version of the traditional crib structure. Popular portable crib options from both brands are listed below.
Graco
Storkcraft
- Storkcraft doesn’t appear to have a portable option
If you’re leaning toward a portable crib, the table below highlights the differences between the two favorite options.
| Features | Graco Travel Lite Crib |
| Size | 23.2 x 33.5 x 32.2 inches |
| Convertible type | Converts to playard |
| Mattress height adjustment | Height adjustable bassinet |
| Safety Certification | JPMA Certified |
| Material | Mesh for breathability |
| Available colors | Manor (dark grey), Montana (light grey) |
| Additional features | Soft canopy with toys, lightweight, easy to fold, mobile, castor wheels |
Graco Cribs
There’s no denying that Graco is currently one of the most popular brand options for strollers, car seats, and cribs. With a wide variety of cribs to choose from, you’re guaranteed to find one that will fit the available space and your budget. One of the more popular Graco cribs is the Graco Benton 5-in-1 Convertible Crib. This is the model I wrote about among the best cribs with a changing table.
Why consider it
The Benton 5-in-1 has a timeless and stylish design that’ll fit in the nursery’s current decor as well as in future designs. As a convertible crib, you’ll get a bed that grows with your baby. For the price of a crib, you’ll get a crib, toddler bed, daybed and a full-size bed with a headboard.
Since this crib is open on all sides and doesn’t have a solid headboard, it provides more breathability which is crucial for preventing SIDS. Despite being a full-size crib, its slim design makes it easy to fit in smaller spaces. With five color options, you’ll easily find one that complements your decor. The Benton comes as a stand-alone crib or as a crib with a changing table – Graco Benton 5-in-1 Convertible Crib and Changing Table.
Pros
- Sturdy & durable
- Meets safety requirements
- Minimalist frame convenient for smaller spaces
- Converts into other beds
- Available as a stand-alone or with changer
Cons
- Some exposed screws
Are Graco Cribs safe?
Since Graco cribs are made by Storkcraft, their cribs follow the same stringent safety and compliance protocols. That means all cribs and accessories are GREENGUARD Gold Certified as well as being tested by the JPMA.
The paint used on the cribs is lead and phthalate-free. Graco cribs are steady and don’t have any sharp edges or rough areas. It’s important to note that the spaces between the slats are smaller than the maximum allowed. This ensures that babies won’t get stuck. For more on their safety standards, check out the Graco website.
How easy is it to set up a Graco crib?
Excitement at having your baby’s crib delivered can be met with apprehension when you realize you have to assemble a bunch of planks and rails. Fortunately, there’s no need to stress! Handy instructions and easy-to-follow video tutorials make it easy to assemble your little one’s crib. I’ve included a short clip that shows how to assemble the Graco Benton 4-in-1 Convertible Crib to show you just how easy it actually is.
Which mattress should you get for a Graco Crib?
Graco has a few crib mattresses to choose from. The most popular of these include the Graco Premium Foam Crib & Toddler Mattress. You could also opt for the Graco Ultra 2-in-1 Premium Dual-Sided Crib & Toddler Mattress.
Storkcraft Cribs
There are several options to consider if you’re partial to the Storkcraft brand. The Storkcraft Steveston 5-in-1 Convertible Crib and Changer with Drawer have become a very popular model with new parents.
Why consider it
The Steveston is a common favorite with new parents. One of the reasons for this is that it converts to all the beds your little ones will need as they grow. Investing in a convertible bed ultimately saves parents a considerable amount of money in the long run.
Another reason this crib is worth considering is that it comes with a matching changing table. This means you don’t have to look for a separate unit to match the crib. For more storage, the crib has a drawer underneath to store bedding or clothes.
Pros
- JPMA certified
- Changing table has 2 shelves
- Crib features a storage drawer
- Aside from the crib, it converts to 3 other beds as your baby grows
- 4 neutral colors to complement any nursery
- Stylish craftsmanship made from New Zealand pine wood
Cons
- Changing table isn’t standard size
- Screws are exposed
What is Storkcraft as a brand?
Storkcraft was established in Richmond, Canada in 1945 and has always provided families with innovative, affordable, and quality nursery furniture. This well-established brand has also been the recipient of the 2018 & 2019 Women’s Choice Awards for America’s Most Recommended Baby Furniture.
They also received 2020, 2021, and 2022 Women’s Choice Awards for 9 out of 10 Customer Recommended Baby & Kids Furniture.
Are Storkcraft Cribs safe?
All Storkcraft furniture products have been rigorously tested to meet all the relevant safety requirements as set out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and ASTM International.
Cribs, mattresses, toddler safety guardrails, toddler beds, and changing tables are all certified by the Juvenile Products Manufacturer’s Association (JPMA). In addition, all products are GREENGUARD Gold Certified. The paint used on their cribs is lead-free and non-toxic. There’s more info about this on the Storkcraft website.
How easy is it to set up a Storkcraft crib?
Storkcraft cribs are relatively easy to assemble. With clear instructions supplied, just about anyone can assemble one. Watch this short clip to see how easy it is to assemble the Storkcraft Pacific 4-in-1 Convertible Crib.
Which mattress should you get for a Storkcraft Crib?
Storkcraft doesn’t have a specific branded crib mattress. A good option you could consider using in your Stokcraft crib is the Newton Baby Crib Mattress and Toddler Bed. Another popular choice is the Safety 1st Heavenly Dreams Baby Crib Mattress. Both options are waterproof, durable, and firm enough to ensure a comfortable night’s sleep! Be sure to check the measurements of your crib before you choose a mattress.
Conclusion
When it comes to Graco vs Storkcraft cribs, my recommendation is the Storkcraft Steveston 5-in-1 Convertible Crib and Changer with Drawer. It’s a firm favorite because it not only provides a stylish convertible crib but features additional storage space as well as a changer table.
Still not sure about which option to choose? Check out my article on cribs with a changing table which should provide you with additional options to add to your shortlist. Another article is on the differences between a mini crib and a regular one which will also provide more choices to help you find the ideal crib for your baby’s nursery!
Last update on 2024-04-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
