Many parents often struggle with what type and style of crib to choose when buying a crib, as they love and care so much for their little baby.
Most parents know that a crib is a bed specially designed for babies and young children. Beyond that, they have little or no knowledge of cribs.
Here is a complete guide on cribs including their types, functions, source materials, shape, and aesthetic design.
List of Crib Types
Cribs can be classified into various types. The classification is based on the following: regular division, functionality, material, and shape.
| Regular Division | By Functionality | By Material | By Shape | By Aesthetic Style |
| Standard Cribs | Cribs with Storage | Wooden Cribs | Rectangular Cribs | Modern Cribs |
| Convertible Cribs | Crib with Changing Table | Metal Cribs | Round Cribs | Vintage Cribs |
| Mini Cribs | Cribs with Wheels | Plastic Cribs | Oval Cribs | Scandinavian Cribs |
| Portable Travel Cribs | Foldable Crib | Twins Crib | Mid-Century Modern Cribs |
Regular Division
One way cribs are classified is by regular division. Under this classification, there are four types of cribs. They include standard, convertible, mini, and portable travel cribs.
| Standard Cribs | Convertible Cribs | Mini Cribs | Portable Travel Cribs | |
| Recommendation Index | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Popularity | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ |
| Price | budget-friendly prices | Higher price | cheaper than other crib types | budget-friendly prices |
| Popular Brands | Clafbebe Pottery Barn DaVinci | Dream On Me Clafbebe | Newton Baby DaVinci Babyletto | BabyBjörn Joovy |
Standard Cribs
Key Features
1. Adjustable mattress positions
2.Fixed sides for safety and stability
3.Non-toxic finish
Description: The standard crib is made from natural wood. It has fixed sides to ensure stability and prevent your baby from accidentally falling. The crib’s mattress position can be adjusted to three positions. The adjustable mattress position allows your baby to stand comfortably as they grow taller. The standard baby crib is one of the most popular types of cribs due to its functionality. It also comes highly recommended and is affordably sold at wholesale prices.
Convertible Cribs
Key Features
1. They can be converted into a toddler bed or day bed
2. Non-toxic finish
3. Adaptable design
Description:The convertible crib can be converted into a toddler bed or day bed. The adaptable design allows babies to use the beds for a while. They can use them well into their toddler years. It also saves costs for parents as they do not have to purchase beds when their babies grow older.
They are mostly sourced from wood and are sold at budget-friendly wholesale prices. This makes them very popular with parents and retailers. Their popularity is also influenced by the fact that babies can use them for a long time until they become toddlers.
Mini Cribs
Key Features
1. Smaller dimensions than other crib types
2. Perfect for smaller spaces (nursery/bedroom)
3. They can be easily moved
4. Suitable for babies six months old and younger
5. Perfect for babies co-sleeping with their parents.
Description: Mini cribs have smaller dimensions than regular cribs. Due to their size, they are perfect for smaller sleeping areas. Additionally, their reduced size makes them suitable for parents who prefer to sleep in the same room with their babies especially when they are very young. They can also be easily moved around the house allowing parents to keep a close eye on their babies.
Mini cribs are popular with parents and retailers because of their size and functionality. Experts recommend mini cribs as they reduce the risk of SIDS, they are deemed safer than sleeping in the same bed as parents or alone in their rooms. Their smaller size can allow parents to keep them by their bedsides at night.
Portable Travel Cribs
Key Features
1. They can be easily moved from one place to another
2. They can be folded and placed in a car
3. They are compact and lightweight for easier storage
4. They have wheels to allow easier movement around the home
Description: Portable driving cribs are designed to be compact and lightweight. The design makes it easier to move around within the home. Additionally, their compact size makes it easier to store them as they can be placed in car boots and taken along for road trips. The wheels facilitate movement within the house and parents can take their babies along when doing house chores.
Based on Functionality
Cribs are also classified based on the specific function they are designed for. Based on this categorization, there are the following crib types, cribs with storage, cribs with changing table, cribs with wheels, and foldable cribs.
| Cribs with Storage | Crib with Changing Table | Cribs with Wheels | Foldable Crib | |
| Recommendation Index | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Popularity | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Price | Higher price | Higher price | affordable prices | Pocket-friendly prices |
| Popular Brands | Clafbebe HunyHuny Baby letto Wayfair | Swaddlez IKEA Sorelle | Wayfair Clafbebe | Baby Joy Lotus by Guava Family |
Cribs with Storage
Key Features
1. They are integrated with storage features like drawers or shelves
2. They are durable enough to support the storage features
Description: Cribs with storage are designed with a storage feature. They are mostly integrated with drawers or shelves. The shelves or drawers can be attached to the side of the crib or the base and the mattress placed on top of it.
The cribs are popular with parents and retailers due to their duality. Apart from being a place where babies can rest and sleep, cribs with storage also act as a storage place for parents. They optimize space as parents can use the drawers and shelves to keep diapers, baby clothes, or other baby stuff.
Cribs with Changing Table
Key Features
1. A changing table is attached to the crib
2. Most have a storage feature
3. Guardrails for safety
Description: Cribs with a changing table have a changing table attached to it. The changing table is small and designed for babies, parents can change their babies’ diapers or clothes after bathing them.
Most cribs with a changing table are also integrated with a storage feature like shelves and drawers where the diapers and baby clothes are placed for easier access. The cribs also have guardrails surrounding the crib. The guardrails are of a reasonable height and prevent the baby from accidentally falling off.
Cribs with Wheels
Key Features
1. They have wheels for easier movement
2. Most cribs with wheels have braking features for safety
3. They are durable
Description: Cribs with wheels are designed with wheels for easier indoor movement. They are perfect for movement and parents can perform their chores around the home while monitoring their sleeping babies.
Most cribs with wheels have an added safety brake feature to control the crib’s speed and prevent accidents. The wheels are designed to allow the crib to move around corners in the house. Additionally, they are generally durable for constant movement.
Foldable Cribs
Key Features
1. They have a foldable design
2. They have wheels for easier movement
3. They have a compact design
4. They are easy to set up
Description: Foldable cribs are designed with a hinge or joint that allows them to fold. Apart from the foldable design, foldable cribs are compact and lightweight for easier movement. They can be carried to and from the car and stored in the trunk.
Most foldable cribs have wheels to ease their movement. Instead of carrying the crib to your car, you can push it and conserve your strength. Foldable cribs are also easy to set up. They can be assembled and disassembled easily and are perfect for traveling.
Based on Material
Cribs are also classified based on the material they are made from. The common materials for cribs are wood, metal, and plastic cribs.
| Wooden Cribs | Metal Cribs | Plastic Cribs | |
| Recommendation Index | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Popularity | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Price | Price is high | Budget-friendly prices | cheap price |
| Common Raw Materials | Pine, Maple, Oak, Cherry | Steel | Plastic |
| Durability | Durable | Very durable | Less durable |
| Popular Brands | Newton Baby Clafbebe Delta Children | Little Seeds Namesake | Pottery Barn Storkcraft |
Wooden Cribs
Key Features
1. They are durable
2. They have design versatility
3. They are eco-friendly
4. They are aesthetically pleasing
Description: Wooden cribs are the most popular type of cribs based on materials. Their popularity with parents and retailers is due to several reasons. The first reason is that wooden cribs are durable. Cribs made from wood especially, convertible cribs can be used for a long time.
Wooden cribs also offer design versatility. Standard cribs, convertible cribs, foldable cribs, and other designs can all be manufactured from wood. Additionally, there are several types of wooden cribs based on their raw materials. Pine cribs are the most popular type but it is common to find oak, maple, and cherry cribs in furniture outlets too.
Wooden cribs are eco-friendly. Most wooden crib manufacturers have started go-green initiatives that ensure the wood used in manufacturing the cribs is replaced. Wood is also biodegradable and the cribs will not harm the environment when it’s time to dispose of them.
Metal Cribs
Key Features
1. They are very durable
2. They have easy-to-clean finishes
3. They blend with modern aesthetics
Description: Metal cribs are the most durable type of cribs. Their durability makes them a favorite of some parents as their kids can use them for a long time. Some parents also reuse them, when a child outgrows the crib, they keep it in the storage area for future use when they have another baby. They can also be donated to friends or family expecting a baby.
Most metal cribs have a glossy finish usually from stainless steel or chrome plating. The finish protects the crib from dust or wear and tear due to corrosion. They are also easy to clean and can be wiped off with a wet rug.
The cribs have sleek designs which are typical of modernist furniture. The cribs also mainly come in neutral color finishes such as black, gray, and white. That helps them blend with the rest of the modern furniture around your home.
Plastic Cribs
Key Features
1. They are lightweight
2. They are easy to clean
3. They have a wide color and design variety
Description: Plastic cribs are not as common as their metal and wooden counterparts. They are mostly found in hospitals and are used to accommodate newborns. Plastic cribs are not prone to splintering and breaking and are safe for babies.
Plastic cribs are lighter in weight than wooden and metal cribs. They are perfect for parents who like to move around the house but still wish to closely monitor their babies especially when they are in the early stages after birth.
Plastic cribs come in many colors and designs to meet the preferences of most parents and retailers. They are also easy to clean and can be wiped off with a wet cloth to ensure babies’ safety.
Based on Shape
Cribs can be classified according to their shapes. Under this categorization, we have four types of cribs. Rectangular cribs, round cribs, oval cribs, and twins crib.
| Rectangular Cribs | Round Cribs | Oval Cribs | Twins Crib | |
| Recommendation Index | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Popularity | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Price | Moderate price | Higher price | Higher price | Higher price |
| Take up Space | They optimize space | Take up less space than rectangular cribs | Space efficient than rectangular cribs | Great space saver in a twin household |
| Popular Brands | Newton Baby Babyletto Dream On Me | Wayfair Dream on Me | Stokke Wayfair Nestig | Clafbebe |
Rectangular Cribs
Key Features
1. They have a rectangular shape
2. They have fixed or drop side rails for safety
3. They come in a variety of designs.
Description: Rectangular cribs are the most common type of cribs based on shape. As they are the most common crib type, their accessories such as mattresses are also easily found. Parents and retailers’ demand for rectangular cribs is high because they are readily available and suit most nursery designs.
Rectangular cribs require ample space and should be placed in spacious nurseries, and bedrooms. They have fixed or drop-side rails for your babies’ safety. They prevent the baby from accidentally falling off.
Rectangular cribs also come in a variety of designs. Most foldable cribs, convertible, standard, and mini cribs are rectangular. They can be made from wood, metal, or plastic.
Round Cribs
Key Features
1. They have a circular design
2. They have a drop or non-drop side rail
3. They require customized mattresses and bedding
Description: Round cribs have a circular design. Their shape ensures babies’ safety as there are no sharp edges that babies can run into. They have fixed or drop side rails to ensure a baby’s safety when on the crib. Round cribs require special mattresses to fit their circular shape. Their unique shape also makes them the focal point of rooms.
Oval Cribs
Key Features
1. They have an oval design
2. They have guard rails
3. They require special mattresses and bedding
Description: Oval cribs have an oval-shaped design. They also have fixed or drop guardrails to prevent your baby from falling off and injuring themselves. Like round cribs, oval cribs also require special mattresses and bedding. They are therefore less common than rectangular and circular cribs as parents and retailers dislike the extra task of looking for bedding.
They cannot fit in corners but can change the appearance of the room when placed in the center. They also have smooth edges and can reduce the risk of babies running into sharp edges. The round smooth edges also make it easier for parents to reach their babies.
Twins Crib
Key Features
1. They are designed to hold more than one baby
2. They take up more space than regular cribs
3. They have guard rails
4. They are sturdy
Description: Twins crib are designed to accommodate more than one baby. They are suitable for parents of twins as they allow them to accommodate both babies comfortably.
They are more popular with twin parents because of space optimization and economic reasons. Twins crib consume less space than the space required for two regular cribs. They are therefore suitable for smaller nurseries and bedrooms. They are also economical as they cost less than two cribs.
Based on Aesthetic Style
The last category of cribs is based on aesthetic style. Based on this categorization, there are four types of cribs. Modern cribs, vintage cribs, Scandinavian cribs, and Mid-Century Modern cribs.
| Modern Cribs | Vintage Cribs | Scandinavian Cribs | Mid-Century Modern Cribs | |
| Recommendation Index | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Popularity | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | medium | expensive | budget-friendly costs | Higher price |
| Suitable bedroom style | Contemporary bedrooms and minimalist bedrooms | Contemporary bedrooms and victorian bedrooms | Scandinavian cribs and modern bedrooms | Eclectic bedrooms |
| Popular Brands | Clafbebe DaVinci | Million Dollar Baby Classic Wayfair | IKEA Stokke | Babyletto DaVinci |
Modern Cribs
Key Features
1. They have neutral colors
2. They are functionally designed
3. Characterized by straight and clean lines
4. They have basic shapes
Description: Modern cribs usually come in neutral colors like white gray and black. The colors are designed to create a relaxing atmosphere. Modern cribs prioritize function over decoration. They have few intricate designs but are practical and functional.
They are designed in simple shapes and forms like rectangles, ovals, and circles. The different components of the Modern Crib are designed to fit easily for easy assembling and disassembling. They are also characterized by sleek finishes like lacquered wood finish.
Modern cribs are designed for specific functions. Some modern crib designs can perform multiple tasks for example cribs with a changing table are used for sleeping and can act as a changing table for the baby.
Vintage Cribs
Key Features
1. They have a unique look
2. They have rich colors and textures
3. They are a product of quality craftsmanship
Description: Vintage cribs are products of skilled craftsmanship and often feature unique designs. They are characterized by intricate carvings or well-stylized motifs. Vintage cribs have dark and rich colors such as brown or matte black creating a luxurious atmosphere.
They also bring a historical vibe inside your home as the designs are reminiscent of past events. Intage cribs are usually made from unique materials such as Oak and other hardwoods. They combine functionality and creativity as they are designed to be aesthetically pleasing.
Vintage cribs are not as common as Modern cribs as much detail is taken when creating them and as a result, they can be costly.
Scandinavian Cribs
Key Features
1. They have neutral colors
2. They are functional and stylish
3. They are made from natural materials
Description: Scandinavian cribs come in neutral colors like gray, white, or natural light-colored wood tones. The neutral colors help create a relaxing atmosphere. The cribs are made of natural materials such as solid wood. The common raw materials for Scandinavian cribs are pine, oak, or birch.
Additionally, they require skilled craftsmanship and are usually handmade with great attention to detail. The unique detail taken when crafting the cribs ensures they last long and are durable. Scandinavian cribs are designed for functionality but they are also practical. Their stylish design helps them improve your home’s look and ensures they blend with most decor styles.
Mid-Century Modern Cribs
Key Features
1. They are sourced from natural wood
2. They are designed for a clean and sophisticated look.
3. They have adaptable designs.
Description: Mid-century modern cribs are mostly sourced from natural wood like Oak, and Teak. They are therefore durable. They are also designed to be highly functional and feature adaptable designs that provide buyers with practical solutions.
Cribs with storage features are a perfect example of an adaptable design. The storage features are a solution to smaller living spaces, the cribs double up as a sleeping place and storage area.
Conclusion
Choosing a crib for your baby or customers can be a complicated process. However, when you have versatile knowledge of cribs it becomes simple. There are many crib types but you should know the function of each and pick out one that matches your preference and this guide will help you do that.
Explore the Clafbebe Crib Collection
Clafbebe is a professional manufacturer of cribs in China with more than 20 years of rich experience. We have been exporting and wholesaling high-quality cribs to various countries for many years. We have a variety of cribs and styles, and we have always been at the forefront of innovation.
Clafbebe supports crib customization. It can customize and produce products for distributors and retailers to meet their target market, and print exclusive logos to create personal brands. Clafbebe has a strict quality control system and can deliver products quickly!
Contact us now to get a quote!
