The Best Convertible Cribs for Every Nursery
A convertible crib is the only bed you'll need to buy until your child is practically in elementary school.
The best models transition easily from a safe infant crib to a toddler bed, daybed, and even a full-size bed frame, saving you money and hassle. Look for sturdy construction, safety certifications like GREENGUARD Gold, and conversion kits that don’t require a master’s degree in engineering to use.
- Storage is a game-changer Cribs with built-in drawers maximize your nursery’s limited space, keeping essentials like sheets and diapers within reach.
- 'X-in-1' matters A 5-in-1 crib offers more long-term value than a 3-in-1 by including a full-size bed conversion, but check if conversion kits are included.
- Certifications aren't just marketing GREENGUARD Gold certification means the crib has been tested for over 10,000 chemicals, ensuring healthier indoor air for your baby.
- Check the conversion kit cost Many cribs require a separate purchase for toddler or full-size bed conversion rails, which can add a significant hidden cost.
Best for a Coordinated Nursery: Carter’s by Davinci Colby 4-in-1 Convertible Crib
The Carter’s by DaVinci Colby crib offers a clean, washed-natural finish that pairs perfectly with other Carter’s nursery furniture. It converts four
- Clean, minimalist design
- Coordinates with a full furniture line
- GREENGUARD Gold Certified for low emissions
- Four adjustable mattress heights
- Full-size conversion kit sold separately
- Washed finish can be inconsistent
- Softer wood may scratch easily
Best with Storage: Graco Hadley 5-in-1 Convertible Crib with Drawer
Keep your nursery organized with the Graco Hadley’s full-size under-crib storage drawer. This 5-in-1 crib adapts from infancy to a full-size bed, maxi
- Spacious, full-width storage drawer
- 5-in-1 convertibility offers maximum longevity
- Sturdy and reliable construction
- Assembly is relatively straightforward
- Drawer can be tricky to align perfectly
- Conversion kits sold separately
- Drawer doesn’t have a top cover, allowing dust in
Best Overall: Graco Benton 5-in-1 Convertible Crib
A parent-favorite for its blend of classic style, 5-in-1 convertibility, and accessible price. This durable crib is GREENGUARD Gold certified, ensurin
- Excellent value for the price
- 5-in-1 conversion grows with child from infancy to full-size
- Simple, classic design fits any decor
- Lightweight yet sturdy
- Conversion kits are an extra cost
- Paint may chip over time with heavy use
- Wood is on the softer side and can dent
Best Premium: Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Baby Crib
With its mid-century modern design and solid pine build, the Babyletto Hudson is a stylish centerpiece. It includes the toddler conversion kit, saving
- Stylish mid-century modern design
- Toddler bed conversion kit is included in the box
- Made from solid, sustainable New Zealand pine
- Low-profile design for easier access to baby
- Significantly higher price point
- Only converts up to a daybed/toddler bed (3-in-1)
- Washed natural finish can vary between products
Best Value: Delta Children Essex 4-in-1 Convertible Baby Crib
Get modern, two-tone style without the high price tag. The Essex crib offers 4-in-1 convertibility and a sturdy build, making it a smart, long-lasting
- Very affordable price point
- Chic, two-tone modern look
- Converts four ways for long-term use
- Sturdy for the price
- Conversion rails sold separately
- Assembly instructions can be confusing
- Not GREENGUARD Gold Certified
Best for Classic Style: DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Crib
The Kalani’s gentle curves and timeless design have made it a nursery staple. This GREENGUARD Gold certified crib offers four conversion stages, growi
- Elegant, timeless design with curved rails
- Made from 100% solid, sustainable wood
- Proven durability as a long-time parent favorite
- Converts all the way to a full-size bed
- Heavier and bulkier than other models
- Full-size conversion kit is an extra purchase
- Assembly can be a two-person job
Side-by-side comparison
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Best for a Coordinated Nursery
Carter’s by Davinci Colby 4-in-1 Convertible Crib
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Best with Storage
Graco Hadley 5-in-1 Convertible Crib with Drawer –
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Best Overall
Graco Benton 5-in-1 Convertible Crib – GREENGUARD
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Best Premium
Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Baby Crib – GR
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Best Value
Delta Children Essex 4-in-1 Convertible Baby Crib,
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Best for Classic Style
DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Crib in White, G
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| Convertibility | 4-in-1 | 5-in-1 | 5-in-1 | 3-in-1 | 4-in-1 | 4-in-1 |
| Storage Drawer | No | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Toddler Kit Included | No | No | No | Yes | No | No |
| GREENGUARD Gold | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Price | $249.00 | $299.99 | $179.99 | $499.00 | $169.99 | $249.00 |
| BUY NOW | BUY NOW | BUY NOW | BUY NOW | BUY NOW | BUY NOW |
What to look for in Convertible Cribs
When should I convert the crib to a toddler bed?
The time to convert is when your child begins to attempt climbing out, or when they reach about 35 inches in height. Most parents make the switch between 18 and 24 months. Always move the mattress to its lowest setting long before this happens for safety.
Do I need to buy the conversion kit at the same time as the crib?
It’s highly recommended. Models and colors can be discontinued, leaving you unable to find the matching conversion kit years later. Buying it upfront ensures you’ll have it when you need it and that the color and finish will match perfectly.
What does GREENGUARD Gold certification actually mean for a crib?
It means the crib has been rigorously tested and scientifically proven to have low chemical emissions, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This contributes to healthier indoor air quality in your nursery, which is important since babies spend so much time sleeping there.
Can I use any standard crib mattress?
Yes, all the cribs on this list fit a standard-size crib mattress. For safety, the mattress should fit snugly, with no more than two fingers of space between the mattress and the crib frame. This prevents the baby from getting trapped.
The bottom line
- Carter’s by Davinci Colby: The best choice for creating a perfectly matched nursery with its coordinating furniture line.
- Graco Hadley: Solves nursery clutter with its massive under-crib storage drawer.
- Graco Benton: Our Best Overall pick for its fantastic price, 5-in-1 convertibility, and widespread parent approval.
- Babyletto Hudson: A premium, stylish centerpiece that conveniently includes the toddler conversion kit.
- Delta Children Essex: Offers trendy, two-tone style and 4-in-1 functionality at an exceptional value.
- DaVinci Kalani: The go-to for a classic, heirloom look with its solid wood construction and elegant curves.
For most families, the Graco Benton 5-in-1 is the clear winner, offering unbeatable versatility and certified safety at a price that’s hard to argue with. If storage is a must-have, the Graco Hadley’s integrated drawer is a game-changer, while the Babyletto Hudson is the top pick for those prioritizing modern design.
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