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Crib Mattress Buying Advice
Crib Mattress
Buying Guide for Crib
Mattress
Selecting a Safe and
Comfortable Crib Mattress for Your Newborn Baby
If you plan on buying a crib for your baby then undoubtedly you are also in the
market for a crib mattress. Most babies will use their crib mattress until they
are two or three years old. Because of this you want to invest in a good quality
mattress that will be comfortable for your baby and support her development.
Styles of Mattress
There are several styles of mattress available for babies, much like there are
for adult beds. There are two common types of crib mattresses, foam and
innerspring. Let’s compare both:
Foam Mattress Mattress
- Foam mattresses are usually less expensive than innerspring
mattresses.
- They are usually not as durable and generally loose their shape over
time.
- Some parents find them convenient because they are lightweight, which
makes changing sheets easier.
- Many offer the option of denser foam to provide more thickness and
support.
Innerspring Mattress
- Usually more durable than foam mattresses thus last longer.
- Typically maintain their shape and support for longer periods of time.
- Heavier than other mattresses thus can make changing the sheets more
complicated.
- Usually mattresses with more coils or springs equate to a firmer
mattress.
Tips for Selecting a Good Mattress
Keep in mind when buying a mattress the firmer the better. This goes for foam
and for innerspring mattresses. When purchasing a foam mattress the thicker the
foam the more firm the mattress. Likewise the more coils an innerspring mattress
has the firmer it will be.
Here are some additional considerations when buying a mattress:
- Always buy a mattress that is fire retardant. Most new mattresses
are.
- Make sure you purchase a mattress that is the correct size. Most
standard rib mattresses fit newer cribs. Standard cribs generally measure 51 5/8
by 27 1/4 inches.
- Look for a mattress with vents on the sides. The more vents there are the
fresher smelling your baby’s mattress will remain.
Accessories for your Mattress
There are a number of accessories that can complement the perfect mattress. Here
are some must haves to consider when buying a mattress for your precious baby:
- Waterproof mattress cover: this fits on top of the mattress under
the crib sheet to prevent damage to the mattress if your baby’s diaper leaks
(which will happen!).
- Crib sheets: most crib sheets are fitted to conform to the standard
mattress size. You can buy some in cotton and some in flannel to keep your baby
warm during the winter months.
- Bumpers – though this is an accessory that often is thought of when
buying a crib, it also accompanies a mattress just as well.
- Decorative quilts – these a great complement to a newborn nursery. The
key word here is decorative. Keep in mind you need to remove the quilt when your
baby is sleeping in the crib at night. Drape it over your baby’s glider or
ottoman. A newborn baby should never actually sleep with a crib as it poses a
suffocation hazard.
Remember when you buy your mattress to mail in the product registration code so
you are notified in the event of a recall. A decent mattress usually costs
between $60 and $80 dollars, though you can find some less expensive and more
expensive ones. Think about how important your mattress is to your comfort at
night. Like you, your baby will appreciate a firm and supportive mattress to
carry them through dreamland night after night.
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