To all the petite moms out there: being 5’2″ or shorter, doesn’t mean that you have to struggle every night trying to put your child in and out of the crib, or experience back pain!
I found a few amazing cribs for short parents that are comfortable to use without the need for stool.
Read on for my Short Mom’s Buying Guide to help you find the perfect crib for you.
A crib is not just baby furniture for your nursery – the crib is where your baby sleeps, dreams and begins each new day.
It is important that you choose a safe crib, but you probably want something that is practical and beautiful for your nursery, too.
One aspect of your baby’s crib that you may not have considered is the crib height.
But, if you’re a short mom, then you need to give this some thought before you invest in a traditional baby crib that might be too tall and you need a step stool to climb up!
If you’re 5’2″ or less, please pay attention: us short mamas face unique challenges to put our babies in and out of the crib.
And don’t even get me started on the 9 – 12 month stage when those babies are heavy and when you’re a short mom, it’s even harder on your back.
Instead of using a step stool with full-size cribs, check out my list of the best cribs for short moms. I’m sharing here my favorite convertible cribs with a low-profile design to help shorter parents easily lift baby in and out of bed.
This article is NOT a substitute for medical advice. It contains affiliate links.
Recommended by 2400+ verified buyers!Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
List Of The Best Cribs For Short Moms
On the topic of short or low profile cribs, I always hear someone voice concerns about the child crawling out of the crib.
First of all, most cribs suggest moving babies out of the crib when they begin climbing and/or reach 35″ in height.
Low-profile baby cribs are not dangerous in this respect: a low-profile crib has shorter legs than a tall crib, making it a better height for a short person to use.
But the crib rail or the basic structure of the sleeping area for the baby is not much shorter than a standard crib.
After thorough research I chose some of the best, most popular and most convenient cribs for you short moms and dads out there.
My main criteria was a low profile design, that’s why I picked baby cribs that are 36″ or less in height. Another important feature was the adjustable mattress.
All of the cribs on this list are convertible cribs. They can all turn into daybeds and some can even transform into a full sized bed for your child to use for years ahead.
If you are petite, here are some of the best cribs for short parents on the market, highly-rated for overall height, safety and long-term use.
1. Babyletto Modo 3-in-1 Convertible Crib
What I love about it: the Modo is a simple, no-frills low-profile baby crib, a great option for short moms.
The crib’s height is just under 35″ – a good height for petite parents. Its dimensions are: 53.25″L x 3″W x 34.75″H.
Modo also comes with a toddler railing to ensure your child’s safety once you convert it to a toddler bed. It’s really nice that you don’t have to purchase it separately and pay extra.
Safety
It is a Greenguard Gold Certified crib: the materials used in the crib have undergone strict testing.
It is designed to have no visible screws or bolts that could hurt curious babies.
Also, it is coated with non-toxic, lead-free and phthalate-safe paints and stains.
This crib is made of renown New Zealand pine wood, meaning it is not only a very sturdy crib, but it is also made with renewable materials.
Positions
There are three different height settings for the mattress. Move the adjustable mattress height as your baby sits up and learns to stand.
This 3-in-1 convertible crib is a good option because it acts as a baby crib, a toddler bed and lastly a daybed for your little one.
Not only is it a good crib for short moms, it also grows with your child; you will get years of use out of the Babyletto Modo crib.
Toddler Bed
One of the perks of the Babyletto Modo crib is that the toddler bed conversion kit is included in the price, making it a reasonable price for this great 3-in-1 convertible crib.
Crib Mattress
While the website states that this crib fits a universal mattress size for baby cribs, several reviews shared that they did not find this to be the case.
Instead, they purchased the matching mattress from Babyletto and found that to be the proper, safe fit.
You can also purchase this crib with the mattress as a bundle here.
2. Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib
What I love about it: the Babyletto Hudson crib is similar to the Modo, but is a more trend. If you want your nursery to be a bit more stylish and modern, then go for the Hudson.
The crib assembled dimensions are: 53.75″ x 29.75″ x 35″ (They are listed wrong on Amazon, just ignore the 2-inch crib height they state!).
This convertible crib is 35″ high, making it a good crib for short moms.
Safety
Like other Babyletto products, this is a Greenguard gold certified crib, designed with hidden hardware and painted with a non-toxic finish.
It not only passes, but exceeds CPSC and ASTM safety standards.
All paints and stains used are lead and phthalate safe, so you and your baby can both sleep better.
The solid frame is made from sustainable, eco-friendly materials (New Zealand Pine Wood).
Positions
There are 4 adjustable mattress positions with the Babyletto Hudson crib, making the transition as your baby grows, sits up and stands that much easier for petite moms.
Besides the adjustable mattress height, this is also a convertible crib. It transforms from a traditional crib into a toddler bed and a day bed.
And, unlike some other convertible cribs – this comes with an included toddler bed conversion kit!
If this crib seems more expensive, keep in mind you do not have to buy a separate conversion kit to make it a toddler bed.
Mattress
This crib requires a standard mattress, but the manufacturer directs parents to use crib mattress with a thickness of no greater than 6 inches – you don’t want your baby to sit up too high in the crib.
Other Babyletto Cribs
If you want something even more stand-out for your baby’s bed, check out the Babyletto Lolly 3-in-1 Convertable Crib, for a truly romantic and sweet baby nursery.
And for something truly different, see the Babyletto Harlow Acrylic Crib with transparent (although strong!) crib rails allowing you to see right through to your sleeping baby.
This is the only baby crib I know of that has see-through rails for a completely unobstructed view of your sleeping baby – it’s game-changing!
Both Lolly and Harlow cribs are a good choice for petite mom because the height from front rail to floor is 35″.
3. DaVinci Union 4 – in – 1 Convertible Crib
What I love about it: it is one of the shortest cribs out there – the best option for super petite moms. Parents raved about this crib, several petite mothers pointed out how wonderful the height was for putting baby in and out of bed.
It is also listed at a lower price than other cribs of the same size and category.
This cute and practical crib is only 33.5 inches tall, making it the shortest crib on the list!
Safety
The Union crib focuses on baby’s safety above all: this crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, JPMA-certified and adheres to CPSC and ASTM safety standards.
It features fixed side rails and hidden hardware.
It is made with non-toxic paints and phthalate-free materials: New Zealand pine wood, which is both sustainable and strong.
Positions
This crib offers four adjustable mattress positions so you can start with a high setting for a newborn and adjust lower as your baby grows.
While many other cribs have two or three different height settings, this crib has four! Making it one of the best convertible cribs for short moms.
Mattress
The Divinci 4-in-1 convertible crib does not include a mattress, but you can purchase one separately from their site.
Parents shared they used a universal size mattress, just fine.
What To Keep In Mind
While this is a convertible crib, you do have to purchase the toddler conversion kit separately. But, the really cool thing about this crib is it can also become a full-size bed!
If you buy the separate conversion kit, this crib transforms into a bed frame, making this a bed that truly grows with your child.
4. Babyletto Origami Mini Crib With Wheels
If you’re a petite mom, check out this cute and useful portable mini crib!
As a convertible mini crib, it is ideal for small spaces or if parents need to frequently move baby’s crib to another side of the room or house.
The detachable wheels make it the best portable mini crib on the list.
The compact dimensions are only 39.2″L x 25.7″W x 36″H, which means this crib has a small footprint – the best crib for smaller rooms.
Moreover, it has foldable design which is super convenient if you want to store it for next child.
It is 36″ in height, making it a good choice for short moms who need a bit of a lower crib.
Safety
This crib is a Greenguard gold certified crib, so you know it has been made with safe products for you baby and thoroughly tested.
The finish is non-toxic, paint and stains are lead and phthalate free.
It not only meets CPSC and ASTM safety standards – it exceeds them!
When I saw that this crib had wheels, I was skeptical at first. But then I discovered that the wheels are locking casters, so you can secure the crib in place.
And, the wheels are also detachable, so you can take them off and make this a standard, stationary crib, if you want to (and, no wheels make it just a teeny bit lower and therefore an even better crib for short moms).
Just like previous cribs, this one is made from solid wood (New Zealand Pine) and TSCA compliant engineered wood as the mattress support.
Mattress
I like that this mini crib comes with a mattress pad (1″), but the company (and this Mama!) recommend you buy an additional Babyletto mini crib mattress for your baby’s ultimate comfort.
Positions
If you’re considering getting a pack-in-play instead of a crib, please check out this mini crib as a better option for your baby.
It’s certainly more comfortable for your baby, with a true crib mattress, and it has two adjustable mattress positions.
Start with the highest position when your baby is a newborn and adjust to the lower setting when your baby starts to sit up.
You should change this low profile crib into a toddler bed when your child begins standing or reaches 35″ in height.
Folding
This crib is cleverly-designed for easy storage and transport. It has a foldable frame so you do not have to dismantle the entire crib to move it from one room to another (or to go to Grandma’s house for a week).
5. Dream On Me Aden 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib
What I love about it: this is one of the best baby cribs for parents on the move or who live in tiny apartments, because it is a convertible crib that doesn’t take up much space and comes at a reasonable price.
The Dream On Me Aden is 36 inches tall, but its real feature is the very small footprint, making this one of the best baby cribs for small spaces or nurseries juggling two cribs.
Its assembled dimensions are 39″L x 24″Wx 36″H. While the height of 36″ is at the top end of cribs for short moms, it really shines as a great crib for smaller spaces.
Safety
In terms of safety, the Aden crib is certified by JPMA to meet all safety standards (CPSC and ASTM).
It is non-toxic and lead-free, so you can rest easy when your little teething baby starts chewing on everything – even their crib rails.
The brand used New Zealand Pine Wood for durability and sustainability.
Mattress
It’s recommended to use any standard Dream On Me non-toxic crib mattress together with this crib.
Positions
The Aden features an adjustable mattress height with three different mattress positions. You can adjust it lower as your baby sits up and learns to stand.
It also has 4 conversions: crib, daybed and two twin-size bed options. But keep in mind, the conversion kits are sold separately, and the twin size bed options are almost identical – except for a decorative footboard.
While they don’t advertise a true toddler bed with this crib, it is a low profile crib, which means that, when converted to a day bed, it would be a good option for a toddler bed for afternoon naps.
6. Delta Children Essex 4-in-1 Convertible
What I love about it: the Delta Children Essex is one of the best baby cribs for short moms at a mere 34″ in height.
As a convertible crib, it allows four settings including both a daybed and a toddler bed.
The assembled dimensions of this crib are 54″L x 29.50″W x 34″H.
Only 34″ from the ground to the top of the rails means it is an ideal crib for petite moms.
Safety
This crib is JPMA certified. It is non-toxic and has been thoroughly tested for lead.
However, some negative reviews shared that the crib had a very strong smell which made them nervous to allow their baby to sleep in it.
Ensure you set up this crib 4 weeks or more before your due date to provide sufficient time to allow it to air out.
The solid crib structure is made of sturdy pine wood.
Positions
There are three adjustable mattress heights for this crib, which is easier for short moms.
And, it has four crib or bed options to use as your child grows. While the price includes a toddler guard rail, it doesn’t come with a full toddler bed conversion kit, you must purchase that separately.
Mattress
It uses a standard crib mattress, and the company recommends the following brands: Delta Children, Serta or Beautyrest crib mattresses.
Unfortunately the mattress is not included, you need to buy it individually, but the good news is that the crib itself is really budget-friendly option..
Use mattress size: 27 1/4 by 51 5/8 inches, and no more than 6 inches thick.
What To Keep In Mind
The Delta Children Bentley 4-in-1 Convertible Crib might seem to be more popular than the Essex, but it is 37″, so it is not the best crib for short moms.
7. Storkcraft Hillcrest 5-in-1
What I love about it: this is the only 5-in-1 convertible crib on the list. It’s a fabulous height for short moms and wins the day as the recipient of the 2022 Women’s Choice award for Baby and Kids Furniture.
If you trust other moms, know that this crib got the official “Seal of Approval” for nursery furniture by the PTPA!
At 34.2 inches in height, this is one of the best cribs for short moms. As a 5’2″ mom I loved how easy and comfortable it was to use this low-profile crib.
Safety
It has been thoroughly tested for safety and meets (or exceeds) JPMA’s requirements.
Paint and finishes used adhere to CPSIA and ASTM safety standards. It’s made from New Zealand Pine Wood and comes with a 1-year warranty.
Positions
Now, let’s look at the positions of this crib.
There are three adjustable mattress heights to suit your growing babe – lower the mattress height as your baby starts sitting up and being able to pull themselves to standing.
This convertible crib has five different options for your baby to use as they grow:
- Crib
- Toddler bed
- Daybed
- Full-size bed
- Full-size bed with head + footboard
This is a very reasonably priced convertible crib, but that’s because all the conversion kits are sold separately. Even the toddler guardrail is sold separately.
Mattress
It is recommended to use this crib (and later, the toddler bed) with this Graco Premium Foam Crib & Toddler Bed Mattress, which fits really well. You can get it separately.
Considering the price, the five different conversions it offers, the safety aspects, and the awards this crib has received – it is a clear winner as one of the best cribs for petite moms available.
8. Carter’s by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 Convertible
What I like about it: this crib has 4 adjustable mattress positions and is easy to assemble. However, many parents reported that the trundle drawer was more of a nuisance than anything.
If your main reason for purchasing this crib is for the extra storage option of the under crib drawer, I would suggest a crib with side-drawer storage, instead.
The assembled dimensions are 55.8″ L x 30″ W x 35.5″ H, meaning this bed comes in at 35.5 inches in height. Petite moms won’t have problems with lifting the baby up.
Safety
It is Greenguard Gold certified. It uses only non-toxic finishes and is both lead-free and phthalate-free.
Moreover, it’s constructed from New Zealand pine wood and TSCA-compliant engineered wood (for the trundle drawer).
Parents raved about how sturdy and easy to assemble it was.
Positions
There are four adjustable mattress positions, which is awesome for petite parents to gently put a sleeping baby into bed without bending too much.
It is a convertible crib that changes into four different sleeping options:
- Crib
- Toddler bed
- Daybed
- Full-size bed
I do love a bed that grows with your child and you can use for years and years. Both the toddler conversion kit and the full-size bed conversion kits are sold separately.
What To Keep In Mind
The storage trundle drawer under the crib is a cute concept, but it was also the number one complaint from parents.
Even when the drawer worked properly, there was nothing to cover it, so the contents of the drawer are visible unless the mattress height was set to the lowest setting.
While this crib was more popular, this mini version looks the same but with more space-saving dimensions: only 40.6″L x 25.6″W x 34.6″H.
This means that mini crib is only 34.6 inches high, a great option for short moms!
Summary
If you are on the hunt for a crib for short moms, check out this list of different cribs that at perfect for short moms.
What Is The Shortest Crib?
At 33.4 inches the Davinci Union convertible crib is the shortest crib on the list and one of the best cribs for short moms.
Not only is it the smallest of all low-profile cribs, but it has an incredible safety rating and converts into a toddler bed and later, is used to made a full-sized bed.
One of the factors that makes this a good choice for petite moms (besides the lower height in general) is that it has an adjustable mattress height to help moms put a sleeping baby into the crib without any hassle.
The best low profile cribs for short moms and dads
Low-profile crib
A low-profile crib is the best crib for short parents because it is lower to the ground.
Usually, the crib uses a standard-sized mattress and the crib’s frame is the same as a full-size crib, but the overall crib height is shorter.
Now, if we’re talking mini cribs, they really are smaller than full-size cribs but are designed to be a compact crib with a small footprint for tiny homes, small apartments, etc. Often, they are smaller in height, too.
Adjustable Height
Most cribs offer adjustable mattress heights, so you can move it down as your baby grows. That’s why you shouldn’t measure a crib based on the mattress height setting, but rather by the fixed crib rail.
The adjustable mattress support should have three or even four different settings to move down as your child becomes more mobile.
Finding The Perfect Height
Short mamas should measure from their hip bone (where they naturally bend when putting baby in bed to sleep) and compare it to the height of the crib rail in order to find the best crib for their height.
You don’t want to be reaching up to put your newborn into bed, the best baby cribs for short moms hit at just around their waist, for a natural feel.
Convertible Baby Crib
Once your baby is pulling up and able to climb, it is time to move him or her to a bed. Since a twin-sized bed is likely too big, a toddler bed is advised.
Instead of investing in another bed why not purchase a convertible crib (or a convertible mini crib if you’re short on space) so you can get the most out of your investment?
Some of the convertible cribs featured on this list transform into a full sized bed, with a separate conversion kit.
While standard cribs might only last the first 1-2 years of your child’s life, convertible cribs can become your child’s bed for years into the future.
And, most of them are already low-profile cribs, so they are a good choice for shorter moms, too.
Best Cribs For Short Moms – Buying Guide
Are you ready to start shopping for a crib? Here are some features to look for in the best cribs for short moms:
- Cribs for short moms should have a low profile. Look for cribs that are 36″ or less in height. Optimally , choose a short crib that is between 33- 35″.
- A short crib should also have an adjustable mattress height to suit your baby as he or she sits up and pulls up to standing.
- Choose a convertible crib that can easily adapt to become a toddler bed, later on. Low profile cribs are a good option for this, and some include a toddler bed conversion kit when you purchase the original crib.
- Safety: the crib should follow all current safety standards, including JPMA and ASTM certifications.
- If a crib is GreenGuard Gold Certified it means that the materials in the bed have been thoroughly tested and will not leak chemicals or toxins into the air of your nursery. Your child will probably at some point gnaw on the crib (teething, what can I say?) and you don’t want them ingesting any nasty chemicals.
Low Profile Cribs & Short Cribs – FAQ
Here are some additional tips for all short moms and dads looking for the best crib that won’t bee too tall and uncomfortable to them.
What Is A Low Profile Crib?
A low profile crib sits low to the floor. While the mattress heights or positions of the mattress may feel lower, it is just because the legs of the crib are about 4-6 inches shorter than traditional cribs.
When your baby is in the crib, the distance from the mattress to the top of the crib railing should be the same as a full size crib.
One benefit of low profile cribs, besides being easier for shorter parents, is that they easily convert to a toddler bed or day bed, too.
Is There A Standard Height For Cribs?
Traditional Cribs
Traditional cribs are usually a standard 39-40 inches high.
For newborns, with the highest mattress setting, this may be easy, even for shorter moms.
However, as your child grows, even 5’5″ adults can struggle to get baby in and out of the crib once you adjust the mattress position to a lower setting.
Shorter Cribs
Shorter cribs, mini cribs and low profile cribs are usually from 33″ – 36″ in height, which is much easier for short moms to manage.
Height Limits
For all cribs, it is advised that once your child reaches 35″ in height, OR they can stand up and begin climbing, to stop using a crib and transition to a toddler bed.
This is why I really like convertible cribs, because you don’t need to purchase a separate toddler bed, you can adapt the crib to be safe for your child.
Some convertible cribs come with a toddler rail, or a conversion kit, others are sold separately.
Can You Still Buy A Drop-Side Crib?
No, it is illegal to buy, sell or even donate drop-side rail cribs in the United States. Since 2011, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) passed new regulations, banning the distribution or sale of such cribs, because they were deemed dangerous for babies.
We support the new safety standards, recognizing that our children’s safety is the utmost priority, especially while they are sleeping.
Why Are Drop Side Cribs Banned?
The drop-side rails require a slight gap between the crib frame and crib mattress in order to function, and this small space could lead to suffocation or injury1.
Also, if the drop-side railing is installed improperly (although still functioning) it can affect the structural integrity of the crib or later on become detached and pose a fatal hazard for babies.
Injuries or issues with these types of cribs resulted in the deaths of over 30 infants in the span of nine years. Therefore, they have been banned for use in the United States.
RELATED ARTICLES:
If you need an extra tall crib with high rails or some tips for preventing baby from climbing out of the crib, check out my article: >> Best Cribs For Tall Babies.
To help your baby have a good night sleep, you may want to add a sound machine and a night light to their nursery. Hatch offers amazing 2in1 device called Baby Rest with lots of soothing sounds and lighting options. Its newer upgraded versions Hatch Plus is 3in1 and features 2-way audio monitor! Here’s my comparison of Hatch Rest vs. Hatch Rest Plus.
Sources of pictures:
Pictures of Babyletto Modo, Hudson and Origami Mini belong to Babyletto Brand.
Pictures of DaVinci Union and Colby belong to DaVinci Brand.
Pictures of Dream On Me Aden belong to Dream On Me Brand.
Pictures of Delta Children Essex belong to Delta Children Brand.
Pictures of Storkcraft Hillcrest belong to Storkcraft Brand.
The purpose of this article is informative. It’s not a substitute for professional medical advice or medical care. Remember: safety first! Consult your doctor/pediatrician in case of any doubts. The author of this article does not accept any responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from any information or advice contained here.
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Hello Moms! I am Zooey. I am a wife and a mother of three amazing kids: almost 5-year-old Haley and 2-year-old twins Jesse and Matthew. I am a jogger, cooker and blogger.If you have a question or a comment, do not hesitate to write to me! 🙂