consumer reports travel crib

Best Travel Cribs

When you're ready to travel with your baby, whether for an overnight jaunt or a weeklong vacation, a portable travel crib can really come in handy. We surveyed more than 3,000 Pampers Parents to find out which travel cribs were their favorites. Find out which products made the list.

8 Best Travel Cribs

There are many options to choose from when it comes to travel cribs. Here are the portable cribs that Pampers Parents voted as the best:

1. Graco Travel Lite Crib

Why pick this one? The Graco Travel Lite Crib is the number one choice among Pampers Parents, and for good reason. This travel crib converts to accommodate three different stages, growing along with your little one. You can use it as a bassinet for your newborn, as a crib for your infant, and finally as a play yard for your young toddler. The travel crib is lightweight, coming in at under 20 pounds, making it easy to take with you for travel, play dates, or family visits. Simply fold it into the carrying bag when it’s time to head out. Once assembled, it’s easy to wheel from room to room. You might also appreciate that when used as a play yard, the Graco Travel Lite Crib is 20 percent smaller than most other play yards on the market, making it ideal for small spaces such as apartments. The travel crib's airy mesh sides ensure plenty of ventilation for your baby’s safety and comfort. No part of the travel crib is machine-washable, but the mattress pad and the crib itself can be wiped down with a damp cloth.

Highlights: Included is a canopy with removable plush toys that your baby will enjoy looking up at before he snoozes. The travel crib is available in three different designs: Manor, Montana, and Ramley.

Price*: about $119.99 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents pros and cons:

2. HALO 3-in-1 DreamNest Bassinet, Portable Crib

Why pick this one? This 3-in-1 portable crib from Halo can convert into a rocking bassinet, travel crib, or cot, making it a versatile product. It’s designed with all-around breathable mesh fabric, which is great for your baby’s comfort, and makes it easy to see your baby from any angle. Since your baby lies directly on the taut mesh fabric, there’s no need for an additional mattress when using this travel crib, and this can be a huge benefit when you’re on the go and traveling light. However, some Pampers Parents noted that the mesh stretched with prolonged use, making the crib less stable when the baby moved around. To engage the rocker function when the crib is in use as a bassinet, simply step on the foot pedal. With the included cot legs, the crib can be converted into a toddler cot when the time comes. When not in use, the entire travel crib and all its accessories fold into the carrying bag for easy portability. A matching changing table can be purchased separately. The changing table clips onto the crib for more comfortable diaper changes.

Highlights: The mattress fabric is removable for machine-washing.

Price*: about $249.99 on Amazon.com

3. Lotus Travel Crib

Why pick this one? This travel crib may be one of the fastest to set up—you're done in just 15 seconds, Lotus claims. It’s also the second-lightest travel crib on our list, weighing only 12 pounds. The backpack-style carrying case allows you to keep your hands free when you're transporting it, a big advantage at airports, for example. The travel crib/play yard comes with a thin foam mattress, and has mesh panels to promote airflow. A zippered door on the side lets you easily reach your little one and allows him to crawl out for playtime. However, some Pampers Parents noted that the zipper is rather noisy, so you wouldn’t want to use it while your baby is sleeping.

Highlights: The travel crib is GreenGuard Gold certified, which means it was manufactured without the use of chemicals or substances such as formaldehyde, arsenic, or mercury.

Price*: about $209.00 on Amazon.com

4. Dream On Me 2-in-1 Portable Folding Stationary Side Crib

Why pick this one? Though this portable crib from Dream On Me is made from solid wood, it’s still light enough to transport and it folds up easily. The crib includes safety wheels with locking casters so you can easily move the crib from room to room, and lock it safely before placing your baby inside. Keep in mind, this won’t be the kind of crib that you can easily travel with, so its use is limited. The crib’s mattress support can be adjusted all the way down or halfway down. The manufacturer claims that in the upper position, the crib can be used as a changing station, which may be the case; however, for some parents it may be difficult reaching into the crib for a diaper change. Note that the mattress isn’t included, which is a definite downside, as it can be difficult to find the right size portable crib mattress .

Highlights: Available in five finishes: natural, cherry, espresso, black, and white. The crib is manufactured without the use of phthalates, latex, lead, and BPA.

Price*: about $114.99 on Amazon.com

5. Flisko 2-in-1 Travel Crib & Bassinet

Why pick this one? This travel crib functions as a bassinet as well as a crib, so you can get plenty of use out of it. It’s ideal for traveling with your infant or baby as it’s lightweight enough to carry with one hand when it’s folded in the carrying bag. It’s also easy to set up and disassemble in just minutes. The firm mattress offers comfortable support for your baby and can go in the bottom of the crib, or in the bottom of the bassinet depending on what configuration you’re using. The mesh fabric is easy to see through and there’s a zippered opening on the side of a play yard for when you want to let your little one crawl out.

Highlights: A fitted sheet for the mattress is also included so you don’t have to search for the right size.

Price*: about $94.95 on Amazon.com

6. BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light

Why pick this one? This travel crib is the lightest on our list and comes with a convenient carrying case. Setup is simple and disassembly isn’t that hard either. All it takes is some folding, and voila — next thing you know you’re sliding the crib into the carrying case. It also includes a mattress, which easily folds in half to fit into the carrying case as well. The travel crib features breathable, see-through mesh fabric, which is free of any toxic chemicals.

Highlights: It’s available in black, blue, or silver. Both the travel crib fabric and the mattress cover are machine-washable.

Price*: about $299.99 on Amazon.com

7. Baby Delight Go With Me Nod Deluxe Portable Crib & Playard

Why pick this one? This portable crib and play yard from Baby Delight gives you options for your little one: Use it as a portable crib when you’re on the go or use it as a play yard inside or outside your home. It folds up compactly for travel, and can be assembled easily when you’re ready. The crib is made of breathable, easy-to-see-through mesh so you can keep an eye on your little one. There’s even a zippered panel for when you’d like to let your little one crawl out of the play yard. The carrying case doubles as the mattress, which can be safely attached to the inside of the travel crib when it’s assembled. Some Pampers Parents noted that it was difficult to find sheets to fit the mattress.

Highlights: The cover is removable and machine-washable.

Price*: about $149.99 on Amazon.com

8. Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Baby Crib

Why pick this one? Whether you’re heading to Grandma’s house for an overnight stay, or just need a crib to fit a tight space, this portable crib from Delta is a good choice. The crib folds up easily and can be wheeled anywhere. This may come in handy if you’d like your baby to sleep in the same room as you and are tight on space. The crib comes with a mattress that can remain inside the crib even when it’s folded, limiting the amount of room taken up while it’s in storage. The mattress height is adjustable so you can lower it as your baby grows to prevent her from climbing out. The mattress is hypoallergenic and waterproof, and is made of nontoxic materials. However, it may difficult to find sheets for this particular size mattress.

Highlights: The crib is available in natural, cherry, and dark chocolate wood finishes, and in white or gray painted finishes. The crib is made of sustainable wood from New Zealand.

Price*: about $102.49 on Amazon.com

How to Choose the Right Portable Crib For You

A portable crib can be a lifesaver if you plan to travel with your baby or are tight on space at home and are looking for something smaller than a regular crib. Many of the cribs on our list also double as a portable bassinet and/or play yard, which means you can get extra use out of the product. To decide which is best for you, it helps to consider whether you just plan to move your portable crib from room to room, need the crib to fit the trunk of your car when it’s folded, or need it to be compact and lightweight enough to be stowed in an airplane overhead bin. These are the kinds of questions to ask yourself before making a purchase:

Can the crib be converted into a bassinet, cot, or play yard?

Does the crib or play yard have mesh sides?

Does the play yard have zippered sides for easy access?

Is a mattress included?

How easy is it to find a fitted sheet for the mattress?

Does the baby lie close to the floor or higher up for easier access?

Is the mattress height adjustable?

How easy is it to assemble and disassemble?

Does the product come with a carrying case?

Are the fabrics machine-washable?

Is the product lightweight enough?

How compactly does the portable crib fold?

Is the footprint of the crib large or small enough for your needs?

The Bottom Line

There are many different options when it comes to choosing a travel crib for your little one. You could go with the more traditional wooden crib that folds up for storage and may even fit into the trunk of your car. This style could work well as a crib you can move from room to room, or to set up at the grandparents’ home for overnight stays. Or, you may prefer a more compact portable crib that doubles as a play yard and folds so small that it’s even great for airplane travel. Whichever option you select from this list, you’ll be making a great choice. A travel crib can be an essential piece of baby gear that you can't live without.

Recall Notice

Before buying a product, always check that it’s approved and hasn’t been recalled on sites like the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). *Prices are correct at the time of writing.

• Healthy Children: How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained
• Consumer Reports: Crib Buying Guide
• Consumer Reports: Play Yard Buying Guide

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The 8 Best Travel Cribs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested 19 travel cribs to find which one is the best for portability and safety.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks

Our Testing Process

• Others We Liked
• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Whether you have a family trip coming up, need something for the occasional overnight visit, or are shopping for a baby registry, a good travel crib is essential. Sometimes called playards, these foldable contraptions offer a secure place for your child to sleep or play when you're on the go.

According to neonatologist Michael H. Goodstein, MD, FAAP, they're "a safe alternative to a crib, as long as the product is consistent with the mandatory guidelines established by the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission)." But, beyond safety considerations, not all portable cribs are created equal.

Travel cribs vary by size, weight, features, and functionality. We tested 19 models to narrow it down to the most user-friendly, portable, durable, and easy-to-clean options. (See more about our in-depth testing process below.) Our number one pick is the Maxi-Cosi Swift Play Yard, a sturdy, stain-resistant travel crib that takes less than two minutes to pack up.

Best Overall

Maxi-cosi swift lightweight portable play yard.

• Ease of Setup 4.8 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Portability 4.5 /5
• Quality 5 /5

With an adjustable mattress and easy folding mechanism, this sturdy crib grows with your child and can be taken on any excursion.

It's not the lightest option we tested.

Clocking nearly perfect scores in all our tests, our top choice is the Maxi-Cosi Swift Play Yard. Even after six months of use, we loved how lightweight this portable crib is, making it super easy to set up and take down. Though the leg-folding mechanism is a little different than most models, we assembled it in less than three minutes and packed it back up in under two. It also has all the comfort and safety features we'd want in this type of product. The mattress lays flat on its own, you don't need to hook Velcro straps to keep it down, which is great for saving set-up time. The supportive yet bouncy design barely budged when we dropped a 25-pound sandbag on top, and the frame held strong too.

We're also big fans of the bassinet feature. For newborns and infants, you can detach the mattress from the bottom and raise it up for easier access to your baby. Then, when your child grows, lower it back down to prevent them from climbing out.

At 18 pounds, this travel crib is on the heavier side. However, it seems durable and long-lasting. The high-quality materials appear stain-resistant. All things considered, we think the price is right on point.

The Details: 41.5 x 33.5 x 31 inches (overall) | 33 x 11 x 12 inches (packed) | 18 pounds | 35-pound weight limit

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Budget

Munchkin travel bassinet.

• Ease of Setup 5 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5
• Quality 4.5 /5

This lightweight, compact sleeper is incredibly easy to set up and pack up, a perfect option for traveling with newborns.

It doesn't come with a carry bag, and the weight capacity is 15 pounds.

On a budget? Check out the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This on-the-go sleeper can be set up in one minute and packs back up in less than 30 seconds. At just three pounds, we were also impressed with the lightweight design. When it folds down, it's super small and doesn't take up a lot of space even though it doesn't come with a carry bag. The lightweight, compact design is undoubtedly convenient, but bear in mind the capacity is 15 pounds. In other words, you'll need something bigger once your child is about 6 months old.

The Details: 30 x 21 x 12 inches (overall) | 3 pounds | 15-pound weight limit

Best Splurge

Uppababy remi portable playard.

Buy Buy Baby

• Portability 5 /5

This durable, splurge-worthy crib is super easy to assemble and packs into a conveniently compact bundle.

It's somewhat heavy (but super sturdy), and the carry bag is sold separately.

If you're open to splurging on a high-quality travel crib, UppaBaby won't disappoint. It's incredibly easy to set up, you just pull it out of the box and snap it into place. When folding it back up, the frame wraps into the mattress to create a conveniently compact bundle. After six months of use, we found it to be a great option to even leave up as an extra home crib.

We also appreciate the safety features, including padded edges, hidden zippers, and an elevated bassinet attachment. It's also pretty light and portable. So, while the price is steep (and you'll have to buy the carry bag separately), in the end, we think it's worth the investment for its durability and overall features.

The Details: 40.5 x 28.5 x 26 inches (overall) | 28.5 x 11 x 10 inches (packed) | 22.5 pounds | 20-pound weight limit

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Compact

Kidco peapod plus.

• Durability 4 /5

The ultra-lightweight, compact design is easy to take on the go and folds up into its carry bag in seconds.

It's not recommended for children under 6 months and the bottom of the crib is made of fabric that can be slippery.

For something more compact, consider the KidCo PeaPod Plus. We were able to set up this sleeper and fold it back down in almost no time. The ultra-lightweight design folds effortlessly into its included bag, and the carry straps make it easy to take on the go.

The tent-like design can be used indoors or for outdoor naps in your backyard, on the beach, or on family camping trips . While it's not the most structured, it holds its shape enough to provide a safe sleeping spot for a small child. Despite the compact size, bear in mind it's designed for kiddos between 6 months and 5 years.

The Details: 46 x 34 x 22 inches (overall) | 19 x 19 x 3.5 inches (packed) | 3.5 pounds | 100-pound weight limit

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Best Lightweight

Chicco lullago anywhere portable bassinet.

• Value 4.5 /5

This remarkably lightweight-yet-sturdy bassinet is easy to set up, move from room to room, and bring on the go.

The maximum weight is 20 pounds, and it doesn't come with a carrying case.

We were able to assemble and fold up the Chicco LullaGo in under a minute. This travel bassinet is remarkably lightweight yet still sturdy. After six months of use, it's holding up well and is a great option with a minimalist design. Though we wish it came with a carrying case, it's easy to move from room to room or bring on the go. We also like that all the covers are conveniently machine-washable.

Dr. Goodstein warns against using this product past the newborn stage, as the elevated platform isn't designed for larger infants. "When the babies are too old, they can fall out of it," he says. "It's just not safe."

The Details: 30 x 28 x 18 inches (overall) | 28 x 18.5 x 5.5 inches (packed) | 12 pounds | 20-pound weight limit

Best Playard

Chicco alfa lite lightweight travel playard.

This playard boasts easy setup, a sturdy design, and various safety features to keep your kiddo secure during naps or playtime.

It doesn't fold down as small as other options we tested.

The Chicco Alfa Lite can be assembled in three minutes and folded back up in less than 60 seconds. Thanks to the helpful 'push' buttons and intuitive design, you don't even need to consult the instructions for set-up and take down. Though the legs fold out with ease, the frame also feels sturdy, like it'll hold up well over time.

Designed for on-the-go sleeping or safe, secure playing, this playard has lockable side zippers and a mattress that buckles to the base. You can also unzip the side to let your child climb in and out during playtime. The mattress is a little flimsy, but other than that, we have no complaints. After six months of use, we love that this is even a good option to set up during playdates.

The Details: 43 x 29 x 25 inches (overall) | 21 x 9.5 x 9.5 inches (packed) | 13 pounds | 30-pound weight limit

Best for Car Travel

Baby joy travel crib 2-in-1 playpen.

• Portability 4 /5

This lightweight, ultra-portable crib is a breeze to set up and pack into its carrying case.

The handles are somewhat short, making it hard to avoid dragging it.

The Baby Joy Travel Crib takes a mere three minutes to set up and folds up in a flash. It folds and unfolds easily, kind of like a camp chair. Once you know where the lock button is, the frame is incredibly simple to put together. After six months of regular use, we love that this can be used inside for naps and even outside for contained playtime.

The entire thing seems high-quality, which is impressive, considering the very reasonable price tag. Weighing only 11 pounds, it's one of the lightest options we tried. While we appreciate the included case, the short handles make it hard to avoid dragging it on the ground when carrying it — for shorter folks, at least. This portable crib folds up pretty compactly but is still probably too tall for an overhead bin, which is why we recommend it for family road trips .

The Details: 45.5 x 31 x 27 inches (overall) | 23.5 x 20.5 x 7 inches (packed) | 11 pounds | 33-pound weight limit

Best Stability

4moms breeze go playard.

• Value 3.5 /5
• Quality 4 /5

Set-up is straight forward and quick.

It's on the heavier side.

With less than four minutes to set up and only two minutes to take down, this is one of the easiest travel cribs to use. Once unfolded, you simply drop in the mattress and attach it to the frame using velcro straps to keep it stable and secure. The first time we assembled this crib, we didn't even need to read the manual because it was such an intuitive process.

In addition to its ease of use, this is one of the most sturdy and high-quality of all the travel cribs we tested. The material doesn't shift around at all and the slight suspension and shocks improve safety for any kiddo. We also love that it comes with its own travel case that helps keep the crib compact and organized while on the go. For anyone looking for an entry level travel crib that's simple and sturdy, this is a high-quality and reliable option.

The Details: 43 x 30 x 29 inches (overall) | 23.2 pounds | 30-pound weight limit

Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Travel + Leisure editors selected 19 travel cribs to try firsthand. We started by timing how long it took to assemble them based on the brand's instructions, noting any hiccups they ran into along the way. After assessing the features and materials, we lifted them up and moved them around the room to see how light and portable they were once assembled.

To evaluate the sturdiness, we shook the frames and dropped a sandbag into the center to see how well they could support a small child standing up or jumping around. Finally, we timed how long it took to fold down the cribs and put them in their carrying cases, noting how heavy they were when packed up. Each model was scored for ease of setup, portability, durability, ease of cleaning, quality, and value, and those with the highest average ratings were selected for this roundup.

Other Travel Cribs We Liked

KidCo Peapod Portable Travel Bed : This tent-style sleeper quickly pops open, and the padded base is a cinch to snap on. While the fabric is somewhat thin, it's super lightweight and easy to carry, too. However, in the end, we just liked the other KidCo model better.

Baby Delight Snuggle Nest Harmony Portable Infant Lounger : We liked the small, lightweight design of this product. But since it's technically a lounger rather than a crib, it's really designed to be a safe place to set your infant down — not necessarily a place to sleep. When in doubt, check with your pediatrician before using it.

Pamo Babe Deluxe Portable Nursery Center : While this crib was incredibly easy to set up, we thought it lacked durability as it had a tendency to collapse as it grew closer to the weight limit.

Tips for Buying a Travel Crib

Put safety first.

Whether for travel or nightly sleep, safety should be a top priority when buying a crib. Per the CPSC's current guidelines , the mattress should be relatively firm to prevent rolling. And you shouldn't add extra padding or bedding until your child is at least 12 months old, as the materials can pose a suffocation risk.

"Get a travel crib that is current from a major brand," says Dr. Goodstein, "and use the mattress that's included." He adds that, aside from a sleep sack, you really don't need anything other than a mattress and a tight-fitting crib sheet.

Know the important features 

Travel cribs come with various features — some for safety and others for comfort or convenience. This may include user-friendly foldability, a carrying case, a firm mattress, padded edges, concealed zippers, or breathable mesh sides.

"Some have a bassinet feature, which is convenient for new mothers (not bending over) and small/younger newborns," says Dr. Goodstein. "With or without, they should be used properly, following the weight, age, and developmental limitations set within the product instructions and warnings."

Consider the type of trip you're taking

When browsing options, consider the type of trip you're taking and where you plan on using the crib. If you're traveling by plane , some (but not all) airlines allow you to check portable cribs for free (along with travel strollers and car seats). But if you're not checking baggage, make sure it's small enough to pass as a carry-on.

Some small travel cribs can be folded up super compactly and even tucked inside a suitcase. But larger options that come with their own carry bags will usually need to be toted around separately. If you just need something for the occasional overnight, you have more flexibility in terms of size.

The main difference between a travel crib and a regular crib is that the former is typically foldable and relatively lightweight. But as long as it has a proper mattress and sides that prevent rolling off, you can use a travel crib as a regular crib.

"The newer ones, for the most part, should be fine," says Dr. Goodstein. "If you're going to use a sheet in there, make sure it's a fitted sheet for that specific type of crib."

Travel crib mattresses are roughly 38 x 24 inches, which is the size of a mini crib mattress. Getting a fitted sheet in the proper size is crucial, as loose fabric can be dangerous for sleeping babies. "These little ones don't have good head [or hand] control — they can't brush something off of their face," explains Dr. Goodstein. "Something as light as a sheet can cause suffocation."

Some travel cribs fit into overhead compartments, but it varies by model. While it's different for each airline, the maximum dimensions for carry-ons is usually 22 x 14 x 9 inches, so be sure to measure the packed-up size before your trip.

While most airlines will check strollers and carseats for free, travel cribs are considered luggage and will be charged as such. Be sure to check with your specific airline in advance to determine what baby gear is complimentary.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Theresa Holland is a toddler mom and seasoned commerce writer specializing in travel, baby gear, and furniture. For this story, she compiled our in-house testing insights and combed through product specs to create a comprehensive roundup of today's best travel cribs. She is personally familiar with the offerings from UppaBaby, Munchkin, and Chicco.

In creating our list of best travel cribs, we also spoke to an expert in the care of newborns, neonatologist Michael H. Goodstein , MD, FAAP.

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• Baby and kid

The Best Cribs

A great crib will be versatile and solidly constructed, as well as an attractive centerpiece in your child’s room.

We spent 15 hours researching hundreds of cribs, and three days assembling and converting 10 of them, before concluding that the DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Crib is the best choice for most families. This sturdy crib converts to a daybed, toddler bed, and full-size bed, offering the potential for years of use.

Everything we recommend

DaVinci Kalani 4-In-1 Convertible Crib

The best crib.

This sturdy, traditional-looking, and versatile crib converts to a toddler bed and a full-size bed.

Buying Options

IKEA Sundvik

A simple, modern crib.

This bare-bones but attractive option is made from durable beech. But it’s less adjustable, and can’t convert to a full-size bed.

DaVinci Jenny Lind 3-in-1 Convertible Crib

Vintage style, modern colors.

This distinctive-looking crib comes on (removable) wheels, converts to a toddler bed, and is fast and easy to assemble and convert.

Upgrade pick

Pottery Barn Kendall Convertible Crib

A super-sturdy hardwood crib.

This pricier crib, made of solid poplar, has a sturdy design that’s likely to repel nicks and dings better than our other picks.

We found that most parents don’t want to spend much more than $200 on a crib. The solid, sturdy DaVinci Kalani offers more versatility and value than any other crib we could find at that pricing level. This traditional-looking crib is made of solid wood (sustainable New Zealand pine) and is Greenguard Gold certified for low emissions. You can add a half-width rail (sold separately) to turn it into a toddler bed. Unlike most of the cribs we tested, it can also be converted into a full-size bed (also by purchasing an additional kit). This crib is widely available, with plenty of options to buy it without a hefty shipping fee. It comes in seven colors: white, gray, black, and four wood finishes.

The IKEA Sundvik is a simple, modern-looking crib that comes in white, a black-brown, or a grayish brown and is made of beech, a hardwood that’s generally considered stronger than the pine used in our top pick.

The Sundvik has two significant disadvantages when compared to the Kalani though: the mattress can only be adjusted to two different heights as opposed to four for the Kalani, and the crib does not convert to a full-size bed.

The DaVinci Jenny Lind crib is distinctive in both style and design, with retro spindle posts and wheels that make it much easier than any other crib we tested to move around a room, or pull away from a wall for cleaning. Of all the cribs we tested, it’s the only one with either of these features. It’s also the easiest of our four picks to assemble and convert to a toddler bed (with a kit, purchased separately), and it comes in more bright color options than any other crib we tested, including emerald green, cherry red, coral, navy, and lagoon blue, as well as white, black, and two shades of gray. It’s made of the same New Zealand pine as our pick and like our pick is Greenguard Gold certified for low VOC emissions. It doesn’t seem as sturdy, though, with spindle slats and legs.

The Pottery Barn Kendall Convertible Crib is made of solid poplar, a hardwood that is much less likely to get nicked and dinged than softer pine. The handsome, classic-looking crib is relatively easy to assemble and is Greenguard Gold certified for low emissions. If you’re someone who cares a lot that your furniture, including a crib, remains pristine-looking, the Kendall, which comes in white, gray, or a chocolate brown, may be the crib for you. But it usually costs about twice as much as our top pick. You can add a toddler bar (sold separately), but it doesn’t convert to a full-size bed like our top pick does.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked, how we tested, our pick: davinci kalani 4-in-1 convertible crib, flaws but not dealbreakers, also great: ikea sundvik, also great: davinci jenny lind 3-in-1 convertible club, upgrade pick: pottery barn kendall convertible club, the competition, care, use, and maintenance.

Researching and testing for this guide was carried out in 2017. I started my research by reviewing the American Academy of Pediatrics’s data on safe sleep and asking follow-up questions via email of Fern R. Hauck, MD, the director of the International Family Medicine Clinic at the University of Virginia Department of Family Medicine, who was on the AAP task force on sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). (I researched this guide in tandem with Wirecutter’s guide to the best crib mattresses .)

I then spoke to a lot of parents (via Facebook, email, and phone) about how they picked their crib and what mattered to them most when making this purchase.

To better understand the crib design process, including decisions about materials and color palette, I interviewed Matthew Grayson, a senior designer at Million Dollar Baby , the Los Angeles-based company that launched with the iconic Jenny Lind crib, and now manufactures six brands of children’s furniture under DaVinci , Babyletto , and Nursery Works labels, among others. I also asked questions via email of the design team at Crate and Kids (formerly The Land of Nod).

Personally, I’m a former newspaper editor and current freelance writer who covers health, parenting, and medicine for a variety of national publications. I’m also the mom of three kids, including twins who had just moved out of their cribs, which were configured as toddler beds, while I was working on this guide.

Babies sleep a lot. And the safest place for them to get that shut-eye is on a firm mattress in a safety-approved crib, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics . Most parents will purchase a crib for a new baby, with some initially finding room for it in a corner of their own room and others immediately making it the centerpiece of a newly decorated nursery.

In our research, we found that most families use a crib for about four years, usually removing the front side to convert the crib to a toddler bed or daybed when a child is between 2 and 3 years old. Some parents prefer to buy a crib that also converts to a full-size bed that a child can use (with a full-size mattress) through childhood and perhaps even beyond.

To start the process of determining which cribs to test, I opened a new spreadsheet and listed every crib manufacturer I could find alphabetically. Starting with AFG Furniture and ending with Westwood Design, there were about 30 entries. For each manufacturer, I did some basic research on the different cribs they offered, noting their price and availability, and reading online reviews. Baby Bargains’s review of 50-plus crib brands was an invaluable resource during this process. I also looked at the Consumer Reports crib guide as a cross-reference.

After I finished this initial spreadsheet, I went through and eliminated about 15 brands because their offerings were either too expensive (more than $600); available in limited quantities or only at specialty stores; or had largely negative reviews.

Then I went through my condensed list of brands and added specific crib models to our consideration list. Some brands, like IKEA , DaVinci , Graco , and Pottery Barn , had three or four different cribs on that list alone. For each crib, I gathered more information on its price, user ratings, materials, dimensions, color options, ability to convert to a toddler and full-size bed, and other special features. As I was filling in this spreadsheet, I also put out a call on Facebook for parents to share what crib they had bought for their kids, and asked parents I know about their crib-buying experience. I heard the same brands crop up again and again, and sometimes even heard about specific models. IKEA cribs, DaVinci cribs, Pottery Barn cribs, and Graco cribs were among the favorites.

Based on this background research, our interviews with experts and parents, and personal experience, we determined that a great crib should be:

• Safe: To be safe for an infant or toddler to sleep in, a crib should comply with Consumer Product Safety Commission requirements , which all cribs sold in the United States do.
• Made of quality materials:  We wanted a crib that would last a minimum of four years for one child, and possibly much longer as a crib may be passed down to other family members or converted to a full-size bed. In considering sturdiness, we looked at what type of wood and/or industrial wood products (like fiberboard) were used when constructing the individual parts. While it wasn’t part of our selection criteria, we also noted when a crib was Greenguard Gold certified (formerly called Children and Schools certification). This means that an independent third-party organization has tested a product used around children or the elderly and guaranteed that it emits a low level of volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. VOCs are emitted from products like the pressed wood in some cribs and dresser drawers, crib mattresses, laminate vinyl flooring, and plastic toys. We don’t know what impact, if any, VOCs have on kids’ health, and there’s no health data to back up the need for this certification on cribs, but some parents may find it offers peace of mind.
• Affordable: Most parents we polled seemed okay with spending up to $200 for a crib. We found that many people who spent over that amount—myself included when I bought my first crib—ended up feeling like the value wasn’t there, and that they didn’t get more for that extra money. We considered the base, real-world price for the crib, looked at the extra cost of buying a toddler rail (if it wasn’t included), and calculated any shipping fees to determine the total spent.
• Easy to assemble and convert: We ideally wanted a crib that has clear assembly instructions and is easy to put together. We also wanted a crib with a straightforward process for changing the mattress height, and one that is easy to convert to a toddler bed. All this work is going to be done by tired and busy parents, after all.
• Versatile and adjustable: We wanted a crib that converts to a toddler bed, and gave bonus points for cribs that come with a toddler rail, which we found can cost anywhere from $12 to $140 when purchased separately. We also ideally wanted a crib with at least three levels for the crib mattress height—one high up for a non-mobile infant; one close to the ground for an older infant or toddler who can stand up and try to climb out; and a third option somewhere in between for when an infant can start to pull up to standing, but not really get around. When considering versatility, we also took into account special features, like wheels or a plastic teething guard.
• Available in multiple color and design options: We ideally wanted a crib that’s available in a wide variety of colors, with a mix of wood stains and shades like white, black, and gray—an option that has become so popular in the past few years that it is now offered in almost every crib model, and is considered a “new neutral” by people who work in children’s furniture. We noted when a crib was part of a larger furniture collection—many lines include a dresser, side table and/or changing table—which some parents noted was important to them. We didn’t factor in our personal aesthetic preferences when selecting our top picks, but did note when the crib was low-profile, meaning that the rail to reach over is closer to the ground (an important feature for shorter parents), and when it converted to a full-size bed.

I got down to a shortlist of about eight crib brands that had strong online and in-person reviews and wide availability. Six of them were reasonably priced, and two were more expensive but had great reviews and a dedicated following, so we decided to test them in person. In some cases, selecting the specific models to test was easy. DaVinci’s Kalani crib is on a lot of best-of lists, and has the most reviews of any option on Amazon, so it was an obvious pick. DaVinci’s Jenny Lind , which also has great reviews, is one that people mentioned by name repeatedly, so we decided to check out that one, too. Pottery Barn’s Kendall Convertible Crib is one of the brand’s least expensive and most popular models.

For some of the brands, we first examined the specs of different models, then spoke to a marketing or communications rep, who told us which models were the most popular with consumers, and why. Out of these conversations, we decided to test the Babyletto Hudson , and the Carter’s by DaVinci Colby , which is a newly launched offering. After a conversation with two specialists from Storkcraft, Graco’s parent company, we decided to test the newer crib from Graco, the Solano , over the Lauren, an older model, because the Solano works with the brand’s universal toddler rail and has some unique options available, such as an under-crib drawer and an optional attached changing table. We also decided to test the inexpensive Storkcraft Pacific based on this conversation. The Fisher-Price Newbury 4-in-1 Convertible Crib (currently unavailable) was added to our consideration list as a model that gets great reviews, frequently shows up on best-of lists, and is among the brand’s top sellers. Finally, after speaking with an IKEA representative and considering feedback from several people who have used IKEA cribs, we decided to test the popular Sundvik crib over the less expensive Sniglar or Gulliver .

In the end, we tested a diverse mix of 10 cribs, which vary in price from just over $100 to close to $500.

We had 10 cribs delivered in flat boxes to a Wirecutter office in downtown Los Angeles, where I worked with an editorial assistant who has above-average furniture-assembly experience to put together every one of them. This process took the good part of two days—one of them during an oppressive August heat wave that defeated the office’s air-conditioning unit. The sweat we shed came close to that expended by stressed-out new parents.

For each crib, I started a stopwatch as soon as we laid the box down on the ground to see how long it took us to put it together. While my assistant, Jack, says he enjoys putting together furniture, I can honestly say that this was the first time I had ever tackled a job like this. Case in point, I didn’t even know what an Allen wrench was when we got started. Trust me when I say there was a steep learning curve.

We typically unpacked everything in the box first, and took account of the number of pieces laid out on the ground. Referring to the written directions, we worked together to assemble each crib. When we were done, I stopped my watch, recorded the time, and made some notes about the process. I highlighted when the instructions were overly confusing or when we made mistakes putting the cribs together, which, sadly, happened a lot. Overall, we found through this process that crib assembly varies greatly. Some cribs had four parts and took just over 15 minutes to put together; most had a few more parts and took about half an hour to assemble; and two took well over an hour to complete.

When each crib was assembled, I popped in a crib mattress to confirm that it fit well (they all did), and ran through a checklist to see how well made and sturdy the crib was. I moved it around the room, shook it, pulled on the bars, and noted where it was easily dinged or nicked. We changed the mattress height for most of the cribs, and converted our top few picks to a toddler bed and back again to see how easy that process was.

Along with timing and rating the assembly and conversion process, I also analyzed the other items on our list of criteria, including price, materials, color options, and online reviews before determining our top picks.

The  DaVinci Kalani offers the best balance of sturdiness, quality materials, versatility, and price of the 10 cribs we considered. For about $200, the Kalani offers a good value for parents who want a crib that’ll last for years. It’s Greenguard Gold certified for low VOC emissions, and we found that the 56-pound crib is much sturdier than other sub-$200 cribs, with thicker legs and side pieces. It’s also the only one of our four picks that converts to a full-size bed.

The Kalani is made of solid New Zealand pine, a sustainable wood that, although relatively soft and easy to ding up, is also quite sturdy in this model. It has a look that could work in both traditional and modern homes and, although it looks relatively large, is only 35 inches tall from the floor to the top of the front rail—the same as some of the other low-profile options we tested (meaning that they’re typically easier for short parents to reach in and out of). It comes in white, gray, and black, and four wood tones that range from a light honey oak to a dark espresso, which has a rich, attractive sheen and is currently the most popular option. The crib is the best-selling model from the DaVinci brand (part of the Million Dollar Baby Company) and has excellent overall reviews, including from over 4,000 reviewers on Amazon .

For $80, you can purchase a half-width toddler rail . For about $100 extra, you can purchase a conversion kit , which includes side rails that allow the crib to transform into a full-size bed (the front and back of the crib become the headboard and footboard).

The crib comes in 14 pieces (not including the wire crib mattress support). While the instructions are straightforward and each of the pieces was clearly marked, it took my assembly partner and I more than an hour to piece together the Kalani, significantly longer than for any of our other picks. The conversion to a toddler bed is much easier: It took one person about 15 minutes to convert. We found it was also relatively easy to move the wire mattress support to another one of the four positions when you want to raise or lower the crib’s mattress. Many of the cribs we tested had three different heights, or, in one case, only two. The Kalani offers more versatility here, though we doubt many parents will end up using all four heights.

We talked to several parents who own the DaVinci Kalani crib, and all of them report being happy with the purchase. One Wirecutter staff member said that while she relied on a Graco Pack ’n Play for her first child, she wanted a crib for her second, and was advised by other parents that the DaVinci Kalani was the way to go. She found the Kalani’s setup to be relatively easy (as my assembly partner noted, “you’re only doing it once”), and she’s now using the crib for her third child as well. Another mom of two from New York said she also bought the Kalani for her second child and has been happy with the purchase. “It’s a great crib,” she said.

There is a one-year warranty for all DaVinci furniture, and the crib is part of a larger furniture collection that includes a three- and six-drawer dresser.

The DaVinci Kalani has two major flaws. The first is an overly difficult assembly. Many of the cribs that we tested, including all three of our other picks, have four parts to assemble, plus the mattress support. Our other picks also all have front and back pieces that are identical, as well as two interchangeable sides. Essentially, they all have symmetrical designs that make it difficult to mess up the assembly. The Kalani crib, on the other hand, has 14 pieces out of the box and a sleighlike design with front and back pieces that are different from each other and need to face in a particular direction. Although all those pieces are labeled, we felt that the instructions rely too heavily on graphics over written directions. In terms of hardware, the crib uses bolts of five lengths (many cribs have just one or two), barrel nuts, wood dowels, and two types of washers. To put it together, you need the Allen wrench, which comes with the crib, as well as a Phillips screwdriver, which does not. We made several mistakes along the way and got pretty frustrated putting this crib together.

Most Amazon reviewers say that the Kalani takes about an hour to assemble (“Beautiful crib, nightmare to put together,” one person titles their review); in our case, the assembly took 78 minutes—the second longest out of the 10 cribs we tested, and a full hour more than some of the easier to assemble options.

The second flaw is that the New Zealand pine used in this crib is incredibly soft. When I dropped one of the sleigh pieces from about a foot from the ground (yes, I’m clumsy), a corner piece that was about an inch long cracked off. Then, when I was trying to secure the mattress support in place, a screw fell out of my hand and left a long scrape on the inside of one piece of wood. When I asked parents who have this crib about the soft wood, one mentioned that her son “ate it so bad”—meaning teethed on the side pieces, and left a ton of teeth marks along them—that she ended up getting teething guards, but not before he “had sawed a ton of it off.” Though the vast majority of Amazon reviews give the Kalani four or five stars, many of the one-star reviews mention the soft, easily damaged wood, with some buyers writing that their crib came already scratched up or cracked.

To be fair, most cribs at this price are made of pine. “This is a really consistent wood,” said Matthew Grayson, senior designer at Million Dollar Baby. That consistency is important not only for the look, Grayson said, but also for passing safety and strength tests. “Crib regulations are incredibly rigid. This is a wood that we know is always going to be the same,” with straight boards and no knots.

New Zealand pine is readily available and is grown and farmed in a sustainable way, so furniture manufacturers don’t have to worry about sourcing issues, Grayson said. As a soft wood—meaning that it comes from a coniferous tree—it’s much cheaper than hardwood counterparts (PDF) like poplar, ash, oak, walnut, or maple.

The IKEA Sundvik is a solid, modern-looking crib that comes in white, a black-brown, or a grayish brown and is made of beech, a hardwood that’s stronger than the pine used in our top pick. However, unlike the Kalani, the mattress can only be adjusted to two different heights, and the crib does not convert to a full-size bed.

When we asked parents on Facebook about their favorite crib, many answered with one word: “IKEA!” Our surveys found that many parents simply want to find a basic crib that works well, and after examining several other inexpensive cribs we think the Sundvik is that model (IKEA’s crib line includes two cheaper models .

Personal experience tells us that the 55-pound Sundvik, which is considered low-profile at just under 35 inches tall, holds up well to typical baby and kid wear and tear: I bought two of them when my twins were born, and they slept on them for more than four years before transitioning to twin beds. We put these cribs together, took them apart to move across the country, put them back together again, and they were still in good shape. We then took off the front pieces when our twins were around 2 and converted them to toddler beds—using the IKEA toddler rail. Recently, we had family visit from out of town and we put one of the cribs back together as a toddler bed; there were no issues with that reassembly process. After more than four years the cribs have some dings and minimal teething marks, but that seems expected. Both my own experience and that of other owners tells me that the Sundvik is sturdier than some other common IKEA products (dressers we bought at the same time haven’t done as well, with screws falling out and drawers buckling under the weight of clothes).

All of IKEA’s cribs are made of solid beech, a hardwood. According to Grayson, the product designer from Million Dollar Baby, beech is stronger and more structural than pine, which means you can make cribs with thinner slats out of it. Unlike any of our other picks, the Sundvik also incorporates fiberboard, which is reconstituted wood fiber, aka sawdust pressed together with heat and glue. The solid panels on the sides of this crib are made of fiberboard, which is sometimes referred to as MDF, for medium-density fiberboard, and foil. All of the other cribs we tested have slats along all four sides.

The Sundvik took two people 25 minutes to put together, a third of the time of the Kalani. It was straightforward (if you’re okay with the silly pictures in IKEA assembly instructions), in part because the front and back of the crib are identical, and so are the two sides. Fitting in the mattress support, which is made of wood and mesh rather than metal like on most cribs, was the most frustrating part of the process; and this is why adjusting the mattress support from the top to the bottom position—there are only two heights, as opposed to three on most cribs and four on our pick—was more difficult than on other cribs. The process involves sliding tiny pegs on the mattress support into holes on the crib sides, and it basically requires two people to line up the crib pieces correctly without the entire loosened crib falling apart. The process of converting the crib to a toddler bed—you remove the front side—is also more difficult than with our other picks. We found it took two people another 25 minutes.

There are a few additional nursery items in the Sundvik collection, like a dresser/changing table combo and a kid-size table and chairs. IKEA generally allows buyers to return undamaged items they are dissatisfied with for a year after purchase.

Note that IKEA makes other relatively inexpensive cribs. The Sniglar is the cheapest model, at just $130, and the Gulliver is $220. We personally know people who have been pleased with the value of these cribs and have found that they last through multiple kids and can survive multiple conversions.

The DaVinci Jenny Lind crib is distinctive in both style and design, with retro spindle posts and wheels that make it much easier than any other crib we tested to move around a room, or pull away from a wall for cleaning. Of all the cribs we tested, it’s the only one with either of these features. The Jenny Lind crib weighs 45.5 pounds (about 10 pounds less than our pick) and comes in more bright color options than any other crib we tested. While the typical crib sticks to white and wood tones, with perhaps a gray option thrown in, the Jenny Lind comes in those colors plus hues like emerald green, cherry red, coral (shown above), navy, and lagoon blue, as well as white, black, and two shades of gray. It’s made of the same New Zealand pine as our pick and like our pick is Greenguard Gold certified for low VOC emissions. It’s not as sturdy, though, with thin spindle slats and legs.

We found that this crib is among the easiest to assemble of all the cribs we tested, and by far the easiest to assemble of our four picks. It took two people just 16 minutes to put it together for the first time; later, one person was able to complete the toddler bed conversion in about 10 minutes.

Like the Kalani crib, the Jenny Lind offers four mattress heights. The wheels, while uncommon on modern cribs, could be a nice touch for parents with small apartments who want to be able to move the crib from one room to another for naps or bedtime. Of course, they’re also a potential temptation for toddlers eager to turn their bed into a giant bumper car. While the wheels don’t have any locking mechanism, you can remove them when you don’t want the crib to be portable anymore.

When I asked a mom of three from Florida about her thoughts on cribs, she said, “Jenny Lind,” right away. Another mom of three from Philadelphia wrote on Facebook that she bought this crib on sale from Kmart for her oldest and second-oldest kids. One of those was also passed down and used by a younger sibling. “It’s so simple, and I loved it,” she wrote. “I spent under $400 for three kids, and my friend used one of these cribs for her daughter, too. They went the distance.” And a mom from Queens, who bought a $600 crib for her older son that turned out to be a “total waste of money,” bought a Jenny Lind for her now 1-year-old daughter. Her review: “#bestcribever.”

The Jenny Lind furniture collection also includes a changing table and a stand-alone toddler bed, though neither come in as many colors as the crib. The DaVinci Jenny Lind crib comes with a one-year warranty.

The Pottery Barn Kendall crib is made of solid poplar, a hardwood that is much less likely to get nicked and dinged than the softer pine used in our other picks. The handsome, classic-looking crib is relatively easy to assemble and is Greenguard Gold certified for low VOCs. If you’re someone who wants to ensure that your furniture, including a crib, remains pristine-looking, the Kendall, which comes in white, gray, or a chocolate brown, may be the crib for you.

One thing that sets this crib above our other picks is that while both of our DaVinci picks are made of relatively soft New Zealand pine and the IKEA crib is made of beech and fiberboard, this heavy Pottery Barn crib is made of solid poplar (the crib weighs 59 pounds, more than any of our other picks). According to The Hardwood Handbook  (PDF), poplar is a hardwood that is, “generally straight-grained and comparatively uniform in texture.” Crib designers we spoke to from other companies told us that poplar is “a resilient, versatile wood,” that, “because of its color and straight uniform graining, is ideal for painted finishes,” and that a crib made of poplar is much less likely to get dinged or marked up with use than cribs made with softer woods like pine.

We found that the Pottery Barn crib felt equally solid and sturdy to our top pick, the DaVinci Kalani, but that it was obviously more solid and sturdy, as well as larger in profile, than either the DaVinci Jenny Lind or IKEA Sundvik.

When we polled parents about their crib selection, several identified Pottery Barn as their most trusted brand and we personally know a handful of people who have owned this crib for many years. One of them is my own sister, who has two rambunctious boys, and used it with both. She doesn’t remember it getting any bite marks or scratches, and said that when they took it apart to upgrade to Pottery Barn bunk beds, it was still in great shape.

We found that this crib, which comes in four parts, was much easier to assemble than our top pick. It took us just 23 minutes, start to finish. The transition to toddler bed was similarly straightforward, taking just 10 minutes for one person to transform it into a mini daybed. (It would take at least a few minutes more to install the optional toddler rail .) The crib mattress can be adjusted to three heights, as opposed to four on the Kalani, though we don’t think this is a significant distinction as we doubt many people will bother to adjust their mattress height more than twice. We really liked the rounded mattress supports on this crib, which are easy to level and virtually invisible after the mattress is placed in the crib. Most of the other cribs we tested have straight bars connecting the mattress support to the side of the cribs, which in some cases show at the corners even when the mattress is in place.

The biggest drawback to this crib is its price. Though it has a sticker price of $600, it’s often on sale for $500. Shipping is $25, with an option to pay $160 to have the crib delivered and assembled for you at home. The toddler rail costs around $200, depending on the finish. Multiple crib experts recommend buying an optional rail at the same time as your crib if you know you’ll want one, just in case models or colors change in the interim. Unlike our top pick, the Kendall crib doesn’t convert to a full-size bed.

The larger Pottery Barn Kids Kendall furniture collection includes a standard dresser and extra-wide dresser, both with optional toppers that fit changing pads, a nightstand, a desk and hutch, and bigger-kid items, like bunk beds that can convert to two full-size size beds. You have 30 days to return the crib.

In choosing our picks, we focused primarily on value and versatility, as well as a crib’s materials and construction. As a piece of furniture that’s likely to be the visual centerpiece of your child’s room, aesthetics are obviously important as well and so we decided to photograph each of the cribs we tested individually. Every one of them meets safety standards, converts to a toddler bed (with or without a bar), and would be a perfectly fine place for your baby to sleep for several years to come.

The 54-pound Babyletto Hudson is another one that looks great, and will probably appeal to parents who like mid-century modern or Scandinavian design. Like the DaVinci cribs, Babyletto cribs are manufactured by Million Dollar Baby, (Babyletto is considered a younger, hipper and more modern brand). This low-profile crib, which is just under 35 inches tall, has rounded slats and tapered feet, and the one we built is in the “washed natural” finish that’s popular right now with parents who take nursery-decorating cues from Dwell magazine. The crib also comes in seven additional finishes, including two-tone options in espresso and white, gray and white, and washed natural and white. It’s Greenguard Gold certified, the toddler rail is included, it’s easy to assemble (it took 33 minutes), and it has strong online reviews . But again, the price, at almost $500, is too high for many parents, especially since it’s made of the same soft New Zealand pine as cribs that cost half as much, and doesn’t have other special features. It comes with a one-year warranty .

The 55-pound Colby (made by another Million Dollar Baby label, Carter’s by DaVinci) is another modern-looking, low-profile, Greenguard Gold certified option that has curved edges and thin slats and is made of New Zealand pine, as well as fiberboard. Like our pick, the DaVinci Kalani, it offers significant versatility for its sub-$200 price: It converts to a daybed, toddler bed (the $80 rail is sold separately ), and full-size bed, with a kit that costs $100 more . It took us only 17 minutes to assemble. But we found that this crib doesn’t feel as sturdy as any of our picks. The larger furniture collection includes a six-drawer dresser . It comes with a one-year warranty .

Assembling the Graco Solano crib with drawer  got me so frustrated that I had to walk away twice in the process to re-focus. I stopped the clock each time, but it still took a soul-crushing hour and 38 minutes for two of us to put this one together. Much of that time was spent on the drawer alone, which, once intact, didn’t offer much storage—or functionality, as it got stuck almost immediately—for the extra price (the same crib is sold without the drawer for about $30 less). The long assembly time wasn’t our only problem with this crib, which at just under 53 pounds, didn’t feel as sturdy as our similarly priced top pick DaVinci Kalani, as our IKEA budget pick, or as the Fisher-Price crib described above. Like our pick, the Solano crib converts to a full-size bed, but unlike our pick it doesn’t come with a toddler rail , which costs $60 more. Also, some of the paint was chipped off out of the box, and we didn’t like the metal Graco logo on the front. It comes with a one-year warranty.

No matter what crib you end up with, there are some basic things to keep in mind to help keep your baby safe and your crib in good condition:

• Do some research before accepting a hand-me-down to ensure that a crib meets all current safety standards . On June 28, 2011, all cribs sold in the United States were required to meet new safety requirements (PDF) outlined by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Most notably, once popular drop-side cribs were deemed unsafe, and banned from sale. Current standards require cribs to have fixed sides. Wooden slats are also required to be stronger than in the past to prevent breaking; hardware and mattress supports are more durable; and safety testing is more rigorous. Make sure the crib was manufactured after the changes and check the CPSC’s crib recall list before accepting a hand-me-down.
• After assembling the crib, check it for damaged hardware , loose bolts or fasteners, or other broken parts. Do not use the crib if you find anything amiss. Call the manufacturer immediately with any concerns rather than buying a replacement part yourself.
• Put your infant to sleep on his or her back , and avoid putting any bedding other than a fitted sheet inside the crib. This includes blankets, pillows, stuffed toys, or  bumpers  (PDF). The  AAP and  CPSC  both have detailed guidelines on safe sleep.
• Keep the crib away from windows, blinds, toys, and cords. To ensure that your child is safe in their crib, they should not be able to reach or pull anything into the crib, like toys or a cord from a curtain or baby monitor. These items can present a suffocation or strangulation hazard.
• Make sure your mattress is at the correct height for your child. Most cribs have between two and four mattress heights that allow parents to adjust how high or low a child sleeps in the bed. Typically, parents use the top height for newborns, which allows you to most comfortably reach in to put down or pick up a baby. As soon as a baby is able to pull up to a standing position—typically sometime after six months—the crib mattress should be lowered to ensure that they can’t climb out. As climbing ability improves, lower the mattress to the lowest position.
• Don’t convert the crib to a toddler bed until your baby is at least 15 months old. Most crib’s instructions mention that before 15 months, sleeping in a toddler bed with an opening can present a hazard. Most parents seem to convert their crib between 2 and 3 years, or around the time a kid has learned to escape on their own anyway. If you’re not sure if your child is ready to sleep in a toddler bed, ask your pediatrician.
• Keep your crib away from heating or air-conditioning vents and direct sunlight. This should keep the wood from warping or discoloring, and likely be more comfortable for your sleeping child as well.
• Clean the crib with mild soap and a soft rag.
• Do not refinish or repaint a crib. Cribs are colored with paints or stains that meet safety specs specific to children’s products and should not be re-treated.

Rachel Y. Moon, Task Force on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, “SIDS and Other Sleep-Related Infant Deaths: Evidence Base for 2016 Updated Recommendations for a Safe Infant Sleeping Environment” (PDF) , American Academy of Pediatrics , October 1, 2016

Fern R. Hauck, MD, , email interview , July 11, 2017

Matthew Grayson, senior designer at Million Dollar Baby , phone interview , August 29, 2017

The Land of Nod (now Crate and Kids) design team, , email interview , August 24, 2017

Best Baby Crib 2017 , Baby Bargains , August 2, 2017

Crib Buying Guide , Consumer Reports , May 1, 2016

The Hardwood Handbook: An Illustrated Guide to Appalachian and Southern Lumber (PDF) , Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association , September 18, 2017

Meet your guide

Anne Machalinski

Further reading

The Best Crib Mattresses

by Anne Machalinski

We tested 12 crib mattresses and found that the Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer is the best for most families.

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We compared dozens of cribs, mattresses, and monitors and talked to doctors Harvey Karp and Bill Sears to find the best bets for a good night's sleep.

Wirecutter’s Most Popular Picks for Babies and Kids in 2022

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These useful baby and kid items were among the most-purchased Wirecutter picks in 2022.

The Best Bassinets and Bedside Sleepers

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Want a bassinet with storage? A co-sleeper with a drop-down side? Automated rocking? Whatever your needs, here are six models worthy of being baby’s first bed.

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Finalize your decision with one of these four travel cribs.

The Best Travel Cribs

Courtesy of Guava Family

The Guava Lotus Travel Crib is so compact, you can wear it like a backpack.

There are an increasing number of travel cribs on the market these days, and nearly all of them are touted to have a lightweight design and an easy setup, which makes it overwhelming to choose the right one for your pint-sized travel partner.

Taking into consideration key factors like safety, comfort and convenience for travel – as well as recent consumer reviews, expert recommendations and our own experiences – we've chosen the best travel cribs for babies and toddlers.

Best Overall: Guava Lotus Travel Crib

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Lightweight: BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light

• Best Budget: Graco Pack 'n Play On the Go Playard

Best for Toddlers: hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed

Note: All travel crib dimensions are listed in order of length by width by height.

Highlights:

• Especially convenient for air travel, the Guava Lotus Travel Crib can be worn like a backpack in an included carrying case with padded straps, then checked as a bag.
• The Guava Lotus is GreenGuard Gold Certified , which means its emission levels are even lower (and better) than industry standards.
• It doubles as a bassinet and playard featuring a zippered door for easy access to your baby.

Setup: The Guava Lotus is easy to set up. The sturdy aluminum frame's hinges swiftly snap in place with the touch of a button. Once the frame is assembled, a fabric cover with mesh sides can be zipped on before you place the included waterproof mattress with a sheet (which is not included) inside. Then the mattress is secured to the frame via a buckle on each corner. When it's time to take the crib down, you don't have to disassemble the entire thing – another reason to love this option.

YouTube tutorial: Guava Lotus Setup | Guava Lotus Teardown

Maintenance: The mattress is easy to wipe down, and the crib's fabric portion is machine-washable.

"I've taken this crib all across the world over the past three years, and it still looks as good as new. We initially bought this crib because we were wary of using hotel cribs during COVID. We quickly fell in love with it and still bring it on every trip we take. Additionally, we purchased the optional sun shade, which came in handy on beach trips in our daughter's infant days." – Tamiz Ahmed , co-founder of Poppylist

Courtesy of BabyBjörn

• If you're specifically looking for something lightweight, meet your match: The BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light is one of the lightest travel cribs on the market.
• The crib comes with a mattress and carrying bag.
• All materials meet OEKO TEX Standard 100, Class 1 standards for baby products – meaning the crib permeates low levels of chemicals and is also free from as many as 350 harmful chemicals, making it safe for a baby's skin and curious mouth.

Setup: The frame of the BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light is assembled in one swift motion. Next, the mattress is placed inside and secured to the crib's legs. When it's time to put the crib away, the mattress and crib frame easily fold down.

YouTube tutorial: BabyBjörn Travel Crib Setup | BabyBjörn Travel Crib Teardown – Option 1 | BabyBjörn Travel Crib Teardown – Option 2

Maintenance: The mattress can be wiped down with a damp cloth, and both the mattress cover (which can be zipped off) and the other fabric on the crib are machine-washable.

Best Budget: Graco Pack 'n Play on the Go Playard with Bassinet

Courtesy of Graco

• This crib comes with a full-size bassinet insert that folds with the playard when it's time to transport or put away the crib.
• The crib also has a toy bar with soft toys to amuse your curious baby.
• A carry case is included with this crib.

Setup: First, hit the crib's push buttons to assemble the frame. Once the four rails are locked, you can push the crib floor down before placing the mattress inside. Finally, secure the mattress straps (on the bottom) to the playard. To disassemble, you'll reverse the process almost exactly: Unfasten the mattress straps, remove the mattress, pull the tab at the bottom of the crib and – using the push buttons – fold the crib down.

YouTube tutorial: Graco On the Go Playard Setup and Teardown

Maintenance: The crib can be wiped down with mild soap and water, while the carry bag is machine-washable.

" The Graco Pack n Play On the Go Playard offers all the bells and whistles of other travel cribs, but at a far more affordable price ($80 vs. $150-$300). In particular, the removable bassinet is a game-changer during those early weeks of parenthood. My family used it during our first two weeks home with our daughter, and I appreciated that it provided a safe sleep space but didn't require me to bend over and stress my sore body. After that, we moved it to my mom's house and, even though it's super easy to fold and store, she keeps it out because it doesn't take up a lot of space." – Leah Rocketto , Associate Commerce Director at What to Expect

Courtesy of hiccapop

• Long and tall bumpers ensure your little one won't roll off the bed.
• It inflates with an included electric pump and rolls up into an included carry bag.
• The bed comes with a lifetime satisfaction guarantee and top-notch customer service.

Setup: The setup for this toddler travel bed is similar to that of a traditional air mattress – simply use the included electric pump to inflate the bed frame with rails and a mattress pad.

YouTube tutorial: hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed Setup and Teardown

Maintenance: The hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel bed can be wiped down with soap and water.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Guava Lotus vs. Baby Björn

When choosing the best travel crib to purchase, the final decision for many buyers often comes down to the Guava Lotus Travel Crib and BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light since they're so similar.

If you're undecided between the two, see which crib wins in the following categories:

Your decision may ultimately come down to the type of traveler you are. If you frequently travel (especially by plane), the Guava Lotus is the best choice.

Guava Lotus vs. Newton Travel Crib

Many people also compare the Guava Lotus with the Newton Travel Crib, a newcomer to the travel crib market. The Newton Travel Crib mimics the Guava Lotus almost exactly, but here are some key differentiators (and the reasons we ultimately recommend the Guava Lotus instead):

• Price: At $299, the Newton Travel Crib is about $50 more than the Guava Lotus.
• Weight: The Newton Travel Crib is also 2 pounds heavier than its predecessor, weighing in at 17 pounds.
• Setup: While the Newton Travel Crib is easy to set up, many buyers say that disassembly is difficult.

Travel Crib Accessories

When purchasing a travel crib, think about the other essentials your baby will need for restful naps and nights in your destination – especially since they'll be in an unfamiliar environment. These might include:

Room-darkening curtains: If your little one is accustomed to sleeping in a pitch-black room at home, you'll want to ensure your hotel room or vacation rental bedroom is as dark as possible. There are a few ways to do this:

• Use foil and duct tape:  It won't look pretty, but covering the windows with foil and duct tape is a cost-effective option.
• Invest in a Slumberpod:  The highly rated  SlumberPod  ($180) is essentially a tent that goes over the travel crib, ensuring total darkness for a peaceful night's rest. For a cheaper alternative, check out the  Dofilachy Blackout Cover  on Amazon.
• Buy portable blackout curtains:  Purchase a set of curtains that won't take up too much space in your luggage. These  portable blackout curtains from Amazon Basics  are highly rated and come with a storage bag.

White noise machine: Even if you already have a white noise machine you plan to pack, you might consider buying an additional, more portable option to use in tandem with it – especially if you'll be in a small space with older siblings who stay up later. U.S. News editors say they've had good experience with both the Yogasleep Hushh Portable Sound Machine (also useful for stroller rides) and this option by Magicteam .

Portable fan:  A small battery- or USB-powered fan is a useful accessory when traveling with little ones – you can attach it to the travel stroller and car seat on hot days and secure it to the travel crib on warm nights. There are a variety of affordable, well-rated stroller fans on Amazon, including this adjustable option by AMACOOL .

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross is a family travel expert who regularly travels with her toddler. Shortly after she found out she was pregnant, she excitedly bought the Guava Lotus Bassinet Kit & Travel Crib and – despite its hefty price tag – never regretted it once.

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Best Travel Cribs

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Daniel Ganjian , M.D., Pediatrician, Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California.  American Academy of Pediatrics, How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained , July 2022. American Academy of Pediatrics, Suitable Sleeping Sites: Safe at Night & Naptime , June 2022. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Safe Sleep – Cribs and Infant Products .

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9 Best Crib Styles for Your Baby Nursery in 2024

Safe options for your newborn in designs from vintage to modern.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks:

Best Overall

Babyletto hudson.

IKEA SNIGLAR

Namesake Winston

Best High-Back

Delta children simmons kids asher.

Best Design

Pottery barn kids larkin.

Best Convertible

Storkcraft graco benton.

Best Modern

Delta children babygap charlie.

DaVinci Kalani

Best With Storage

Carter's by davinci colby.

Our Parenting and Toys Lab evaluated 30 cribs for ease of assembly, ease of adjusting mattress height, portability, construction quality and more to form this list. We surveyed our consumer panel , used data from our Parenting Awards and scoured online reviews and Reddit forums. At the end of our list, we’ve put together safety tips and shopping tips. We also have advice for how long you should use your crib.

Here's a safety note we'll put up front though: Buying a new crib is safer than using a vintage one. New crib safety standards went into effect in 2011 so if someone offers to dig an old one out of their basement or attic, give that a hard pass.

First-time parents, take note: Cribs are not usually sold with a mattress, and that can be a surprising extra expense. Check out our guide to the best crib mattresses . And guess what? Crib mattresses aren't sold with sheets, so see our list of the best crib sheets as well. Finally, while you're making a budget for all of this, consider the nursery piece many parents say they didn't even know they'd need so much: a nursery glider chair.

Babyletto's popular Hudson crib includes the toddler bed conversion kit , so you don't have to buy anything extra to keep using the unit through preschool. We named it the best overall convertible crib . In testing, we found the Hudson easy to build and adjust. The mattress can be set to any of four levels; you'll want to start with the highest level for your newborn and then lower the mattress as your baby grows and begins to try to pull to a stand. The mid-century style fits into a variety of nursery themes from modern to vintage.

The Hudson is also a great value. The price reflects its sturdy construction, yet it's not a premium-priced crib, and there are a variety of neutral color choices. You can get a matching changing table dresser , too.

This is too short for a crib skirt, so you can save yourself money in that department — the legs are decorative enough to show off. Finally, about 90 percent of its Amazon ratings are five-star. Reviewers write things like, "I am so in love with this crib!"

You'll spend more on diapers for your newborn than you would on this very affordable IKEA crib. It's a little more compact than most full-size cribs, just by a tad, but that can make a difference if you have a small space. Note that because of its slightly pared-down size, you have to use a 27.5" x 52" crib mattress, which likely means buying one from IKEA. There's an IKEA foam crib mattress and an IKEA pocket spring crib mattress to chose from.

"Our nursery was tiny so I appreciated this being unobtrusive," one tester said, adding that she could store things underneath. "Then we had our second baby sleep next to our adult bed in this, so I was grateful for how easy it was to move from room to room."

It assembles more quickly than many pieces by IKEA. There are just four sides and the mattress support, which is made with wooden slats (not the usual metal, so you can't let an older, heavy child jump on this). It only has two possible heights. When you're ready for your child to climb in and out of their own bed, just take off the front side and it's a toddler bed.

This winner of one of our Good Housekeeping Parenting Awards looks majorly high-end without approaching the $1,000 mark of designer cribs. We love the vintage, faux-antique look and agree with our testers who said its metal construction and weight (85 pounds) make it feel sturdy and secure.

This crib is super simple and can be built in under a half hour. You might just want another person on hand to help hold the weight of each side as you attach it to the front and back. The mattress can be placed at any of four different levels. The Winston can be turned into a toddler bed, a daybed or a full-size bed's headboard and footboard with add-on conversion kits that you buy separately. (Here's the rail for the toddler bed .)

RELATED : 50 Must-Have Baby Registry Items of 2023

If you like farmhouse chic, and have a nursery wall that's just calling for a highback crib, this is a beautiful choice. The price reflects its grand size, carved back piece and the fact that it comes with a toddler rail so it can be used for years.

Like other cribs on our list, this one can convert to a toddler bed or a daybed, and the front and back pieces can bookend a full-size bed frame, sold separately . Tie your nursery together with its matching six-drawer Asher dresser with a changing-table top. The pieces of the Asher crib are larger and more intricate than many others, so do a quick inspection of the wood for any damage from shipping before you put the crib together. (It's rare, but it can happen with any crib.)

We have a tester parent on staff who told us, "I absolutely love this crib. Great material, fantastic look and it was pretty easy to assemble and set up." It is heavy at 95 pounds, so be sure to build it in the nursery so you don't have to move it far.

Whew, the nursery inspo over at Pottery Barn Kids is pretty irresistible. Two of the brand's best-selling cribs boast traditional craftsman-inspired designs , this robust Larkin crib along with the smaller Kendall . This Larkin is proving to be a favorite of reviewers and our Lab experts who have owned it for years and find it sturdy enough to last for a second child. It's made of poplar, a hardwood, which resists dents and damage more than less-expensive pine, a softwood.

The Larkin is convertible with the addition of the toddler bed conversion kit , sold separately. Because this is a large crib when fully assembled (and heavy at 122 pounds) you may want to splurge on the Pottery Barn's White Glove Delivery Service, where team members assemble the furniture in your nursery for you. If it's available in your area, it usually costs a couple hundred dollars. One of our testers took advantage of the service and found it worth it for the speed and peace of mind.

The classic design of this very affordable crib c an transition from a crib into a toddler bed, day bed or full-sized headboard and footboard with the addition of two extra kits, sold separately. To make this a toddler bed, remove the front piece and add the Graco universal toddler guardrail . To make it a daybed, simply remove the front crib piece and add pillows. For a big-kid bed conversion , you'll mount the front and back of the crib to a metal bed frame. We always recommend that parents at least buy the toddler conversion kit when they buy a crib so they have it on hand when it comes time to transition.

This crib and some others on our list are made of pine, which is affordable but softer than poplar, for instance. We've built it and feel it's sturdy enough to sustain regular wear and tear, though online reviewers do occasionally complain about chips and dings in the soft wood over time.

In a sea of neutrals, it's a breath of fresh air to see the sweet blush pink or the striking navy of the Charlie crib, which also comes in white. Delta Children has been making cribs for decades but the brand's partnership with babyGap is new. The crib has a clean, modern silhouette and can convert to a toddler bed (the toddler guardrail is sold over on the babyGap site), a daybed or can become a fullsize bed's headboard and footboard.

The babyGap nursery line includes a dresser , like most brands, but also cute decorative touches like a coordinating wall shelf in the shape of that classic babyGap bear head and sweet fabric storage bins . It's surprising how quickly you need toy organization help , so those nursery touches are nice!

If you're short on space a mini crib is a huge help. S ome reviewers also use one for each of their multiples since they can fit two or more mini cribs into a nursery more easily than several full-size cribs. The DaVinci Kalani has high sides, just like a full-size crib, though your child might start looking like they're filling out the length as they approach their second birthday.

We like that this is also a convertible crib, rare in the mini-crib world. That means you can turn this into a toddler mini crib with a mini crib rail . Or buy the twin bed conversion kit and the front and back panels become the headboard and footboard of your child's first twin bed. It could be a tiny daybed, too. Note that you'll need a mini crib mattress that's sized to fit this and must also use fitted mini crib sheets .

For parents looking to maximize storage, the Colby features a built-in trundle drawer . Expect assembly to take longer as you put that in place; it also makes the crib slightly heavier than a plain wooden crib. Testers who have used the under-crib storage say it's a great place to stash extra fitted sheets and pajamas for middle-of-the-night accidents. But some online reviewers warn that the drawer can get caught on high carpeting and sometimes slides off its rails.

Like others on this list, the Colby can be converted to a toddler bed, daybed and full-size bed with conversion kits that you purchase separately. (Here's the link to the toddler rail , which at less than $100 is cheaper than many.) The mattress can be set at any of four different levels so you can lower it as your baby grows.

How we test the best cribs

The experts and parents of the Good Housekeeping Institute tested a variety of cribs for this story. We looked at top brands that have been reliable for years, earning online reviews in addition to our feedback from our own consumer testers nationwide.

Cribs must adhere to rigorous federal safety standards: ASTM standards F1169 , Consumer Safety Specification for Full-Size Baby Cribs and F406 , Consumer Safety Specification for Non-Full Size Baby Cribs/Play Yards. These standards take into account things like the maximum distance between slats (no wider than 2 3/8 inches apart), crib side configuration (no drop sides), impact tests and more. We prefer sleep spaces that carry the Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association certification seal ( JPMA ), which means the crib has been third-party tested for conformance to the safety guidelines. We also note if a crib meets the Greenguard Gold certification , which means that it has been vetted to ensure low chemical emissions.

What to look for when shopping for a crib

When shopping for a fullsize crib for your baby, you'll want:

✔️ Adjustable mattress heights: Three or more possible heights is ideal. Keep the mattress at the highest level during the newborn months so you don’t have to reach far to scoop your baby out. As your baby grows, lower the mattress height so your baby can’t easily climb out. When your child can pull up to a stand, the mattress should be down at the lowest level near the floor.

✔️ Convertible features: Convertible cribs are great for extended use. Sometimes you have to buy a conversion kit to turn your crib into a toddler bed or bed frame, but sometimes the conversion pieces are included with your crib. Currently, all of the cribs on this list are convertible cribs.

Tip for first-timers: Your crib mattress will also fit the toddler-bed setup. Even if you end up buying a new toddler bed anyway (maybe you need the crib for a baby sibling), a crib mattress is the size that fits a toddler bed. Only once your child moves on to a twin bed will you need a great kids' mattress .

✔️ Mobility: Consider if you're going to be moving your baby's crib, maybe from the adult bedroom into the kid's room eventually. Instead of opting for a travel crib, mini crib or bassinet, you can opt for a lightweight design for greater mobility. There are also some cribs with wheels; make sure that they can lock into place for safety.

Do I need a crib for my newborn?

Actually, no. There are several sleep options for your newborn. But you will want a crib when your baby is older, from about 6 months to 3 years, so even if you don't invest in one right away, you'll need one down the line.

✔️ A bassinet works for the newborn phase. It can be near your adult bed for around-the-clock feedings, and your baby may like the coziness of it. The bassinet should be swapped out before your child can sit up, which usually happens around 6 months old. Hopefully, by that time, your child has given up multiple night feedings so it will be easier for parents to transition as well.

✔️ A Pack 'n Play or playard is a great choice for naps and can function as a bassinet as well, but it's not recommended as a long-term sleeping solution.

✔️ A mini crib is larger than a bassinet but smaller than a full-size crib. It's a nice option if you live in a small space, have multiple babies to put to sleep or plan to move the crib around a lot.

✔️ A convertible crib is a common full-size crib option. Most cribs these days can be switched into a toddler bed. Others sell kits that let you use parts of the crib to bookend a twin or full-size bed. Longer use is appealing; we love to upcycle! And most parents we know use the toddler-bed conversion. But the jury is out on how many parents go on to use the front and the back of the crib for a big-kid headboard and footboard. The bigger the kid, the more opinions they have about their bedroom. Many parents end up buying new big-kid beds anyway.

How to make a crib safe for your baby

Your crib will be safe if you follow these steps:

✔️ Buy new. It’s best to buy new and avoid a hand-me-down if you can. Then take the extra step to mail in the card that your crib comes with, registering it so you’ll be alerted if there is a recall. If you do opt for a used crib, check that the crib has not been recalled and do a safety check yourself. It’s important not to substitute the hardware on your child's crib; If you need to replace a screw you should only do so by getting the piece from the manufacturer.

✔️ Eye your setup. There shouldn’t be any gaps larger than two fingers between the crib mattress and the crib sides. Position the crib away from windows and cords , including a baby monitor cord. There shouldn't be anything hanging on or near the crib that the baby can reach and pull. (That includes mobiles, unfortunately.)

✔️ Don't paint your crib. Manufacturers often take pains to finish a crib with a low-VOC color or varnish, taking into account the fact that a teething baby might chomp on the crib rail or slats.

✔️ Just put your baby in there. Obviously, you first add a crib mattress wrapped in a fitted crib sheet . But no toys, blankets or pillows should be in your baby's sleeping space. The crib will still look cute: See our photo of the Asher crib in a Lab director's home.

How much should I spend on a crib?

Cribs run the gamut from about $125 to more than $1,000 with materials, features, brand names and more coming into play. You can easily buy a safe crib for under $500 , but cribs can go into the thousands if you want a special design, a crib that's been handcrafted in the USA or a crib that comes with customer service including setup in your home.

When budgeting, keep in mind you won't just be buying a crib: You have to factor in a crib mattress, which can be another $100 to $500, a couple of fitted crib sheets, a crib conversion kit if you opt to get the toddler-bed rail plus the cost of assembly if you don’t plan on doing the building alone.

How long does a baby stay in a crib?

Depending upon your child’s size, development and preferences, you'll have your child in the crib until they are at least 2 and perhaps upwards of 5 years old . One factor is height: When your child can climb out of the crib or is over 35-inches tall (usually by 3-years-old), they may be safer in a toddler bed so they don't try a daring escape.

A big deciding factor is potty training , which often kicks into high gear at about age 3. If you want your child to take themself to the potty at night or first thing in the morning, you will need them to be able to step out of their own bed. The cribs on our list turn into toddler beds for this purpose.

To convert a crib to a toddler bed, move the mattress to its lowest level and take off the front crib panel. You can just leave it like that, but to prevent a toddler from accidentally rolling out at night, many manufacturers will provide or sell a toddler rail for you to install.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

The Good Housekeeping Institute has tested consumer products for more than 100 years. We lean on the engineers and scientists in our New York City-based Lab for controlled tests and collect data from consumer panelists nationwide. See our latest Parenting Awards and our Family Travel Awards .

Testing for baby cribs was led by former Chief Technologist & Executive Technical Director Rachel Rothman , a mom of three kids ages 7 and younger who was with the Institute for more than 15 years.

This story has since been updated by Contributing Writer Jessica Hartshorn who covered the baby-gear market for two decades on staff at American Baby magazine and Parents magazine. If you're hunting for baby gear she's also listed the best high chairs and the stroller-car seat combos .

Rachel Rothman was the chief technologist and executive technical director of the Good Housekeeping Institute for over 15 years , overseeing testing methodology, implementation and reporting for all GH Labs. She also managed GH's research division and the analysis of applicants for the GH Seal and all other testing emblems. 

Jessica (she/her) is a freelance writer with several decades of experience writing lifestyle content and evaluating home and parenting products. A mom of two teens and two cats, her previous work can be seen in American Baby and Parents .

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Best travel cribs

• Best travel crib overall :
• Best travel crib for flying :
• Best affordable travel crib :
• Best easy to use travel crib :
• Best compact travel crib :
• Best Travel Crib for Twins :

How to buy a travel crib

Modern families live their lives on the go, and when they have babies or young children in tow, a travel crib makes staying away from home a little bit easier. 

Unlike standard sized cribs made to stay in one place like a piece of furniture, travel cribs are portable places for a young child or baby to sleep or play. Typically, travel cribs can be easily set up and broken down, are lighter in weight, and are slightly smaller in size than a standard crib. Ideally, travel cribs don’t have a significant footprint when in use and will fold up compactly, often fitting into a case for travel. 

There are many reasons why travel cribs are an “it” item on baby registries: They’re convenient, easy to use, portable, and can be used for more than just infant sleep. Do you need to set your baby in a safe place while you take a much-needed shower? Or pop over to Grandma’s house while you head out for date night? Travel cribs give you flexibility by providing a safe space to sleep or play. 

There are a variety of travel crib options on the market today, but there are two main styles that are safe according to pediatrician recommendations:

• Folding cribs: These sleep spaces look much like a traditional crib, though they’re often smaller and have features like wheels for portability. They generally fold flat for storage and are made of plastic, metal, or both. 
• Play yard cribs: These cribs double as play spaces and may have a removable bassinet or a padded bottom that’s safe for sleep.

Some families also have inflatable beds or mattresses to use for guests, but they’re not recommended for babies or young children under 15 months. 

Dr. Jordan Wright, MD, FAAP, a pediatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Denver, Colorado, says that though there’s only “limited” data on air mattress safety and young children, there’s reason to believe air mattresses are not safe.

“Officially, the CPSC does not not recommend the use of these products in kids under 15 months; noting that even when properly inflated, these products still have the potential to lead to suffocation or for children to become entrapped between the mattress and the bed frame or the mattress and the wall,” Dr. Wright says. “I would recommend parents consider alternative sleep spaces that do not pose that level of risk.”

Of course, it’s important to follow the American Academy of Pediatrics’ (AAP) safe sleep recommendations Opens a new window when using travel cribs or putting your baby to sleep anywhere. Babies should always be put to sleep:

• On their back, not on their stomach or any other position
• On a firm sleep surface, such as a crib, bassinet, portable crib, or play yard with a tight-fitting, firm mattress and fitted sheet designed for that particular product, with no blankets, pillows, stuffed animals, or anything else in their sleeping space

See our buying guide at the end of this article for more on safety. 

How we chose the best travel cribs

With something as important as your baby’s healthy sleep and safety at stake, we knew it was important to recommend travel cribs that are safe, easy to use, and a good value for the money. We started our search on BabyCenter’s Community, searching through millions of posts for travel cribs that parents recommend to each other. 

Once we had a list of travel cribs parents love, we turned it over to our expert editorial team for research and vetting to make sure each crib meets relevant standards from organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association, and medical experts such as Dr. Wright. Read on to find the best travel crib for flying, the best affordable travel crib, and more. And if you’re looking for more baby sleep spaces, our picks for the best cribs and best bassinets may help.

Why trust us?

Best travel crib overall, baby bjorn travel crib light.

Weighing only 13 pounds, the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light is beloved by families always on the go. Parents are thrilled with the easy set-up and break-down: the crib folds and unfolds in one easy motion. The mattress and the crib frame can be removed and thrown in the washing machine, too. When folded and stored in its (included) carrying case, this travel crib tucks nicely into airline baggage compartments.

A crib sheet needs to be purchased separately (though you can buy the crib as a bundle with sheet included Opens a new window for an extra $35). 

Parents say 

“We travel a lot, and the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light ($300) has been one of my most favorite baby purchases.”

“We travelled recently where we stayed at a lot of different places and after research invested in the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light.”

• Assembled crib: 32 x 44 x 24 inches; folded crib: 19 x 23.5 x 5.5 inches
• Includes mattress, crib, and carrying case
• Recommended for newborns to age 3
• Choose from black or silver

Best travel crib for flying

Guava lotus travel crib.

A travel crib turned into a backpack is every traveling parent's dream. So when you’re getting ready to head to the airport, fold the Guava Lotus into its carrying case and throw this lightweight travel crib onto your back, leaving your hands free to deal with all the other stuff you’ll need to tote with you. The unique zipper opening on the side makes it easy for parents to feed, play, or soothe their baby and then quietly zip it back up for naptime. 

The mattress for the Guava Lotus is on the floor while the crib is placed around it, which can dirty the mattress bottom. Sheets are not included with your crib, so you’ll have to purchase Guava Lotus crib sheets Opens a new window separately. 

Parents say

“Guava Lotus Travel Crib is the BOMB.COM”

“We have the Guava Lotus and it’s really easy to travel with.”

“We’re still rocking the Guava Lotus and my 1-year-old loves it.”

• Assembled crib: 45.5 x 31.5 x 25.5 inches; folded crib: 24 x 12 x 8 inches

Best affordable travel crib

Graco pack 'n play portable playard.

Simple and free of bells and whistles, The Graco Pack ‘n Play has a great price point, is sturdy, and sets up or breaks down with the simple push of a button. Thanks to its $60 price tag, you can use these as an extra play yard for around your house or keep one at a family member's house to use when you are visiting.

To help prevent falls, do not use this product when the infant begins to push up on hands and knees or weighs over 30 lbs (6.8 kg), whichever comes first. This Pack ‘n Play doesn’t come with sheets; you must buy them separately. Graco sells its own Pack ‘n Play sheets Opens a new window , and the Pack ‘n Play brand is so popular that there are many other compatible sheets for sale. Just make sure whatever sheet you buy is sold to fit a 37.5 x 25.5-inch mattress, and that it fits tightly on your Pack ‘n Play mattress. 

“I loved the Graco Pack ‘n Play for my daughter.”

• Assembled crib: 39.5 x 18.25 x 38 inches
• 18.7 pounds
• Recommended for newborns to children up to 35 inches tall who are unable to climb out

Best easy to use travel crib

4moms breeze plus.

Built to be used with babies up to 30 pounds, this playard is an investment that can be used for the long haul. Designed with all of the bells and whistles, the 4moms Breeze Plus playard is sleek, sturdy and easy to use. In fact, it can be set up with only one hand. Weighing 23 pounds, this playard folds compactly into a travel bag equipped with shoulder straps, still making it a great option for travel. The Breeze GO version Opens a new window has a slightly lower price, providing the same convenience for parents on the go, just without the bassinet and changing station included.

The bassinet and changing station are included, but have a weight limit of 18 and 25 pounds, respectively, so discontinue use when your baby reaches this milestone. A diaper caddy can be purchased separately. You’ll also have to buy sheets; 4moms makes their own Breeze sheets Opens a new window . 

“I ordered the 4moms Breeze Plus playard and you don’t have to remove the changing table. I love how easy it is to fold and take when we go on trips!”

• Assembled crib: 43 x 30 x 29 inches
• Crib weight without bassinet and changer: 23 lbs; crib weight with bassinet and changer: 28.5 lbs
• Maximum weight bassinet: 18 pounds; changer: 25 pounds; playard: 30 pounds
• Recommended for newborns and up

Best compact travel crib

Kidco peapod plus.

The KidCo PeaPod Plus is so lightweight and compact that it will fold up and fit right inside your suitcase without taking up too much of your precious packing space. Designed with durable mesh, UV-rated fabric, and ground anchor straps, this cozy sleep tent can be used inside or out at the park or beach. Kids can use this tent up to age 5, making sleeping arrangements while traveling effortless.

You will need to have blankets or sheets to cover the sleeping pad. There isn’t a sheet made specifically for this product, which makes this product not safe for infant sleep, so only use this option for babies a year old and up.

“Kidco Peapod Travel Bed - basically a baby tent, folds up to make it easy to travel with (we’ve used this in hotels too).”

• Assembled crib: 52.5 x 34 x 22 inches; folded crib: 19 x 3.5 x 19 inches
• Recommended for ages 1-5

Best Travel Crib for Twins

Joovy room2 portable playard.

With 10 square feet of room to play and sleep, the Joovy Room2 portable playard is perfect for families with twins. The Joovy Room2 has a large sleek and modern design without being too bulky. The large mesh windows allow you to easily see into or out of the playard so you can watch while your babies play. It is easy to set up or take down and folds compactly into a travel case complete with shoulder straps. However, this item is not for twin sleep. Twins need their own separate sleep environment so this is for play only. 

This play yard has a sturdy frame, but is on the heavier side. There are attachments that can be purchased allowing you to add two bassinets and a changing table. A fitted cotton mattress sheet is included with the Room2.

“I've been using a Joovy Room2 and I really love it.”

“I have the Joovy Room2 for my twins & I’m beyond happy about it.”

• Recommended for newborns up to 35 inches tall
• Assembled crib: 39.75 x 39.75 x 31 inches; folded crib: 10 x 9.5 x 37 inches
• Recommended for newborns to age 2

Not every parent needs a travel crib. Some parents stay put while their children are young, or visit only family members who already have cribs or other safe sleeping spaces set up for small visitors. But if you’re a family on the move, a lightweight travel crib can pay off in better sleep for everyone.

Just as travel cribs vary in function, they also vary in price, from a low of about $65 to $300 or more. Generally speaking, the more bells and whistles that are included, equal a steeper price tag. Higher-end travel cribs may include a more comfortable pad and accessories like a bassinet or carrying bag, and may also be more lightweight, easier to set up and break down. 

However, for some families, basic is just fine, so don’t count out those more affordable options. Some of the less expensive travel cribs are just as lightweight, safe, and easy to use as pricier competitors; they may even come with accessories of their own.

Speaking of accessories, travel cribs generally come with their own mattress, but some are thicker and more plush than others. Any mattress used by a baby under age 1 should be firm, and should be covered only by a tight-fitting sheet, with no pillows, blankets, stuffed animals, or any other soft material inside the crib. 

Lest you be tempted to skip the hassle of traveling with a safe sleep space in favor of co-sleeping with your baby, Dr. Wright offers this advice: “If parents want to travel without a crib they should know that there is not a specific age at which the AAP recommends or condones co-sleeping, or at which evidence has objectively shown co-sleeping to be a safe option. It has been clearly demonstrated to pose a serious risk to children under 1 year of age, and should be avoided in this age group regardless of travel.”

Dr. Wright also highlighted the importance of reading your crib’s instruction manual, and following its safety guidelines. “Travel cribs should only be used according to the manufacturer’s guidelines,” he said. 

Before you invest in a travel crib, here are a few key points to consider:

• Size: Think about how big the crib will be when it is set up and also when it is broken down and folded into its travel case. 
• Storage: Where will you keep it? Does your travel crib come with it’s own storage bag? Is it compact and will it fit into your trunk? Can it fold down flat and store under the bed? 
• Travel options: How easy will this be to travel with? Can you carry it while holding your baby? Does it come with a bag with handles? Can you fit it in a tote or suitcase? If you plan to fly with the crib, can it fit in an overhead compartment or must it be checked? 
• Versatility: It is nice to have a travel crib that’s spacious enough to pull double duty as a play yard. 
• Age range: When purchasing a travel crib, read the product manual for the weight and age recommendations. Most travel cribs are for children under 3 years old. In many cases, older children can climb out of a travel crib, posing a safety risk.
• Ease of setup: You aren’t going to want to use a travel crib if it takes all day to set up. Find one that is easy to use and fits within your lifestyle needs. 
• Care: Is the mattress easy to take out and wipe off? How can you clean when the inevitable blowouts happen?

Was this article helpful?

Our research

AAP. 2016. American Academy of Pediatrics. Sleep-Related Infant Deaths: Updated 2022 Recommendations for Reducing Infant Deaths in the Sleep Environment. https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/150/1/e2022057990/188304/Sleep-Related-Infant-Deaths-Updated-2022 [Accessed September 2022]

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Jenn Bonicelli and Meghan Hertzfeldt are the authors of the book,  You Can Two: The Essential Twins Preparation Guide  and cofounders of parenting site  Two Came True. 

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Best Cribs of 2024

Modern or minimalist, classic or mid-century, here’s how to shop for a crib and 40+ styles to browse., by jen labracio.

Watching your little one peacefully snoozing in their crib is one of the greatest pleasures of parenting. Whether you use a crib from day one or transition into one later, most parents get years of use out of this nursery essential.

A crib is more than just a safe place for your little one to sleep —it’s also one of the biggest pieces of nursery furniture you’ll invest in and a chance to show off your personal style . We rounded up over 40 of the best cribs, from our personal favorites to popular Babylist parent picks, to help you find the perfect match for your nursery aesthetic.

In This Article

How we chose the best cribs.

• Our Top Picks

Do You Need a Crib?

When do you need a crib, types of cribs, how to choose a crib, babylist’s picks for the best cribs, best modern cribs.

Whether you’re going for crisp, clean lines, a mid-century modern look or something in between, there are a lot of (gorgeous) modern cribs across all different price ranges. Most are gender-neutral and versatile enough to work across many different nursery styles if you’re not entirely sold on a modern look. Most also convert into toddler beds, daybeds or full-size beds once your child is old enough.

babyletto   Lolly 3-in-1 Convertible Crib with Toddler Bed Conversion...

dadada   Soho 3-in-1 Convertible Crib

West Elm   Mid-Century 4-in-1 Convertible Crib

Babylist   Babyletto Hudson Crib & Newton Baby Mattress Bundle

Nestig   The Wave Crib

Crate & Kids   Finn Sage Green Wood Baby Crib

Oeuf   Classic Crib

Delta Children   Sloane 4-In-1 Acrylic Convertible Crib

Storkcraft   Orchard 5-in-1 Convertible Crib

Stokke   Sleepi Bed

Delta Children   Poppy 4-in-1 Convertible Crib

Nurture&   The Crib

babyletto   Yuzu 8-in-1 Convertible Crib with All-Stages Conversion Kits

Best affordable cribs.

You don’t have to spend a lot of money on a sturdy, stylish crib. And you don’t have to sacrifice features, either—many of these budget-friendly cribs convert into toddler beds, so they’ll be around for the long haul.

IKEA   Ikea Gulliver Crib

Delta Children   Gateway 4-in-1 Convertible Crib

Carter's by DaVinci   Colby Convertible Crib

Storkcraft   Sunset 4 in 1 Convertible Crib

Delta Children   Essex 4-in-1 Convertible Baby Crib

Storkcraft   Pasadena 3-in-1 Convertible Baby Crib

Best traditional cribs.

Traditional, classic-style cribs often have features like curves, crown or other types of moldings, nailhead trim or upholstered sides. They fit any style of nursery decor and are most often found in white or natural wood tones.

Delta Children   Cambridge 4-in-1 Convertible Baby Crib

Simmons Kids   Avery 3-in-1 Baby Crib with Toddler Bed Conversion Kit

Delta Children   Lancaster 4-in-1 Convertible Crib

DaVinci   Autumn 4-in-1 Mini Crib & Changer Combo

Carter's by DaVinci   Nolan 4-in-1 Convertible Crib

DaVinci   Chloe Regency 4-in-1 Convertible Crib

Best vintage cribs.

These cribs are a fun way to add a touch of vintage style to a brand-new nursery space. Two of the most popular styles are metal cribs (inspired by iconic American cribs of the past) and Jenny Lind-style spindle cribs. Vintage cribs are usually available in black and metallic finishes and sometimes even fun colors, depending on the brand.

Namesake   Abigail 3-in-1 Convertible Crib

DaVinci   Jenny Lind Stationary Crib

Namesake   Camellia 3-in-1 Convertible Crib

Namesake   Winston 4-in-1 Convertible Crib

Crate&kids   Cratke&kids Jenny Lind Black Wood Spindle Baby Crib

Ready to add a crib to your registry.

With Babylist, you can add any item from any store onto ONE registry. Start your registry today and get a Hello Baby Box full of free (amazing!) goodies.

Best Luxury Cribs

Handmade. Limited Edition. Chic. High-end craftsmanship. If this is what you’re looking for in a crib, consider these luxury picks. Upscale cribs don’t come cheap, but if budget isn’t an issue or if you’re looking for an heirloom piece to use for multiple children, these high-end cribs might be right for you.

Nursery Works   Luma Crib

RH Baby   Olin Panel Crib

Ubabub   Nifty Clear 3-in-1 Crib

Nursery Works   Novella 4-in-1 Convertible Crib

RH Baby   Jeune French Contemporary Upholstered Panel Crib

Newport Cottages Skylar Crib

Best mini cribs.

A mini crib is a smaller version of a full-size crib and shares many of the same features—just in a reduced size. Mini cribs are often portable and more compact than their full-size counterparts and are a good solution if you live in a small space or simply prefer a more minimal sleeping solution for your baby.

babyletto   Origami Mini Crib

Carter's by DaVinci   Colby 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib with Trundle

Best storage cribs.

Another space-saving nursery option is a crib with built-in storage. These types of cribs often feature drawers or trundle-style storage spaces, changing tables and nightstands. Sometimes these add-ons detach (like a nightstand or a dresser, for example) so you can use them separately once the crib is converted into a bed.

Sorelle   Farmhouse Crib & Changer

Carter's by DaVinci   Colby 4-in-1 Convertible Crib with Trundle Drawer

Sorelle   Berkley Crib & Changer

Graco   Benton 4-in-1 Convertible Crib and Changer

DaVinci   Kalani 4-in-1 Crib and Changer Combo

• We analyzed results from Babylist’s Best Baby Products survey, which polled 6,000 Babylist users and asked them to share the baby products they love the most and why.
• We utilized insight from the Babylist editorial team, including Gear Editor Jen LaBracio, an expert in the baby space for over six years and a mom of two who has written hundreds of baby gear guides and personally researched and tested hundreds of baby products, including many cribs.
• We reviewed customer reviews from hundreds of real Babylist parents.

In addition to a bassinet or a playard that’s approved for sleep, a crib is the safest place for your baby to sleep. What type of crib you select is up to you. Some parents opt for a full size crib from the start, while others go for a mini crib or bedside sleeper either because of space restrictions or preference.

No matter which style or brand of crib you choose, it’s important to always follow safe sleep guidelines . Your baby should be placed on their back on a firm sleep surface with a fitted sheet with no other bedding, blankets or soft objects like toys or stuffed animals.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends room sharing—when a baby sleeps in the parents’ room, close to the parents’ bed but on a separate sleep surface—for at least the first six months.

Although you can use a crib for your baby from day one, many parents choose to start off with their baby in a bassinet. Even if you don’t plan on using a crib right away, consider putting one on your registry since it’s an expensive item that friends and family may want to pitch in to get for you.

There are a few basic types of cribs to consider when doing your research on the best baby crib for you.

• Traditional cribs , sometimes also called standard cribs , are full-size cribs with four sides.
• Convertible cribs are cribs that convert to a toddler bed and sometimes even into a standard-sized bed frame or a daybed. (These cribs are also called 4-in-1 or 3-in-1 cribs.) Most convertible cribs require conversion kits to morph into different setups. Sometimes these kits are included with the purchase of your crib and sometimes they are not. Pro tip : buy the conversion kit at the same time you purchase your convertible crib! This will ensure it hasn’t been discontinued by the time you need it.
• Mini cribs are just what they sound like: miniature versions of a full-size crib. Mini cribs are generally larger than a bassinet but smaller than a traditional crib and many come with wheels for easy portability. (Some can even be folded flat for storage.) Depending on the model, most mini cribs can take you from the newborn days until your little one is about two or three years old. A mini crib is a great option if you have limited space or want a crib that’s easy to move around.
• Travel cribs are lighter in weight and easy to set up and break down and are perfect for travel or if you’re staying overnight away from home.

Most parents choose their crib by style, size, price or a combination of all three. Here are a few things to keep in mind while you’re shopping.

• Safety . All cribs manufactured after 2011 are required to meet standards set by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Buying a crib secondhand isn’t recommended. That’s because cribs are held to extremely high (and constantly evolving) safety standards. Cribs also tend to weaken over time, especially after consistent use by an older child, so the only way to ensure the structural integrity is to buy new.
• Recalls . Always check for any recalls associated with your crib. Stop using it immediately if you come across one and contact the crib manufacturer for follow up.
• Integrity . Look over all crib components both before and after assembly to make sure everything is intact, stable and in good working order. Be sure there’s no broken or cracked slats, loose parts, etc. Measure the space between your crib’s slats; if they’re more than 2 3/8 inches apart (about the width of a soda can), the crib isn’t safe to use.
• Mattress settings . Be sure the crib you select has at least a few adjustable mattress settings that allow you to lower and raise the mattress. When your child is an infant, you’ll want a mattress at a higher setting for easy access to them without having to bend all the way over. As they grow and start sitting and standing, you’ll want to lower the mattress so they can’t climb out.

Do all full-size crib mattresses fit all full-size cribs?

Yes, the CPSC regulates standard sizing for both full-size cribs and full-size crib mattresses, so even if you select a crib and a mattress from different manufacturers, they should work together.

There is one safety detail you’ll want to be aware of, however. While the interior dimensions of every crib manufactured in the U.S. must be a standard size, there is a little wiggle room on each side. (5/8 of an inch, to be exact.) To be extra safe, you’ll want to check the fit of your crib and crib mattress—especially if they’re from different brands—just in case. A good rule of thumb to follow is if you can fit more than two fingers between the mattress and the crib frame, you don’t have a snug enough fit, and your mattress could pose a suffocation hazard to your baby.

Learn more about how to choose a crib mattress in our Best Crib Mattresses guide.

• Pregnancy Weeks
• Nursery Design
• Toddler Sleep
• White Noise

Travel Crib Tips for Safe Sleep Away From Home

On This Page

What is a travel crib, are travel cribs safe, what should i look for when buying a travel crib, is it okay to buy a used travel crib, how can i help my baby sleep in a travel crib, can you travel with snoo.

Whether you’re heading to a long-awaited vacation, visiting family, or you simply need an extra sleep space in your home, travel cribs are a must-have item for many parents. But before you buy the trendiest travel crib—or borrow a nearly-ancient play yard—you’ll want to make sure it’s as safe and functional as it can be. Here’s what parents should look for when buying a travel crib.

A travel crib is another name for a portable crib. Travel cribs are compact, lightweight, and especially designed for easy transport. Sometimes “play yard” and “travel crib” are used interchangeably, but they’re not always the same. For example, play yards tend to feature mesh sides or another non-rigid construction. While travel cribs can mimic that, some portable cribs are wood and foldable. Generally, travel cribs and play yards can be used from birth to age 3.

Yes. Fortunately, the safety standards for travel cribs were upgraded over 10 years ago, so models currently sold in America have passed rigorous stability, entrapment, and structural integrity tests. (The same is true for play yards .) But for even more peace of mind, I recommend looking for travel cribs or play yards with a JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association) certification, which means they are checked annually to prove they meet or exceed all safety standards for infant products. Of course, it’s imperative to use travel cribs safely , which means always…

Place your baby on the back. All babies under a year old should be put on their back for all naps and night sleep.

Make sure the travel crib is empty. Keep the travel crib free of all loose bedding , pillows, loungers, and stuffed toys.

Use the proper mattress. Only use the play yard mattress provided by the manufacturer—and never double up or add a soft topper. Remember, your baby’s mattress needs to be firm, whether they’re snoozing in a full-size crib, a bassinet, or a travel crib!

Only use a well-fitted sheet. Portable crib fitted sheets need to be tucked under the mattress, so the sheet can’t snap up and become a suffocation risk.

Keep the sides up: Never leave a baby in a mesh play yard with the side lowered or your little one could get trapped between the side and the floorboard.

Remove the changing table. If your play yard features a raised changing table, remove it when your child is in the play yard so they don’t risk entrapment .

Know when to retire your travel crib. Discontinue using the play yard or travel crib when your little one can easily climb out.

While safety, of course, is number one, there are other points to consider when buying a travel crib, such as:

Sturdiness: If you’re able, test out the travel crib before buying. You’ll want to feel first-hand how sturdy it is. Does it feel a bit wobbly when you press on the top? If so, choose another.

Functionality: Buying a play yard for an infant? Look for one with a bassinet feature where you detach the mattress from the bottom and safely raise it up so you can more easily lift your baby in and out of the crib. At the same time, you’ll want to make sure your portable crib has enough space for a toddler to rest and play comfortably when it’s time to lower the mattress.

Size and weight: For many, the point of a portable crib is to be able to travel with it, so be sure it’s easy to fold and carry. If you’re a frequent flier, you also want a travel crib that’s small enough to meet airline size requirements— and light enough to lug through the airport!

Weight limit: While travel cribs with mattresses at floor-level might not have a weight limit, most other travel cribs/play yards have a recommended weight max of around 25 to 30 pounds. Either way, it’s always smart to double check.

Ease of use: The last thing you want to do when you arrive at your destination with a cranky baby is take 10 minutes to assemble the travel crib! For example, look for play yards that unfold at the push of a button…and lock into place easily.

Maintenance: Many portable cribs feature removable, machine-washable fabric that can be a gamechanger when dealing with diaper blowouts and other unexpected oopsies.

While it may be tempting to borrow a travel crib or a play yard—or buy one used—proceed with caution. Nearly two million play yards have been recalled before new federal safety standards were put into place in 2013, so anything older could be dangerous. Plus, it wasn’t until 2022 that replacement mattresses used in play yards and portable cribs were required to meet the same safety requirements as the original mattress! Before then, babies were at risk for getting trapped and suffocating in a gap between the mattress and the side of the play yard.

As a pediatrician, I lean toward buying new so you know for-sure your travel yard isn’t missing any parts and meets the most recent safety standards. But I also know that buying new can be hard for some families. So, if you are buying a secondhand travel crib or are borrowing one, keep the following in mind:

Look for important numbers. If the travel crib is missing a label that includes the manufacturing date (or lot code) and manufacturer’s contact info, don’t buy it .

Check for recalls. Found the label with all the travel crib’s manufacturing info? Great. Now check to see if it’s been recalled .

Inspect for damage. Make sure the mesh of the play yard and the top rails are free of tears, holes, or loose threads . Check for missing or loose parts and ensure the travel crib is fitted with the manufacturer’s original mattress.

If you know ahead of time that your baby will be snoozing in a play yard or travel crib during a trip, arrange to have them sleep in one at home first. The more familiarity the better! Speaking of familiarity, recreating your baby’s sleep surroundings is key, too. That means, dim the lights about 30 minutes before night-night, play the same white noise your little one loves, and wrap your baby in the same sleep sack or swaddle they’re used to. If your baby has been sleeping in SNOO and swaddled in a SNOO Sack , use SNOObie or SNOObear to recreate SNOO’s white noise—and use the Sleepea 5-Second Swaddle in the travel crib. Sleepea is the exact same expert design as the award-winning SNOO Sack, minus the “wings” that secure SNOO sleepers into the bassinet.

If your baby has been blissfully sleeping in SNOO , you may be wondering if SNOO is portable. While SNOO is not a travel crib, many SNOO users do travel with their beloved bassinet! If you’re considering traveling with SNOO, know that, when packed and reboxed , your SNOO will take up about 8 cubic feet in your trunk. At the same time, SNOO can likely be checked as oversized luggage on your flight. (Call ahead!) But if packing and traveling with SNOO is impossible, don’t worry! Babies tend to sleep okay on trips without their SNOO…as long as:

Your stay is under one week.

Your baby has slept well in SNOO for one to two months.

You continue to swaddle your baby .

You use a strong white noise machine while away.

More on Baby Travel:

• How to Help Children With Jet Lag
• Dr. Harvey Karp on Stress-Free Flying With a Baby
• Sleep Tips for Holiday Travel
• Help Your Baby Sleep in Any Hotel Room
• Travel Toys to Occupy Tots on the Go
• How to Handle Travel Nightmares When Flying With Kids
• United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC): Non-Full-Size Baby Cribs Business Guidance & Small Entity Compliance Guide
• CPSC: Play Yards Business Guidance & Small Entity Compliance Guide
• American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): Playpen Safety
• Kids in Danger: Product Hazards – Play Yards
• Safety Standard for Crib Mattresses. Federal Register . February 2022
• Consumer Reports: Is It Safe to Buy a Used Car Seat, Stroller, or Crib for Your Baby?

About Dr. Harvey Karp

Dr. Harvey Karp, one of America’s most trusted pediatricians, is the founder of Happiest Baby and the inventor of the groundbreaking SNOO Smart Sleeper. After years of treating patients in Los Angeles, Dr. Karp vaulted to global prominence with the release of the bestselling Happiest Baby on the Block and Happiest Toddler on the Block . His celebrated books and videos have since become standard pediatric practice, translated into more than 20 languages and have helped millions of parents. Dr. Karp’s landmark methods, including the 5 S’s for soothing babies, guide parents to understand and nurture their children and relieve stressful issues, like new-parent exhaustion, infant crying, and toddler tantrums.

View more posts tagged, sleep

Have questions about a Happiest Baby product? Our consultants would be happy to help! Submit your questions here.

Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider.

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* An additional $185 shipping fee will be applied to SNOO purchases sent to Hawaii and Alaska.

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8 Best Travel Cribs for Babies and Toddlers to Sleep Soundly On the Go

By Brigitt Earley

Traveling with tiny humans is no joke. Oh, the stuff you need: A car seat and stroller! A stocked diaper bag ! A portable high chair! Even the best travel cribs are essential, since a tired baby’s mood can threaten the whole family’s fun.

Our top picks:

• Best Lightweight: Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot Play Yard , $195
• Best for Flying: Guava Lotus Travel Crib , $249
• Best for Tall Toddlers: Baby Bjorn Travel Crib & Sheet Bundle , $300
• Best Small: Nuna Sena Aire Travel Crib , $350
• Best With Bassinet: Graco Pack and Play On the Go Play Yard , $80
• Best for Twins: Bugaboo Stardust Portable Playard , $339

It might seem like a lot to schlep, especially if you’re flying, but having your own travel crib can offer serious of peace mind (and a sense of familiarity for your baby or toddler, who might freak out in a new sleeping environment). The American Academy of Pediatrics also says parents should use caution when borrowing or renting any cribs or play yards provided by home rentals, hotels, or other services, since they may not meet current safety standards and might not be in perfect repair.

Thankfully, there are plenty of great travel cribs on the market these days, many of which are small and lightweight enough for flying. To help you choose the right one, our editors asked seasoned parents to put the most well-reviewed, top-selling travel cribs to the test.

Our testers—parents to both newborns and toddlers—used the best portable cribs and travel bassinets on this list in all kinds of travel scenarios—road trips, international travel, and even in their own homes to keep twins separated during nap time. Ahead, the most portable, user-friendly, comfortable, and easy-to-clean (and even machine washable) options, from Amazon and beyond.

Our rating system

We assigned a letter grade (from A+ to F) to every travel crib on this list; the higher a cribs rating, the more functional, durable, portable, and investment-worthy it is. We rate each travel crib according to these features, then use the average of those figures for our overall rating.

All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Bugaboo Stardust Portable Play Yard

This small travel crib wins a lot of praise for its size, since the compact footprint makes it exceptionally easy to travel with by both car or plane. It also has a unique accordion-style fold that our tester said requires little to no effort on the parent’s part. In fact, our tester said she’s been using two as bassinets for her twins for the last eight months both at home and during travel. It may not be the best bet for tall toddlers due to the size, but it does have two different heights—an insert will raise a newborn higher so it’ easier to lift them up and lay them down.

What our tester said: “I have the Stardust travel cribs and absolutely love them! We have been using them ever since we brought our girls home from the NICU in December—they are eight months now and still using them at our bedside. The play yards are so easy to pop up, and their compact frame doesn’t take up a lot of space. They’re also incredibly compact when folded, so they’re easy to throw in the back of the car to travel with. I also love that it has two different height options—one for newborns and another for older babies and toddlers.”

• Pros: Two height options, easy to assemble and travel with, foldable
• Cons: Expensive
• Our tester’s grade: A+
• Setup: A+ | Durability: A+ | Portability: A+ | Overall Value: A
• Weight: 17.2 pounds
• Dimensions: 33.5 x 33.8 x 25.6 inches
• Age range: 0–3 years

Save when you shop the best travel cribs with these Target promo codes .

BabyBjörn Travel Crib & Sheet Bundle

The BabyBjörn Travel Crib is a parent favorite, largely because it’s one of the lightest around—it weighs just 13 pounds. Our testers said it was also one of the easiest cribs to assemble and disassemble into the carrying case. Perhaps even more importantly, parents say it feels very well-made—some traveled with it for years with little to no wear and tear. The crib also comes with a fitted sheet set, so you don’t have to do any additional shopping.

What our tester said: “I never left home without this when my kids were in cribs. It’s light and easy to travel with, plus it collapses easily and feels really well made. Most importantly, my kids always seemed very comfortable.”

• Pros: Lightweight, durable, easy to assemble, airy mesh sides
• Our tester’s grade: A
• Setup: A+ | Durability: A | Portability: A | Overall Value: A-
• Weight: 13 pounds
• Dimensions: 32 x 44 x 24 inches

Save when you shop the best travel cribs with these Nordstrom promo codes .

Guava Lotus Travel Crib

If you’re flying to your destination, you really can’t beat the convenience of the Guava Lotus. It’s not the most lightweight on the list, but at 15 pounds, it’s not unbearably heavy either. And because the travel bag has backpack straps, it feels a lot lighter than it is—not to mention, this frees up your hands for other things…like wrangling your little one. Parents we polled said the portable crib folds up like a dream. Plus, it has a unique zippered door on the mesh side that allows you to put both babies and toddlers inside without bending over.

What our tester said: “The Guava Lotus is my go-to, because it packs up like a dream. And it even has backpack straps, so it doesn’t break your back lugging it wherever you need to go. I also love the zipper on the bottom, which makes it super easy to get both babies and toddlers in and out. The only problem is the mattress doesn’t always lie flat and feels a little plasticky, but don’t they all?”

• Pros: Has backpack straps for carrying, easy to take down
• Cons: Mattress doesn’t always lie flat
• Our tester’s grade: A-
• Setup: A- | Durability: A- | Portability: A | Overall Value: A-
• Weight: 15 pounds
• Dimensions: 45.5 x 31.5 x 25.5 inches

Uppababy Remi Play Yard

When it comes to travel cribs, many parents complain about the mattress pad, since most tend to be thin and stiff as a board. Not the Uppababy Remi. Our tester said the mattress on this portable crib was unlike any she’d ever seen before. That’s because it’s a special temperature-regulating mattress that sits up and off the ground to help baby snuggle in for a better night’s sleep. Like other great travel cribs, this one also wins praise for being easy to set up and take down. Plus, it features a special zipper in one of the mesh sides that gives you better access to your child, whether a baby or a toddler.

What our tester said: “We travel all the time, and I couldn’t imagine what it would be like without this portable travel crib. My daughter sleeps just as soundly on this mattress as she does at home in her regular crib. And even though it’s a bit heavy, I’ve never had a problem transporting it from place to place. Highly recommend!!”

• Pros: Easy to set up and take down, has a more comfortable mattress than most, comes in three colors
• Cons: Expensive, on the heavier side
• Setup: A | Durability: A- | Portability: B+ | Overall Value: A-
• Weight: 22.2 pounds
• Dimensions: 40.5 x 26 x 28.5 inches
• Age range: Birth to 35 inches tall

By Kathleen Walsh

By Danielle Sinay

Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot Play Yard

If weight is important to you—maybe you’re a frequent flier or you live in an apartment with a lot of stairs—you can’t beat the Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot Play Yard. It clocks in at less than 11 pounds and folds thin to just 4.6 inches for fuss-free carrying and storage. Still, it’s a highly functional option with two different stages of use—a bassinet height for babies under 13 pounds and a standard play yard for older babies and toddlers (this is among the taller options). Our tester said her child has never had any trouble sleeping on the mattress, thanks to its two inches of PU foam. And you don’t even need a fitted sheet—the mattress is water-repellent and easy to clean (though it is a bit noisy without a sheet!).

What our tester said: “I wish I had known about this travel crib sooner. It fit our budget and had a mattress that seemed like it would be more comfortable than most. But what really sold me was how light and compact it was. I can’t stand how sweaty I get just loading the car for a road trip, so anything that can help lessen the burden is a winner in my book.”

• Pros: Super light and compact, two stages of use, less expensive than many other options
• Cons: Not suitable for older babies and toddlers
• Setup: A | Durability: B+ | Portability: A+ | Overall Value: A-
• Weight: 11 pounds
• Dimensions: 52 x 36 x 25 inches
• Age range: From birth to 13 pounds, or until baby can sit up (bassinet); maximum weight and height not specified for older stage use

Graco Pack and Play On the Go Play Yard

Sure, there are more sophisticated travel cribs out there, but our tester said she really didn’t need anything more. The Graco Pack and Play travel crib is not only a safe sleep space–it’s a real workhorse. Our tester has been using hers regularly for more than five years through four children. Her twins currently use the play yard for daily naps, proving that the crib mattress is comfortable enough for regular sleep. And because it’s so budget-friendly (especially compared with other portable travel cribs on the market), it’s a great option for buying an extra to leave at the house of a frequently visited relative. They can simply stash it in the attic or closet—it folds up into a compact rectangular carrying case complete with a handle.

What our tester said: “Is it the most beautiful travel crib on the market? Definitely not, but it’s highly durable and has served me well for more than five years. In fact, I think I own four of them now. I took this crib on so many road trips that I finally bought one to leave at multiple family members’ houses. We’ve even taken this portable crib all the way to Florida and back. Plus, now that my toddler twins need to be separated for naps, my daughter sleeps in this crib every day—it must be pretty comfortable!”

• Pros: Comes with a removable bassinet and changing table, one of the more budget-friendly options, easy to assemble
• Cons: Not the most stylish, relatively heavy
• Our tester’s grade: B+
• Setup: B+ | Durability: A | Portability: B+ | Overall Value: A-
• Weight: 22.66 pounds
• Dimensions: 39.5 x 28.25 x 29 inches
• Age range: Designed for babies and toddlers up to 35 inches tall

Nuna Sena Aire Travel Crib

Pottery Barn Kids

An undeniably stylish option, the Nuna Sena is one of the more compact travel cribs on the market. Because of this, it’s exceptionally easy to travel with, especially if you have a newborn or a baby under the age of two. Unfortunately, taller toddlers may be more comfortable in a bigger sleep space, but you can technically fit your little one until they’re 30 pounds or 35 inches tall, whichever comes first—for many kids this is well into their second year. Parents say it’s easy to assemble, plus they love that the travel cot comes with the fitted sheet. As a nice bonus, you can also choose from five color options.

What our tester said: “I didn’t know a travel crib could be so pretty, but here we are. It’s not all about looks, though. I love how compact this crib is—we have no trouble squeezing it into tiny hotel rooms. And even though it’s small, my very average-size two-year-old seems to fit just fine.”

• Pros: Easy to assemble, high-quality, comes with a fitted sheet and bassinet attachment
• Cons: On the heavier side, not great for taller toddlers
• Setup: A- | Durability: B+ | Portability: A- | Overall Value: B+
• Weight: 21 pounds
• Dimensions: 30 x 41.3 x 29 inches
• Age range: Birth to 30 pounds or 35 inches tall

Maxi-Cosi Swift 3-in-1 Play Yard

As the name may suggest, you can’t beat the versatility of the Maxi-Cosi 3-in-1 Play Yard. Use it as a travel crib, a play space for an older baby or toddler, or a full-time bassinet for your newborn. Either way, it’s one of the sturdiest options on the market and it sets up in a flash. (Our tester said you can set it up and take it down with one hand in a single motion.) Unfortunately, it’s a bit heavier than some others and doesn’t fold into the most compact case, but as long as you’re not relying on it for flying, this probably won’t be a deal-breaker—especially given the longevity of this portable crib.

What our tester said: “We used this portable crib in place of a bassinet, and it was so convenient to have it right at our bedside. Plus, it made the transition so much easier when we went on vacations, since our daughter was already familiar with the sleep space. I wish it wasn’t quite so heavy, but honestly, I wouldn’t call any travel crib light, per se. And if that’s the sacrifice for a super-comfy spot that ensures my daughter gets a good night’s sleep wherever we are? Fine by me.”

• Pros: Super-easy setup, very versatile, highly durable, great for playtime
• Cons: On the heavier side, expensive, not great for air travel
• Setup: A | Durability: A- | Portability: A- | Overall Value: A
• Weight: 18.5 pounds
• Dimensions: 33.86 x 30.71 x 41.73 inches

By Jake Henry Smith

By Andrea Navarro

By Jenny McCoy

Consumer Reports investigation reveals security flaws in video doorbells

(CONSUMER REPORTS) — Video doorbells make it easy for you to watch who’s coming and going, but who else might be viewing those videos? The answer: hackers and you’d likely never know it.

A new Consumer Reports investigation found troubling security flaws in some video doorbells sold by the country’s biggest retailers.

Consumer Reports’ extensive security tests revealed a number of video doorbells that have serious security flaws that could make users vulnerable to a security breach.

They all use the same mobile app called Aiwit. The devices CR tested are sold under the brand names Eken and Tuck, but we found the doorbells are sold under many other brand names, including Fishbot, Rakeblue, Andoe, Luckwolf, and more.

Retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, and Sears, along with Shein and Temu, sell them.

Your home is deeply personal and private. If someone is able to view your doorbell camera and see when you come and go, it presents a lot of security risks. For example, an abuser or a stalker could keep tabs on a victim, and it could create a very dangerous situation.

Experts blame the flood of cheap, insecure electronics from overseas manufacturers being sold in the U.S. as a growing problem. Retailers do very little to vet these products, and it’s very easy to become a seller on one of these online marketplaces.

Consumer Reports reached out to Eken and Tuck but has not received a response.

If you have a video doorbell that uses the mobile app Aiwit, Consumer Reports recommends that you disconnect it from your home Wi-Fi and remove it from your door.

CR has evaluated video doorbells with much better security from brands including Logitech, SimpliSafe and Ring.

CR has also shared its findings with the Federal Trade Commission, which has the power to remove products like these from the marketplace. The agency declined to comment on what action it might take, noting that its investigations are private.

Copyright 2024 KTVK/KPHO via Consumer Reports. All rights reserved.

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Two Suspects in Moscow Concert Hall Attack Appeal Pre-Trial Detention, RIA Says

Aminchon Islomov, a suspect in the concert hall attack case, sits behind a glass wall of an enclosure for defendants in a courtroom in Moscow, Russia, in this still image taken from video released March 25, 2024. Moscow City Court's Press Office/Handout via REUTERS

MOSCOW (Reuters) - Aminchon Islomov and his father Isroil Islomov, two of eight suspects detained over suspected involvement in the Moscow concert hall attack last week, have appealed their pre-trial detention, Russian state news agency RIA reported on Thursday.

The Islomov family - brothers Aminchon and Dilovar and their father Isroil, a native of Tajikistan, is suspected of aiding four Tajik nationals accused of attacking the Crocus City Hall venue, killing at least 143 people.

(This story has been refiled to correct a typo in the spelling of Aminchon Islomov, in paragraph 2)

The Latest Photos From Ukraine

(Writing by Felix Light and Filipp Lebedev; editing by Mark Heinrich)

Photos You Should See

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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Tags: Russia , crime , Asia , Europe , Tajikistan

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Moscow police captain tabbed for new chief

Mar. 29—Moscow Mayor Art Bettge plans to appoint Moscow Police Capt. Anthony Dahlinger as the next chief of police for the Moscow Police Department.

Bettge announced his decision Thursday afternoon. The appointment needs to be approved Monday by the Moscow City Council. Dahlinger would replace Chief James Fry, who will retire April 30. Fry is running for Latah County sheriff in this year's election.

Dahlinger has been with the Moscow Police Department for more than 12 years and has nearly 17 years of experience in law enforcement, according to a city of Moscow news release.

He is a University of Idaho graduate and holds numerous certifications. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and has served on the Latah Recovery Center board.

"Anthony has demonstrated his skill and commitment to serving our community and I am confident that he is the right choice to lead the Moscow Police Department," said Mayor Bettge in a statement.

In a statement, Dahlinger said he is "honored and humbled" with Bettge's decision.

"It has been my honor to serve and protect the citizens of Moscow over the last 12 years, and I am looking forward to the opportunity to continue to build upon the exceptional work of those who came before me to ensure that the Moscow Police Department continues to be a model professional and community-focused law enforcement agency."

Fry began his career as a reserve officer with the Moscow Police Department in 1993 and was hired as a patrol officer in June 1995.

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Biden says government working to free Gershkovich 1 year after arrest by Russia

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March 29 (UPI) -- President Joe Biden said that diplomats are continuing to work on gaining freedom for Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich on the first anniversary of his arrest by Russian authorities.

Biden called Gershkovich's detention "wholly unjust and illegal," adding his government is "working every day" to secure his release.

"Journalism is not a crime and Evan went to Russia to do his job as a reporter -- risking his safety to shine the light of truth on Russia's brutal aggression against Ukraine," Biden said in a White House statement.

Congressional leaders on Friday issued a rare joint statement in which they slammed the Kremlin for its "attempts to silence Evan and intimidate other Western reporters."

"Evan Gershkovich, an American citizen and reporter for the Wall Street Journal, has now spent a year wrongfully detained by Putin 's government. We continue to condemn his baseless arrest, fabricated charges and unjust imprisonment," Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La.; Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.; House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y.; and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said in the statement.

The top congressional leaders also called out Russian President Vladimir Putin directly, saying he "is restoring Soviet-style control through repression at home and aggression abroad."

Russia accused Gershkovich of espionage while the American newspaper journalist was on assignment in Yekaterinburg, about 1,000 miles east of Moscow. The Kremlin said he was gathering state secrets for the U.S. government as a spy. The newspaper and the State Department have denied the charges.

With little explanation on Tuesday, a Russian court extended Gershkovich's pre-trial detention to at last June 30. All of Gershkovich's attempts to challenge his pre-trial detention have failed.

"We will continue to denounce and impose costs for Russia's appalling attempts to use Americans as bargaining chips," Biden said. "We will continue to stand strong against all those who seek to attack the press or target journalists -- the pillar of [a] free society."

In a letter posted by the Wall Street Journal on Friday, his family said while the uncertainty has been difficult, his courage has given them hope.

"Throughout all the challenges in this tumultuous time we've watched as Evan has faced this uncertainty, stuck in a small cell, with limited news of the world, without his freedom," the letter said.

"We have watched him face this with his head held high because he is innocent. He inspires us to keep going every day, especially on those days when we receive his letters and see his smile from the courtroom camera."

The Wall Street Journal itself left its front page mostly blank with the headline : "His story should be here," referring to Gershkovich.

In comments to former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, Putin suggested that Gershkovich could be part of a prisoner exchange. Biden mentioned another detained American Paul Whelan in his message.

Whelan, an ex-Marine, was arrested by Russian authorities in 2018 on espionage charges while attending a wedding of a fellow Marine who was marrying a Russian national.

"To Evan, to Paul Whelan, and to all Americans held hostage or wrongfully detained abroad: We are with you," Biden said. "We will never stop working to bring you home."

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