The best crib mattress is one of the iconic parts of the baby nursery and for a good reason. Babies spend most of their precious time sleeping, so investing in a comfortable, best, and cheapest baby crib mattress is the best decision.
Think of the crib mattress or crib bed as your baby’s first environment outside of the womb, because your baby will spend a few years of its life inside one.
You may find many choices online or in stores and it can get overwhelming easily. You may want firm crib mattresses, innerspring crib mattresses, or waterproof mattresses, depending on your budget as well.
Therefore, we made a list of the best crib mattresses from Amazon based on their star rating and excellent quality features and we also chose our top picks from popular brands and wrote an honest review for each one.
Before getting to it, it would also be notable to mention the other brands that are known for quality & durability as well: the Newton Baby crib mattress and Lullaby Earth crib mattress.
Best Of The Best Mattress On Amazon
Milliard Premium Memory Foam Hypoallergenic Bed
- This one comes with a waterproof bamboo cover and it is made of high-quality mattress materials with superb 3 lb construction.
- It’s one of the better options in the market that’s made to last and it can hold its shapes for years. It can also fit all standard-size cribs.
Moonlight Slumber Dual-Sided Bed
- The Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer mattresses are designed with antimicrobial materials which help prevent bacteria growth. It does not have any toxic flame retardants and also exceeded the Federal Flammability Standard FR.
- This breathable mattress has reliable support edging to keep your baby in the center when they sleep or play inside the crib.
Modera Waterproof Organic Cotton Dual-Sided Mattresses
- The dual-sided crib mattress offers maximum comfort for your child and promotes a longer sleep.
- This waterproof crib mattress has a supportive foam layer that gives a cradling feel to your child while promoting proper posture at the same time.
- It is made with organic cotton and it has a 100% waterproof cover to guard it against any kind of spills. It’s one of the most popular organic mattresses in the market today.
Eco Classica III 2-Stage Best Crib Mattress
- The mattress comes with a high-density foam offers 2-stage dual-firmness and it is recommended by pediatricians for your infant’s first years.
- It is GREENGUARD Gold and CertiPUR-US certified and it is made with durable and long-lasting materials.
There’s a lot to consider when you’re going through your options for the better crib mattress. You’ll have to decide on the core material, such as natural materials or synthetic. Should you get an organic cribmattress, an innerspring crib mattress, or one that’s extra firm? Also, what about getting a waterproof cover or a mattress pad? These are all important considerations, but that’s where we come in.
Finding the best cheap mattress you can afford can be nerve-wracking, especially for new parents, but fortunately, some guidelines can help you make this decision without stressing out.
Safety Is King In Crib Best Mattress
One crucial distinction that separates baby crib mattresses from ones used by older children and adults is the higher priority given to safety over comfort. If someone ever told you that these should feel like a cloud, then they’re wrong. Babies have weaker motor skills, and they can suffocate when they lie face down on one that is not suitable for them. Hence, they need one that can support their full weight, even if it means sacrificing some degree of comfort. Don’t worry, though, as the right baby crib mattress for your case should be both safe and comfortable. Even mini cribs and toddler beds should be safe and comfortable as well.
Unfortunately, there have been parents who’ve lost babies to sudden infant death syndrome. There has been a lot of research into infant death syndrome and the role that crib mattresses and bed sets have played in some of these tragedies. One thing that has been concluded is that cushy ones are dangerous for infants. Babies are safer on one that is extra firm because those that have a softer side that’s extra padded can cause a baby to smother in their bed.
Best Types Of Best Of The Best Crib Mattresses
When choosing for a baby, first note that most baby crib mattresses can be classified into one of several types. The best memory foam mattresses are some of the simplest out there, being composed only of two parts: a foam made out of various polymers, and an outer covering that protects the foam. Foam is lighter and more comfortable to lift during installation and maintenance. Still, softer varieties are more prone to following the contours of the baby’s body, increasing the risk of suffocation. In contrast, innersprings have internal metal springs that support it as well as the baby. These are heavier, bulkier, and more expensive, but are less likely to deform when the baby lies down.
You do have your choice of foam core materials when you’re looking at choosing a crib mattress. You can purchase one that has a soybean foam core, one of which is the Sealy soybean foam core. Soybean-based foam is popular among manufacturers because many parents look for products made with natural materials. Even more attractive is if it’s an organic one that’s eco-friendly.
When it comes to providing the good sleeping environment for your little one, an organic crib mattress stands out as a top choice. These best crib mattresses are crafted using organic materials, ensuring a chemical-free and eco-friendly sleeping surface for your baby. The best organic crib mattress, such as the Avocado Organic Crib Mattress, goes the extra mile in promoting a healthy sleep environment. It features a removable cover made from organic cotton fabric, which can be easily washed to maintain cleanliness and hygiene. Additionally, these crib mattresses are designed to be waterproof without the use of harmful chemicals or chemical flame retardants. Instead, they are certified by one of the popular crib mattress certifications, such as the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), assuring that the materials used are free from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and meet stringent organic standards.
A special kind of crib mattress is double-sided. One side of the crib mattress is firm and steady, meant for use by babies, while the other side is softer and more appropriate for toddlers. Double-sided ones are relatively more complex and can be quite expensive, but they are cost-effective since they can be used even as your baby grows and becomes a toddler. A woven mattress core is also a favorite among moms.
You’ll want to follow the guidelines with the double-sided crib mattress so you are using them the way they’re intended. The side for toddlers should not be used until your child has reached the indicated age where it is safe to do so. You’ll flip it over to the toddler side and use it in a toddler bed when he or she is old enough and strong enough to lift their head and keep themselves from suffocating. There are developmental instincts the body will get to, and also, that will make it ok for a child to sleep on the side of toddlers.
In summary, different types will differ in cost, weight, and comfort. Narrowing down your choices to a single kind will help simplify matters. However, regardless of whether you’re looking for the the quality highest for toddlers, the specific characteristics of each model have a more significant impact on performance than the type of one that you choose. Hence, you need to have a checklist of things to watch out for when scouting.
Firmness – Innerspring Best Crib Mattress
One of the first things you need to check is its firmness. You can easily do this by gently pressing your palm on the surface of the material. Check if the material resists being deformed by your hand and quickly becomes flat after you release the pressure. If it does, you have some of the safest ones available. You’ll find that an innerspring crib mattress is really good at holding its shape and firmness. You can find these for a toddler bed.
Of course, the material will have to be very firm, something that you may not be accustomed to. It is fine as long as the crib mattress doesn’t feel especially uncomfortable. The baby’s body will quickly adjust to firmness after a while. Though you may be tempted to purchase a cushy crib mattress pad so you’re baby is more comfortable, don’t. This just defeats the purpose of the safe firm crib mattress. The only kind of crib mattress cover that is worth buying and safe for your infant to sleep on is a waterproof cover so the mattress doesn’t get ruined by wetness.
Crib Fit
Also, check if the crib mattress fits snugly against the walls. Any space in the walls can potentially trap fingers or present a suffocation hazard. Dust and small objects can also accumulate there, endangering your baby. If it’s possible to put more than two fingers in the space, then the crib mattress isn’t a good fit. Note that while sizes are probably standardized in your area, there can still be small but significant differences in proportions. You can do your due diligence in choosing all of the other features of the crib mattress, like the organic cotton it’s covered in, finding the right foam core by reviews, or opting for the most eco-friendly version of an organic crib mattress, but if there is a gap because it doesn’t fit properly, it won’t be safe for your infant to sleep on.
Crib Breathability
One crucial aspect to consider when selecting a crib mattress is its breathability. The Avocado Crib Mattress, along with many other options on the market, is designed with breathability in mind. This feature allows for proper air circulation for better indoor air quality and helps reduce the risk of suffocation, which is especially important in preventing Sudden Infant Death Syndrome SIDS. Most crib mattresses, including those with waterproof functionality, offer breathable mattress designs to ensure a safe and comfortable sleeping experience for your baby. Furthermore, these mattresses often come with dual sided mattress, with one side catering to infants and the other providing enhanced comfort for toddlers. This versatility allows you to use the mattress as your child grows, providing excellent value for money. With washable covers, green mattress manufacturing practices, and adherence to organic standards, these mattresses prioritize both the well-being of your baby and the planet.
Crib Weight & Density
Heavy mattresses can make cleaning and maintenance difficult. You’ll have to clean often due to inevitable diaper leaks and other spills, this is where the benefit of a waterproof mattress gets into the picture. Hence, make sure to find a mattress that you can comfortably move around. Also, mattress density matters. Denser mattresses tend to weigh more. But, they also tend to be firmer and hence safer to use. Strike out to find the perfect balance when it comes to density. An example of a well-balanced mattress like this is the Sealy soybean foam core. Safety 1st and Simmons Kids also both make mattresses that are light, yet firm.
Choosing The Best Crib Mattress
Sealy 2-Stage Crib Mattress
The Sealy 2-Stage is firm and works for both babies and toddlers, hence its name. While this one doesn’t have the Sealy soybean foam core, it does have a soybean memory foam cushion The Sealy 2-Stage mattress also meets all flammability standards for a safe one. That makes it one of the better crib mattresses available on the market today. Give it a try. Sealy Soybean is one of the lightest crib mattress brands on the market.
Colgate Eco Classica III Dual Firmness Eco-Friendlier Crib Mattress
Not to be confused with the brand of toothpaste, the Colgate Eco Classica III Dual Firmness Eco-Friendlier is one of the better crib mattresses to check out. Waterproof and made from the most certified organic cotton batting materials in the marketplace, the Colgate Eco Classica III Dual Firmness Eco-Friendlier is a GOTS-certified crib mattress. Organic baby products are popular with many parents for good reason. They are more eco-friendly so families can feel good about putting their infants down on an organic mattress. Rest assured that these mattresses still meet all of the flammability standards, as well.
LA Baby Mini Portable Crib Mattress
The LA Baby Mini Portable is one of the highest quality crib mattresses in the market today. It’s not just only firm and made from quality materials, but it’s the traveler’s mattress. If you’re on the go, the LA Baby Mini Portable may be a good mattress to check out if you’re in a hurry. Alternatively, any mini ones work well. A mini should be firm but easily portable. If you travel, look for a good mini mattress.
This organic mattress can be purchased in different thicknesses. It has a soybean foam core that is covered with organic cotton on the outside. The core and the organic cotton covering meet all flammability standards set forth in the industry. The organic cotton cover is blended so it feels luxurious when you touch it. As an added bonus, the organic cotton cover is super easy to clean and hypoallergenic. LA Baby is among the best luxury crib mattress brands of today.
Graco Premium Toddler Best Crib Mattress
Another great mattress to check out is the Graco Premium Foam Crib and Toddler Mattress. The Graco Premium Foam Crib and Toddler Mattress are made from the best materials on the market today, and the mattress is Greenguard Gold Certified. That means that the Graco Premium Foam Crib and Toddler Mattress is one of those mattresses that don’t have any materials that may be toxic for your baby. It has a waterproof cover, and you can wash the cover of it too. From the front to the bottom to the side of the mattress, these are worth purchasing. Try it today.
Simmons Kids SlumberTime Naturally Foam Mattress
The Simmons Kids mattress is appropriate for as long as your baby sleeps in the crib, but then can be used on the toddler side when the time comes. Simmons Kids is well known for its organic mattress options. This one is eco-friendly with a foam core that’s covered with organic cotton that’s backed with a waterproofed layer. The organic cotton is blended for a soft exterior. The organic cotton covers both the infant side and the toddler side of the mattress.
Safety 1st Heavenly Dreams White Crib & Toddler Mattress
Safety 1st makes good quality baby products but at affordable prices. This is true of their mattresses, as well. This Safety 1st mattress has an infant side and a toddler side, so it’s meant to grow with your child. It’s made to fit the standard-sized crib and toddler bed. The infant side of the mattress is firm, while the side meant for the toddler bed has more cushioning to make your little one more comfortable.
The Heavenly Dreams mattress is foam-filled, but Safety 1st also makes a type for a crib or a toddler bed that is classified as an innerspring mattress. Some parents prefer the innerspring mattress type because it holds its shape so well. They feel the innerspring mattress is firmer, thus safer.
All of the Safety 1st mattresses meet flammability standards, too, so you can feel confident about their level of safety.
Serta Perfect Sleeper Cheery Days Mattress
Serta is known to be non-toxic. It is made of interlocking coils and memory foam to give your baby the best comfort while lounging in this mattress. Serta is also considered one of the best baby mattresses because it meets the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute standards. It does not have any harmful materials which will compromise your baby’s safety.
Conclusion – Best Crib
Notice the breathability of the fabric used for the mattress. The safest should let air flow through it with ease. This feature minimizes suffocation risks and prevents any odors and fumes from accumulating. Also note how well the mattress conducts heat, as babies may overheat if the mattress doesn’t regulate temperatures well. Check if the mattress cover is waterproof and removable, which is very helpful when it comes to maintaining the cleanliness of the mattress.
The Premium Crib Mattress
Finally, whether you want the best crib mattress or the best toddler bed mattress, check for certifications. You need to look for those that show compliance with safety standards. These certifications are given by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission as well as by the American Society for Testing and Materials. Mattresses that pass these standards are known to be the safest ones out there. Hence, choosing crib mattresses will help protect your baby from unnecessary risks. All of the major manufacturers, like Sealy, Graco, Serta, and Safety 1st have received some certifications for their products. They make it where you can find cheap baby cribs that you’re looking for in your family’s price range.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Right Mattresses For Newborns?
Pick a crib mattress that is firm and doesn’t have any softness to it that the baby could sink into. You’ll find crib mattress options from all the top manufacturers, such as Sealy, Simmons Kids, Safety 1st, Serta, and Graco.
Foam Or Crib Mattress: Which One Is Better For Your Baby?
When choosing a mattress, you can pick from either a foam mattress or a coil mattress, also known as innerspring mattresses. A foam mattress is lightweight and cheaper, but may not last as long. The opposite is true for innerspring mattresses. So in the battle between foam or innerspring mattresses, it’s sometimes down to preference.
An innerspring crib mattress is excellent at keeping its shape, thus its extended durability. The reason is that the coils inside the innerspring mattress help keep the child’s weight more evenly distributed so the mattress keeps its shape better. The truth of the matter is that there are good options for both foam core and innerspring mattress types. You just need to look for the right features needed in your house.
What Is The Safest Mattress For Your Child?
The safest mattress for your child is one that meets safety standards, such as many crib mattresses designed specifically for infants and toddlers, and considering factors like crib sheet fit, researching crib mattresses thoroughly, and potentially opting for a double-sided mattress that can be used throughout the toddler years.
How High Should Crib Mattresses Be For A Newborn?
For a newborn, the baby’s crib mattress should be at its highest level possible. The baby’s crib mattress should be lowered as the baby develops and learns how to roll over and sit up. Then, once it gets to time for a toddler bed, you’ll want the bed to be super low to the ground.
How To Choose The Right One For Your Baby?
If you’re looking for the best crib mattresses, there are many ways to choose one. Do your research on websites that list the best baby products and see if there’s a mattress that’s a good fit for your situation.
Choose a baby-safe crib mattress with a snug fit, organic latex, and breathe-thru technology, avoiding synthetic latex for a softer toddler bed transition.
Can You Reuse A Crib Mattress?
You can, but you need to make sure it’s safe. How do you know if it’s safe or not? Many of the manufacturers, such as Safety 1st, make mattresses that are double-sided, meaning they’re meant to be used with an older child. In this case, you’ll certainly be reusing yours. But, using it with another baby, there are a couple of ways to find out.
- The mattress should have firmness and be able to handle you putting your hand on it, regaining the shape afterward. If the mattress doesn’t seem firm and doesn’t seem to be that resilient, you may want to put that mattress away.
- Look at its frame. Is there anything that looks broken? For example, the support bar should look strong. Feel the springs. Do they stick up? If so, that’s a problem. The mattress frame should be intact and not have any problems whatsoever. If you suspect that there is a problem, then you shouldn’t use it.
- How clean is the mattress? If it’s not waterproof, then you may want to think about the turmoil it’s gone through. The previous owner may have peed all over it or made other types of messes. Your mattress should be as clean as possible.
- It needs to fit. To ensure it fits properly, one thing you can do is put a couple of fingers in between. If they fit in a snug manner, the mattress is the correct size. If you can put another finger in there, this means the mattress may not be the right size.
You should buy a new crib mattress, but if you have to buy used, use these techniques to ensure that your mattress is as good as possible.
How Thick Should The Cradle Mattress Be?
The mattress should be no more than an inch and a half thick.
Are They Toxic?
Some brands of mattresses do contain chemicals that you may want to avoid. Here are some additives to watch out for.
- Vinyl or PVC. It is a human carcinogen, and it’s used primarily for waterproofing. A waterproof crib sounds nice, but there’s a good chance that you won’t need this in the end. If your mattress contains this, watch out.
- Polyurethane foam. If you have a foam mattress, it may contain this. One of its biggest concerns is that it’s flammable.
- Flame retardants may be toxic as well. These are known as PBDE or TDCPP, and they have connections to all sorts of negative effects.
If you’re a bit worried about this, you must get an organic crib mattress or a premium foam crib mattress without any toxic chemicals. Look for the best organic mattress, and make sure there aren’t any additives that seem a bit problematic. Choosing a mattress covered with best organic cotton is a good idea. Organic cotton is safer and can be well blended to make it softer.
Can Babies Sleep On A Memory Foam?
Memory foam mattresses may work wonders for you, but for a baby, the mattress should be firm to avoid injury and to allow the baby to develop their movements. Your best bet is to have a super firm mattress that’s covered in hypo-allergenic organic cotton.
When Should I Move My Baby’s Crib Down?
Lower your baby’s crib a notch or a half notch when the baby can sit up. It usually occurs around the 5-8 month stage. You can go to the lowest once your baby can pull themselves up without any assistance.
What Is The Right Crib To Prevent SIDS?
What To Avoid When Buying A Mattress?
When buying a mattress, avoid ones that lack breathability, especially for a mini crib mattress, toddler crib mattress, and breathable crib mattress, whether they’re made of foam or innerspring mattress, and ensure proper fitting for crib sheets.
What Material Should A Mattress Be Made Of?
A mattress should be made of high-quality innerspring mattress, materials like CertiPUR-US certified foam, organic cotton filling, or breathable mattresses fabric for the entire mattress, including full-size crib mattress, double-sided mattresses, and other crib mattresses, ensuring comfort and safety.
How Long Is A Mattress Good For?
Is It Safe For A Baby To Sleep On A Regular Mattress?
It is safer for a baby to sleep on a crib mattress with breathable material, like many mini crib mattresses, equipped with a washable cover, such as Newton Baby mattresses, to ensure safety and comfort. You may also research crib mattresses for the best option. You should also consider the crib mattress breathability.
Last Updated on April 29, 2023 by Raymond Sy Tamco
DISCLAIMER (IMPORTANT): This information (including all text, images, audio, or other formats on FamilyHype.com) is not intended to be a substitute for informed professional advice, diagnosis, endorsement or treatment. You should not take any action or avoid taking action without consulting a qualified professional. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions about medical conditions. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here a FamilyHype.com.