When my first kid turned 2 years old, I wonder if he was too big to sleep in a portable crib. Here’s what I learned about sleeping limitations for a portable crib.
In general, a baby can sleep in a portable crib until around 3 years old. Besides the age theirs also a weight limit to consider, which is about 25 to 45 lbs. However, there are various types of portable cribs, and all have different limitations.
There are more crib options than ever before. And that can be overwhelming! With so many choices, how do you know what is right for you and your baby?
First, take a moment to breathe. There are infinite choices to make for your baby, but choosing a crib doesn’t have to be stressful.
When I started researching this article, I wanted to know how long my baby can safely sleep in a portable crib. I found out that portable cribs are climbing in popularity in the last few years. To fully understand the advantages of portable cribs, you’ll also need to know the difference between portable cribs and other types of cribs.
Here’s everything you need to know about portable cribs and beyond.
This article will cover:
- What is a portable crib?
- How long can a baby be in a mini crib?
- How long can a baby use a playpen?
- How long can a baby sleep in a Pack’ n Play?
- How long can a baby sleep in a bassinet?
- When is a baby too big for a bassinet?
- The benefits of portable cribs
- Takeaway
What is a portable crib?
A portable crib (sometimes called a mini crib) is smaller than a standard crib. There is no specific definition for portable cribs; they are just sold as smaller, mobile versions. Most often, portable cribs are designed for travel, as their name suggests.
There is a wide variety, but the highest-quality portable cribs have some features in common. Good-quality portable cribs are:
- Comfortable and supportive for your baby
- Easy to fold and transport
- Quick and easy to clean
- Lightweight
- Breathable
When I look for portable cribs online, I found different kinds of baby beds sold side-by-side with the “real portable cribs.” Here are your options for your baby besides the classic crib!
Bassinets: Ideal for newborns to 4-month olds. They are oval-shaped beds that usually stand higher than a regular crib.
Bedside Co-Sleepers or Bedside Bassinets: Are cribs that attach to the side of your bed. Your baby can be right by your side in a bedside bassinet.
Mini cribs: Can be anything smaller than the standard size crib but are usually 38″ by 24″. There are lots of benefits of mini cribs, which we’ll talk about later.
Baby boxes: Another way for your little one to sleep near you. Baby boxes are pretty much what they sound like – a decorative “cardboard” box the perfect size for an infant to sleep comfortably.
Travel cribs: Anyone with a little one is familiar with the famous travel crib. A travel crib is essentially a crib you can bring anywhere. Travel cribs may also be called portable cribs, as they are easy to transport.
Is a mini crib the same size as a Pack’ n Play?
Pack’ n Plays fall between mini cribs and standard cribs, size-wise. Pack’ n Plays are usually about 40″ by 28″, a few inches larger than a normal mini crib.
Can a newborn sleep in a mini crib?
A newborn can safely sleep in a quality mini crib. The only difference between a crib and a mini crib is the size. In other words, you can trust that a quality mini crib is just as safe for your baby as a standard-sized crib.
How long can a baby be in a mini crib?
Mini cribs are usually designed for babies up to 1-2 years old. But, it depends on the design and manufacturer.
One way to extend the time your baby can sleep in a mini crib is to buy a convertible mini. Some mini cribs can transition from a bassinet all the way to a twin bed!
The main thing to remember before buying a mini crib for your baby is that he or she will likely outgrow it by the time they’re 2 years old. Some little ones transition to toddler beds as early as 18 months, while others aren’t ready until 3 years.
It all depends on your baby, and no one knows them better than you. Do they like to sleep in the smallest corner of space? Or do they spread out as much as possible? Are they tall for their age or on the smaller side?
Consider these questions when you decide on what route to go. But keep in mind that mini cribs are a safe, practical choice for most little ones.
When is a baby too big for a mini crib?
Mini cribs should only be used until the child is 35 inches tall. If a child is over that height, they have outgrown the mini crib and should no longer sleep in one.
The concern is that a child is tall enough to climb out of a crib at that height. And, the stress tests on cribs of that size use a 45lb weight, so take your child’s weight into consideration too.
How long can a baby be in a travel crib?
Babies can sleep in most travel cribs until they are around 3 years old. With that in mind, it’s always important to check the information from the manufacturer to verify the specific weight and age for recommended use.
If you have a hand-me-down crib or one you used for your first child years ago, it’s important to recheck the safety precautions as they might have changed.
Can you use a travel crib as a regular crib?
Lots of parents worry about using a travel crib for more than its name suggests. But don’t fret; travel cribs are way more versatile than that! Most travel cribs are designed for babies from 0-3 and are perfect for naps or nights.
Travel cribs are an excellent choice if you’re on a budget or just like to keep your baby in arms reach.
How long can a baby use a playpen?
Like travel cribs, playpens or playards can be used until your baby is 3 years old, depending on the style and manufacturer. The time will come to end playpen use when your baby reaches 35 inches tall. At this height, toddlers are tall enough to climb out, making the playpen dangerous for use.
How long can a baby sleep in a Pack’ n Play?
The Pack’ n Play can be used by children from newborn to toddler age. But when is the right time to stop using a Pack’ n Play? Generally, babies are too big anywhere between 2-3 years old.
But again, it’s always important to check online or with the manufacturer for recommendations specific to your Pack’ n Play. Pack’ n Play is portable, making it ideal for sleep (or play), anywhere!
Can a baby sleep in a Pack’ n Play every night?
Pack’ n Plays are usually a safe option for nightly sleep as long as you supervise and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
However, you should never change the mattress that comes with the Pack’ n Play. It’s designed to work with a specifically-sized mattress, so changing it can be dangerous for your baby.
How long can a baby sleep in a bassinet?
Bassinets are designed for babies from birth to 4 months old. The transition from the bassinet to the crib can happen anywhere from 3-6 months. It all depends on your child!
If he or she loves sleeping in the bassinet, then stick with it for a while. But if you’re having sleep problems, it might be time to transition to a crib.
Another great indicator of whether it’s time to transition to a crib is if your baby is rolling over. It’s time to switch from a bassinet when he or she can roll over, sit up, or move around on their own. Get ready for crib time!
When is a baby too big for a bassinet?
Most bassinets are made for babies up to 15-20lbs. Or, if your baby is getting tall enough to stretch and touch the ends of the bassinet, it’s time to make the switch.
Remember, weight and height are not the only considerations for changing from a bassinet. Your baby might even be developmentally ready for a crib before they are big enough. You know your baby best, so just observe when they start getting to that age or size.
When is a baby too big for a Pack’ n Play bassinet?
Pack’ n Play bassinets have the same rule: 15-20lbs is the weight limit. However, it’s also recommended that you start thinking about other options when your baby reaches 12-13 lbs, as every baby is different. It’s important to get ahead of the transition and get ready to move into cribs.
When is my baby too big for a Pack’ n Play?
The age limit of Pack’ n Plays differs depending on which part is used. For the playard part of a Pack’ n Play, the general weight limit is 25-30lbs. For the add-on bassinet part, the strict weight limit is 15lbs.
Depending on how you use your Pack’ n Play, just keep in mind there are different weight recommendations. Again, a great way to be sure you’re in the clear is to visit the manufacturer’s website to see their suggestions.
Benefits of portable cribs
Portable cribs are amazing – there are so many reasons to use them. They’re becoming more popular every day as parents start to realize the advantages.
One benefit of portable cribs is the cost. They are much more affordable than standard cribs, usually ranging from $100-$300.
As you learned earlier, there are different names for portable cribs (mini, travel). So, the time your baby can use a portable crib depends on which kind you have. For the most part, babies can sleep in portable cribs for up to 2-3 years.
Who should consider a portable crib?
A portable crib might be in your future if you:
Want to room-share: Room-sharing is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) during the first 6 months to a year. If you love that idea, then a mini crib is a great option.
Have limited space: Mini cribs are smaller than your standard-sized crib, so they’re perfect for small spaces. If you’re living in a cramped apartment or just want to keep things tidy, try out a portable mini crib.
Have more than one child: If you’re a parent with multiple children sharing a room, then you know how hard it is to maneuver several cribs in a space. Mini cribs are the perfect way to handle that interior design stress!
Need travel options: Whether it’s visiting grandparents or going on a trip, mini cribs are foldable and portable. Bring them on all your world adventures together, or leave one at the grandparents’ for a visit!
Ok, but what are other parents saying?
The resounding opinion of most parents is that every child is different.
Some parents say their children used mini cribs until they were a year old, then transitioned to the bed. And other parents say their babies only used a crib for a few months.
Some even say their baby fit comfortably in a mini crib until over 3 years.
Many reviewers love the options that convertible cribs hold – changing from bassinet to toddler bed is a popular choice online.
There are various choices for various needs, and parents love finding the one that works best for them!
Takeaway
There are significant considerations when deciding which type of crib to buy for your baby. One huge concern is how long you’ll be able to use the crib. Your baby will likely be able to sleep in a portable crib for 2-3 years.
The best way to know exactly how long a portable crib will work for your baby is to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for a specific weight and size. The most important part of choosing and using your crib is to always research the safety guidelines.
Portable cribs are an excellent choice for affordability, space, versatility, and longer use.
Remember – learning about cribs can be fun! It gives you a chance to explore all the transitions your baby will go through – from bassinet to portable crib, to toddler bed, and beyond.
Best of luck on all your crib adventures!