The IKEA Sniglar and Gulliver are two of the most popular cribs for new parents, but they differ significantly in materials, style, and features. The Sniglar is a minimalist crib made from solid pine with a raw, natural finish for an unbeatable budget price, while the Gulliver features a more modern painted finish, a slightly larger size, and the ability to convert into a toddler bed.
Here’s everything you need to know to choose the right IKEA crib for your nursery.
IKEA Sniglar Crib
The Sniglar is IKEA's most affordable crib, celebrated for its simple design and solid wood construction. Made entirely of unfinished pine, it has a classic, minimalist aesthetic that fits well in Scandinavian, rustic, or natural-themed nurseries. Its no-frills approach makes it a go-to for budget-conscious parents or DIYers who plan to paint or stain it a custom color.
- What it is: A basic, minimalist crib crafted from solid, sustainable pine.
- Key features: Adjustable mattress height (2 positions), slatted design for good ventilation, meets safety standards with non-toxic materials.
- Price: Approximately $99.
- Dimensions: 52" L x 29.5" W x 36" H. Fits standard crib mattresses (28 x 52 inches).
- Materials/Construction: Solid pine construction. It has a natural, unfinished look and feel.
- Style: Minimalist, Scandinavian, and timeless. The raw wood offers a versatile base for various decor styles.
- Pros: Extremely budget-friendly, made from solid wood, lightweight and easy to move, minimalist design is highly versatile, perfect base for DIY painting projects.
- Cons: The unfinished pine is soft and can dent or scratch easily, very basic appearance lacks refined details, must be purchased in-person at many IKEA locations.
The Sniglar is the perfect choice for parents who want a safe, simple, and incredibly affordable solid wood crib without any extras.
Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/p/sniglar-crib-40409509/
IKEA Gulliver Crib
The Gulliver is a step up from the Sniglar, offering a more modern design, added versatility, and a polished finish. It combines solid and engineered wood with a smooth painted surface, giving it a sleek, contemporary look. Its standout feature is the ability to convert into a toddler bed by removing one side, extending its usefulness as your child grows.
- What it is: A modern, versatile crib that can be converted into a toddler bed.
- Key features: Adjustable mattress height (2 positions), one side can be removed for toddler bed conversion, rounded edges for extra safety.
- Price: Approximately $149.
- Dimensions: 55" L x 30" W x 36" H. Fits standard crib mattresses (28 x 52 inches).
- Materials/Construction: A combination of solid wood and engineered wood with a non-toxic paint finish (typically available in white).
- Style: Modern and sleek with clean lines. It works well in contemporary or transitional nursery designs.
- Pros: Excellent value with toddler bed conversion, polished and finished look right out of the box, slightly larger size gives more room, sturdy and robust construction.
- Cons: Higher price point compared to the Sniglar, assembly is slightly more complex, painted finish can chip over time if not handled carefully.
The Gulliver is ideal for families seeking a modern aesthetic and long-term value from a crib that adapts as their child gets older.
Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/p/gulliver-crib-60447309/
Sniglar vs. Gulliver Comparison
Dimensions & Scale
There is a noticeable size difference between the two cribs. The Sniglar is more compact at 52" long, making it a better fit for smaller nurseries or for rooms where space is tight. It has just enough room without feeling oversized.
The Gulliver is slightly longer at 55", giving a growing toddler a bit more room to stretch out. While a few inches may not seem like much, it adds to the Gulliver's presence in a room. Both cribs fit a standard 28 x 52 inch crib mattress perfectly.
Materials & Construction
The most significant difference lies in the materials. The Sniglar is made from solid, unfinished pine, which gives it a natural and rustic charm. This also means it's softer and more susceptible to dings and dents from daily use. Many parents choose to seal or paint it for better protection.
The Gulliver uses a mix of solid and engineered wood, all coated in a smooth, durable paint. This finish provides a more polished look and is easier to wipe clean. While sturdy, the painted surface can still chip if it's hit hard, but it generally holds up better against minor bumps than the Sniglar's raw pine.
Style & Versatility
Style is a key differentiator. The Sniglar is a blank canvas. Its simple, raw-wood frame is the essence of minimalist Scandinavian design and is popular in boho or nature-themed nurseries. Its simplicity also makes it a favorite for DIYers.
The Gulliver offers a finished, contemporary look out of the box. Its clean lines and painted white finish make it feel more modern and intentional. In terms of versatility, the Gulliver has the clear advantage with its ability to convert to a toddler bed, offering several years of use beyond the infant stage.
Price & Value
With an approximate price of $99, the Sniglar is one of the most affordable solid wood cribs on the market, offering undeniable upfront value for parents on a strict budget. You get a safe, sturdy, and simple piece of furniture for an excellent price.
At around $149, the Gulliver costs about 50% more. However, its long-term value is arguably higher. Because it converts into a toddler bed, you avoid the need to buy another bed in a couple of years, saving money in the long run. Its finished surface also requires no extra work, whereas many owners invest time and money into sealing or painting the Sniglar.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both IKEA cribs are safe and reliable choices, but they cater to different parental needs, budgets, and style preferences.
Choose the Sniglar if:
- Your budget is your absolute top priority.
- You love a minimal, natural wood aesthetic or plan to DIY a custom paint color.
- You have a smaller nursery and need a compact crib.
- You require a simple, functional, no-frills place for your baby to sleep safely.
Choose the Gulliver if:
- You want a crib that will grow with your child by converting to a toddler bed.
- You prefer a more modern, finished look that requires no extra work.
- You have a bit more room in your nursery and want a slightly more substantial piece.
- You are willing to invest a little more for longer-term functionality and convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Sniglar and Gulliver?
The primary differences are material, style, and function. The Sniglar is a basic, minimalist crib made of unfinished solid pine. The Gulliver is a more modern crib with a painted finish and converts into a toddler bed, offering longer-term use.
Do IKEA cribs meet U.S. safety standards?
Yes, all IKEA cribs sold in the United States are designed to meet or exceed all mandatory U.S. safety standards. They use non-toxic materials and finishes for child safety.
Do these cribs come with a mattress?
No, neither the Sniglar nor the Gulliver comes with a mattress. You will need to purchase one separately. Both use a standard crib mattress size of 28 x 52 inches, which IKEA and most other baby brands sell.
Can you paint the IKEA Sniglar crib?
Absolutely. The unfinished pine of the Sniglar makes it very popular for DIY paint projects. Just be sure to use a non-toxic, baby-safe paint or sealant and allow it to cure fully before use.
Which IKEA crib is easier to assemble?
Both are designed for straightforward assembly, which is a hallmark of IKEA products. However, the Sniglar is slightly simpler to assemble due to fewer parts and a more basic design.
Does the Gulliver convert to a toddler bed?
Yes, the Gulliver is designed to convert to a toddler bed by removing one of the long side panels. This feature is a key selling point and a major reason for its popularity.
Is the unfinished wood of the Sniglar safe for a teething baby?
The materials are non-toxic and safe. However, the raw pine is soft and will likely show teeth marks. You can add rail protectors or apply a non-toxic, child-safe sealant for added protection and easier cleaning.
Which crib is more durable?
Both cribs are built to last through the baby and toddler years. The Gulliver's finished surface offers better protection against spills and minor scuffs, while the Sniglar's solid pine will show wear more easily but is very structurally sound.
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