If you are short on space, the Babyletto Bento 3-in-1 seems like the perfect solution on paper. It promises the clean, modern aesthetic of the popular Babyletto Hudson, but with a built-in storage drawer tucked neatly underneath.
But as someone who has tested and analyzed dozens of cribs for my “Best Cribs of 2026” lineup, I know that “multi-function” furniture often does two things poorly instead of one thing well. Does the drawer actually slide smoothly? Is the “Greenguard Gold” certification just marketing fluff?
In this comprehensive Babyletto Bento 3-in-1 review, I’m putting this crib under the microscope. I’ve evaluated the build quality, the drawer mechanics, and the safety features to help you decide if this storage crib is worth the premium price tag.
Quick Verdict: Is the Babyletto Bento Worth It?
If you are short on time, here is the bottom line based on expert testing, market analysis, and parent feedback.
| Feature | Rating | Summary |
| Aesthetics | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Sleek, modern design with hidden hardware that looks high-end. |
| Functionality | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | The under-crib drawer is a legitimate space-saver, not just a gimmick. |
| Safety | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Greenguard Gold Certified, chemically safe, and extremely stable. |
| Assembly | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Clear instructions, though building the drawer adds ~15 mins to the process. |
| Durability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Structural integrity is excellent, but the pine wood is soft and dents easily. |
| Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Higher price point, but includes the toddler rail and storage built-in. |
Overall Rating: 4.6/5
Best For:
- Apartment Dwellers: The integrated drawer acts like a mini-dresser, reclaiming dead space in small rooms.
- Modern Minimalists: You love the clean, boxy “Scandi” look and want hidden storage to reduce clutter.
- Health-Conscious Parents: Families prioritizing indoor air quality (Greenguard Gold) and non-toxic finishes.
Not Ideal For:
- Tall Parents: It is a low-profile crib; if you are over 6’2″, the lowest mattress setting might be a far reach.
- Owners of Shag Carpet: The drawer sits low; high-pile rugs will cause friction and make it hard to open.
- Aggressive Teethers: Like most eco-friendly cribs, the New Zealand pine is soft and will show teeth marks if your toddler gnaws on it.
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The Design: Why It Looks So “Expensive”
When you inspect the Babyletto Bento up close, the first thing you notice is the visual weight. Unlike cribs with spindly legs that feel delicate, the Bento sits on a recessed base. This gives it a grounded, high-end furniture appearance similar to pieces you’d find at West Elm or Crate & Barrel Kids, but for a fraction of the cost.
The “Hidden” Hardware
One detail I always look for in premium cribs is hidden hardware. Cheap cribs often have visible silver bolt heads on the outside of the legs. The Bento does an excellent job of hiding these or blending them into the design, keeping the lines clean.
The Finish
Running a hand along the top rail, the finish feels satin-smooth. It doesn’t have that thick, glossy “lacquer” feel of older cribs; it feels more like natural wood. This is great for aesthetics, but it is also why the wood is more susceptible to scratching—there isn’t a hard plastic shell protecting it.
Deep Dive: The Storage Drawer
This is the feature that justifies the price, so I spent time analyzing how it actually works.
Mechanics & Capacity
The drawer is integrated into the base of the crib.
- The Glides: It uses metal drawer glides. This is a massive “Pro.” Many cheaper storage cribs use plastic wheels that roll on the floor. The Bento’s drawer is attached to the crib frame itself, meaning it stays aligned even if you nudge the crib.
- The Dividers: The drawer is split into two cubbies.
- Capacity Test: In practical terms, each cubby is perfectly sized for two stacks of folded crib sheets or a row of rolled-up swaddles. It is not deep enough for bulky winter blankets or packs of diapers (which might get stuck when opening/closing).
Pro Tip: The drawer is wide but can be unstructured. To maximize the space, I recommend using low-profile fabric organizers (like the DIMJ Drawer Organizer) inside the drawer. This keeps tiny baby socks and swaddles from becoming a jumbled mess when you slide the drawer open.
The Carpet Factor (Important!)
Here is a detail you won’t find on the product page: The drawer clearance is low. If you are placing this crib on hardwood or a low-pile rug (like a Ruggable), it works flawlessly. However, if you plan to use a thick, plush shag rug in the nursery, you will feel friction when opening the drawer.
Safety & Certifications: What “Greenguard Gold” Actually Means
As a reviewer, I see “Non-Toxic” thrown around a lot. But the Greenguard Gold Certification on the Bento is a specific, rigorous standard.
It means this crib has been tested for over 10,000 chemicals and VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds).
- Why it matters: In a small nursery, new furniture can “off-gas” formaldehyde (often found in glues and paints). This can irritate a baby’s developing lungs.
- My Observation: Upon unboxing and inspecting the components, the Bento lacks that chemical “factory smell” that is common with cheaper composite furniture. This is a huge trust factor for new parents.
[Also Read: The Ultimate Guide to Baby Cribs: How to Choose the Safe, Perfect Crib for Your Nursery (2026 Edition)]
Build Quality & Durability
Material: New Zealand Pine
The Bento is crafted from sustainable New Zealand Pine.
- The Good: It is lightweight (easier to move than oak) and renewable.
- The Bad: It is a softwood. In my testing of similar pine cribs, simply pressing a fingernail hard into the wood can leave a mark.
- Expert Tip: If you wear a belt with a large metal buckle, be careful when leaning over the rail to pick up the baby. Metal-on-pine contact will leave scratches over time.
Pro Tip: Because New Zealand pine is a softer wood, it scratches easily against metal. I always advise parents to avoid wearing heavy belt buckles or jeans with sharp rivets when leaning over the crib. It sounds minor, but it keeps that top rail looking brand new for years.
Stability
Because of the box-style base, the Bento has a lower center of gravity than legged cribs. When giving the frame a “shake test,” it feels incredibly planted. It doesn’t have the wobble that you sometimes get with drop-side (now illegal) or lightweight cribs.
Assembly Analysis
I’ve reviewed the assembly manuals and process for dozens of cribs. Here is where the Bento lands on the frustration scale.
- Time Estimate: 45–60 minutes for one person.
- Difficulty: 4/10 (Moderate).
- The Tricky Part: The drawer assembly. You have to build the drawer box and align the glides.
- Recommendation: Do not use a power drill unless you are very gentle. Because the pine is soft, a high-torque drill can strip the screw holes. Hand-tightening is safer.
Babyletto Bento vs. The Competition
To truly understand the value of the Bento, we have to look at what else you can get for the money.
Babyletto Bento vs. Babyletto Hudson
The Hudson is Babyletto’s best-seller.
- Similarity: Both have the same mattress support, same wood, same eco-specs.
- Difference: The Hudson has spindle legs; the Bento has the box base + drawer.
- Verdict: If you have a large closet, buy the Hudson and save ~$100. If you are in a small room, the Bento’s storage is worth the upgrade.
Babyletto Bento vs. Pottery Barn Kendall
- The Kendall: Made of Poplar (a bit harder than pine), classic traditional look.
- The Bento: More modern, includes the toddler rail (PB often sells it separately), and has the storage drawer.
- Verdict: The Bento offers better value for money because it includes the conversion kit in the box.
Pros & Cons (The Honest List)
| Pros | Cons |
| Integrated Storage: Smooth-gliding drawer adds valuable space. | Soft Wood: Prone to dents and scratches from metal toys/buckles. |
| All-in-One Value: Toddler conversion rail is included. | Drawer Depth: Shallow; best for linens, not bulky items. |
| Air Quality: Greenguard Gold Certified (Low VOCs). | Carpet Drag: Low clearance struggles on thick shag rugs. |
| Aesthetics: Hidden hardware and sleek lines look premium. | Sticker Removal: Safety labels are hard to peel without residue. |
| Stability: Wide base prevents wobbling. | Mattress Gap: At the highest setting, you can see inside the drawer. |
Who Should Buy This Crib?
1. The “Minimalist” Mom:
If you want a nursery that looks curated and clutter-free, the Bento’s hidden storage helps you keep blankets and sheets out of sight.
2. The Health-Conscious Parent:
If you are worried about air quality, the Greenguard Gold certification is one of the most trusted standards in the industry.
3. The Small-Space Dweller:
For those in condos or apartments where a bulky dresser just won’t fit, the under-crib drawer is a legitimate furniture replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the drawer come out completely?
It is on a track system with stops, so it won’t accidentally roll all the way out onto your toes, but it can be removed if you need to clean under the crib.
Is the toddler rail actually included?
Yes. This is a huge value add. Many competitors charge $70–$100 extra for this piece. It comes in the box—store it under a bed or in a closet until you need it.
What mattress fits this?
Any standard full-size crib mattress. I recommend the Babyletto Pure Core for a guaranteed snug fit, or the Newton Baby mattress if you want breathability.
Final Recommendation
The Babyletto Bento 3-in-1 Convertible Storage Crib is more than just a place for a baby to sleep; it’s a smart piece of furniture design.
While I wish the wood was slightly harder to resist the inevitable “toddler wear and tear,” the trade-off for a non-toxic, sustainable, and storage-optimized crib is one I’m willing to make.
For parents who want to maximize their square footage without sacrificing style, the Bento is arguably the best-in-class option available today.
Rating: 4.6/5
