Kolcraft Contours Classique 3-in-1 Bassinet

The everlasting “where will the baby sleep” debate is coming to an end in my house.  I bought a crib, but don’t plan on leaving my son in the room by himself for a while, especially since he was born a preemie.  My plan was to use a pack n’ play next to my bed, but upon inspecting them (and being totally paranoid over the preemie-factor), I didn’t feel like the mattress was sturdy enough to alleviate my elevated fear of things like SIDS.  I had my heart set on a cradle, but the one I wanted says the baby should be at least a month old and over 5 lbs (my little guy is teeny tiny).  So, this is what I’ve come up with:

Kolcraft Contours Classique 3-in-1 Bassinet

• Solid wood frame provides elegance and stability
• Handles on removable moses basket lets mom take baby anywhere in the house
• Storable changing table securely attaches on top of bassinet rails
• Hanging deluxe organizers and diaper stacker keeps baby’s items handy
• Thick vinyl covered mattress with washable terry cloth fitted sheet

What I like about it:

• small and compact.  Perfect to put on the side of your bed and for small rooms
• it looks classy with the wood design
• detachable basket (moses basket) allows you to move your baby all over the house.  This means I get the mobility without the extra clutter and bulk of baby items in my small space
• organizers…yet another space saver
• it can be used as a changing table

For the price, you can’t beat this piece of baby furniture.  It has the functionality, practicality, and contemporary looks to match. 

Kolcraft Contours Classique 3-in-1 Bassinet

 

Simmons Furniture Valencia Crib N More – Black Cherry

Simmons Furniture Valencia Crib N More – Black Cherry

• Three position mattress support system (you can change it as your child grows.  You would put it on the highest setting while your baby is really little for easy access to your child)
• Metal frame mattress support with helical springs and metal fabric
• Day bed conversion rail included (you can continue to use this furniture even when your baby outgrows the crib!  They can use it beyond infancy). 
• Toddler bed guard rail sold separately
• Full size wood bed rails sold separately

Graco Eco-Friendly Shelby Classic 4 in 1 Convertible Crib

Graco Eco-Friendly Shelby Classic 4 in 1 Convertible Crib

From the Manufacturer

The Shelby is both an island crib, which means it can be put in the middle of a room so baby has a 360 degree view and a classic crib which means it has no moving parts. It also has a smaller footprint also lends itself to apartment living. Designed inspired by the hallmark of the American Empire period the sleigh bed.  With its roots dating back to the Roman Empire, the sleigh bed has always held a special place in the hearts of America’s decorators.  Sleigh beds create magic in your decor not found with any other kind of bed. They invoke a sense of reality, along with splendid sophistication.

Color: Cappuccino

• JPMA, ASTM and CPSC safety certified
• Classic crib easy access to baby from all angles
• Crib converts to a toddler bed (no guard rail needed for conversion), daybed and full-size headboard (bed frame and mattress not included)
• 3 position adjustable mattress spring
• Five-year limited warranty against manufacturer’s defects

Product Description

The Shelby is both an Island Crib, which means it can be put in the middle of a room so baby has a 360 degree view and a Classic Crib which means it has no moving parts. It also has a smaller footprint also lends itself to apartment living. Designed inspired by the hallmark of the American Empire period…the sleigh bed. With its roots dating back to the Roman Empire, the sleigh bed has always held a special place in the hearts of America’s decorators. Sleigh beds create magic in your decor not found with any other kind of bed. They invoke a sense of regality, along with splendid sophistication.

The Shelby crib, as with most sleigh beds, fit any decor. From Modern to Traditional, it allows for any decor or themed setting you choose. A classic reintroduced just for baby.

Mini-Crib Essentials

If you have decided to go with a portacrib/ portable crib/ mini-crib, you’ll need a few specialty accessories to finish the job.  First, a standard size mattress will not fit in your mini-crib.  You’ll have to purchase a mattress designed for portacribs.  You’ll also need specific bedding. 

Essential #1:  Mattress

Baby can’t sleep without a mattress, right?  If your mini-crib/portacrib/portable crib doesn’t come with a mattress, it’s time to shop around.  You can end up spending a little or a lot of money on a mattress for your portacrib, it really depends on your preferences and how picky you are about it.  I’ll give you a couple to mull over. 

Here’s a cheaper option for $23.95:

Portable Crib Mattress

Portable Crib Mattress

• 3 Inch Portable Crib Mattress
• Foam interior
• Non-allergenic
• Wipe-clean surface
• Size measures 24 X 38 inches.

A more expensive mattress for your mini-crib:

DaVinci Crescent 50 Coil Mini Crib Mattress

DaVinci Crescent 50 Coil Mini Crib Mattress

• 50-coil mattress
• Tempered steel spring unit for firmness
• 14 gauge coils for durability
• 9 gauge border rod for edge support
• Resinated polyester fiber batting padding

Essential #2:  Mini-Crib Sheets

For your mini-crib, you’re going to need smaller fitted sheets than what would be used in a full-size crib.  Here are some cute options:

Fitted Portable / Mini Crib Sheets – Pooh Toile – Made In USA

Fitted Portable / Mini Crib Sheets – Pooh Toile – Made In USA

Fun Fitted Sheets for Mini-Crib

Fitted Portable / Mini Crib Sheets – Flannel – Fun Star Blue – Made In USA

Fitted Portable / Mini Crib Sheets – Star Light Snoopy – Made In USA

Fitted Portable / Mini Crib Sheets – Star Light Snoopy – Made In USA

Essential #3:  Mattress Protector

Because your baby WILL have leakage at some point, these are gifts from above.  They protect the mattress from liquids (mostly pee and blow-outs).  I recommend buying at least two, one for the crib and a back-up. 

American Baby Company Waterproof Fitted Quilted Porta-Crib Mattress Pad

American Baby Company Waterproof Fitted Quilted Porta-Crib Mattress Pad

Porta-crib/Mini-Crib

We have decided after much consideration that are best option right now is to not get a full-size crib as originally planned. First, we were concerned about having to get rid of the futon that currently resides in our other bedroom (we have a small vintage 1920s home). I liked the idea of keeping the futon just in case I needed to rest on it with the baby in the middle of the night, having the option for somebody sleeping in there, etc. But, recently I got the news that our stepson may be living with us (not a 100% on this yet, but pretty likely). So it doesn’t make sense to invest in bulky furniture because now instead of the futon, we may be putting a twin size bed or even a bunk bed in the room.

Back to square one.

I’ll admit, I was quite upset about this at first. All my dreams of creating the perfect nursery for our baby just wasn’t materializing.

I began to think about the pros and cons of a portable/ mini-crib.  First, they are smaller, therefore taking up less room in tight quarters.  I found the portacribs to be at least 10″ smaller, meaning I would have so many more options for the room if I got it.  Second, a lot of models are portable, so they may have wheels on them to move them around.  This would make it convenient if you wanted to put the crib in your room, but also have the option to move it out.  Third, some portacribs/mini-cribs can be converted into a twin size bed.  This is perfect for when your little one no longer needs the crib. 

By coincidence, I went with a pregnant friend to register for her baby shower (we’re due a month apart) and I got a lot of good ideas regarding portacribs/ portable cribs/ mini-cribs. I used these ideas to purchase a crib yesterday. Here it goes: 

Ethan Mini Crib 2-in-1 Convertible in Mocha By Nursery Smart

Ethan Mini Crib 2-in-1 Convertible in Mocha By Nursery Smart

• JPMA Certified. Non-Toxic Finish.
• Adjustable to 4 levels of mattress support as your child grows.
• No moving parts allows for a safer crib for you and your baby.
• Converts to Twin Size Bed with optional conversion rails
• Ideal for Nursery with limited space

This is actually the one I got, except mine is white.  It was very similar to the full-size crib I had been planning to purchase, so as far as design goes it was totally acceptable for me.  This particular portacrib looked like a crib to me, whereas a lot of other ones can come off as looking “cheap” or not really like a proper crib.  I also love that it can convert to a twin-size bed, so I  bought the converter set to use later on.  I did have to buy a mattress for it, which cost about $24. 

DaVinci Annabelle Mini Crib

DaVinci Annabelle Mini Crib

• Color options:  Antique White, Espresso, or Ebony
• Annabelle Mini Crib is sleek and stylish and goes perfectly in any nursery
• Features 4 level mattress spring system to adjust to your child’s growth
• Made of sustainable pine
• Can be converted to twin size bed with conversion rails sold separately (M4799)
• 1 year limited manufacturers warranty

This crib is similar to the Ethan crib in price and style.  It also has good reviews.

DaVinci Emily Mini Crib

DaVinci Emily Mini Crib

Color options:  Oak or White

Emily Mini Crib is the perfect solution for space saving in any nursery Converts to twin size bed with m4799 conversion rails (sold separately)

Features 4 level mattress spring system to adjust to your child’s growth,

Converts to twin size bed with M4799 conversion rails (sold separately)

1 year limited manufacture warranty

Made of sustainable pine

The Emily crib offers a different style option than the Ethan or Annabelle. 

Haley Mini Crib in Mocha by Nursery Smart

Haley Mini Crib in Mocha by Nursery Smart

 

 

 

• Petite Yet Elegant – Stylishly Designed
• Smaller size than full size cribs offer space savings
• Offers 4 different levels of mattress support to adjust to your child’s growth
• Converts to twin size bed with conversions rails (sold separately)
• Dimensions – (H) 43.25″ x (D) 26.5″ x 42.5″

 I like the Haley model because it offers a portcrib solution in a fancier design. 

 

And then there are the accessories you will need for your mini-crib.  Check back for a post on accessories (including crib sheets, mattress-savers, mattresses, crib bedding, etc!).

 

 

White Cribs

My husband and I have settled on purchasing a white convertible crib for our baby’s nursery.  We don’t know the gender yet (will find out in a week!), but we do know that we want something that will be gender neutral so we can use it for all of our children.

I really like the look of the white convertible cribs.  They are very clean and crisp, and for the bedroom we plan to use as a nursery, it will go nicely with the white crown molding, doors, and white built-in cabinets. 

Here are some of our picks:

 

Graco Victoria Non Drop Side 5 In 1 Convertible Crib

 
Graco Victoria Non Drop Side 5 In 1 Convertible Crib

Classic, elegant styling makes the Graco Victoria Crib an ideal choice for safety minded parents. This beautiful crib features stationary side rails for a safe sleeping environment for baby with a mattress platform that adjusts to three different heights depending on the age of your baby. It also transforms quickly to a toddler bed, daybed and full-size headboard with footboard.

• –  JPMA, ASTM & CPSC safety certified.
• –  Crib converts to a toddler bed (no guard rail needed for conversion), day bed and then a full size headboard and footboard (bed frame & mattress not included).
• –  5 year limited warranty against manufacturer’s defects.
• –  3 position mattress height adjustment.
• –  Stationary drop side allows for mom to easily access baby without having to raise or lower a drop side.

 

DaVinci Emily Convertible Baby Crib

 
DaVinci Emily Convertible Baby Crib

 

 

Product Description

The Emily 4-in-1 Convertible Crib by Da Vinci is the complete sleeping system that grows with your child from crib to toddler to youth bed, making it the full solution for your child’s sleeping needs. Stylish, elegant, yet very functional, this crib will accommodate your child from baby to toddler to youth. It features a static side with no moving parts! Built with thought for mothers to take their little ones out of the crib with little effort.Features:

• 4-level mattress spring system
• Converts to daybed
• Converts to toddler bed with included guard rail
• Converts to full size bed with full size bed rail kit M4799 (sold separately)
• Meets and exceeds all US safety standards
• Formaldehyde-free
• Non-toxic finish
• Made with wood from sustainable forests
• Recommended for use with the M5340C mattress
• Dimensions: 54.5″W x 34″D x 42″H

 

DaVinci Parker Crib

 
DaVinci Parker Crib

Very smart design, clean and trendy.

Thoughtfully designed to allow you to take baby out of the crib with little effort, this charming crib also features a partitioned underdrawer that provides extra storage for baby belongings.

The Parker Crib is durably crafted from the highest quality pine constructed in New Zealand, and its mattress spring system ensures that your baby receives the ideal support as it grows.

Converts into a daybed, toddler bed, or full-sized bed.

Storage underneath is veyr convenient, especially if your baby’s room is small and limited in space.

 

• Includes toddler bed conversion guard rail
• Includes a headboard and footboard for a full-size bed
• Mattress height adjusts to four levels to allow for versatile crib size and conversion to toddler and full-size bed
• Meets or exceeds all U.S. standards
• No moving parts, all sides are stationary

 

 Delta Children’s Products Hampton 3-in-1 Convertible Crib

 
Delta Children’s Products Hampton 3-in-1 Convertible Crib

 

 

Utilizing the latest in design and function, the White Hampton 3-in-1 crib is sure to last the duration of your child’s development.

As a crib, then a toddler bed, then a day bed, the 3-in-1 is made of solid wood construction with high quality white finish.

It comes with quiet double drop sides for easy access, stabilizer bars and childproof rail release for safety, as well a 5-position posture-perfect mattress support for comfort.

Safety is always a concern at Delta, which is why the 3-in-1 exceeds all ASTM and JPMACP standards.

• Hampton 3-in-1 crib, toddler bed, and day bed
• Made of solid wood construction and high quality white finish
• Comes with double drop sides, stabilizers bars, and childproof rail release
• 5-position posture-perfect mattress support for comfort
• Meets all ASTM and JPMACP standards for safety and quality

Baby Boy Crib Set Bedding

Boutique Brand New GEENNY Boy Sailor 13PCS Baby Nursery CRIB BEDDING SET

Boutique Brand New GEENNY Boy Sailor 13PCS Baby Nursery CRIB BEDDING SET

 

Adorable crib set for your baby boy!  This sailor-themed crib bedding set features beautiful, vivid colors that you can really do a lot with for your baby’s nursery. 

This listing is for a 13 pcs beautiful GEENNY brand new Crib set with all the bundle you will need. This set is made to fit all standard cribs and toddler beds. The whole set comes with 10-pcs set plus 3 New Wall Art Decor Hangings, which comes out as this total 13-pcs bundle. The set is made by Geenny Designs, well known as Nursery series products Designs. All bundled pieces are in brand new zippered, handled carrying bag. These are the real beautiful new styles with retail price over $150.00. The following is the standard feature table list: # Crib Quilt (36 x 45″) # Crib Bumper (10 x 158″) # Fitted Crib Sheet (28 x 52″) # 2 Window Valances (16 x 58″) # Crib Skirt (28 x 52″) # Diaper Stacker # Toy Bag (14 x 20″) # 2 Decorative Accent Pillows (10 x 10″) # 3 Wall Art Decor Hangings

Another adorable theme for your baby boy’s nursery is airplanes.  Imagine using this crib set and having model airplanes hanging from the ceiling?  It would be a little boy’s dream-come-true!

 

Boutique Brand New GEENNY Baby Boy Aviator 13PCS CRIB BEDDING SET

Boutique Brand New GEENNY Baby Boy Aviator 13PCS CRIB BEDDING SET

 

This listing is for a 13 pcs beautiful GEENNY brand new Crib set with all the bundle you will need. This set is made to fit all standard cribs and toddler beds. The whole set comes with 10-pcs set plus 3 New Wall Art Decor Hangings, which comes out as this total 13-pcs bundle. The set is made by Geenny Designs, well known as Nursery series products Designs. All bundled pieces are in brand new zippered, handled carrying bag. These are the real beautiful new styles with retail price over $150.00. The following is the standard feature table list: # Crib Quilt (36 x 45″) # Crib Bumper (10 x 158″) # Fitted Crib Sheet (28 x 52″) # 2 Window Valances (16 x 58″) # Crib Skirt (28 x 52″) # Diaper Stacker # Toy Bag (14 x 20″) # 2 Decorative Accent Pillows (10 x 10″) # 3 Wall Art Decor Hangings

Travel Crib

My husband and I plan to go to Europe the summer after our baby is born. I’ve read a bunch of reviews on travel cribs and pack ‘n plays don’t seem to cut it because of the bulkiness. In my research, I came across this gem that incidentally has excellent reviews:

BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light Blue

BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light Blue

 

The BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light is the perfect crib to take with you on trips. It can be set up in record time, in one easy movement. It weighs only 5 kgs/11lbs and is light and easy to carry in its carrying case. Soft fabric makes it snug and cozy for your child. Both the mattress cover and the bed fabric can be machine-washed. The mattress cover and all fabric parts that come into contact with your child have been approved in accordance with the Oeko-Tex Standard 100, class 1, eco-certification. You can use the BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light for newborns and up until your child is about three years old.

 

 

 

 For a cheaper alternative, I found this:

Pea Pod Indoor/Outdoor Travel Bed

KidCo PeaPod Portable Travel Bed with Air Pump – Red

Safe, Comfortable Bedtime on the Go
The PeaPod P101 is a lightweight sleeping tent, which comes with an inflatable air mattress to keep your baby’s bedtime comfortable. An air pump is included. The mattress fits snugly inside the sleeping tent “pod,” which features a wraparound mesh canopy with a wide, zippered opening to give parents quick and easy access. Baby can nap in comfort outdoors, thanks to the canopy’s UV protection and to a wide windscreen. The pod also includes a washable sleeping bag that can double as a sleeping pad.

Travel Light
The last thing you need while you’re traveling with a baby is to lug a lot of extra luggage around. Rather than packing a Pack’n’Play or a folding bassinet, which are cumbersome and heavy, simply pack the ultra-light, super-compact PeaPod away in your suitcase. At 14 x 5 x 14 inches (LxWxH) when closed, it takes up little space, and it comes with a carrying case for easy portability. And at 47 x 30 x 19 inches (LxWxH) when open, the PeaPod will take up little space once you reach your destination.

The PeaPod is also designed to open and fold shut quickly and easily. Other than the included air pump for quickly inflating the small mattress, no tools are needed: simply follow the directions to “snap” it into its standing position, and fold it back down quickly when finished. So whether you’re traveling across the country, making a weekend trip to the beach, or simply spending the day at a friend’s house, the PeaPod Portable Travel Bed makes it super-easy and convenient for baby to sleep comfortably and safely while on the go.

Product Description
KidCo’s PeaPod, the travel bed that does it all for the on-the-go parent! The inflatable air mattress helps protect baby from cold, damp floors while providing a comforting place to sleep. Great for outdoors because of its UV protection and wind screens. Zippered panels allow parents quick and easy access to baby from virtually any angle. The slick, easy to fold design makes it ideal for storage and use anytime. Birth and up.

Features:

• Bottom pocket hides mattress away from baby and prevents mattress shifting
• Side zipper panels can be rolled down and secured with clasps to prevent tampering
• Great for outdoors because of UV protection and wind screens
• Open dimensions: 48″ L x 30″ W x 18″ H
• Storage bag dimensions: 14″ L x 5″ W x 14″ H

Small, Portable Crib

I just moved in to a small, 1920’s vintage house in a great area.  The problem is the smallness, and the fact that I’m pregnant.  As a result, I’m looking for a small crib that will fit in the baby’s room (which is small with lots of windows, resulting in less space to put a crib against a wall).  I’m interested in this one:

Delta Children’s Products Portable Mini Crib

Delta Children’s Products Portable Mini Crib

This crib is small and portable, so you can move in room-to-room (it has wheels!).  It also fits through standard doorways, making it very convenient. If you have small space in your home or apartment, this crib should help you maximize what you have.  It’s also a great deal. 

Delta Portable Mini Crib With versatile and elegant design, the Delta Portable Mini Crib provides a comfortable, safe, and adjustable sleeping experience for your toddler. Available in four finishes – natural, white, espresso and cherry. The entire unit folds flat for easy travel and storage. Delta has included a comfy 1″ thick mattress pad. The 2-position support allows you to raise or lower the mattress depending on the age of your child. Order the Delta Portable Mini Crib today!

It comes in cherry, white, or natural finish.  I’m leaning toward either cherry or white.