Top 5 Baby Cribs for Small Apartments That Save Space & Look Great

Living in a small apartment with a new baby can be challenging. You want a safe, comfortable baby crib for small spaces that doesn’t overwhelm your limited floor plan. The good news is that many top brands offer compact cribs designed for urban nurseries – from mini cribs that fold away, to stylish convertible cribs that grow with your child. These space-saving cribs prioritize both functionality and aesthetics, proving you don’t have to sacrifice style or safety in a small nursery. They come in all price ranges, from budget-friendly portable designs to premium multi-stage crib systems, so there’s something for every family and space. In this article, we’ve curated 5 of the best baby cribs for small apartments that save space and look great, including foldable models, convertible cribs, travel-style options, and multi-functional combos with built-in storage.Below is a quick overview of our top five picks before we dive into the details:

• Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Crib – A budget-friendly foldable mini crib with a slim, wall-hugging frame that’s perfect for tight spaces or travel.
• Graco Travel Lite Crib with Stages – A travel-style compact crib (mini playard) that’s ultra-lightweight with adjustable levels, ideal for apartments and on-the-go.
• Dream On Me Jayden 4-in-1 Mini Crib & Changer – A multi-functional mini crib that includes an attached changing table and storage drawers, maximizing vertical storage in small nurseries.
• Babyletto Origami Mini Crib – A stylish foldable mini crib on wheels, featuring a modern design and Greenguard Gold certification for low chemical emissions.
• Stokke Sleepi Crib – A premium convertible crib system with a unique oval shape that expands from a bassinet to a full crib, boasting a narrow footprint and elegant design.

Now, let’s explore each of these cribs in detail – covering their dimensions, features, safety credentials, and what makes them shine in a small apartment nursery.

Top 5 Baby Cribs for Small Spaces

1. Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Crib (Budget-Friendly & Foldable)

Dimensions: 39″ L x 25″ W x 37″ H (assembled)
Type: Foldable mini crib (portable)
Key Features: Folds flat for storage, two mattress heights, rolling casters for mobility, includes thin mattress pad.
Safety Certifications: JPMA certified; meets or exceeds CPSC and ASTM standards; Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions.The Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Crib is a classic choice for families seeking a baby crib for small spaces on a budget. Delta Children is a trusted brand with a long safety track record, and this mini crib exemplifies their quality and value. It’s made of solid pine wood and designed with a wall-hugging frame that’s compact enough for the smallest of apartments or a grandma’s house. When not in use, this crib folds nearly flat, so you can tuck it away in a closet or against a wall – a huge bonus if you need to reclaim space during the day. The crib also sits on rolling caster wheels, allowing you to easily move it from room to room (the wheels lock in place for safety when baby is inside).Despite its small size, the Delta Folding Mini Crib doesn’t skimp on functionality. It offers a two-position adjustable mattress height: use the higher level for your newborn to easily reach in, and lower it as your baby learns to sit or stand. This ensures your little one is always safe and contained while also saving your back from too much bending. The crib comes with a 1.5-inch mini mattress pad included – while it’s sufficient for short-term use or travel, you might opt to add a thicker mini crib mattress for everyday comfort (it fits any standard mini crib mattress, typically about 37″ x 23″).In terms of aesthetics, this Delta mini crib has a simple, clean design that can blend with any decor. It’s available in multiple finishes like white, grey, or dark cherry, so you can choose one that complements your style. Its compact footprint and ability to fold make it a versatile piece – many parents use it as a primary crib in a small apartment, then later as a secondary crib for travel or at the grandparents’ home. And although it’s lightweight and portable, it’s very sturdy and well-constructed. Safety-wise, you can rest assured: this crib is JPMA-certified, which means it has been independently tested to meet all ASTM and CPSC safety standards for cribs. It also uses a non-toxic finish that is lead and phthalate safe. In fact, this model is Greenguard Gold certified, ensuring it contributes to healthier indoor air by emitting extremely low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Overall, the Delta Folding Portable Mini Crib is an excellent space-saver and one of the most affordable small cribs on the market, without compromising on safety or quality.

2. Graco Travel Lite Crib with Stages (Travel-Friendly & Compact Playard)

Dimensions: ~33.5″ L x 23.2″ W x 32″ H (overall)
Type: Travel crib / portable playard with bassinet insert
Key Features: Ultra-lightweight foldable playard, 2 adjustable height “Stages” (newborn bassinet & infant bassinet) plus deep crib, removable canopy on some models, wheels for mobility, carry bag included.
Safety Certifications: JPMA certified (play yard category); meets ASTM F406 and CPSC standards for playards; mesh sides for ventilation.If you’re looking for a crib solution that’s compact and easily portable, the Graco Travel Lite Crib with Stages is a fantastic option. Technically, this is a mini playard rather than a wooden crib – but it functions as a safe sleep space and is tailor-made for small spaces and travel. Graco is a well-known brand with decades of experience in baby gear, and their Travel Lite crib is popular among parents who live in apartments because of its tiny footprint and multi-stage design. At only about 23 inches wide and 33 inches long, it’s significantly smaller than a standard Pack ‘n Play or crib, so it can fit beside your bed or in a corner of the living room without issue. Many reviewers note that it even rolls through interior doorways easily due to its slender profile.Despite its small size, the Travel Lite Crib is designed to adapt as your baby grows (hence the “Stages” name). It has a 2-level adjustable bassinet: Stage 1 is a higher newborn bassinet attachment for babies up to 15 lbs, which lets you reach your infant without bending too far. Stage 2 drops the mattress height a bit lower (suitable up to ~20 lbs) while still keeping your smaller baby elevated. Once your little one outgrows the bassinet levels or starts pushing up, you remove the bassinet insert and use the Travel Lite as a deep playard-style crib (Stage 3). In the lowest position, it works like a standard playpen/crib for a baby up to 30 lbs (or until they can climb out). This means you could potentially use the Travel Lite from newborn until roughly 18-24 months old, which is impressive for such a petite unit.One of the big benefits of this Graco is how lightweight and portable it is. It weighs under 20 lbs and folds up compactly, fitting into an included travel bag. This makes it easy to store when not needed, or to throw in the car when you’re heading on a trip. Apartment dwellers love that they can fold it away to free up space, or move it between rooms (it even has two wheels on the frame for rolling). Some versions of the Travel Lite Crib come with a canopy and soft toys overhead, which is a nice touch especially if you plan to use it in your room and want to shield baby from light. The sides are made of breathable mesh, providing great airflow and visibility of your baby – a plus for safe sleep.While the Graco Travel Lite is more utilitarian in appearance (fabric and mesh, in neutral patterns) and doesn’t look like a piece of furniture, it scores high for functionality in tight quarters. It’s also very budget-friendly. This crib alternative doesn’t include extra storage, but you could easily stash diapers and essentials in a small caddy nearby. For safety, Graco follows all the required standards for playards: the Travel Lite has stable locking rails and a firm flat mattress pad that’s snug-fitting. (Important note: you should not add a thicker mattress than the one provided, as it’s designed to be safe with the included pad.) Graco is a JPMA member, and this product meets ASTM and CPSC safety guidelines for infant sleep. Many families successfully use the Travel Lite as an everyday sleeper in a small apartment, and it’s also perfect as a secondary crib for travel. If you need maximum flexibility and portability in a mini crib, the Graco Travel Lite is hard to beat.

3. Dream On Me Jayden 4-in-1 Mini Crib & Changer (Convertible with Storage)

Dimensions: 56.7″ L x 29″ W x 41″ H (overall, including changer)
Type: Mini crib and changing table combo (4-in-1 convertible)
Key Features: Attached changing table with 3 storage drawers and changing pad, converts from crib to daybed and twin-size bed, two mattress height positions, built-in vertical storage for baby essentials, solid wood build in multiple finishes.
Safety Certifications: JPMA certified; meets ASTM and CPSC standards; Greenguard Gold certified (low VOC finish on compatible Dream On Me mattresses).For those who need to squeeze the most function out of a small nursery footprint, the Dream On Me Jayden 4-in-1 Mini Convertible Crib and Changer is a game-changer. This ingenious piece of furniture combines a mini crib and a compact changing table/dresser in one integrated design. At about 56.7 inches long, it’s closer to the length of a standard crib, but you’re getting two essential nursery items merged together – which ultimately saves space compared to having a separate crib and changing table in a small apartment. Dream On Me is known for affordable yet reliable baby furniture, and the Jayden mini crib is one of their most popular models, particularly for urban living. It’s billed as “4-in-1” because it transitions through four configurations: a crib, a mini daybed, and later a twin-size bed (you can detach the changer and convert the crib portion into a twin headboard/footboard with separate bed rails). Essentially, this crib grows with your child, making it a smart long-term investment for a tight space.What stands out immediately is the multi-functional design. Attached to the right side of the crib is a mini changing table with three drawers and two shelves. This provides much-needed vertical storage – you can keep diapers, wipes, onesies, and crib sheets all within arm’s reach, which is incredibly convenient during middle-of-the-night changes. The changing table comes with a water-resistant changing pad and a safety strap, and it’s sturdy enough for newborn and infant changing needs (up to 30 lbs typically). Once your baby is potty-trained and you convert the crib for toddler use, the changing table section can actually be used as a standalone nightstand or dresser piece beside the bed (the manufacturer notes it can function separately when the crib is converted to a full bed). This means none of the furniture goes to waste as your child grows – a thoughtful feature for sustainability and value.The crib portion of the Jayden is a mini crib size (about 38″ x 24″ mattress fit), so it’s smaller than a regular crib but larger than a bassinet. It has two adjustable mattress heights, allowing you to start with a higher level for a newborn and then lower it when your infant can sit or pull up. The front rail is fixed (no drop-sides, as per current safety standards), and when it’s time to transition out of the crib, you can remove the front panel to use it as a daybed/sofa, or attach the optional twin bed rails to convert to a twin bed frame. The versatility is excellent for a piece that starts off fitting in a small nursery nook. Keep in mind that with the changer attached, the crib’s length is extended, so measure your space (it will run along a wall like a couch would). The frame still saves space because the width (29 inches) is much less deep than a standard changer + crib setup would be. This crib fits snugly against a wall, making efficient use of a corner or a single wall of a room.Aesthetically, the Dream On Me Jayden has a traditional yet graceful design. It’s made of New Zealand pine wood and comes in a range of six finishes (white, natural, grey, black, cherry, espresso) to match various decor themes. It features gentle curves and arched details that give it a bit of style, so it doesn’t look overly plain despite its utilitarian nature. Parents often comment that it looks adorable in person and the finishes are quality for the price point. Speaking of price, this combo unit is very reasonably priced (typically in the mid-range, considering it replaces two or three pieces of furniture).On the safety front, Dream On Me ensures all their cribs, including the Jayden, meet or exceed ASTM and CPSC safety standardsdreamonme.com. It’s JPMA certified, giving extra peace of mind that an independent laboratory has tested it for compliance. The paints/stains are non-toxic and lead/phthalate safe. If indoor air quality is a concern, note that while the crib itself is solid wood, you may want to pair it with a Greenguard Gold certified mini crib mattress (Dream On Me offers one, as do other brands), because the manufacturer specifically recommends using a non-toxic, low-VOC mattress for best results​dreamonme.com. The ability to have a cleaner nursery environment and everything you need in one footprint makes the Jayden a top pick. This mini crib with storage truly maximizes functionality – you get a safe sleeping spot, a changing station, and nursery storage all in one. It’s perfect for one-bedroom apartments or nurseries cornered in a smaller room, ensuring you don’t feel cluttered even with all the baby essentials close at hand.

4. Babyletto Origami Mini Crib (Modern & Stylish Foldable Crib)

Dimensions: 39.25″ L x 25.75″ W x 36″ H
Type: Mini crib (foldable, portable on wheels)
Key Features: Modern lightweight design, foldable frame for easy storage, rolling caster wheels, two mattress height positions, comes in trendy colors, made with sustainable New Zealand pine wood.
Safety Certifications: Greenguard Gold certified (low emissions); meets ASTM International crib standards and CPSC regulations; lead and phthalate safe finish.If you’re outfitting a small nursery and want something stylish and contemporary that also saves space, the Babyletto Origami Mini Crib is a standout choice. Babyletto is a brand renowned for modern nursery furniture with an eco-friendly focus, and the Origami mini crib perfectly embodies that ethos. Designed specifically for urban living, this crib has a chic, minimalist aesthetic – think clean lines and a palette of cool finishes (it’s often available in colors like white, grey, lagoon blue, or natural wood). The visual appeal is high: despite being a mini crib, it’s meant to be a design statement in your home rather than just a temporary piece of gear. It’s named “Origami” because of its foldable ability – much like the art of folding paper, this crib’s frame can fold inwards for compact storage when not in use.The Babyletto Origami is mini-sized (fits a standard mini crib mattress 37″ x 23.5″), making it ideal for apartments, condos, or as a secondary crib at the grandparents’. It’s smaller than a regular crib, but larger and more structured than a bassinet or pack-and-play. One of its key features is mobility: it comes with locking caster wheels, so you can smoothly roll it from the nursery to your bedroom or around the apartment as needed. This is great for parents who want to room-share with the baby for the first months – you can wheel the crib bedside at night, then roll it back to the living area during the day. And unlike a bulky full-size crib, the Origami’s petite footprint means it can fit through most doorways and won’t dominate the room. When guests come over or you need extra space, you can fold the crib flat in a matter of minutes and tuck it away. For example, it could slide under a bed or stand in a closet when folded. This flexibility is a lifesaver in a small apartment where every square foot counts.Despite its lightweight and portable design, the Origami Mini Crib is very sturdy and safe for everyday use. It is constructed from sustainable pine wood and has a durable finish that is free of lead and phthalates. Babyletto products are Greenguard Gold certified, meaning this crib has been screened for over 10,000 chemicals and VOCs and confirmed to meet rigorous standards for low emissions. This is a big plus for health-conscious parents looking to maintain good indoor air quality in a small space. The crib also features two adjustable mattress positions – you can raise the mattress platform for newborns to make it easier to lay them down, and then lower it as your baby grows and becomes more mobile. Like all modern cribs, the slats are spaced safely (no more than 2⅜ inches apart) and it has fixed sides for stability. The Origami is designed to be used until your child can pull up or reaches 35 inches in height (around 18 months to 2 years for many kids). At that point, you would transition to a larger sleeping arrangement, since this mini crib is not convertible to a toddler bed.In terms of setup and look, parents often comment on how easy it is to assemble and how attractive it looks in person. The Origami has a sleek, modern design that complements small, stylish nurseries – it doesn’t look clunky or old-fashioned. You can pair it with a mini crib mattress of your choice (Babyletto even offers an eco-friendly Pure core mattress as an accessory). The open slat design on all sides gives it an airy feel and also lets you keep an eye on baby from any angle. While it lacks extra features like storage or a changer, its simplicity is part of its charm and it excels at being a dedicated safe sleep space that can be moved or stored effortlessly. Price-wise, the Babyletto Origami falls into the mid-range; you pay a bit more for the design and quality materials compared to basic models. However, many find it worth it for a crib that looks great, fits in a tiny room, and can be folded up when you need that corner free. Overall, the Origami Mini Crib proves that even in a small space, you can have a crib that’s both space-saving and stylish.

5. Stokke Sleepi Crib (Premium Convertible Crib System)

Dimensions:Sleepi Mini (bassinet stage): 32.3″ L x 26.4″ W x 34.3″ H; Sleepi Crib (extended stage): 50″ L x 26.4″ W x 34″ H
Type: Premium oval crib system (convertible from bassinet to crib to toddler bed)
Key Features: Unique oval compact design (only 26.4″ wide) that fits through doorways, adjustable length grows with child (0-5 years with extensions, and up to 10 years with separate Junior kit), 4 mattress height positions, lockable swivel wheels, high-quality beech wood construction, timeless modern style.
Safety Certifications: JPMA certified; Greenguard Gold certified; meets international safety standards (ASTM, CPSC, EN); uses non-toxic finishes and comes with an organic mattress option.For parents willing to invest in a high-end crib that maximizes functionality and style, the Stokke Sleepi is the ultimate space-saving crib system. Stokke, a Norwegian company, has a strong reputation for innovative baby products (they’re famous for the Tripp Trapp high chair), and the Sleepi crib showcases their design prowess. This crib is unlike any other on the list: it has a distinctive oval shape that not only looks beautiful but also makes it incredibly space-efficient. With a width of just 26.4 inchesthenestinghouse.net, the Sleepi is very narrow, allowing it to slip through doorways and fit in places where a standard rectangular crib might not. The idea is that you can roll it from room to room – starting as a cozy bassinet next to your bed, and later as a crib in the nursery – without disassembling. Its sleek, modern design and curving lines make it a stylish centerpiece in any nursery, big or small.The Stokke Sleepi is actually a modular 4-in-1 system. It starts as the Sleepi Mini, a compact bassinet suitable for newborns up to about 6 months. In this mode, it has a smaller oval mattress and creates a “nest-like” environment that helps baby feel snug. For small apartments, you could use the Mini as a bassinet in your bedroom – it has lockable swivel wheels, so you can easily move it around or rock it gently. When baby outgrows the bassinet length, you use the included extension pieces to turn it into the Sleepi Crib, which is a full-size crib (roughly 50″ long, equivalent to a standard crib’s length but still narrower in width). This crib stage can last until your child is about 2 years old or 35 inches tall. Next, the Sleepi converts to a toddler bed: you can remove one side to create an open toddler bed/sofa with a guardrail (Stokke sells a toddler bed conversion kit for this purpose). This is suitable for about 2-3 years of age. Additionally, Stokke offers a separate Junior Extension Kit that can extend the bed even further to accommodate a child up to 10 years old (essentially turning it into a junior bed or daybed). In summary, the Sleepi can literally grow from a tiny bassinet for a newborn to a bed for a 10-year-old, all with one cohesive design. This longevity helps justify its premium price, as it may eliminate the need to buy multiple beds over the years.From a space-saving perspective, the oval footprint is very efficient. There are no sharp corners, which means it takes up less visual and physical space, and it can tuck into a corner or against a wall neatly (even though it’s oval, it’s long and slim). The open slats 360° around allow for excellent airflow and let you view baby easily. The Sleepi has four mattress height settings, more than typical cribs – this gives extra flexibility to set the mattress at the perfect height as your child grows (higher for young infants, lower as they stand, and lowest for toddler bed mode). The included wheels not only allow movement; they also can be locked for stability, or removed if you prefer. Many parents keep the wheels on to use the crib as a bassinet on wheels initially – rolling it like a cradle – and then lock it in place in the nursery later on. The build quality is superb: it’s made from solid beech wood, with no MDF or cheap parts, and the finish is smooth and non-toxic (free of harmful substances).In terms of safety and certifications, Stokke ensures the Sleepi meets all global standards. It is JPMA certified and also Greenguard Gold certified, reflecting low chemical emissions in your home. The circular design actually has safety in mind too – with no corners, there’s no risk of a baby getting stuck in a corner, and the height-adjustable mattress prevents falls as they grow. The Sleepi’s mattress is a unique oval shape, so you’ll need Stokke’s mattress or a compatible one (the newer Sleepi comes with a breathable, organic mattress option). All Sleepi textiles (like mattresses and covers) are Oeko-Tex certified, meaning they are free from harmful substances.Visually, the Stokke Sleepi is often described as scandinavian chic – it’s elegant and comes in attractive finishes like natural wood, white, or grey. It truly can elevate the look of a small nursery, almost like a designer piece of furniture. Brand reputation is a plus here: Stokke has been making baby furniture for decades, and the Sleepi itself has been on the market (with updates) for many years, garnering a loyal following. The main downsides to consider are the premium price – it is by far the most expensive on our list (the starter mini + crib bundle is an investment, and additional extensions cost extra). Also, the oval shape means you’ll be buying Stokke-specific mattresses and bedding, which are slightly pricier and less common than standard sizes. However, for many families in small apartments or who value design, the Stokke Sleepi’s benefits outweigh these costs. You get a crib that is beautiful, space-efficient, and incredibly versatile, carrying your child from infancy well into childhood. It’s a statement piece that proves small-space living can be done with ultimate style and functionality.

Comparison Table: Space-Saving Cribs at a Glance

To help you compare these top picks side by side, here’s a quick reference table summarizing their key specifications and features:

Price Range Legend:$ = Budget (< $150), $$ = Mid-range ($150–$400), $$$ = Premium (>$400). Prices are approximate and can vary by retailer.As the table shows, each of these cribs brings something unique to the table while catering to the needs of small-space living. Whether you prioritize foldability, multi-functionality, or long-term convertibility, you can find a crib that fits your space and lifestyle.

Conclusion

Creating a comfortable nursery in a small apartment is absolutely achievable with the right approach and products. From foldable mini cribs that tuck away when not in use, to multi-functional cribs that serve as an all-in-one nursery station, the options today cater to a wide range of needs and budgets. Our top 5 baby cribs for small spaces prove that you don’t have to sacrifice style, safety, or convenience because of a modest floor plan. Each crib on this list carries the assurance of safety certifications and is designed with thoughtful features to make the most of limited space – whether it’s through a slim, wall-hugging silhouette, added storage for baby essentials, or the ability to convert and grow with your child.When choosing your crib, consider your priorities: Do you need something ultra-portable for travel? Do you want the crib to transform as your baby grows? Is extra storage a lifesaver in your tiny nursery? There’s a space-saving crib out there that will meet those needs. Remember to also pay attention to the little things that matter in small living, like choosing light colors or airy designs that don’t overwhelm the room visually, and keeping the area around the crib clutter-free for a more open feel. Above all, prioritize safety and quality – a well-made crib from a reputable brand will give you peace of mind no matter the size.Bringing a baby home to a small apartment can feel intimidating, but with clever planning and the right crib, you’ll create a cozy, efficient, and beautiful space for your little one to sleep and grow. Whether you opt for a budget-friendly mini crib that folds away or invest in a high-end convertible crib that becomes a lasting part of your home, you’re on your way to a smart small-space nursery solution. Here’s to happy cuddles in cozy quarters, and a good night’s sleep for both baby and parents!

FAQs – Small Space Cribs & Nursery Tips