Best Crib Mattresses

What Features to Compare

Before we go on, let's quickly cover the most important features that you have to pay attention to.

Type and Versatility

When choosing a crib mattress, you should first of all decide on its type and versatility. The mattress type depends on the core layer. Accordingly, there are 3 main types of mattresses: foam, innerspring, and organic.

The most widespread crib mattresses are those with a foam core layer. The foam can be of different types too, which affects the quality and durability of the mattress greatly. For example, polyurethane foam is the most affordable material but it tends to "cake" after a while. Latex foam is more expensive but it is also more durable. And it goes without saying that depending on the type of foam, the mattress stiffness varies greatly. And the only true advice is - the harder and firmer the mattress is, the more it meets all necessary safety standards. Overall, foam mattresses are very lightweight, which makes them very comfortable if you fold up the crib every day. There are also mattresses with a core of memory foam. Under the heat of your baby's body, the material takes her/his shape exactly. As a result, your baby feels warm and cozy.

Another popular type is innerspring mattresses. Naturally, such mattresses are heavier and more expensive than foam models. But their weight is fully compensated by the abundance of benefits. Innerspring mattresses can have pocketed or open coils. In the first case, each coil spring is packed in a separate cover, which makes such mattresses quieter and more suitable for baby cribs. Due to the internal structure, a mattress with pocketed coils provides infants with the even spine support.

For parents who appreciate all-natural materials, there are mattresses made of totally organic substances such as coconut fiber, raw wool, and some others. Each of them has its own advantages, but all of them are totally chemicals-free, hypoallergic, and breathable.

Now the market offers a huge variety of one-sided mattresses with the same stiffness, which will be a great solution for newborns. However, we all know that depending on the age, kids need different stiffness of the mattress for maximum comfort. That's why manufacturers have come with an ideal solution of a two-sided (or 2-n-1) mattress with different stiffness designed especially for both infants and toddlers. How does it work? One side is just firmer than another! Reversing the mattress, you'll get the right sleeping surface for your little one. 

Comfort and Size

The second point worth your attention is the comfort and size of the mattress. For instance, inner layers of innerspring mattresses should contain border wires and corner protectors, which will come in handy once the baby learns to raise up. They will prevent the sagging and, as a result, child's feet won't slip. Also, there must be a special cover to smoothen up the surface and prolong the life of the mattress on the whole. As for additional layers, they are usually made of natural and breathable fabrics. Consequently, such layers prevent the formation of mold, mildew, and odors. Moms and Dads! One more tip - the denser the cover is, the longer the mattress serves. Thus, the most acceptable cover is the one made of a waterproof material. It will not let the moisture in and it is pretty easy to clean. A beneficial thing is that some models are even fitted with an additional removable cover that can be washed in a washing machine.

According to the American standards, the mattress size should be 27.25" × 51.63" with a thickness of no more than 6" (< 6"). However, some beds have non-standard sizes, so before buying a mattress, find out the exact dimensions of the crib; the gap between the mattress and the crib frame should exceed 1-1.25". The weight of a mattress is not of great importance but, of course, lightweight mattresses are easier to wash and do the beds. 

Certifications 

And the last but not the least important feature when choosing a baby mattress is its certifications. The mattress must meet all standards for flammability, particularly 16 CFR 1632 and 1633, which confirm its fire resistance. This ensures that in case of fire the mattress will not burn in a matter of minutes. If you purchase a foam mattress, it must be certified by CertiPUR-US® that ensures the mattress contains no ozone depleters, no PBDEs, no heavy metals, no formaldehyde, no phthalates or Low VOC emissions. GREENGUARD Certification confirms that all the materials meet strict chemical emission limits, which contribute to the creation of healthier interiors. If a crib mattress has been given all of these certificates, you can be sure that your baby will be happy and healthy!