The health and quality of your baby’s sleep are priceless!
…it is significant to choose what suits your little one the most.
Take a look at our full Baby Sleep Guide (0-12 months) here.
Now, you may be wondering if the type, style, or material of the bed mattress matters!
Yes! All of these things are important…
Choosing the right one ensures a perfectly safe sleeping environment and maximizes their chances of getting a good night’s sleep.
Needless to say..
..your baby’s sleeping environment is a place where they will spend a lot of time sleeping healthily and peacefully.
In this article, we will cover:
- Our top 8 baby’s crib mattresses
- How to choose the ideal crib mattress
- Which material to look for
- Lots more…
Stay tuned, and let’s get started…
Related: Discover The 9 Best Crib Sheets For a Comfortable Night Sleep
- Introduction
- 1 – Milliard Crib Mattress
- 2 – Newton Baby Crib Mattress and Toddler Bed
- 3 – Graco Premium Foam Crib & Toddler Mattress
- 4 – Delta Children Twinkle Stars Fiber Core Crib and Toddler Mattress
- 5 – Safety 1st Heavenly Dreams White Crib & Toddler Bed Mattress
- 6 – Babyletto Pure Core Non-Toxic Crib Mattress
- 7 – Naturepedic Organic Lightweight Classic Crib Mattress
- 8 – Lullaby Earth Breathe Safe 2-Stage Breathable Crib Mattress
- Buyers Guide: How to choose the right crib mattress?
- FAQ
- Our Analysis, Comparisons & Test Results
- Our Final Verdict: Best Crib Mattress
- Conclusion: Best Baby Crib Mattresses
Introduction
In case you don’t know,
..poor sleep has a direct impact on the baby’s physical and intellectual development.
Newborn babies sleep more than 14 hours a day, and older children also need at least 10 hours a day.
It is significant for the child to sleep peacefully to choose a comfortable crib mattress suitable for the baby’s spine development.
Also, you must ensure that the child maintains a correct and safe sleeping position!
Needless to say, the most crucial thing about crib mattresses is safety.
According to the American Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) recommendations, because the baby’s bones are immature, it is not suitable for sleeping on a too soft mattress.
It is best to sleep on a sufficiently soft mattress. Besides, consider the mattress firm based on the kid age, as each age needs specific mattress firmness..
It would be best to have a firm side for infants and babies less than a year and a softer one for toddlers.
Fortunately…
..mattress manufacturers understand the need for different firmness levels.
So, many crib mattresses come two-sided: infant and toddler sides at the same time.
Double-sided crib mattresses also save money in the long run, as you can use them for minimum 3 years of use.
In fact, the choice of baby’s crib mattress is different from that of adults…
The primary function of the baby mattress is to support the body, prevent the baby’s spine from deforming, promote blood circulation, ensure the baby’s sleep safety, reduce the risk of SIDS, etc., to ensure the baby’s healthy development.
This is the safest choice for the baby!
1 – Milliard Crib Mattress
Best Two-sided Crib Mattress
Bottom Line: This is a firm, soft, and comfortable mattress that helps your baby sleep tight day and night.
Pros
Well-made and high in quality
Comfortable
A two-sided mattress that works for babies and toddlers
Budget-friendly option
Cons
Might smell an odor at the first few hours
The cover is not 100% waterproof and is slippery
It might not fit all standard crib sizes
Less breathable than other mattresses
This foam crib Mattress by Milliard features two sides: a firm side for infants and a plush one for older babies.
A 100% cotton cover comes with this mattress to protect it from any incidents. It is water-proof and machine washable for easy use.
Most importantly, it meets all US safety standards and contains only the certified CertiPur foam.
The quality of the mattress is excellent. It has a foam that is high in density to prevent the shape from getting loose.
The shape of the mattress fits all standard-sized cribs, making it perfect as baby and toddler crib mattress.
Besides, it is not noisy or loud either.
Keep in mind, though, some users said there was an odor smell when they first opened it, but it went away just 24 hours later.
2 – Newton Baby Crib Mattress and Toddler Bed
Best Breathable Crib Mattress
Bottom Line: If you are looking for a completely breathable and safe crib mattress, look NO further.
Pros
100% breathable
Completely washable and easy to clean
2-stage option
It is made of 90% air and 10% food-grade polymer
GREENGUARD Gold certified
Cons
Not insulated to trap the body heat
The cover is not waterproof, nor the mattress
It needs to be ventilated for few hours before using
On the pricey side
Single-sided mattress
If you are worried about your baby getting suffocated or overheated, you don’t have to worry anymore..
The crib mattress design is 100% breathable!
What does that mean?
Well, while your little one is sleeping, he will be able to breathe through the mattress, and the risk of suffocation is reduced.
Great comfort and more..!
Pediatricians highly recommend the mattress for being comfortable, safe, and healthy for the babies’ development.
Besides, your baby can use it even when they get older – as it has a two-stage design to serve both babies and toddlers.
It is also free of latex, foam, glue, springs, or any allergens.
Plus, it is 100% recyclable!
The best part?
It is completely washable! You can place the entire mattress it in the shower, and it gets washed and dries pretty fast.
The material used to manufacture this mattress is Polymer, which is a safe type of plastic.
But keep in mind, though..
…the mattress has a cover that is 100% polyester which is a little bit challenging to take care of and not soft.
You need to wash it using a delicate setting and dry it at a low temperature..
One more thing: some parents said that there was a smell when they first opened it. So it is better to ventilate it for a couple of days before using it.
3 – Graco Premium Foam Crib & Toddler Mattress
Best Mattress That Fits All Full-sized Cribs
Bottom Line: This mattress is made using a superior foam that makes it durable, comfortable, and breathable.
Pros
The breathable foam maximizes the airflow
It fits any standard crib and toddler bed
It comes with a removable, water-resistant, and machine washable cover
Budget-friendly option
GREENGUARD Gold certified
Cons
Takes time to be fully-expanded
Sing sides only
The cover is thin and not soft
Not waterproof mattress
Less comfortable and breathable than other options
Graco is a trusted brand with all its production lines.
Graco crib mattress features the recommended firmness to provide your baby with safe, comfortable, and healthy sleep.
The memory foam in this mattress core is breathable and high in quality to give maximum airflow while your little one is sleeping.
Most importantly, It fits all standard cribs and toddler beds.
With this mattress, you will get a cover that is easy to remove and wash. It is water-resistant to protect the mattress from any incidents.
But keep in mind, though, the cover must be washed on a delicate setting, without bleach, with cold water, and line-dried only.
Another thing to consider: because these foam crib mattresses come compressed in a box, the best thing to do for proper expansion is to unroll it as soon as you get it and leave it in a room temperature setting.
4 – Delta Children Twinkle Stars Fiber Core Crib and Toddler Mattress
Best Affordable Crib Mattress
Bottom Line: This foam mattress is comfortable and filled with dense foam to make it durable.
Pros
Easy to clean
Free of phthalate and lead
7-years warranty
GREENGUARD Gold certified
Cons
Very lightweight and firm
No indicator for the firm or soft side
There is a plastic sound when the baby moves
Less comfortable than other brands
Using this mattress, you can rest assured that your little one is safe, as it is free from any chemicals or toxic materials.
The firmness of this lightweight crib mattress is perfect for babies and toddlers.
A waterproof vinyl cover comes with the mattress as a protector. It is durable and covers both sides of the mattress.
Besides, the mattress is light in weight for easy use and has square corners for a perfect crib fit.
What is more?
When buying this mattress, you will get a 7-years warranty.
If you are looking for an affordable option that offers good values, look NO further!
5 – Safety 1st Heavenly Dreams White Crib & Toddler Bed Mattress
Soft Crib Mattress
Bottom Line: This is a standard mattress that meets most parents’ needs. It is durable, waterproof, and lightweight.
Pros
Lightweight for easy use
Firm enough for baby’s safety
Soft and waterproof cover
GREENGUARD Gold certified
Cons
It sags in the middle with time
Less comfortable than other brands
Noisy sometimes when the baby moves
Has a relatively short service-life
This Safety 1st standard mattress has a thermo-bonded fiber core high in density to offer firm support.
It comes with a protective cover. It is made of vinyl, waterproof, and easy to clean using wipes.
…this plastic cover sometimes causes noises, but it is not too bad!
Most importantly, there is no smell, like chemicals or any other odors.
This full size mattress is perfect to fit most standard cribs and sheets.
Keep in mind, though..
…there is a limitation of 50 lbs of weight, and it would be best if you rotate it every 2-3 months.
6 – Babyletto Pure Core Non-Toxic Crib Mattress
Most Quiet Crib Mattress
Bottom Line: This is almost a noise-free mattress that comes with a waterproof and non-vinyl cover.
Pros
Vinyl-free and non-crinkly cover
Two-sided function
Well-made and smells fresh
GREENGUARD Gold certified
Cons
The cover shrinks, and stitches come out after washing
The outer layer of this Babyletto crib mattress is Cotton/Polyester, and the cover features organic cotton.
Special and unique design…
The mattress’s corners’ design is square with inverted seams, which helps the mattress go back to its shape while leaving the sheets to fit smoothly.
The size of the mattress is perfect to fit most cribs and toddler beds.
Like most other mattresses, this one is also dual-sided. It has a firm side for babies and a plush one for toddlers.
The material is quilted, the face and back are organic cottons, and the filling is quilted polyester.
7 – Naturepedic Organic Lightweight Classic Crib Mattress
Best Organic Crib Mattress
Bottom Line: With this mattress, you can rest assured that your baby is protected from any chemicals or harmful material.
Pros
Lightweight but sturdy mattress
Organic and 100% Chemical-free
Comfortable
Waterproof and easy to clean surface (just use wipes)
GREENGUARD Gold certified
Cons
On the pricey side
It might be extra firm
This Naturepedic crib mattress is organic, passes the government flammability requirements, and is Greenguard certified.
It grows with your baby with the two-sided feature. You can place your baby on the firm side during the first year of age and flip it to the cushier one after he turns one.
What you will like in this mattress is the strong patented wave-support core, which is also lightweight compared to the usual coil.
Like other mattresses, it fits most standard cribs and toddler beds.
Keep in mind, though; you can only spot or wipe-clean the surface of the mattress.
Of course, the price of organic mattresses is higher than other types, but the material is indeed better.
In conclusion:
This organic crib mattress is the first choice for parents who wants an entirely safe sleep environment for their little ones.
8 – Lullaby Earth Breathe Safe 2-Stage Breathable Crib Mattress
Best Eco-friendly Crib Mattress
Bottom Line: This mattress has 3D airflow design and contains organic, safe materials for higher sleep quality.
Pros
Breathable mattress and cover
Organic materials – Free of any chemicals
A firm mattress that offers dual sides
Eco-friendly
Comfortable
Waterproof cover
Cons
On the harder side
The material is not soft – needs extra soft cover
This two-stage lullaby earth crib mattress provides support and comfort for growing children.
It includes a harder side that is perfect for babies and a soft cushion that is just right for toddlers.
The square corners allow the mattress to be firmly fixed in the crib, while the reinforced edges are strong enough to allow young children to bounce.
Most importantly, this mattress is free of harmful chemicals, flame retardants, polyurethane foam, vinyl/polyvinyl chloride, formaldehyde, perfluorinated compounds (PFC), pesticides, glue/adhesives, and GMOs
The mattress fits safely into the standard cribs and toddler beds.
The removable cover that protects this mattress is breathable and has a waterproof layer, which allows the air to flow under the baby.
Buyers Guide: How to choose the right crib mattress?
The crib mattress is significant for a baby’s sleep and growth, and development. Parents must be cautious when choosing a Crib mattress.
In addition to the price budget, they must also consider various factors such as the mattress’s material, comfort, and service life.
A good Crib mattress can give the baby a good sleep, and at the same time, it will help the baby’s bone development.
But the question is:
How do you choose the ideal baby mattress for your child?
Mattress Type: Check the firmness level
When it comes to choosing your bedding, the choice of mattress is one of the most important in preventing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.
The baby’s morphology requires good support to keep his spine straight and facilitate his breathing.
When it comes to mattresses, one of the main risks for the baby is the risk of suffocation.
During the first months, the muscles of the newborn’s neck are not yet fully formed.
When the baby begins to move and roll over on his stomach, if he is on a too soft mattress, his head may sink into the mattress without having the strength to lift it.
Conversely, a mattress that is too hard is not recommended either.
Since the skulls of newborns are still flexible for several months after birth, a mattress that is too firm can lead to cranial deformation: plagiocephaly, more commonly known as a flat head syndrome.
Some bedding manufacturers have understood this well: for the newborn’s safety, sleeping on a semi-firm or firm support mattress and neither too soft nor too hard is essential.
In addition, make sure to choose the size of your mattress so that it adapts perfectly to your baby’s bed or cradle.
The gap between the mattress and the crib frame mustn’t exceed two fingers’ worth.
Pay attention to the elasticity of the mattress:
If the mattress is not flexible, it will be difficult for the baby to change position while sleeping.
Therefore, it is recommended to press the center of the mattress with your hand before buying, and you will be able to recover quickly, which is more elastic.
Do a two-finger test:
Pay attention to the width of the gap between the mattress and the crib.
Generally speaking, the gap between the mattress and the crib cannot be wider than two fingers; otherwise, there is a safety hazard.
Look for firm type:
It is best to choose a hard mattress; the harder, the better.
No matter what material you choose, try to choose a harder mattress.
When checking the hardness of the mattress, you can put your hands on the two sides (not the edges or corners) of the middle of the mattress and squeeze each other.
The one that is not easy to deform is the hardness.
Choose healthy materials:
At birth, a baby sleeps on average 16 to 17 hours a day until he is 1 month old, 14 hours a day until he is 3 months old, then between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. until he is 1 year old.
Babies spend an average of 60% of their first year sleeping in their cribs, breathing whatever is released (chemical release, volatile particles, etc.).
Today, to preserve the health and sleep of the child, the time has come for natural fibers and certified chemical-free bedding items.
Top Tip(s)
Here are another things to consider when buying a crib mattress:
- Do not accept a second-hand mattress unless you know its true origin and composition.
- Choose a cotton mattress pad or cover, waterproof, and perfectly adjusted to the mattress.
- Look for a machine washable cover at least 60 ° C to be sure to eliminate germs and bacteria.
- Two-sided mattresses offer higher compatibility, as each side is meant for a specific age.
FAQ
Q1: What are the main things to consider when choosing baby crib mattresses?
The most important thing is getting a dual firmness crib mattress, mess-proofing, having the Green Gold Certification, and making breathable materials.
Q2: What should I do to keep the crib mattress in good condition?
Here are some tips that help in keeping the mattress performs well:
– Leave the new mattress a couple of days after unpacking it to air out.
– Try to put your baby to sleep on his back.
– If it is a two-sided mattress, use the firm side until your baby is around 12 months old, then flip to the cushier one.
– Make sure to do the two-finger test on the mattress before using it. (No more than two fingers of a gap between the mattress and the crib frame)
– Use fitted crib sheets as protectors from any unexpected incidents.
– Make sure to follow the manufacturing instructions.
– Always check if there are any indentations.
– Store the mattress properly
Q3: What is the best crib mattress for my baby?
The best crib mattress is the one that provides your baby or kid a comfortable, healthy, and safe sleep. It would help if you had a crib mattress that fits precisely on the crib, and it should be firm as well.
Q4: What type of crib mattress do I need?
You will find different types available on the market. The most common type is the foam one.
Foam mattresses have a longer service life, offer support to your baby, and are usually hypoallergenic.
Our Analysis, Comparisons & Test Results
Finally… below are the comparison results:
Choosing the best crib mattress is not an easy thing to do. There are many options available on the market, and each has specific features..
So, our comparison is about the main features most parents consider when buying a crib mattress, which are:
- Value for money
- Sleep quality
- Durability
- Water resistance
Below, we lined up the top 8 crib mattresses on the same platform to give you a comparative analysis.
And here you go…
Value for money
The best mattress is the one that keeps your baby comfortable and safe for healthy baby development.
Like other products, you get what you pay for!
That’s said,
…you must look for a mattress that checks all the boxes.
So, make sure that the values you get are worth the price.
Take a look at the comparison results now..
The Newton Crib Mattress and Toddler Bed came up as the top scorer. It’s a trustworthy crib mattress that offers your little one the best sleep quality, and it has a long service life.
Unfortunately, the Lullaby Earth Breathe Safe 2-Stage Breathable Crib Mattress ended up with the lowest score in this segment. At this price, we expected it to be durable and waterproof. But still, if offers a good level of sleep quality.
The rest of the crib mattresses came up with average results.
Sleep quality
This is the most critical factor that makes a big difference when choosing a mattress for your little one.
Getting a comfortable mattress not only makes your baby sleep well but also gives you peace of mind.
Usually, mattresses with two sides are more comfortable than single-sided ones, as they offer different comfort levels based on the baby’s age.
Take a closer look at the results below..
The best performers in this segments are the Newton, Babyletto, and Naturepedic crib mattresses. They ended up being comfortable and offering the highest sleep quality.
Unfortunately, Delta and Safety 1st crib mattresses ended up with the lowest performance.
The rest of the mattresses features an average and acceptable comfort level.
Durability
Needless to say..
..taking care of the crib mattress helps in making it serve for a more extended period.
Yet, some mattresses are less quality than others and offer a short service life no matter how much you take care of it!
Below, we have the durability performance results…
The durable crib mattresses are the ones with high-quality features, which are: Milliard, Newton, Babyletto, and Naturepedic crib mattresses.
Unfortunately, Safety 1st mattress is again the lowest performer in this segment as well.
The rest of the mattresses offer average durability.
Water resistance
When dealing with kids, accidents happen most of the time!
Let’s face it now…
Getting a waterproof mattress helps keep it clean and healthy for a more extended period.
That’s said,
..you will find brands that provide a waterproof mattress cover that protects the actual mattress, a completely waterproof mattress, or none of them to be waterproof.
See below our comparison results..
The waterproof feature of the mattress goes in a inverse direction with it’s breathability.
That’s why the Newton crib mattress ended up at the bottom of the list in this segment, as it is a totally breathable mattress.
Our Final Verdict: Best Crib Mattress
You are almost at the end of this comparison..
It’s time for you to check out the final results.
We have all 8 crib mattresses lined up here based on their performance and features..
All of them are comfortable, safe, and healthy for your little one. All you have to do at the moment is to pick the mattress that best suits you and your baby.
So the final choice will rely upon your exact need, preference, and budget…
| Product | Rating out of 5 |
| Babyletto Pure Core Non-Toxic Crib Mattress | ⭐ 4.25 |
| Newton Baby Crib Mattress and Toddler Bed | ⭐ 4.0 |
| Graco Premium Foam Crib & Toddler Mattress | ⭐ 3.75 |
| Naturepedic Organic Lightweight Classic Crib Mattress | ⭐ 3.75 |
| Delta Children Twinkle Stars Fiber Core Crib and Toddler Mattress | ⭐ 3.5 |
| Milliard Crib Mattress | ⭐ 3.5 |
| Lullaby Earth Breathe Safe 2-Stage Breathable Crib Mattress | ⭐ 3.25 |
| Safety 1st Heavenly Dreams White Crib & Toddler Bed Mattress | ⭐ 3.0 |
Conclusion: Best Baby Crib Mattresses
Here is the end of our definitive review..
After looking at all the different options, it is time to take a look at our editors’ choice, the best value, and top pick options:
- The Editors’ Choice goes to: Babyletto Pure Core Non-Toxic Crib Mattress
- The Top Pick goes to: Graco Premium Foam Crib & Toddler Mattress
- The Best Value goes to: Newton Baby Crib Mattress and Toddler Bed
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