How Much Weight Can a Crib Hold – Baby Safety 101

By Maria Wilcox •  Updated: 09/14/22 •  8 min read
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Ever thought of crawling into your baby’s crib? If so, you may be wondering how much weight can a crib hold. The truth is that most of us have likely thought about–or actually attempted–to crawl into our babies’ beds. But is this a safe practice? Will the bed buckle and break? These are good questions that can also be a bit difficult to answer. Join us as we delve into just how much weight a baby crib can hold.

how much weight can a crib hold

What Is the Height and Weight Limit For Crib?

Height limits for cribs tend to run 35 inches while weight limits are usually between 35-50 pounds.

Height and weight limits for cribs will vary greatly but will usually be disclosed by the manufacturer. The main components that play a factor in weight limits for cribs include what material that crib is made out of and the style of crib we’re talking about. Because of this, it is nearly impossible to say what the height and weight limits are for every crib. Nevertheless, a range of about 35-50 pounds for weight, and an average of about 35 inches in height seems to be the norm for most standard cribs. 

How Long Can a Baby Stay in a Crib For?

A baby can be expected to stay in a crib until he or she is almost 3 years old or can climb out of the crib by themselves. Now, these are, of course, only guidelines for how long your baby can stay in a crib. Actually, it is up to you when your baby should make the switch. For many parents, the right time for transitioning will vary. 

The following are a few circumstances under which a caregiver might transition their baby to a toddler bed.

Age

A child can be expected to stay in their crib until anywhere from 18 months to 3 ½ years old. Most experts agree that it is best to wait until your baby is closer to age 3 before making the switch, as this is when they’ll possess the maturity to handle the transition.

Safety

A child that is frequently escaping a crib–or is attempting to–is in danger. The child can topple onto the floor incurring massive injury. Thus, it is imperative that you lower the mattress as far as it can go so that your child cannot climb out. If he or she is still able to climb out, it is likely time to transition to a toddler bed.

New Baby

If there is a new baby on the way, you may wish to transition your baby to a bed, but some recommend you simply buy a new crib. Yes, it can seem cumbersome, but if your current baby is too small for the transition, then it isn’t wise to transition them before they’re ready.

Room Revamp

This is the final and least viable reason to transition your baby to a toddler bed early. Though your baby may be entering toddlerhood, he or she may not yet need a total room revamp. Wait until your baby is a bit older (i.e., 3 years old) to start buying new beds and other older toddler essentials.

Do 2 Year Olds Sleep in Cribs?

Yes, a two-year-old can most certainly sleep in a crib. Most two-year-olds weigh close to 30 lbs (some may weigh slightly over or under) and as such, can fit well within the weight limit parameters of most standard cribs.

Can a 4 Year Old Sleep in a Crib?

Whether or not a 4-year-old can sleep in a crib will depend on their weight. If your child is light enough (and short enough) to sleep comfortably in a crib, then they may. But because the average height of a 4-year-old is 40 inches tall, the child may feel a little cramped in your average crib space. 

how much weight can a crib hold

Crib Weight Limit By Brand

Want to know the weight limit of your favorite crib brand? Every brand will differ in terms of weight limits, and many limits will differ even across models. Still, it can be helpful to have a ballpark estimate of how much each brand can sustain. Thus, the following are general weight limits you can expect from certain brands. Just know that you will need to conduct your own research to find out the height and weight requirements for the specific crib you choose.  

IKEA Crib Weight Limit

Many IKEA cribs hold up to 50 pounds. 

How Much Weight Can a Delta Crib Hold?

Many Delta cribs hold up to 50 pounds. 

How Much Weight Can a Graco Crib Hold?

Graco cribs often hold around 50 pounds. Be advised that this is not the case for Graco bassinets

How Much Weight Can a Child Craft Crib Hold?

Interested in a gorgeous Child Craft crib? At the moment, Child Craft does not appear to have certain weight recommendations, and height recommendations vary wildly. Thus, when purchasing a crib from this brand be sure to do your research to ensure you are able to use the crib for as long as you need to.

Dream on Me Crib Weight Limit

The weight limit for many Dream on Me cribs are 50 pounds. 

How Much Weight Can a Target Crib Hold?

Target carries a wide variety of crib types, brands, and models. Please consult the specific crib you wish to buy from Target and view the manufacturer’s recommendations to know the maximum weight limits. 

Crib Weight Limit By Type

Curious about weight limits for certain types of cribs? These will vary! Still, we’ve done our best to give you general estimates for how much weight you can expect various crib types to hold. 

How Much Weight Can a Convertible Crib Hold?

A convertible crib can often hold up to 50 pounds. 

How Much Weight Can a 4 in 1 Crib Hold?

A 4-in-1 crib can sometimes hold up to 50 lbs, though there are some that only accommodate up to 35 pounds. 

How Much Weight Can a Mini Crib Hold?

Mini cribs often accommodate less than 45 pounds. Check the product label to confirm the true maximum weight capacity to know for sure. 

How Much Weight Can a Standard Crib Hold?

A standard crib usually can hold anywhere from 35-50 pounds. 

How Much Weight Can a Wooden Crib Hold?

A wooden crib’s weight capacity can vary depending on how it is built and what type of wood it is made out of. Some wood types are sturdier than others. 

How Much Weight Can a Portable Crib Hold?

Many portable cribs, such as Pack ‘n Plays, accommodate between 15-35 pounds. Check the description to know for certain. 

DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib in Chestnut, Greenguard Gold Certified

How Much Weight Can a Crib Hold? It’ll Depend on the Crib!

Different crib types and brands mean weight limits will vary greatly. To select the best crib, it is best to know what you want to use it for and how long. This will help you select the best crib for you and your baby. We hope this helps! 

FAQs

Can I lay in my baby’s crib?

You shouldn’t. Though many parents have laid in their baby’s cribs on occasion, you certainly shouldn’t make a habit of it. Most cribs don’t accommodate weight over 50 lbs. By getting in the crib you are potentially weakening the crib making it more prone to collapsing. 

Will I break my baby’s crib if I get in?

Many parents have climbed into their baby’s crib to comfort their children, but it isn’t advised. Even if the crib doesn’t break the first time, you are running a risk every time you climb in. You are also making it a less sturdy place for your baby to sleep as you weaken crib material. 

Can I lay in the crib with my baby?

Given the weight limits on cribs, it is best not to. What’s better is to remove your baby from the crib and cuddle with them on a soft blanket on the floor. 

Why do cribs have height limits?

Height limits are intended to keep your baby from getting cramped in the crib when they’ve grown too tall. It is also important for preventing little ones from being able to climb out of the crib.

Maria Wilcox

Former instructor with an M.A. in Education turned grateful stay-at-home mama to one, I look to share helpful insights related to babies, toddlers, kids, and families for the benefit of real people just like you.

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