Last updated on January 23rd, 2023 at 11:04 am
Either you are short of space, or you only want a crib on wheels for easy mobility, a portable crib is the best choice for you. Furthermore, if you travel a lot with your baby or need a secondary crib, which you can easily carry around, a portable crib is what you should consider.
This group of baby cribs is very versatile, so we’ve decided to choose the best-rated portable cribs in each sub-type.
Favorite portable cribs of each type:
Top-rated portable cribs
Our favorite full-size and mini portable cribs on wheels. These are space-saving cribs made of wood or metal. They are available with various features, such as folding mechanism, convertibility, adjustable mattress positions, etc.
Top-rated travel cribs and Pack ‘N Plays
Our favorite Pack ‘N Plays and travel cribs on wheels. This group contains very lightweight travel cribs and a little bit heavier Pack ‘N Plays. These are portable cribs made for traveling, afternoon naps, sleep-owers, safe play, etc.
What type of portable crib is the best choice for you?
Picking the proper model among so many different portable cribs can quickly become a little confusing for parents. However, by knowing their main features, along with the pros and cons of each type, you will decide much easier.
This guide will lead you through portable crib’s features and crucial points to keep in mind when buying a portable crib. It will help you choose the best portable crib for your needs!
Types of portable cribs
Full-Size Portable Crib
A full-size portable crib is a crib with standard inner dimensions. Its interior is the same as any other full-size crib type, and any baby crib mattress with standard measurements should fit snuggly into it.
The framework of such a crib must be sleek and minimalistic. As such, it can fit through standard doorways if you want to push it into another room.
To classify a particular crib as portable, it must stand on wheels. A folding mechanism is not required but it is highly desirable because it eases the storage of the crib when it is not in use.
Most full-size portable cribs are made of wood, however, there are few metal models as well.
PROS:
- it is the largest, so your child can use it the longest of all portable cribs
- its inner dimensions are standardized (full-size crib mattresses are also standardized, so any full-size crib mattress fits into any full-size crib)
- some of them are even convertible
- sturdier than Pack ‘N Play and travel crib
- durable
- the same as any other full-size crib, with added wheels and folding mechanism
- compact and sturdy
CONS:
- it takes up more space
- it’s not intended for traveling
- bigger weight
Mini Portable Crib
A mini portable crib is any crib that is smaller from a full-size model and stands on wheels. Most of them also fold down for easy storage. This type of portable crib is the most popular one, which is not surprising at all.
It is a space-saving crib, which offers the same features as a regular-sized crib while occupying less space in the room. It is also more comfortable and a better sleeping space than a Pack ‘N Play.
You can choose between a wooden or metal mini portable crib, different shapes, and even additional features such as a rocking mechanism.
The mini crib’s dimensions are not standardized, however, manufacturers usually stick to the unofficial rule, so most mini crib mattresses fit perfectly.
PROS:
- doesn’t occupy a lot of space
- most of them fold down for easy storage
- it is sturdier than Pack ‘N Play and more long-term alternative to baby bassinets
- most of them have an included mattress pad
- it lasts longer than a Pack ‘N Play
- durable
CONS:
- babies outgrow it sooner than a full-size model
- although some models even fit into a car trunk, they are not intended for travel
Pack ‘N Play
Pack ‘N Play is a lighter portable crib with a metal or plastic frame, surrounded by mesh. It is smaller than a full-size crib, but its dimensions are not the same as a mini crib as well.
A mini crib mattress does not fit into a Pack ‘N Play! Because they are too thick, you should never use a crib mattress in a Pack ‘N Play anyway! Pack ‘N Play’s sides are not firm, so the baby can roll down and become trapped between the mattress and Pack ‘N Play’s side. That could lead to injuries and even suffocation!
Pack ‘N Plays come with an included mattress pad. If you want a more comfortable one, look for the Playard mattress, which is usually no more than 3″ thick.
Pack ‘N Play is an excellent choice for occasional sleep owers, nap times, as a safe playing area, or traveling, but I would not pick it over a regular crib for everyday sleep.
The best Pack ‘N Plays set-up and collapse easily and store in the included traveling bag.
Pack ‘N Plays are available in various sizes, colors, and whit multiple features. You can opt for a classic Pack ‘N Play or a care station, which includes one or more following pieces: a changing table, napper, bouncer, crib mobile, toys, storage space, etc.
PROS:
- it weighs less than a mini crib
- you can move it around your home easily
- it sett-up and collapses quickly and easily
- stores in an included travel bag
- suitable for traveling
- a safe playing area for your baby or toddler
- small footprint
CONS:
- not as esthetically pleasing than a crib
- less comfortable than a crib
- less durable
- it weighs more than travel cribs
Travel Crib
A travel crib is even lighter from a Pack ‘N Play. It has a sleek, minimalistic design, with a lightweight frame and a mesh sides, wherein its mattress lies just above the ground.
Everything is designed for easy traveling. A travel crib folds down smaller from a Pack ‘N Play. It collapses or sets up in a moment and pack up into a convenient traveling bag. Its carrying bag is often in the shape of a suitcase or backpack, which further eases its transport.
It can be used as a Playard, but its area is usually smaller from regular Pack ‘N Plays.
PROS:
- lightweight
- perfect for traveling, camping, playing, etc.
- folds down really small
- easy setting
- included travel bag, often in the shape of a suitcase or backpack
- small footprint
CONS:
- smaller than Pack ‘N Play
- no additional features, like a lifted newborn bassinet
- less durable and comfortable than a regular crib
Best Rated Portable Cribs In 2023
Baby’s Little Place Top Picks
These cribs are perfect for smaller space, urban living, and grandparents’ home.
Smaller than regular cribs and designed to be lightweight and compact, a portable crib on wheels keeps your baby comfortable and safe. In addition to a smaller footprint, some also fold away for easy storage, thus making you more room in your home during the day.
How we choose our favorites:
We’ve done our research and tones of crib, Pack ‘N Play, and travel crib reviews. You can find a lot of them on our site in the crib section.
Anyway, experiences are those who count the most! So we also included our personal experiences, the opinions of our friends, and asked numerous parents for their help. We were curious about what kind of portable crib they want, and above all, we were interested in the experience of those who already use portable cribs.
Consider all of the above, we think that the following portable cribs are the best on the market.
Our Top Picks for this Year
Editor’s Choice:
Babyletto Origami Mini Portable Crib
- Size: mini
- Type: portable
- Wheels: YES
- Locking casters: YES
- Folding: YES
- Crib Mattress: mini crib mattress
Why we love it:
I love its beautiful design, without any bulky or unnecessary parts. Babyletto Origami’s frame is the textbook example of the correctly designed portable crib’s frame. It is sturdy and stable, while it keeps its minimalistic shape for easy mobility.
The Babyletto Origami mini crib stands on rolling feet, where its wheels glide smoothly even on the carpet. It possesses a reliable locking mechanism, which keeps the crib in place.
This mini portable crib also folds down for easy storage. You can collapse it without any disassembly, and the crib mattress’s base fits into the folded crib too. The Origami folds down really small, which I find very handy.
Another beautiful thing on this crib is its wide color selection. You can choose between classic tones, such as white, washed natural, grey, or black. Or decide on a funky version in petal pink, lagoon, or navy blue.
The crib comes with an included 1″ mattress pad and adjustable mattress positions to accommodate your growing child.
Best Bang For The Buck:
Delta Children Portable Mini Crib
- Size: mini
- Type: portable
- Wheels: YES
- Locking casters: NO
- Folding: YES
- Crib Mattress: mini crib mattress
Why we love it:
The Delta Children is another mini portable crib which is designed with an urban parent in mind. It’s a little more traditional looking crib, and you can’t get it in unique finishes like the Babyletto Origami. However, it is available in all classic tones, and it does fit with most furniture, even the modern ones.
The best thing about this mini portable crib is its affordable price. But let its lower price doesn’t leave you into thinking it is not good. The crib is quality made and built to last. It is sturdy and even exceeds all required safety standards.
The Delta Children portable mini crib stands on smooth-rolling wheels, which are, unfortunately, without a locking mechanism. But surprisingly, parents don’t miss it at all, and the crib stays one of the most wanted models on the market.
Well, the crib won’t simply drive away while your baby is sleeping in it, so I think that’s fine. You can find more about the lack of its folding mechanism and why that shouldn’t divert you from the purchase, in our Delta Children mini portable crib review.
Everything else is perfect. The crib doesn’t occupy a lot of space, holds a quality folding mechanism, it folds down small, possesses two-level mattress support, and comes with a 1,5″ mattress pad.
Best Full-Size Portable Crib:
Babyletto Maki full-size folding crib with a toddler bed
- Size: full-size
- Type: portable and convertible
- Wheels: YES
- Locking casters: YES
- Folding: YES
- Crib Mattress: standard crib mattress
Why we love it:
If you are on the market for a quality full-size crib that grows with your child and you would like that it is also mobile, then a Baybletto Maki full-size portable crib is the one you need.
There are several reasons why parents want a portable crib. They might need mobility for easy vacuuming underneath, or they want to place it in the bedroom for the first months, this one will work either way.
The Babyletto Maki portable crib takes up more space than mini cribs, but yet its sleek design enables a smaller footprint than many other full-size cribs.
Its larger interior dimensions also allow your child to use it for much longer than a mini crib, which is a lot more cost-efficiently. And that is not all!
Babyletto Maki also converts into a toddler bed and daybed, which even prolongs its usability! I like that you get a toddler bed safety rail with the crib, which is not typical for convertible cribs at all.
If that is not enough, here are some other Babyletto Maki’s features that might convince you:
- it stands on wheels, which glides smoothly
- the wheels are removable, so you can use it as a portable or stationary crib
- a reliable locking mechanism
- it folds down without any disassembly needed
- it takes up any standard size crib mattress
- the mattress sits on a two-level mattress support
Best Affordable Full-Size Folding Crib:
Dream On Me folding full-size crib
- Size: full-size
- Type: portable
- Wheels: YES
- Locking casters: YES
- Folding: YES
- Crib Mattress: standard crib mattress
Why we love it:
I like this crib because it offers the same features as Babyletto Maki, at a lower price. Well, almost the same features.
The crib is not convertible, but you are probably reading this article because of its portability. So, let me enssure you that this feature is flawless. And, just to let you know … the Babyletto Maki is unique in its features. All other cribs are either convertible or portable, but not both.
Back to Dream On Me crib’s portability. It stands on wheels that work great and holds a quality locking mechanism. It has a patented folding system, which enables easy, fast, and flat-folding, without any disassembly, needed.
If you are facing space issues, but you want a standard size crib anyway, Dream On Me full-size portable crib is might the perfect solution for you. The crib doesn’t occupy a lot of space, and you can simply fold and store it away if you need more space.
You will also get a basic 1″ mattress pad, but I suggest you pick a better mattress for your baby. Dream On Me is a full-size crib, with standardized inner dimensions, so you can choose from a variety of different standard size crib mattresses, which makes it a lot easier for you.
This one and the Babyletto above are way beyond other similar models on the market! So, if you are looking for a full-size portable crib, pick one of them, because they are the best in their field.
Best Curvy Design:
DaVinci Dylan portable mini crib
- Size: mini
- Type: portable and convertible
- Wheels: YES
- Locking casters: YES
- Folding: YES
- Crib Mattress: mini crib mattress
Why we love it:
Do you like bell-shaped headboards? Such backsides are typical for full-size convertible cribs, therefore, parents with less space had to give up the idea of a cute arch. But not anymore!
The DaVinci Dylan crib has it all, an arch on the back, a small footprint, and portability. This mini crib stands on quality rolling wheels for moving freely throughout the home. The wheels are also lockable, and keep the crib in place when they are locked down.
In my opinion, it is the most versatile mini crib on the market. Besides rolling feet, it also holds a folding mechanism for easy storage and transport. And it is even convertible! If you want, you can later convert it into a cute twin bed.
Not a lot of mini portable cribs grow with your child, so that is definitely something that makes the DaVinci Dylan unique. You can also set its mattress into four different heights, which is a lot for a full-size crib, let alone for the mini model!
A 1″ waterproof mattress pad is included with the crib.
Unique Choice:
DaVinci Alpha Mini Rocking Crib
- Size: mini
- Type: portable and rocking
- Wheels: YES
- Locking casters: YES
- Folding: NO
- Crib Mattress: mini crib mattress
Why we love it:
DaVinci Alpha mini rocking crib is the only model amongst the best rated portable cribs that do NOT fold up. It stands on wheels and holds a space-saving design, so it is portable, but you can’t store it away without disassembly.
The benefit of the DaVinci Alpha is certainly its rocking mechanism! In my opinion, it is a lot better alternative to a baby bassinet. It is a sturdier, more comfortable, and more long-lasting choice than a bassinet!
Keep in mind that the DaVinci Alpha can be either a portable or rocking crib, but not both at the same time. With wheels on, it is portable, with smoothly gliding wheels and a quality locking mechanism.
With the wheels off, it becomes a rocking crib, which is very cool, as its rocking movements comforts babies and nurse them into sleep.
You can set the mattress into three heights, starting with the highest level for a newborn. A basic 1″ mattress pad is included, but any standard mini crib mattress fits in the crib, so rather choose a better one.
Guide to buying the right one from our best-rated portable cribs
If you don’t know what type is the best choice for you, use these guidelines to figure out which one suits your family the most.
1. THE DISTANCE:
Given that you are reading this article, I assume you intend to move the crib around.
How far will you move the crib?
- If you want to move it around your home, choose a wooden mini or full-size portable crib. It’s sturdier than a Pack ‘N Play, and also last longer!
- If there is a possibility that you will have to move it over short distances, you have two options, a Pack ‘N Play or a mini portable crib. If that only happens occasionally, and your baby will use this crib every day, I recommend a mini crib over Pack ‘N Play. But pick a mini portable crib that fits in the trunk of your car when it’s collapsed.
- For traveling, decide on a Pack ‘N Play or travel crib. Either works great, but keep in mind that a folded Pack ‘N Play weight more and takes more space than a travel crib.
2. For whom is a portable crib?
Wooden portable crib:
- for those who intend to use it in different rooms
- for grandparents and other caregivers
- instead of the baby bassinet
- for those with space issues
- for smaller nursery and twin-nursery
Pack ‘N Play:
- for afternoon naps
- to have your baby close and secure
- as a safe playing area
- for traveling
- for occasional sleepovers in the grandparents home
Travel crib:
- traveling
- a safe playing area
Things you have to consider when buying a portable crib
Available space:
Measure the room you have for the crib. Does a full-size portable crib fit into it, or it’s better to choose a mini version?
Folding mechanism:
While all Pack ‘N Plays and travel cribs fold down, that not a case in classic portable cribs. Consider whether you need this feature before your decision.
If you decide on a folding crib, check its folded dimensions, and see if the folded crib fits the space intended for its storage.
Wheels:
What kind of floor do you have in your home? If you have a lot of carpets, well-sliding wheels are especially important.
Your budget:
Set up your budget and stick to it. Don’t forget that you also need a safe crib mattress.
The design:
There are so many different portable crib designs that I’m sure you will find the one that fits your furniture.
What crib mattress fits into a portable crib?
Mini portable cribs usually come with a basic 1″ mattress pad. Although that’s better than nothing, I recommend you choose a better crib mattress. Measurements of mini cribs and mattresses are not standardized, however, in most cases, their inner dimensions are around 38″ (96,52cm) by 24″ (60,96cm), which corresponds to the majority of mini cribs in the market.
The size of full-size cribs and crib mattresses is regulated by the government. Any standard size crib mattress should fit into any full-size crib in the market!
Travel cribs and Pack ‘N Plays have an included mattress pad. If you want a more comfortable one, choose a travel mattress that is specifically designed for your selected model! Newer use a regular crib mattress! It is too thick!
The Safety of our Top-Rated Portable Cribs
All cribs on our list meet and exceed all required safety standards. They went through rigorous testing to meet ASTM International and U.S. CPSC safety standards.
All cribs are finished in a non-toxic multi-step painting process and lead and phthalate safe.
They do not have drop-sides, which are banned since 2011. There were too many injuries and even tragic deaths because of such a mechanism. Do not use a drop-side crib!
Although all cribs on the list are free of toxins, are the DaVinci’s and Babyletto’s cribs also GREENGUARD Gold certified. Their cribs have been tested for over 10,000 chemicals, which even further proves their safety.
Your guide related to choosing cribs is best so far. I need one suggestion from you. Can you please check BABYBJORN Cradle this one and give a review about I should buy it or not?
Hi Hallen,
Thank you so much for your kind words! I am glad our guide related to choosing a suitable portable crib helped you.
A quality and safe baby bassinet, such as BABYBJORN Cradle, is a suitable alternative for those who do not fit a mini portable crib next to their bed. It is lightweight, meets all required safety standards, and provides cool features, such as gentle rocking motions. However, …
The BABYBJORN Cradle is a trendy choice, but I would rather choose a crib! Your child can use a crib, even a mini model, much longer. It is more comfortable for your baby, sturdier, and has better stability. Together with a proper crib mattress, it provides the best sleeping surface for a baby’s bone and muscle development.
And last but not least, a quality crib with a tight-fitting and firm crib mattress costs less than a BABYBJORN Cradle. That is surely worth your consideration!
Regards, Ines!
This looks AMAZING!
tnx
This is amazing! Space saving and so convenient for long nights with my new baby. I’ve got to have one of these!!
Hi Tom!
I agree with you! Portable cribs are very convenient, as you can move them from room to room. But the best portable models must have “the whole package”, which includes not only convenience but safety, beautiful design, and more.
We had studied numerous models, and in our opinion, those are the best portable cribs on the market right now.
Have a nice day!
BLP
That’s absolutely amazing! You offer a lot of information to us, tnx. This portable cribs are very good quality and there’s a variety you can choose from. Information on each crib etc is provided. Very well formatted on page too.
Well done 👍 . This site is very good for mothers to be,
Tnx Shy!
We are trying our best to provide the lists of the best baby gear on the market. Yes, we made this site mainly for parents to be! That’s why you can find a lot of information for pregnant women on our site as well.
We had picked only the best rated portable cribs for this article, so we are certain all parents can find a model that suits their family needs. 🙂
As we invest a lot of time in researches and reviews, this is a nice encouragement for us!
Regards, Ines
I’m not sure if I’m wrong, but I regard wooden cribs to be more of a certain fixture in a bedroom rather than being portable, but perhaps that’s because I’ve never seen one before?
If I was going to have a portable crib then I would go for a travel crib as it looks easier to transfer from room to room or to another house.
Is the travel crib easier to transport over a wooden portable crib?
I’m not sure if I’m wrong but I regard wooden cribs to be more of a certain fixture in a bedroom rather than being portable but perhaps that’s because I’ve never seen one before?
If I was going to have a portable crib then I would go for a travel crib as it looks easier to transfer from room to room or to another house.
Is the travel crib easier to transport over a wooden portable crib?
You are not wrong. Majority of wooden cribs are meant to stay in place!
However, there are wooden cribs on wheels that you can move from room to room.
Of course, portability, in this case, means something completely different as with travel cribs or Pack’n Plays.
Yes, portable wooden cribs are a great choice for occasional movements around the house, but for traveling or lots of movement around the house, picking a lightweight travel would be a better decision!
Because parents have different expectations for portable cribs, we included all the portable types in our list. To minimize the confusion we have divided our list of the best rated portable cribs on smaller sections as well.
Regards, Baby’s Little Place