Compare the best crib mattresses

You want your baby to be comfy, cozy and safe while sleeping, so be sure to do some research before buying a new crib mattress. It can help to compare some of the most popular options available and see the differences between various crib mattress types.

Compare some of the best crib mattresses

Name	Average price	Material	Weight (lb)	Thickness (in)	Purchase
Newton Wovenaire	$299	Woven polymer	11	5.5	Buy now
Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer	$196	Dual firmness foam	10.5	5	Buy now
Sealy Soybean Foam-Core	$156	Soybean foam	8.3	5	Buy now
Naturepedic No Compromise Organic Cotton Classic	$299	Dual firmness innerspring	20	6	Buy now
Sealy Ortho Rest	$56	Innerspring	Not available	5.25

Crib mattress types

Like regular mattresses, crib mattresses come in both foam and innerspring designs. Consider the benefits of each to help you decide which is right for your little bundle.

• Innerspring. These mattresses are made of spring coils that provide extra firmness and do not conform to your baby’s body, making them a safe choice for infants. Look for an innerspring mattress that has at least 150 coils of 15.5-gauge steel or lower to ensure it’s firm and supportive enough for baby.
• Foam. Foam mattresses are typically best for toddlers and older children, since they may pose a higher risk of suffocation for infants. These mattresses are typically more budget-friendly than innerspring crib mattresses and are softer and more comfortable for your toddler.
• Double-sided. These mattresses can be very cost-effective, as they contain one side with spring coils and the other with high-density foam. Rather than buying a new mattress as your child grows, you can simply flip your existing one over.

What size is a standard crib mattress?

The Federal Government regulates crib mattresses sizes, specifying that they must be at least 27 1/4″ x 51 5/8″ and no thicker than six inches.

While crib sizes are also regulated, they have a “plus or minus” tolerance, so some models may create a snugger fit than others once you add the mattress. Generally, the snugger the mattress, the safer it is.

Check to see that no more than two fingers can fit between the mattress and the crib frame. Otherwise, there is an increased risk of suffocation or entrapment.

How to compare crib mattresses

When shopping for a crib mattress, consider these important factors:

• Price. Crib mattresses can range in price from $30 to $200 or more, depending on the type and brand. While more expensive doesn’t always mean better quality, you do want to check the number and gauge of coils and/or foam density to ensure your child’s safety and comfort.
• Materials. Consider the type of foam and other materials that the mattress contains. Some infants may be allergic to latex and can be sensitive to synthetic materials. If buying a foam mattress, look for a model that doesn’t off-gas, or use a protective cover to minimize this effect.
• Firmness and density. Look for a high-density foam mattress that doesn’t conform to the shape of your hand when pressing down on it. Infants need to have a very firm and supportive mattress, even if it feels hard to you.
• Layers. When buying an innerspring mattress, look for several layers for added support.
• Border rods. Innerspring mattresses designed for cribs should contain border rods to provide extra support along the edges and prevent sagging.
• Insulator pad. All spring crib mattresses should also have an insulator pad to prevent coils from sticking up and poking your baby through the mattress. Many insulator pads are made of coir — a fiber made from shredded coconut husks — and these can be more expensive than fiber or woven polyester pads.
• Cover. Look for a multilayered cover to help increase mattress durability and protect against leaks and stains. Some covers are waterproof or antimicrobial.
• Convertibility. Dual-firmness mattresses can save you money in the long run when you go to convert your baby’s crib into a toddler bed.
• Eco-friendliness. Many mattresses are made with certified organic materials and natural alternatives like bamboo and coir.

Crib safety checklist

You can never be too careful when arranging your baby’s crib and mattress for bedtime. Here are a few top safety tips to keep in mind when making baby’s bed:

• Choose a crib and mattress that meet federal sizing and safety regulations, and make sure the mattress fits snugly inside the crib.
• Follow all instructions carefully when assembling your crib.
• Never place a crib near a window with curtains, blinds or cords within baby’s reach.
• Do not place pillows, blankets, toys or other soft objects in the crib with your baby.
• When in the raised position, the top rail of the crib should be 26 inches from the bottom of the mattress to prevent falls. When lowered, the top rail must be at least nine inches from the mattress support.
• Be sure the crib’s mattress support is firmly secured.

Bottom line

There is a variety of crib mattress options out there, in a wide price range. Choose the best fit for your family’s needs and budget, and be sure that whichever mattress you choose meets all safety standards.

Ready to buy? Compare top crib mattresses

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Frequently asked questions

• How do you clean a crib mattress?

  Follow these basic steps to clean your crib mattress:

  1. Vacuum dust, dirt and other debris.
  2. Mix water and baby-safe, hypoallergenic detergent in a bucket.
  3. Dunk a non-abrasive sponge or rag in the mixture, wring it out and scrub the surface of the mattress. Do not pour water or detergent directly onto the mattress.
  4. Rinse the sponge and use clean water without detergent to rinse the mattress. Again, do not pour the water directly on the mattress.
  5. If the mattress is stained, mix water, vinegar and lemon juice in a spray bottle and spray the stained area. Spread a small amount of baking soda on top. Let dry, then vacuum.
  6. Allow the mattress to air dry, or use a towel to pat dry.

• When do you lower the crib mattress?

  When babies are able to crawl, sit up and pull themselves up, it’s time to lower the crib mattress to prevent falls. This is usually around six months, but can vary.

• Do I need an organic crib mattress?

  You don’t have to buy an organic mattress for your baby, but you may want to look into this option if they are allergic or sensitive to synthetic materials. But be careful with organic wool, as some babies may have an adverse reaction to this material.