You’ll need a crib mattress that is firm (but still comfortable), won’t cause the baby to overheat, and can hold up to all of the spit-up and accidents the baby will inevitably put it through. We carefully considered design, material, ease of cleaning, value, and any age recommendations when reviewing products. We found the best crib mattresses on the market to help your little one get some shut eye. This crib mattress from Newton tops our list as it checks all the boxes for safety, comfort, and durability. Made with the company’s Breathe-Thru technology, it helps air circulate through the mattress, both to prevent the risk of suffocation and to help regulate the temperature and keep baby as comfortable as possible. It doesn’t contain any metal springs, polyurethane foam or, glue, but rather it’s made up of 90 percent air. It’s non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and the fabric cover comes off for easy washing (extra covers are available for purchase separately). Price at time of publication: $300 Price at time of publication: $70 Price at time of publication: $270 Price at time of publication: $200 It’s also dual-sided with a firmer side for infants and a plusher one to use as you head into the toddler years. It’s free of polyurethane foam, phthalates, flame retardants and other potentially dangerous materials, and the core is made of recyclable polyester. Price at time of publication: $199 Price at time of publication: $27 The coil-filled mattress can be used in standard cribs and toddler beds and it has two sides—a firmer one for infants and a softer one for toddlers. The coils make it extra firm, while a PVC-free cotton cover makes it comfortable. Price at time of publication: $130 The mattress is handmade with cotton-wrapped foils, certified wool, organic latex, and more premium pieces. It can be paired with the company’s organic waterproof crib mattress protector to help guard from any accidents bound to happen. Price at time of publication: $1,379 Additionally, Dr. DeBear notes that the mattress “should fit the crib exactly without gaps or spaces” once it’s put into place, so make sure to take proper measurements of your baby’s crib before going to purchase the mattress.
Materials
Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to the types of materials they want their child exposed to. However, when it comes to mattresses, the most important thing is to purchase one that is made with durable materials that are non-toxic. “Buying a fully organic mattress is not necessarily essential,” Dr. DeBear says, and “checking for a ‘greenguard certification’ is a great way to ensure the mattress is free of toxic emissions.” Another thing to keep in mind is whether or not the mattress’s materials are hypoallergenic, because babies often have more sensitive skin and are more affected by allergens.
Design
As long as your crib mattress is firm and follows the AAP’s safe sleep guidelines, that is the most important design aspect to look for. Beyond that, though, you may want to consider some extras like whether or not it’s waterproof or if it’s designed for toddler use as well. “There are many mattresses on the market that come with two sides, one which is more firm for infants and one which is slightly softer for toddlers,” explains Dr. DeBear, “this can help you get more bang for your buck, especially if you’re spending more on an organic mattress".
Why Trust Verywell Family
Ashley Ziegler is a staff and freelance writer who covers lifestyle, home, parenting, and commerce content for a variety of platforms. She’s a mom to 1-year-old and 3-year-old daughters, and an aunt to three nieces and two nephews ranging from 5 to 10 years old. In addition to regularly scouring the internet to find the best things for herself, Ashley spends multiple hours a week researching, comparing, and writing about products specifically for kids and families. In fact, Dr. DeBear points out that if you have a crib that converts into a toddler bed and you already know the mattress you have fits, so there’s no reason not to keep using it.
