Most new baby products try to improve upon the design or function of an existing product; sometimes, however, a new baby product sets itself apart by combining several existing products together, providing parents with the convenience and value of a one-stop purchase.
One example of this latter type of baby product innovation is the 3-in-1 crib. The best 3-in-1 cribs are easy to convert between a classic baby crib, a toddler bed and a daybed.
Broadly speaking, to convert the crib into a daybed you simply remove the front rail of the crib and use the same mattress and bedding. Conversion to a toddler bed removes the front rail and replaces it with some type of guard rail to keep an older, more mobile toddler safe.
Previously, the best baby cribs could be reused if a family had another infant to occupy a toddler’s old crib. A 3-in-1 crib, though, offers the possibility that a baby can sleep in his or her crib into their toddler years and beyond after a few slight adjustments are made to the structure of the crib.
Obviously, this makes a 3-in-1 crib a cost-effective option, saving parents the money and hassle involved in trying to purchase new beds at a rate that keeps up with their fast-growing baby. Do keep in mind that mattresses are often sold separately, as are useful accessories such as mobiles and crib soothers.
Factors to consider before you buy
Those looking at 3-in-1 crib reviews and product descriptions should focus on a few key factors.
- Adjustable mattress height: Since versatility is the primary benefit of a 3-in-1 crib, you want to make sure it accommodates different stages of infant development. Most 3-in-1 cribs will offer a certain number of adjustable mattress height positions. A higher mattress height allows you to more easily place your newborn inside the crib, and as they grow you can lower the height to keep them safe as they become able to sit up and move around.
- What's included with the crib: Most 3-in-1 cribs do not come with everything you need to convert them into all three bed options as part of the standard purchase package. Usually, you will need to buy a conversion kit to complete one or both of the crib conversion possibilities. The conversion kit will usually include the guard rail necessary for a toddler bed. The crib-sized mattress is usually sold separately as well, and customers will want to make sure the crib fits a standard-sized crib mattress.
- Materials used to make the crib: Parents may want to pay particular attention to the materials used in constructing their 3-in-1 crib. Specifically, the materials used in painting the finish are of concern, because babies often find teething relief on their wooden cribs and you don't want them to ingest any toxic chemicals or metals.
Before we share our favorite models, check out the table below for an overview.
Quick comparison: Best 3-in-1 cribs
3-in-1 Cribs | Features we love | Rating | Buy it now |
|---|---|---|---|
DaVinci Jenny Lind 3-in-1 Convertible Crib | - 4 adjustable mattress positions | ||
Babyletto Harlow 3-in-1 Convertible Crib | - 4 level mattress support | ||
Union 3-in-1 Convertible Crib | - Non-toxic finish is free | ||
Delta Children Capri 3-in-1 Crib | - 3-position mattress height adjustment | ||
Dream On Me Casco 3-in-1Mini Crib and Dressing Table Combo | - Is a crib, daybed and twin size bed |
Keep reading for all the details on your best options.
DaVinci Jenny Lind 3-in-1 Convertible Crib
This 3-in-1 crib places an emphasis on using quality, safe, sustainable materials in its design and construction. It is GREENGUARD Gold certified, is free of many harmful toxins and is manufactured using 100% sustainable New Zealand pine wood. It also meets the ASTM international and US CPSC safety standards.
The crib is also versatile in a number of ways. If a conversion kit is purchased with the crib, it can be turned into an infant crib, a toddler bed and a day bed. Wheels are also an option when purchasing this crib.
Customers interested in this crib have a choice between 6 different colors and, for an additional fee, may purchase expert assembly service.
Pros
- 6 colors/finishes available
- Tested/certified to be free of harmful chemicals
- 100% sustainable New Zealand pinewood
- 3-in-1 convertibility
- 4 adjustable mattress positions
- Wheels included
- Stationary rail design
Cons
- Bed skirt may not fit crib correctly
- Mattress may tilt
Our favorite feature
Most parents and their little ones have had great experiences with this product, and the steps taken by the manufacturer to use safe, green materials really sets this apart from others. The crib has been GREENGUARD Gold Certified and meets ASTM international and U.S. CPSC safety standards.
Babyletto Harlow 3-in-1 Convertible Crib
Available in two different colors, this crib incorporates an acrylic, see-through front panel that allows babies to look around the room while they’re resting inside. The acrylic used on the front panel is recyclable and has the edges smoothed out so parents don’t have to worry about sharp sides.
It's made of 100% sustainable New Zealand pinewood and features four-level mattress support.
As its name suggests, this crib is really three different cribs in one: an infant crib, a toddler bed and a day bed. Though it is more expensive than many of its competitors, the company does offer customers the opportunity to purchase a 2- or 3-year warranty to protect their investment.
Pros
- 2 colors/finishes available
- Expert assembly available
- 3-in-1 convertibility
- Hidden hardware construction
- 100% sustainable New Zealand pinewood
- 4-level mattress support
- Recyclable acrylic
- Warranties available
Cons
- Shipping damage issues
Our favorite feature
The look of this crib really sets it apart. For the parent who likes the idea of a crib that will impress other moms and dads who come to see it, this may be one of the best 3-in-1 cribs available. Not only does the see-through acrylic panel give this crib a modern, high-end aesthetic, it also allows curious babies to look around the room as they develop awareness of their surroundings. Common issues with acrylic, like sharp edges and a tendency to yellow over time, have not been reported to be an issue with this crib. Additionally, this 3-in-1 crib is especially simple and easy to put together, as it is made up of less than 10 pieces total.
Union 3-in-1 Convertible Crib
This 3-in-1 crib converts between a crib, a daybed and a toddler bed using a conversion kit that is sold separately. The New Zealand pinewood crib, available in 5 different colors, uses non-toxic, lead and phthalate safe paint in its finish.
Despite the versatility of four adjustable mattress levels, some have reported that this crib to be shorter than expected. Most parents, though, are impressed by the value, simplicity and quality of this crib.
Pros
- 5 colors/finishes available
- 3-in-1 convertibility
- Non-toxic, lead, and phthalate safe
- 4 adjustable mattress levels
- Made with New Zealand pinewood
- Affordable
- Fits standard crib mattresses
Cons
- May be shorter than expected
Our favorite feature
The quality of this product for the price is tough to beat. Many parents are simply looking for a no-frills 3-in-1 crib option that gets the job done while still keeping their baby comfortable and safe, and this crib certainly meets those standards. It’s also easy to put together, which means your baby can be sleeping soundly the night after the crib arrives at your door.
Delta Children Capri 3-in-1 Crib
This wooden crib, available in 3 different colors, includes all the versatility promised by a 3-in-1 crib. It can easily be converted into a daybed, while the toddler guardrail needed for a toddler bed is sold separately.
The crib is certified to meet or exceed all of the relevant safety standards, especially those related to lead and other toxic elements.
The mattress can be adjusted to three different heights, so you'll definitely be able to find the right fit for your baby.
Pros
- 3 colors/finishes available
- 3-in-1 convertibility
- Daybed rail included
- 3-position mattress height adjustment
- Tested for lead and other toxins
- Fits standard crib mattresses
Cons
- May be shorter than expected
Our favorite feature
This 3-in-1 crib, like others on our list, delivers a quality, sturdy, safe, comfortable place for a sleeping baby, all at a great price point. The crib features a unique design as well, with arches carved into the sides of the crib. For parents looking for a simple yet versatile crib with a little flourish of character, this may be one of the best 3-in-1 cribs to consider.
Dream On Me Casco 3-in-1 Mini Crib and Dressing Table Combo
Here's a unique, fairly-priced product that offers great bang for your buck.
This mini crib, made of beautiful, solid pine wood, comes with its own changing table, which can easily be detached and used as a standalone element. The changing table also has three large drawers and a changing pad with a security strap, to ensure your child's safety.
The crib converts to a daybed for your toddler, and also to a twin size bed, though the railings will have to be purchased separately. We love these multiple options for use, and the fact that this purchase can be used for several years, as your child grows.
Keep in mind though that this is a mini crib, so it's smaller than a standard sized crib, which means it's better suited for small babies.
As far as safety goes, the bed meets all ASTM and CPSC standards, and has been tested for toxic chemicals. It also offers 3 level mattress support.
Pros
- Beautifully made
- Good value for money
- Excellent for parents with limited space
Cons
- Changing table is small
- Assembly is challenging
- Changing pad is very thin
Our favorite feature
We love the design of this 3-in-1 crib. It's extremely elegant, and the changing table is a fantastic touch and a way to save money. We especially like how it can be detached and used on its own, and we loved the warm feel of the dark wood.
Overall, the market for cribs in general has advanced to the point where there are a variety of quality, affordable options for parents to choose from. Whether you're looking for a solid wood crib, a travel crib or a 3-in-1, you're bound to find more than a few interesting options.
Often, the difference between two 3-in-1 cribs comes down to little details like the number of mattress height adjustment positions or the degree to which the manufacturer focused on creating a crib with environmentally-conscious, non-toxic materials.
While there is a diverse selection of similar, affordable cribs, a more expensive crib may have a particularly striking feature that you decide is worth the extra investment.
The most important thing to consider, though, is your specific situation. If your focus is on the convertibility of a crib to a toddler bed and a daybed—perhaps because you have multiple young children—you want to focus on how easy it is, and exactly what tools/extra purchases you need, to make the conversion successful.
Featured image: Edwin & Kelly Tofslie
