Best Cribs for Small Spaces: How to Choose a Crib for Apartment Living
The best crib for a small space, be it studio, one bedroom apartment, or a once-upon-a-time office nook, is either a mini crib which is approximately 24” x 38” (vs a standard crib which is approximately 28” x 52”) or a convertible crib with flexible setup.
At Babesta, we help build nurseries in real apartments every week, so we appreciate the realities of city living and space. Keeping a small footprint solution (with a longer lifespan), or better yet, a completely flexible option really helps get parents to city nursery win-win!
What size crib is best for a small space?
The best crib size for a small space is a mini crib at roughly 24” x 38” which is about 40% less floor area than a full size crib’s 28” x 52”, though a bassinet (about 15” x 30”) can cover the first few months.
You’ve got a few choices when figuring out the best solution for your small space: You may want to start off with a smaller footprint bassinet or mini-crib, and then transition to a full-size crib later, decide on a mini crib and just run with it until your baby turns two years old (deal with whatever comes next then), or invest in a convertible crib that gives you the flexibility of multiple configurations.
There are pros and cons to each of these, of course (life is full of tradeoffs!). If you purchase a bassinet and a full size crib, it’s pricier. If you do a mini crib only, your child will grow out of it sooner and you’ll have to come up with another solution when they’re about two. If you go with the convertible crib, you’ve got to be handy (you’re rebuilding the crib several times) and you need decent storage space for the extra pieces. See what I mean? Tradeoffs.
Here’s an easy table that breaks it down.
| Bassinet | Mini Crib | Full-Size Crib | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical footprint | ~15" × 30" (no standard size) | ~24" × 38" (most common size) | ~28" × 52" (regulated size) |
| Typically used until | 2–6 months, or when baby rolls or pushes up | Around age 2 | Age 2–3; years longer with toddler conversion |
| Mattress & sheets | Model-specific pad | Mini crib mattress (separate sizing) | Standard crib mattress |
| Best for | Bedside sleep in the parents' room for the first months | Tight bedrooms, nursery nooks, short-term rentals | Long-term value when the space allows |
| Safety standard | CPSC 16 CFR 1218 | CPSC 16 CFR 1220 | CPSC 16 CFR 1219 |
Mini crib vs full-size crib: which should apartment parents choose?
A mini crib is the better choice for a small apartment when the crib must fit in the parents' bedroom or a nursery nook, while a full-size convertible crib is the better long-term value if the space can hold it — it converts to a toddler bed and eliminates a second purchase around age 2.
Mini cribs save real floor space and are easy to work in even small rooms, but most kids outgrow them at age 2 (vs growing out of a standard crib by age 2- 3 when they hit 35” tall or start climbing out, and then with the toddler bed conversion by 4 or 5).
On the other hand, a full size convertible crib costs more space now but can be the only bed purchase for years. With the toddler conversion, it can take your child nearly to kindergarten.
For renters who are in an apartment short term and expect to move to a bigger place within 18 months, the calculus changes - a mini crib may bridge them.
The best cribs for small spaces
Here are a few of our current hero cribs depending on your need!
Best mini crib
The Origami by Babyletto (24” x 38”) is our top mini crib pick — and it folds flat. The flat is a nice perk, but to be truthful, for parents in the city who want to put the crib in their room, they probably won’t be folding it much (babies nap and sleep alot). However, it’s also a great option for Grandma’s house, an extended vacation, or for a 2nd home in the Hamptons.
Best convertible crib - Pogo (19.5" x 30" - 31" x 37.75" - 31" x 54") and Stokke Sleepi
As for convertible cribs, we are smitten with the 8-in-1 Pogo crib by Babyletto (the Yuzu and Palma are other top picks. These have lots of different configurations allowing parents to pick the size sleep space right for them at the time.
We also love Stokke’s classic Sleepi Crib. Start with the Sleepi Mini bassinet (the cutest round bassinet with an optional curtain that looks absolutely darling). Convert it into the full size crib by adding the “extension kit.”
Best hardwood crib - Oeuf Sparrow or Moss
If you’re looking for a truly durable crib that can be handed down from child to child, look no further than Oeuf. These are made in Europe out of hardwood, and their original design is beautiful and construction high quality. The Oeuf Sparrow is the MVP of the line with its simple modern lines, whereas the newer Moss crib is whimsical and fun, sure to bring a smile.
Best crib with built-in storage
The Bento by Babyletto is our pick for a storage-friendly crib. It features two roomy drawers underneath perfect for additional bedding, and even baby’s wardrobe (everything is super small after all).
How to make a crib work in a small bedroom or studio
If you have a small bedroom or studio that has to double as a nursery, we have a few tips to get the most out of your space.
First of all, keep in mind, wherever you place the crib, per fixed-side crib regulations, you will need to have access to one long side. This means, the baby’s crib can go in a nook, with the caveat that there needs to be enough airflow. If it’s a studio you’re in, consider choosing a nice corner for baby and putting up a divider to give each of you your own space. Or, if you’ve got them next to your bed but space is extra tight, consider moving your nightstand out for the time being.
Be sure, as per CPSC regulation, your chosen spot is not by a window, there are no cords or anything within arm’s reach, and it is not by a radiator, heating or AC unit.
What about bassinets and playards instead of a crib?
Another option for tight sleep spaces: Use a bassinet (though these are short-lived, only 2-6 months months), or a sleep safe playard. A playard is a great option as they’re easy to put away, can be used for play and for sleep. A bassinet works well in small spaces, but be prepared for baby to grow out of it quickly. It’s best to choose one that has two levels for extended use like the Stokke Snoozi.
Build your apartment nursery with Babesta
Bunking with your new roomie doesn’t have to cramp your style. Small spaces are a fact of life in NYC, so when building your nursery, get ready to get creative: every nook and corner is a possible spot for the crib.
Whatever your space, Babesta’s got your back. Find out everything you need to know about the sleep section of your registry (cribs, swaddles, fitted sheets & more), including our sleep checklist. We can suggest the best cribs, mini cribs, bassinets, and travel cribs to meet your needs and space.
With Babesta, you never have to lose your cool shopping the baby market.
Frequently asked questions
Are mini cribs safe?
Yes — mini cribs sold in the U.S. must meet CPSC’s federal safety standard for non-full size cribs (16 CFR 1220), which is just as rigorous as the standard for full size cribs. Just be sure to use a mattress sized for your specific mini crib: it should fit snugly, with no more than two fingers’ width between the mattress and the crib side.
Can a crib go in the parents’ bedroom?
Yes, as room-sharing is recommended for the first 6 months per AAP guidelines, putting the crib in the parents’ bedroom if you have the room will save you from buying another piece of furniture.
Do mini cribs use a standard crib mattress?
No, standard crib mattresses are only for standard sized cribs. Mini cribs need mattresses sized specifically for the mini crib. Many mini cribs are 24” x 38” although there is no regulated size. When you choose your mattress, make sure it fits snugly and no more than 2 fingers can be slipped between the mattress and the side of the crib.
How long can a baby use a mini crib.
Most babies can use a mini crib until around age 2 or until they reach the crib’s height or weight limit, typically 35” tall or roughly 45 lbs, though limits vary by model. Check your model’s stated limits. As with any crib, it’s time to stop using it once your child can climb out, regardless of age.
What’s the smallest crib size?
The smallest standard crib option is a mini crib which typically measures about 24” x 38”, which is roughly 40% less floor area than a full size crib’s regulated 28” x 52”. There’s no federally mandated mini crib size, so measure your specific model before buying a mattress or planning your layout. If you need something smaller for the first few months, a bassinet (about 15” x 30”) is the more compact option.
