What Type Of Mattress Is Best For A Baby Crib?

Checklist for Choosing a Safe and Comfortable Crib Mattress

There's a lot more homework involved in buying baby necessities than there was when you were an adult. Below, we've outlined some of the most crucial questions to ask yourself when shopping for your baby's crib mattress.

There are some key differences between a standard mattress and a crib mattress. Check for the following qualities in a crib mattress:

• Crib mattresses are firmer than adult mattresses to protect infants from suffocation and to provide necessary spinal alignment as their bodies develop during sleep. Verify that the mattress meets safety standards for usage with infants.
• Crib mattresses should be waterproof by having a vinyl or polythene cover. Use a watertight cover if yours is made of fabric.
• The mattress must be a close fit to the bed frame. The space between the mattress and the crib's side rails shouldn't be wider than your two middle fingers. You should follow the same guidelines for sizing if you choose for a tiny crib or bassinet.
• For their children's safety, some families only buy mattresses produced from organic and natural materials. In terms of health, however, no assessments have been made as of yet.

Fit

The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends using your fingers as a guide to determine if your mattress is a snug fit. A crib is not safe if it has more than a two-finger distance between the mattress and the frame. Injury and asphyxia are both more likely to occur in spaces with big gaps.

Size

Crib mattresses, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, should meet minimum dimensions of 27.25 inches in width, 51.25 inches in length, and less than 6 inches in thickness to be considered a standard full size (CPSC). Standard tiny crib mattresses are 24 inches broad and 38 inches long.

Place to Expand

Kids outgrow things rapidly; that much is common knowledge. Choose a reversible crib mattress with one firm and one soft side so you won't have to buy a new one when your child turns one. Mattresses that meet the needs of both comfort and support are ideal for toddlers.

Firmness

Adults can choose how firm they like their mattress, but infants need one that is particularly firm. This is because there is a higher chance of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) when babies sleep on soft surfaces like pillows and blankets since their delicate skulls can better fit into such shapes.

Babies are safer when they sleep on their backs rather than their stomachs or sides, and their cribs should be kept completely bare other than a snugly fitting cover.

Certifications

What does the GreenGuard Gold Certification indicate, which is included on many baby mattresses? It is guaranteed that the product has undergone extensive testing for harmful chemicals and has been given a clean bill of health.

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is another certification that ensures at least 70% of the product is made from organic materials. When a product carries the CertiPUR-US logo, it has been tested and verified to have a safe level of flexible polyurethane foam.

There's sure to be a baby bed out there that's just right for your little one, whether you're on a tight budget or prefer eco-friendly materials. Keep reading for our picks of the top crib mattresses available today.

How Many Different Crib Mattresses Are There?

Finding a high-quality crib mattress is more important than choosing a certain style. Ultimately, it comes down to taste when deciding whether to purchase. The available choices are as follows.

Beds with an innerspring

This classic design features steel coils within, making the mattress exceptionally durable and sturdy. Cushioning materials like cotton, polyester, and foam are layered on top of the coils in an innerspring mattress.

The more supporting an innerspring is, the higher its coil count and the thinner its steel gauge (the thickness of the coil; the lower numbers are thicker). Some variants also use metal border rods to reinforce the frame at the side panels.

Some people may baulk at the cost of an innerspring mattress because of its reputation for being uncomfortable. Brands you can trust cost between $80 and $300. Weight is another issue with these mattresses (something to consider when you have to change crib sheets in the night).

Memory foam beds

Foam resin polyurethane is commonly used to make them. Foam mattresses are frequently the least priced and most lightweight alternative available.

If you're shopping for a foam mattress for a baby's crib, look for one that will last. To verify this, try pressing your hand down on the mattress and timing how long it takes to return to its original shape (the faster, the better).

You should also try to choose a firmer mattress, which may be achieved by selecting a greater density option. A mattress' density can be determined by its weight (heavier mattresses tend to be denser) or by squeezing its sides (you won't be able to push that hard on denser versions).

Twin size mattresses with two sides

2 for 1! These mattresses are designed with two different firmness levels, one for infants who are still sleeping in a crib, and another for toddlers who have graduated to a regular bed. Turning the mattress over will make it softer and more pleasant for your baby.

However, keep this in mind. It's possible that these models will cost more than a new crib mattress. When you change the crib linens, make sure the correct side of the mattress is exposed.

Guidelines for a Secure Crib Mattress

We care deeply about your baby's security. When shopping for a crib mattress, it's important to keep the following safety guidelines in mind:

• When possible, buy new rather than used: If you don't know the mattress's history, it's advisable to avoid it because of the risks of mould and germs. A child who has already used one? Check the waterproof covering to make sure there are no cracks or crevices in which mould could grow.
• Pillows, bumpers, plush animals, and blankets aren't safe for a baby, despite how cute they may look in a crib. As a result, they pose a suffocation risk if they accidentally fall over your baby's face. Could you please just use a fitted sheet?
• The safest position for your infant to sleep in is on its back, therefore make that the default posture. It helps prevent sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), the most common cause of infant mortality in the first year of life.
• If you have a double-sided mattress and are wondering when to change it over to the toddler side, it's best to consult with your child's paediatrician first. By the time their children are 12 months old, most parents have made the change.

Adequate, high-quality sleep is critical for infants' development and health. A newborn typically sleeps for 14-17 hours daily, whereas an infant typically sleeps for 12-15 hours.

In order to ensure that infants have a secure place to sleep, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests a crib with a firm mattress.

Babies are less likely to experience SIDS if they are placed to sleep on their backs (SIDS). A crib and crib mattress can provide a flat and immovable surface that can further reduce the likelihood of SIDS and suffocation.

• The American Academy of Pediatrics has issued the following guidelines for the secure installation of crib mattresses
• Ideally, there wouldn't be any space between the mattress and the side of the crib when using a firm mattress for a baby's crib.
• Insert a fitted crib sheet into the mattress.
• Sheets and mattress toppers should fit snugly on the mattress so that they don't shift or bunch while you sleep. Never put anything over the baby's head.
• Cushions and pillows are not acceptable replacements for a crib mattress. Similarly, you shouldn't put one of these on top of a standard crib mattress.
• Do not use a crib mattress that has been worn down to the point where it may alter shape as you sleep.

As for commercial products claiming to prevent SIDS, the AAP warns that they may be misleading consumers.

Definitions of Risk

For obvious reasons, the federal government has mandated uniform standards for the dimensions of full-size cribs and beds. That way, you may buy either piece alone without worrying about whether or not it will fit.

These rules are meant to stop babies from suffocating or having their heads get stuck between the mattress and the crib's sides. The laws were enacted in 2008 by the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act and were effective in 2011.

However, this is not the case for cribs that aren't full size. As a result, the law mandates that these come with the mattress.

Measurements

Full-size crib mattresses must meet minimum dimensions of 27 1/4 inches in width, 51 1/4 inches in length, and a maximum thickness of six inches. A full-size crib can have an inside width between 27 3/8 inches and 28 5/8 inches, and an inside length between 51 3/4 inches and 53 inches; the standard crib mattress will fit snugly in a crib with those measurements.

Both the retail packaging and the instructions for putting the bed together should include these measurements and the mattress's size. Non-full-size crib mattresses (for non-standard cribs like round or mini-cribs) can be of varying sizes but still need to meet non-full-size crib regulations, and all non-full-size cribs must be sold with a mattress.

There should be no more than a half-inch space between the crib and the mattress when the mattress is in the centre. No part of the bed should have more than an inch of space between it and the wall when the mattress is pushed to one side. A consumer should not worry about this, as even non-standard items like cribs and beds are sold as assets. However, if you plan on using a hand-me-down or antique crib, this could be a cause for concern.

Cost

You should not skimp on a quality mattress for your baby's crib, but you also don't want to spend all of your nursery money on the mattress. The going rate for a decent bed is between $90 and $200.

However, there is a cost associated with some optional extras. Some mattresses, such as those with an allergen-reducing cover or constructed entirely of organic materials, can cost more than $200.

It's possible to obtain a decent and up-to-standard old crib mattress, so it might be worth looking into if you're trying to save money. But proving it is tricky because it may be hard to tell if it was stored correctly or if it was ever dirty. Newer models are preferable if at all possible.

Padding for Mattresses

The mattress protector that comes standard on many cribs is designed to shield your investment from soiled diapers and other potential messes. Separately, you can get them. Look for one that does not have hazardous chemicals, such the organic, waterproof mattress protectors from Sleep & Beyond or Naturepedic, as this is the surface closest to the infant (just a thin fitted sheet separates the baby from this cover). A cover that provides:

• Waterproofing (again, look for a chemical-free alternative) (again, look for a chemical-free option)
• Breathability (to keep infant cooler and more comfortable) (to keep baby cooler and more comfortable)
• An allergen-free shield (to keep allergens out)

It's important to verify that the seams on the cover look secure, regardless of the features it boasts. In order to avoid injury, you will avoid any plastic that has a seam. Ensure that the seams of the cloth have not been overstretched and are not about to rip.

Mattress Changeover for a Crib

Keep the warning notice on the crib handy while shopping for a new mattress to ensure you get the right size. There should be a label on the crib, so that you know what it is, but if there isn't one, it may be an earlier model or one that has been altered. If you have any doubts about the condition of the crib, you should probably just buy a new one.

It's important to exchange a new mattress right away if you realise that it doesn't fit well after purchasing it. Do not attempt a quick fix by adding extra layers of fabric or foam. A loose or ill-fitting harness is dangerous.

Mattresses are bulky, so you might want to avoid buying them online and instead visit a local store instead. After that, you can examine it carefully for solidity and size before making a purchase.

Naturepedic Classic Organic Lightweight Crib Mattress Innerspring Mattresses

The Global Organic Textile Standard has validated the safety and organic status of this ultra-thin mattress. This ensures that it is safe for the environment and does not include any potentially dangerous chemicals or materials.

Because of its reversible construction, it can be used with either newborns or toddlers. The organic cotton batting inside is said to be both supportive and comfortable.

The waterproof, stain-resistant surface of this mattress is made of food-grade polythene. The dust mite and bed bug protection is integrated right in.

Crib Mattress Cover for Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer Mini Cribs

This convertible crib mattress can be used for either an infant or a toddler. It can be flipped in any direction to meet the needs of the user. As an illustration, one side is made from supportive high-density foam for infants, while the other side is made from temperature-regulating gel memory foam for toddlers.

In addition to being hypoallergenic and resistant to stains and odours, this mattress is also nontoxic. It's also non-toxic and eco-friendly because it doesn't include any polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It has been recognised as GREENGUARD Gold, which means that it is free of chemicals considered to be dangerous to humans.

According to the maker, there are no crevices or seams that could harbour bacteria.

Heavenly Dreams Mattress by Safety 1st

The manufacturers claim that the core of this mattress, which has been awarded the GREENGUARD Gold standard, is made of high-density, thermo-bonded foam. The breathable, supportive core is made entirely of polyester.

There's a waterproof, stain- and odor-proof cover that can be wiped clean. The mattress can tolerate use and is resistant to tears.

Additionally, the mattress weighs less than 8 pounds, making it easy to move and transport (lb). The most weight it can support is 50 pounds, though.

The Lullaby Earth Eco-Plus Super Light Crib Mattress

A little over 7 pounds is all you need to move this mattress with the GREENGUARD Gold certification. The mattress's innovative WaveSupport core is the source of both its softness and its resilience.

The materials used in the construction of this crib mattress are both recyclable and safe for human consumption. In addition, it may be cleaned with less effort.

Nothing that could cause an allergic reaction, such as vinyl, PVC, phthalates, or perfluorinated chemicals, was used in its production.

Super Soft Crib and Toddler Mattress by Graco

This lightweight and reasonably priced mattress has been certified as GREENGUARD Gold. The cover may be removed and is washable by hand.

The mattress can be unrolled and used right away. Customers have two weeks from the time of purchase to lay out the product flat and let it grow naturally.

There is no lead or phthalates in this mattress, however it is solid foam. It is made with antibacterial and antistatic materials.

Crib Mattress, Colgate Eco Classica III

Both infants and toddlers can feel comfortable on this bi-level mattress. Newborns and infants are supported by the firm side, while toddlers like the softer side.

The mattress has a comfortable, certified-organic cotton cover that is both water-resistant and easy to clean. Although not entirely organic, Colgate uses sustainable plant oils in the production of these mattresses.

The CertiPUR-US and GREENGUARD Gold certifications guarantee the safety and sustainability of this mattress. Also, it doesn't contain any phthalates and is safe for anyone with allergies.

Newborn Mattress with a Sealy Soy Foam Core

To make this bed, Sealy uses soybean oil from American farmers. Because it is made from all-natural, renewable materials, it has a low impact on the environment. CertiPUR-US and GREENGUARD Gold seals of approval have been awarded.

It may be easily removed to wash, and the mattress can withstand spills and odours. It's important to keep in mind, too, that individuals can't wash their entire mattresses.

It's very firm, which is great for newborns but could be uncomfortable for toddlers.

Conclusion

Crib mattresses are firmer than adult mattresses to protect infants from suffocation and to provide necessary spinal alignment as their bodies develop during sleep. The National Sleep Foundation says that infants up to three months old need 14–17 hours of sleep every day. These crib mattresses can be used for both full-size and tiny cribs. Choose a reversible crib mattress with one firm and one soft side so you won't have to buy a new one when your child turns one. Crib mattresses should meet minimum dimensions of 27 inches in width, 51.25 inches in length, and less than 6 inches in thickness.

If you're shopping for a crib mattress for your baby, look for one that will last. Foam mattresses are frequently the least priced and most lightweight alternative available. A mattress' density can be determined by its weight (heavier mattresses tend to be denser) or by squeezing sides. The safest position for your infant to sleep in is on its back, therefore make that the default posture. Babies are less likely to experience SIDS if they are placed to sleep on their backs (SIDS).

The American Academy of Pediatrics has issued the following guidelines for the secure installation of crib mattresses. The federal government has mandated uniform standards for the dimensions of full-size cribs and beds. These rules are meant to stop babies from suffocating or getting their heads stuck between the mattress and the crib's sides. The retail packaging and instructions for putting the bed together should include these measurements and the mattress's size. The Lullaby Earth Eco-Plus Super Light Crib Mattress has been awarded the GREENGUARD Gold standard.

The core of this mattress is made of high-density, thermo-bonded foam. There's a waterproof, stain- and odor-proof cover that can be wiped clean. Super Soft Crib and Toddler Mattress by Graco. CertiPUR-US and GREENGUARD Gold certifications guarantee the safety and sustainability of this mattress. No vinyl, PVC, phthalates, or perfluorinated chemicals were used in its production.

Content Summary

1. For babies, who spend so much time in your arms or their cribs during those first few months, it's especially crucial that they have a safe and comfortable place to sleep.
2. It's a pipe dream, but the National Sleep Foundation says that infants up to three months old need 14–17 hours of sleep every day.
3. In order to make sure your baby is safe when they are not (literally) in your arms, we have compiled a list of the top rated crib mattresses on the market.
4. These baby beds can be used for infants and toddlers because of their firm surfaces and their compatibility with both full-size and tiny cribs.
5. Checklist for Choosing a Safe and Comfortable Crib Mattress There's a lot more homework involved in buying baby necessities than there was when you were an adult.
6. Below, we've outlined some of the most crucial questions to ask yourself when shopping for your baby's crib mattress.
7. There are some key differences between a standard mattress and a crib mattress.
8. Verify that the mattress meets safety standards for usage with infants.
9. The mattress must be a close fit to the bed frame.
10. A crib is not safe if it has more than a two-finger distance between the mattress and the frame.
11. Choose a reversible crib mattress with one firm and one soft side so you won't have to buy a new one when your child turns one.
12. Mattresses that meet the needs of both comfort and support are ideal for toddlers.
13. There's sure to be a baby bed out there that's just right for your little one, whether you're on a tight budget or prefer eco-friendly materials.
14. Keep reading for our picks of the top crib mattresses available today.
15. Finding a high-quality crib mattress is more important than choosing a certain style.
16. If you're shopping for a foam mattress for a baby's crib, look for one that will last.
17. When possible, buy new rather than used: If you don't know the mattress's history, it's advisable to avoid it because of the risks of mould and germs.
18. The safest position for your infant to sleep in is on its back, therefore make that the default posture.
19. Adequate, high-quality sleep is critical for infants' development and health.
20. In order to ensure that infants have a secure place to sleep, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests a crib with a firm mattress.
21. The American Academy of Pediatrics has issued the following guidelines for the secure installation of crib mattresses Ideally, there wouldn't be any space between the mattress and the side of the crib when using a firm mattress for a baby's crib.
22. Insert a fitted crib sheet into the mattress.
23. For obvious reasons, the federal government has mandated uniform standards for the dimensions of full-size cribs and beds.
24. However, this is not the case for cribs that aren't full size.
25. Non-full-size crib mattresses (for non-standard cribs like round or mini-cribs) can be of varying sizes but still need to meet non-full-size crib regulations, and all non-full-size cribs must be sold with a mattress.
26. Cost You should not skimp on a quality mattress for your baby's crib, but you also don't want to spend all of your nursery money on the mattress.
27. However, there is a cost associated with some optional extras.
28. Padding for Mattresses The mattress protector that comes standard on many cribs is designed to shield your investment from soiled diapers and other potential messes.
29. Mattress Changeover for a Crib Keep the warning notice on the crib handy while shopping for a new mattress to ensure you get the right size.
30. If you have any doubts about the condition of the crib, you should probably just buy a new one.
31. It's important to exchange a new mattress right away if you realise that it doesn't fit well after purchasing it.
32. The waterproof, stain-resistant surface of this mattress is made of food-grade polythene.
33. The dust mite and bed bug protection is integrated right in.
34. Crib Mattress Cover for Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer Mini Cribs This convertible crib mattress can be used for either an infant or a toddler.
35. In addition to being hypoallergenic and resistant to stains and odours, this mattress is also nontoxic.
36. It's also non-toxic and eco-friendly because it doesn't include any polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
37. It has been recognised as GREENGUARD Gold, which means that it is free of chemicals considered to be dangerous to humans.
38. Heavenly Dreams Mattress by Safety 1st The manufacturers claim that the core of this mattress, which has been awarded the GREENGUARD Gold standard, is made of high-density, thermo-bonded foam.
39. The breathable, supportive core is made entirely of polyester.
40. There's a waterproof, stain- and odor-proof cover that can be wiped clean.
41. The mattress can tolerate use and is resistant to tears.
42. Additionally, the mattress weighs less than 8 pounds, making it easy to move and transport (lb).
43. The Lullaby Earth Eco-Plus Super Light Crib Mattress A little over 7 pounds is all you need to move this mattress with the GREENGUARD Gold certification.
44. The materials used in the construction of this crib mattress are both recyclable and safe for human consumption.
45. The cover may be removed and is washable by hand.
46. The mattress has a comfortable, certified-organic cotton cover that is both water-resistant and easy to clean.
47. The CertiPUR-US and GREENGUARD Gold certifications guarantee the safety and sustainability of this mattress.
48. Also, it doesn't contain any phthalates and is safe for anyone with allergies.
49. Newborn Mattress with a Sealy Soy Foam Core To make this bed, Sealy uses soybean oil from American farmers.
50. It may be easily removed to wash, and the mattress can withstand spills and odours.