Graco Shelby Classic 4 in 1 Convertible Crib Review

While I was incubating Kayleigh in my tummy, I had lots of time to research the best furniture for her nursery. I knew that one of the most important pieces I was going to choose would be her crib, so I gave that piece a little more time and consideration. Here’s the thought process I went through to arrive at the Graco Shelby Convertible Crib I finally settled on.

It’s made of real wood

I wanted something made of real wood, and dark wood at that. The Shelby crib comes in a beautiful cherry stain finish, which allows it to match almost all of the other wood furnishings in my house (only my kitchen has blond wood…which I someday hope to correct). For those of you who prefer lighter woods, it is available in a cappuccino color as well, but the cherry was a clincher for me. I should also note here that prices often vary between the two colors, so make sure you consider both in your own research.

It will grow with my girl

I wanted a crib that would convert into a toddler bed, so that I wouldn’t have to buy a new bed after just a year or so. This bed actually goes well beyond that requirement, as it not only converts into a nice, low toddler bed, but also into a toddler daybed. Then, when it comes time to move up to a big-girl bed, you can still use the back side of the crib as a headboard for a full-size mattress. Of course, by then Kayleigh might have her own ideas about what sort of decor she wants in her room, but I like the fact that this is, at least in theory, versatile enough to last her through her teenage years! It is also a sleigh convertible crib, which, while not a requirement in my search, was definitely a preference. I like the look of sleigh beds, and that preference extends to sleigh cribs as well. Alas, sleigh convertible cribs are far more rare than just normal sleigh cribs, so this was a major plus in my book.

The other nice thing about the convertible-ness (convertability?) of this crib is that you don’t have any further purchases to make when it comes time to do the conversions. So many others I researched (especially those with drop sides) require you to buy special rails or other packages to convert the crib into a toddler bed. Not this one! Not only is this a cost savings, but it means I don’t have to worry about not being able to find the right parts when the time comes (for example, if this crib goes out of production).

No moving parts!

I wanted a crib with no moving parts. Given all the horrible stories told in recent years of babies being maimed and killed by the moving parts of their cribs and playpens, the last thing I wanted was my baby becoming a statistic. I also tend to think that drop-rail cribs can be a bit shakier, and I wanted something very sturdy. This crib definitely delivers on that account!

It’s a standard size

It had to be a standard size crib. This was solely for safety reasons; as I mentioned in the review of the mattress I selected for use with this crib (a Simmons Kids Pampering Sleep Supreme), size matching of the crib and mattress are very important in preventing the possibility of SIDS. Of course, most modern cribs are standard-sized, but this was still something I made good and sure of before hitting the buy button.

Other great features

These weren’t deciding factors in my purchase decision, but rather pleasant side effects that I discovered once I got the crib delivered:

1. It’s easy to assemble. My husband is not a big fan of instruction-reading, yet he had no trouble figuring out how to put this crib together. I’d say it went together in well under an hour, and that was despite the distraction of the television playing Star Trek in the background (it does help that he has a set of allen wrench bits for his auto-screwdriver).

2. It stands less than 3 feet high; this means I have no trouble reaching over the railing and down into the crib to change sheets or get Kayleigh out (I’m 5’5″). It’s a bit of a stretch for hubs, but he’s 6’6″, so he’s used to things not being sized to fit him.

3. This is a small crib. It doesn’t dominate the room in the way I’ve seen some cribs do, which is nice, since I hope to be able to get a mural done soon, which will become the focal point of the room.

One small drawback: Until I can convert the crib into just a headboard, there won’t be any storage underneath. Not a huge deal as we have plenty of other storage in the room, but it may affect its usefulness for the storage-challenged.

Where can I read more about this crib?

As always, Amazon saves the day with their huge following and great review system – and this crib rates a solid 4.5 stars over there. In glancing over their reviews, I noticed that loads of reviewers mention this being purchased as a gift for expectant parents, so I’ve categorized it as such. I have to admit, if I had received this as a shower gift, I would have been tickled pink!

Where can I buy the Graco Shelby Convertible Crib?

As with the reviews, Amazon seems to be the place to go when buying this crib. At one time, both Walmart and Target carried it, but no more. And remember that with Amazon you won’t be paying anything for shipping, as this item is over $25!