Crib Mattress Safety Guidelines
Crib Mattress Types
Innerspring crib mattress. Like a traditional full-size mattress, this type features sturdy metal coils surrounded by layers of soft padding. This type of crib mattress is durable and holds its shape well. If you opt for an innerspring mattress, check the coil count—this specification refers to the amount of springs inside. Mattresses with a high coil count tend to be more supportive, but they often come with a high price tag.
Foam crib mattress. Crib mattresses made from polyurethane foam are another great option. This type tends to be affordable, lightweight and easy to clean. The best options are made with a high-density foam, as this creates a firm and supportive sleep surface.
Double-sided crib mattress. A double-sided mattress offers the best of both worlds. Typically made from foam, this type features a high-density, firm side for infants and a softer side for toddlers that crave a little extra comfort. They tend to be slightly more expensive than a regular crib mattress, but you’ll be able to use them for longer, which may justify the cost. One thing to note is that you’ll need to be careful about placing the correct side of the mattress facing upwards, after changing the crib sheet.
Breathable crib mattress. A breathable crib mattress (also known as an air-core mattress) is the newest type to hit the market. These mattresses boast a breathable cover and a core made from food grade polymer, a material that allows air to circulate freely.
Natural fiber crib mattress. Crib mattresses made from natural fibers—like organic cotton, coconut coir, sugargane and wool—are a good choice if you dislike synthetic materials. However, they tend to be expensive and the options may be limited.
What to Look For in a Crib Mattress
Firmness. It’s important to check how firm a crib mattress is before making a purchase. For safety reasons, infants should sleep on a firm surface that doesn’t indent or contour to the shape of their head when they lie on it. A simple way to test the firmness of a mattress is to press your hand into the center, upon release the mattress should quickly snap back into its original shape. If you can still see an indentation, it’s not firm enough for baby.
Density. If you opt for a foam mattress, density is another factor to consider. This unit of measurement refers to the weight of the foam. High density foam mattresses tend to be better quality and more long-lasting. To test the density of a mattress, press the sides to see how pliable it is (denser foam is harder to squeeze).
Size and fit. Check your measurements to ensure that the mattress will fit snugly inside baby’s crib. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commision (CPSC) sleep safety guidelines, a gap larger than two fingers between the sides of the crib and the mattress can pose a safety risk.
High-quality materials. Crib mattresses are strictly regulated. But it’s still important to choose products made from top-grade materials. Our advice? Check the product certifications to ensure the mattress is up to par. Greenguard Gold certified items have passed rigorous testing for harmful chemicals. Another certification to look out for is the CertiPUR-US seal, which indicates the polyurethane foam used meets the highest standards for content, emissions and durability.
