Newton Travel Crib Review: My Honest Take as a Traveling Mom

As a mom of three little ones, I’ve tested more travel cribs than I can count — from basic pack‑and‑plays to premium ones, and yes.

I’ve even tried the Newton Travel Crib more than once. When I first discovered Newton’s version, I was intrigued by their breathable Wovenaire® mattress and the promise of a safer, more durable play yard.

After using both the Compact and Deluxe (Play Yard) versions, I feel confident in sharing what truly works (and what doesn’t), So you can decide which Newton Travel Crib is right for you.

Why You Can Trust Me?

Finding honest, mom-tested baby gear reviews can be overwhelming. When I had my first child, most reviews felt like sales pitches, so I began sharing my own experiences. 

I personally test every travel crib with my three kids and our dog, evaluating safety, comfort, and convenience. 

Every opinion I share comes from real-life use, not marketing hype, so you can trust that my recommendations are practical, reliable, and designed to help parents make the best choice for their families.

Newton Travel Crib Overview

Newton offers two travel cribs:

• Compact Travel Crib & Play Yard: lightweight, easy to pack, perfect for travel or small spaces.
• Deluxe Travel Crib & Play Yard: spacious, ideal for toddlers, playtime, and long-term use at home.

Both models feature:

• GREENGUARD Gold Certification for low chemical emissions
• Breathable, washable Wovenaire® mattresses
• Organic, non-toxic materials
• Zippered side panels for easy access
• No weight limits

Compact vs Deluxe: Which Should You Choose?

Compact Newton Travel Crib & Play Yard

The Compact is a travel-friendly crib that’s small, lightweight (13 lbs), and easy to set up. Its TSA-approved travel bag even has backpack straps, making it perfect for road trips or airplane travel. It includes a crib sheet and costs around $199, with additional savings using code STROLLER10.

Why I love it:

• Extremely easy setup and disassembly
• Perfect for families who travel frequently
• Space-saving for small apartments or hotel rooms

Deluxe Newton Travel Crib & Play Yard

The Deluxe is one of the largest travel cribs available, measuring 51” × 34.5” × 28.5”, and it doubles as a play yard. At 17 lbs, it’s heavier than the Compact but offers unmatched space for toddlers or growing babies. Optional bassinet attachment makes middle-of-the-night feeding easier. 

Price: $299 with code STROLLER35.

Why I love it:

• Huge surface area for toddlers
• Can serve as a full-time sleep space at home
• Easy to clean, durable, and safe

My Personal Experience and Newton Travel Crib Review

When my third child became mobile, I realized how important a spacious, safe area is. The Deluxe Newton Travel Crib became our living room play yard, keeping my baby secure while I worked nearby. The Compact, however, is my go-to for travel, as it packs easily into our SUV without taking up too much space.

How to Assemble Newton Travel Cribe?  

Setting up your Newton Travel Crib is straightforward once you know the rhythm. Do a quick parts check, choose a flat space, and you’ll have the crib ready in minutes. Below I walk you through each step one by one in plain, first-person language so you can follow along easily.

Step 1: Choose a space and unpack

I start by picking a flat, clear area with room to unfold the crib fully. I unzip the carry bag and remove all pieces so I can confirm the frame, mattress core/pad, mattress cover or sheet, and any optional bassinet insert are present. Doing this up front saves time and prevents surprises mid-assembly.

Step 2: Unfold the frame

I lay the folded crib flat on the floor and gently pull the sides apart. I raise each side until the corners click into place and the mesh panels stand upright. As I lift, I make sure no fabric is caught in any hinge or latch so nothing gets pinched and the corners sit flush.

Step 3: Insert the mattress core or pad

I take the Wovenaire® mattress core (or the Deluxe pad) and fit it into the bottom of the frame, smoothing it so there are no gaps between the mattress edge and the crib’s walls. I confirm the pad lies completely flat — a snug fit is important because any gap could be unsafe.

Step 4: Add the cover or sheet and stand upright

I pull the mattress cover or a fitted sheet over the mattress, tucking it so it sits securely. Then I lift the crib upright into its final position and press down gently on each side to verify the frame is locked. I check that all latches and leg locks have engaged and that the crib does not wobble.

Step 5: Attach optional components and test the zipper

If I’m using the Deluxe bassinet insert, I zip and secure it in place now, following the manufacturer’s attachment points. I also zip and unzip the side access door a couple of times to make sure it operates smoothly and locks securely when closed.

Step 6: Final safety inspection

I run my hands along seams and mesh to check for tears or loose threads, I confirm the mattress can’t shift, and I place the crib away from cords, blinds, radiators, or furniture. I remove any extra blankets, pillows, or toys so the sleep surface stays bare and safe.

After that, I always do a quick trial: I press on the frame, give it a gentle shake, and crouch to eye level with the mattress to confirm everything feels solid. Once it passes that check, I know it’s ready for my baby.

How Newton Compares to Other Travel Cribs?

I’ve tested several top travel cribs:

1. Guava Lotus Everywhere Crib: Best for frequent flyers, backpack-style travel bag, compact
2. Baby Bjorn Travel Crib: Soft materials, easy assembly, no side zipper
3. Chicco Alfa Lite Play Yard: Lightweight, affordable, Greenguard Gold certified
4. Graco Pack-n-Play: Classic, sturdy, but clunky and heavy
5. Dream On Me Travel Light Playard: Affordable, but harder to assemble

My top picks: Newton (for spaciousness and safety) and Guava Lotus (for travel convenience).

Safety Tips for Travel Cribs

Safety is my number one priority. Here’s what I always check:

• Proper assembly: Follow manufacturer instructions carefully
• Snug mattress: No gaps or extra padding
• Flat surface: No incline, bumpers, or pillows
• Sturdy base: Wide, stable, and smooth surfaces
• Inspect regularly: Check for wear, holes, or broken parts
• Placement: Away from cords, curtains, and direct sunlight
• Secure wheels: Lock if the crib has wheels
• Supervision: Never leave your baby unattended

How to Help Your Baby Sleep Better?

Traveling with a baby can be challenging, especially when it comes to sleep. Creating a familiar and safe environment in the travel crib can help your little one settle more easily. Here are some practical tips.

• Familiarization: Set up the crib at home a few days before traveling
• Familiar scent: Use a sheet or cloth with a familiar smell
• Side-zip feature: Nurse or cuddle baby, then zip them safely
• Safe positioning: Place baby on back, flat and firm surface
• Sleep environment: Dim lights, use white noise, maintain bedtime routines

Pros and Cons Compact vs Deluxe: Newton Travel Crib Dimensions & Height/Limit Details

A quick comparison helps parents choose between the space-saving Compact model or the larger, more versatile Deluxe play yard. Each has its own travel and usability benefits.

Newton Travel Crib Sheets: What You Need to Know

Newton offers crib sheets made from breathable muslin cotton. Their Travel Crib & Play Yard sheets are designed to fit perfectly, are machine-washable, and help maintain airflow for your baby’s safety.

• Newton offers organic cotton muslin crib sheets.
• Their mini crib sheets are also made of muslin cotton, ultra-breathable, and machine-washable.
• For the Travel Crib & Play Yard, Newton sells specific sheets — but they are not organic (per the support site). 
• Sheets for the travel crib are shipped to Canada, but there may be additional fees. 

FAQ’s

Is there a weight limit on the Newton Travel Crib?

The Newton Travel Crib does not have a specific weight limit since the mattress sits directly on the floor, making it safe and supportive for babies and toddlers of various sizes.

How tall can my child be to use the crib or play yard?

Newton recommends using the travel crib or play yard until your child can pull themselves up or reaches approximately 35 inches in height, ensuring safety and preventing falls or climbing hazards.

Can I use regular crib sheets on the Newton Travel Crib?

You can use standard crib sheets, but for optimal breathability and airflow, Newton’s muslin sheets are recommended. They are designed to fit perfectly and keep your baby comfortable.

Is Newton Travel Crib available in Canada?

Newton officially ships the travel crib and play yard only within the United States. Canadian buyers may need third-party sellers, but shipping fees, duties, and warranty coverage should be carefully considered.

How do I clean the mattress?

The Newton Travel Crib mattress has a machine-washable cover, and the Wovenaire® core can be hand-rinsed. This keeps the crib hygienic while maintaining its breathable structure and durability.

Final Thoughts

The Newton Travel Crib isn’t just a travel accessory—it’s an investment in your child’s safety, comfort, and convenience. The Compact is perfect for travel and small spaces, while the Deluxe serves as a safe, spacious play yard for home or extended trips. Both are easy to clean, ultra-breathable, and GREENGUARD Gold certified, making them worth every penny.

No matter which version you choose, you can rest easy knowing your baby is safe, comfortable, and happy—whether at home or on the go.

Discounts:

• Deluxe: $35 off with STROLLER35
• Compact: 10% off with STROLLER10