The crib is the centerpiece of any nursery. It anchors the room, sets the tone for style, and depending on the type of crib you choose, can last for years to come. You’ve started shopping for your little one’s first crib, and you keep coming across convertible cribs. 

With so many different options and so much information to sort through, you’re looking for an all-in-one guide to these all-in-one cribs — and we’ve got you covered. Here’s Babyletto’s official guide to convertible cribs: what they are, how they work, whether they’re worth the cost, and some of the top things to look for as you choose yours. 

What is a convertible crib?

So, what is a convertible crib, and how do they work? Generally speaking, a convertible crib is a crib that converts (either with an included or separate conversion kit) across multiple crib stages. Not sure what we mean by crib stages? Think: bassinet, full-size crib, toddler bed…every convertible crib has a set number of stages it can transition through, and that translates to the number in its name.

What are the different types of convertible cribs?

Babyletto has a selection of 3-in-1, 4-in-1, and even 8-in-1 convertible cribs (we’ll focus on that last type later). Here’s a look at a few of our best-selling 3-in-1 and 4-in-1 cribs, and a little bit about how they work.

The Hudson 3-in-1 Crib is a Babyletto icon. It transitions from a full-size crib to a toddler bed to a daybed, and comes with an included toddler bed conversion kit. All you need to add is a mattress and some organic bedding. The Lolly 3-in-1 Crib follows the same formula, just with a slightly more playful aesthetic. Both cribs are designed to last from newborn to age four or five. 

The transition ages vary from baby to baby, but the general timeline goes like this, with the stages overlapping based on your unique little one: 

1. Crib: 6 months to 3 years old

2. Toddler Bed: 1.5 to 2.5 years old

3. Daybed: 2.5 to 4 or 5 years old 

As for 4-in-1 cribs, the Gelato 4-in-1 Crib offers an extra stage that makes it truly timeless, converting across the three stages listed above, and then into a full-size bed. For smaller spaces, mini cribs like the Gelato 4-in-1 Mini Crib offer the same conversions but are more compact, with the final stage being a twin-size bed rather than a full-size bed. 

Simply grab a Twin/Full-Size Bed Conversion Kit when your growing kid is ready (usually aged five or older), and your crib will last seamlessly through the big kid and teen years. 

What is an All-Stages®️ 8-in-1 Crib?

Our 8-in-1 Cribs are also called our All-Stages Cribs®️. These cribs last from ages zero to five, and offer four main conversions with four smaller stages in between. They’re designed to grow at your little one’s pace, adapt to your changing space, and generally evolve alongside your growing family. Here’s how they work. 

Our growing All-Stages®️ Collection includes the viral Yuzu 8-in-1 Crib and the versatile Pogo 8-in-1 Crib. They transition across the following stages, and include every conversion kit you’ll need along the way.

1. Bassinet. 0 to 3 months. Designed for safe co-sleeping, and features removable wheels for easy portability so you can keep baby close during their first weeks home.

2. Midi Crib. 0 to 2 years. An in-between size for when they’ve outgrown the bassinet but don’t need a full-size crib yet. A bit wider than standard mini cribs, it’s perfect for small or shared spaces.

3. Midi Toddler Bed. 1 to 2 years. When you're both ready for a little more freedom, convert your midi crib to a midi toddler bed with rails for added security. 

4. Midi Daybed. 1 to 2 years. Remove the toddler rails and take another step toward the big kid bed they’ve started to ask for. 

5. Full-Size Crib. 6 months to 3 years. A standard crib size with plenty of room to grow. It features two mattress levels to use as baby learns to roll over, sit up, and stand.

6. Full-Size Toddler Bed. 1.5  to 2.5 years. When they’re ready, convert your full-size crib to a full-size toddler bed with rails for extra security. 

7. Full-Size Daybed. 2.5 to 5 years. The same as the midi daybed, but more spacious. Remove the toddler rails when they’re ready for their next big step forward. 

8. Junior Bed. 2.5 to 5 years. Your little one’s first big kid bed, until they’re ready for something bigger.

In addition to all the necessary conversion kits, the Pogo and Yuzu Collections both come with a 1” bassinet pad and a custom 2” midi crib pad. The only things you’ll need to buy separately are a full-size crib mattress when they’re ready, and the bedding of your choice. For extra support in the midi stage, we also recommend the 4" Pure Core Midi Crib Mattress.

Is a convertible crib worth the cost?

You may be asking yourself, is a convertible crib worth the cost? The short answer is yes, since its multi-functional design can save you money in the long run. Rather than buy a bassinet, then a standard crib, then a toddler bed, and eventually a twin- or full-sized bed, you can get them all at once, for one set price, all in one box — save for any conversions and accessories you may need to add along the way. 

Because of the adaptability that’s built-in, opting for a convertible crib can be more cost-effective, less wasteful, and less stressful — you’ll be ready and able to transition to the next stage whenever feels right for you and your little one, without needing to go out and buy a whole new piece of furniture.

What to consider when buying a crib

Though this all may sound overwhelming, the good news is that our convertible cribs (along with our dressers and seating) can check off all the boxes when it comes to the most important things to consider when furnishing your nursery. Here’s an overview of some key considerations as you shop for your nursery centerpiece and the rest of your nursery essentials.

1. Materials safety. Not all furniture is safely made, so it’s important to choose wisely. Many furniture products can contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), that are emitted as gasses from certain solids or liquids (this releasing of VOCs is sometimes called off-gassing). These chemicals are most often found in toxic paints and finishes, and can cause a range of short- and long-term adverse health effects for your family. While this may sound scary, there are specific certifications you can look for that will ensure your nursery pieces are tested for emission levels.

2. Safety standards and certifications. One of the most important certifications to look out for is the GREENGUARD Gold certification. The GREENGUARD Gold certification is a voluntary third-party program that tests products for more than 10,000 chemicals and VOCs. Certified products are scientifically proven to meet some of the world's most rigorous third-party chemical emissions standards, contributing to cleaner indoor air for your family to breathe. When you install your crib, it’s also important to consider CPSC safety standards and follow other sleep safety tips.

3. Practical considerations. Beyond safety, there are some other practical considerations to take into account as you choose your crib — a major one being size and space. Once you determine what room your crib will be in, you can see how big of a crib will fit and what options you may have. For smaller or shared spaces, mini cribs like the Origami Mini Crib or Lolly 4-in-1 Mini Crib can be great choices. Even though each stage of the Lolly Mini Crib is smaller than those of a standard crib, it still offers four conversions and gets as big as a twin-size bed.

4. Durability and longevity. Another major consideration? How long you want to use your crib. Given options ranging from a 3-in-1 convertible crib, to a 4-in-1 convertible crib, to an 8-in-1 All-Stages®️ Crib, it’s up to you to think about things like how long you want your investment to last, and how far into the future you want to plan when buying your babe their first bed.

5. Sustainability. Sustainability is a huge consideration for many new parents, especially as they think about how the future will look for their little ones. Choosing to invest in “forever furniture” can help reduce furniture waste and contribute to a healthier planet for your family to grow. The Pogo Collection is made with responsibly sourced FSC®️ certified wood, and both of Babyletto’s All-Stages®️ Cribs are made with sustainably sourced New Zealand pine wood — one of the most renewable woods available. Narrowing down your search to products made with renewable materials is just one more small step that can make a big impact.

Find the best crib for you

From safety to sustainability and cost-effectiveness to longevity, a convertible crib — especially an 8-in-1 All Stages®️ Crib — can be the ultimate all-in-one solution for a growing family. But choosing a crib is all about finding the best crib for you. Continue to think about what matters most as you create your nursery, and explore Babyletto’s entire crib selection today.