The IKEA Sundvik and Gulliver cribs are two of the most popular nursery choices from IKEA, but they cater to slightly different tastes and budgets. The Sundvik features a modern, Scandinavian design with a solid backboard and mixed-material construction, while the Gulliver offers a timeless, classic look with an airy, all-around spindle design made primarily of solid wood at a lower price point.
Here’s everything you need to know to decide which crib is the perfect fit for your family and nursery.
IKEA Sundvik Crib
The Sundvik crib champions a modern Scandinavian aesthetic with its clean lines and solid end panels, making it a stylish centerpiece for contemporary nurseries. It's a versatile choice designed to grow with your child, offering two mattress height positions and the ability to convert into a toddler daybed by removing one of the long sides.
- What it is: A modern, convertible crib with an adjustable mattress height.
- Key features: Converts into a toddler bed, two adjustable mattress height levels, solid end panels for a more contemporary look.
- Price: Around $150–$200 on average.
- Dimensions: 52" L x 29 1/8" W x 33 1/8" H. Fits a standard crib mattress.
- Materials/Construction: Main crib components are solid beech, while end panels are fiberboard, all finished with a non-toxic paint.
- Style: Clean, modern, and Scandinavian. Its solid back and footboard give it a more substantial and grounded feel compared to traditional spindle cribs.
- Pros: Stylish modern design fits a specific aesthetic, converts to a toddler bed for longer use, sturdy construction, available in multiple finishes like white and gray.
- Cons: A bit more expensive than the Gulliver, the use of fiberboard means it isn't 100% solid wood, the solid end panels can feel visually heavy in small rooms.
The Sundvik is ideal for parents who prioritize a contemporary, clean look for their nursery and are willing to pay a little more for its specific design features.
Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/p/sundvik-crib-white-00359268/
IKEA Gulliver Crib
The Gulliver crib is an iconic IKEA bestseller, loved for its simple, timeless design and exceptional value. Made almost entirely of solid wood, it features an open, airy design with slatted spindles on all four sides. Like the Sundvik, it is designed for longevity, offering two mattress heights and a simple conversion to a toddler bed.
- What it is: A classic, budget-friendly solid wood crib that converts to a toddler bed.
- Key features: Open spindle design on all four sides for better visibility and airflow, converts to a toddler daybed, has two mattress levels, lightweight yet durable.
- Price: Typically priced around $100–$150.
- Dimensions: 53 1/8" L x 29 1/8" W x 32 5/8" H. Fits a standard crib mattress.
- Materials/Construction: Constructed primarily from solid, hard-wearing birch with a non-toxic finish.
- Style: Timeless and classic. The rounded spindles and simple frame can seamlessly blend into nearly any nursery theme, from traditional to bohemian.
- Pros: Incredible value for a solid wood crib, timeless design is extremely versatile, lightweight design is easy to move, all-around spindles create an open and airy feel.
- Cons: Design may be too simple for parents seeking a more stylized look, available in fewer colors than the Sundvik, often just white.
This crib is the perfect choice for budget-conscious parents who want a safe, durable, solid wood crib with a classic look that will never go out of style.
Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/p/gulliver-crib-white-00263687/
Sundvik vs. Gulliver Comparison
Dimensions & Scale
Both the Sundvik and the Gulliver cribs are standard-sized and fit a standard US crib mattress (approximately 52" by 27.5"). Their actual footprints are nearly identical, making them interchangeable for almost any nursery size. Neither one will overwhelm a space.
However, the visual scale is a point of difference. The Sundvik's solid end panels give it more visual weight and presence in a room. The Gulliver, with its open spindles on all four sides, feels lighter and airier, which can help a smaller nursery feel a little bigger and brighter.
Materials & Construction
Here lies one of the biggest distinctions. The Gulliver is praised for being constructed almost entirely of solid birch, a durable hardwood. Parents often choose it specifically for this reason, preferring the appeal and longevity of solid wood.
The Sundvik uses a mix of materials. While its main structural parts are solid beech, the headboard and footboard panels are made of fiberboard. Both cribs are equally safe and pass identical safety standards, so the choice comes down to personal preference for materials. Both are sturdy and built to handle the rigors of a growing baby.
Style & Versatility
Your choice will likely come down to your personal nursery style. The Sundvik is distinctly modern and Scandinavian. Its clean lines and solid panels work beautifully with minimalist, contemporary, and Scandi-inspired decor. It makes more of a statement.
The Gulliver's simple, classic design is its superpower. It’s a true chameleon. It can fit seamlessly into a traditional nursery, a whimsical bohemian space, or a gender-neutral modern room without ever looking out of place. This long-term versatility is a huge plus for many families who may change decor themes over the years.
Price & Value
Both cribs offer excellent value by converting into toddler beds, extending their useful life for several years. However, the Gulliver is the clear winner on a budget. It is often $50 or more cheaper than the Sundvik, making it one of the most affordable solid wood cribs on the market.
The Sundvik's modestly higher price covers a more complex design with the solid end panels - and often the option for different color finishes. Both are fantastic investments - the question is whether you prioritize upfront savings or pay slightly more for specific design details.
Who Each One Works Best For
The Sundvik is perfect if you have a clear decorative vision for a modern, Scandinavian-themed nursery. It's a statement piece that will ground the space, and it's ideal for parents who appreciate its bold, solid shape. It’s also a good fit for small to medium-sized rooms.
The Gulliver, on the other hand, is the go-to choice for anyone wanting a failproof, timeless classic that looks great anytime. Its openness and airiness make it an excellent option for smaller spaces or anyone preferring a minimal look. Its unbeatable value also makes it a favorite among parents with multiple children or those planning to save it for a future sibling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Sundvik and Gulliver crib?
The three main differences are style, materials, and price. The Sundvik has a modern design with solid end panels made from fiberboard and solid wood. The Gulliver has a classic design with open spindles on all four sides and is made primarily of solid wood. The Gulliver is almost always the more affordable option.
Do both cribs convert to a toddler bed?
Yes, both the Sundvik and the Gulliver can be converted to a toddler daybed by removing one of the long railings. Everything you need for the conversion is typically included in the box, no additional purchase is necessary.
Are IKEA cribs safe?
Yes. All of IKEA's cribs sold in the U.S. meet or exceed all CPSC and ASTM safety standards. They undergo rigorous testing for safety and durability.
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