Mini Crib Vs Crib: Which One Is Right For Your Baby?

Are you ready to welcome the new member of your family? There must be many things to prepare, and the crib is among them. Cribs come in different sizes, making parents confused when shopping for them. So what should you choose between a mini crib vs a regular crib?

We will give you a side-by-side comparison so that you can determine the better one for your little angel.

The Differences Between Mini Cribs and Regular Cribs

The most apparent difference between the two types is the size. Besides, each item shines out in its own way. While the mini crib is more flexible and portable, the standard-size one wins in terms of durability.

Here is a rundown of outstanding features provided by the two items.

Dimensions

The significant difference between standard cribs vs mini cribs is their size, as you can guess from the names. The standard model is obviously bigger than its mini version.

The standard size of a crib is 55″ x 29″ x 35″, with an acceptable variance of no more than 5/8 inches for each dimension.

The width of a mini is generally 28 inches, sometimes 25 inches. Its length varies from 26 to 41 inches.

You can see how big is a mini crib vs a standard crib through the size comparison table of some popular models below.

Safety Standards

Safety should be your first consideration when buying a sleeper for your child. Thankfully, both types have high safety standards.

The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) has claimed that the standard safety features and guidelines apply to every crib. The following are some of them:

No drop-down sideboard

There must be no drop-down sideboard on these items because of the reported accidents.

Crib Slats

Before 2008, people used flimsy and lightweight wood to make these cribs.  They could be prone to cracking, particularly on the weight-bearing planks beneath the mattress.

The new regulations require crib makers to use specified types of wood that are robust and capable of holding the weight limits they claim.

Hardware

These baby sleepers must feature hardware to prevent the screw and bolt loosening from happening with frequent use. This drastically lowers the risk of equipment failure-related accidents.

Portability

Since the mini cribs are more compact, you can move them around your house easier. Some models, like the DaVinci Dylan Portable 3-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib, have wheels and can fold up to make transportation much more straightforward.

On the other hand, the cribs are bigger and not easy to move. They aim to stay at a fixed position in your house.

Lifespan

According to CPSC standards, a child may outgrow a mini crib as soon as he can climb out the walls. Because the CPSC is less specific when talking about weight, there is some variation in the weight capacity across makers.

Mini cribs can hold about 35 pounds in general. As a result, memorizing the limits for your baby in this sleeper is as simple as 30-35 pounds.

You usually have more flexibility when lowering the mattress in standard cribs. In most cases, this sleeper can still accommodate a 35-inch-tall baby. The most important rule is that kids can get out of the crib when they are ready.

Although no standardized weight limit exists, most regular cribs specify a 50-pound capacity in their safety guidelines. In conclusion, your baby will outgrow a mini-crib before moving to a standard-sized one.

Stability

Since mini cribs are more lightweight and smaller, you can’t expect much about their durability, especially when compared with the standard versions. It doesn’t mean that these small cribs are not safe. Yet, the bigger models can handle more frequent use.

Moreover, some mini cribs have wheels for portability. Unfortunately, these wheels are very likely to make them unstable. Even when they have brakes, the wheels can still sway. If you want to improve the situation, choose models without wheels or reputable manufacturers.

Bedding Options

You may like the mini-cribs because they can fit nicely in any part of your bedroom. However, finding the correct sheet size for it is a nuisance.

The advantage of a standardized size is that accessories are also available in these sizes. Customized sheets for your mini cribs, on the other hand, can be expensive and time-consuming to buy.

The essential criterion for mini crib bedding is a tight and breathable material, not too loose as it will cause your baby to get caught in it.

Mattresses

CPSC claims that mini cribs should come with their mattresses. However, when the mattresses degrade, you will have difficulty finding the right one. Meanwhile, getting the mattress for its regular crib is straightforward.

Another difference in the mattresses of the two crib types is the size regulation. While regular cribs use mattresses with regulated dimensions, the ones in small versions vary.

It’s a rule of thumb to find the perfectly-fitted sheet for the mattress. If it’s too big, your baby will get caught in there.

When buying a mini crib or regular crib, try to research the accessibility of the mattress and its bedding. Your child should feel comfortable while sleeping on it.

Features

There are many models of standard cribs to pick from. The top choices are convertible cribs. You can also choose a combo item with a changing table, wheels, and foldability.

The mini versions also have some similar features, but they are better at folding and can convert easier.

Ease of Setup

Unless you’re an expert or have construction talents, you’re indeed dreading putting your crib together. From this viewpoint, mini cribs will be far more desirable to you.

These sleepers are smaller and lighter. As a result, assembling them is more straightforward than putting together a regular crib.

Price

Mini cribs are often less expensive than regular cribs at first. However, you’d better consider other costs when choosing between the type of cribs. Standard cribs might not always save money when you buy them, but they frequently do in the long term.

As previously stated, mini cribs are unable to expand with your baby. Hence, you have to acquire a new one for him. Many parents choose to use bigger cribs to use them for longer. If you purchase high-quality cribs, their lifespan is much more worthwhile.

Comparison Table

This table will help summarize what we have discussed so far.

Pros and Cons

Each type has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Remember to check both sides before making your purchase.

Standard Crib Vs Mini Crib – Which Is Better?

There is no perfect choice. It all boils down to your preference and requirement to determine which is better in particular cases.

When to Pick a Mini Crib?

This type is superior if:

• You have a tight budget.
• There is limited space in your room.
• You want to move the crib around from room to room.
• You have two cribs in your room for the twins.
• This crib type is not your baby’s full-time sleeper.

When to Pick a Standard Crib?

Go for this option if:

• You want to use the crib for a long time.
• You plan to fix it in your room.
• You need a full-time bed for your baby.
• You look for a long-term value and are willing to pay for it at this moment.

FAQs

So you have found out the pros and cons of each item. The following questions will give you more information about this topic.

1. How to measure a crib?

The measurement of a crib refers to the interior measurement estimated in inches. You can use a measuring tape for this task. If you want to measure the crib to choose a mattress, you’d better leave a gap of about 1/2 inch between the mattress and the crib. This gap will be convenient for installing and wrapping sheets for the mattress.

2. Is a mini crib big enough?

This sleeper is large enough for a newborn. However, your baby will outgrow soon. You can’t let him sleep there for longer than in a standard-sized crib.

3. Can twins share a mini crib?

The best sleep option for baby twins is two separate mini-cribs because:

• Your babies have more room to roll around.
• They can feel more comfortable and have better sleep.
• This option reduces the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).

4. Are all mini cribs the same size?

No. The government establishes no regulations about the size of this item. Most of them measure 38″ x 24″ for the best convenience. Besides, no matter how big they are, the standard-sized things still outweigh them in terms of size.

You can see the size comparison table of some popular crib and mini crib models above.

5. What age is a mini crib good for?

Babies can usually fit in small cribs until they’re two to three years old or until they can climb the rails.

6. Does a regular crib mattress fit a mini crib?

No, each crib requires mattresses of identified size. The standard crib mattress size is about 51 x 27 inches, while the mini crib mattress size is 38 x 24 inches. Your baby may get stuck in the extra part of the regular crib mattress.

Conclusion

While mini cribs are transportable and take up less space, the standard versions have a higher value thanks to their durability and long lifespan. Each option has pros and cons. It’s necessary to consider what you look for in the baby’s sleeper and make your decision.

Hopefully, our guide can help you settle on the best decision. Or check this list for other choices.