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When it comes time to outfit a nursery, it’s a good idea to consider whether the crib you’re eyeing now will work in the toddler years and beyond. Those first couple of years fly by and many families find they appreciate the versatility of a convertible crib. The best convertible cribs go from a standard crib size to a toddler bed—and some go further to become a daybed or full-size bed to use once your babies have grown up. Other models convert in the other direction into mini cribs to help parents save space during the newborn weeks.

Best Upholstered Convertible Crib: Namesake's Darlington 4-in-1

For Fans Of A Traditional Aesthetic And Solid Craftsmanship

Relatively new to the baby furniture sector, Namesake has made a name for itself thanks to its heirloom quality pieces and style. Its cribs tend to look like ones that run about double the price. This specific convertible crib transforms into a toddler bed, daybed and full-sized bed with the addition of a conversion kit and toddler rail (both sold separately) and includes clever details like a removable linen fabric back that can be washed. It adjusts to four mattress positions and is Greenguard Gold Certified. There’s also a lovely six-drawer matching dresser for this crib that also has a changing topper available.

It’s also worth mentioning that Brown recommends cribs like this with “a taller back wall so if your young toddler...starts climbing out of the short side of the crib, you can turn the tall side out. My team and I recommend trying to keep toddlers in their cribs until 3 years old or older. This allows their impulse control to become more developed, making the crib-to-bed transition easier.”