A baby mattress is a haven for your infant, cradling and nourishing their growth and well-being. You can’t fully nurture your young one if you don’t have a comfortable sleeping place and environment for him/ her. And ordinary bedding just won’t do. You need the best baby mattress, one that will love and comfort your child the same way you do!
When it comes to our babies, their comfort and security are our utmost concern. We don’t want to do anything that will hinder these two aspects, because they are crucial to their healthy growth. And having the best baby mattress is an essential component in achieving that.
Although leaving our children unattended is very unlikely, there are some rare instances where we have to leave them in their cribs. There are times when we want to rest because we are tired after a long days work, or need to catch our breathe between chores. And as much as we may want to, we can’t watch them around the clock, as we need to sleep too. After all, we need all the energy in the world to cater the needs of our babies.
During these times, having the top rated baby mattress will save us from a lot of worries. If you have the right bed for your child to lie on, you can be sure that your little one is safe and comfortable.
These days, there are lots of commercials featuring companies that claim that they are the “best” brands for a baby mattress. And while they may not be bad, odds are, they aren’t the best, as this is a marketing stunt used to promote their products. That;s okay- but not for our babies. We don’t want to settle for less, especially when the comfort and security of our infants are on the line.
Fortunately, this article will show you how to choose the best mattress for your child. We also included a list of the finest baby beddings to give your little one the ultimate sleep experience. You need the best baby mattress, right? So read on!
What is a baby mattress?
Contents
- 1 5 Top-rated Baby Mattress Selection
- 1.1 1. Sealy Soybean Foam-Core Crib Mattress (Our BEST Seller)
- 1.2 2. Safety 1st Heavenly Dreams White Crib Mattress (Best Choice for Money)
- 1.3 3. My First Mattress Mattress Premium Memory Foam Crib Mattress with Removable Waterproof Cover
- 1.4 4. Graco Premium Foam Crib and Toddler Bed Mattress
- 1.5 5. Dream On Me Spring Crib and Toddler Bed Mattress
- 1.6 Benefits of having the best baby mattress
- 1.7 Considerations When Choosing a Baby Mattress
- 1.8 Taking Care of a Baby Mattress
- 1.9 How to Clean a Baby Mattress (From Urine)
- 1.10 How to Clean a Baby Mattress (From Poop)
- 1.11 Compliance Standards for Baby Mattress
- 1.12 SUMMARY
A baby mattress is a large pad with cushions, usually used to support the reclining bodies of children when they are sleeping. Most of the time, mattresses are the ideal support system for children who cannot stand yet.
When it comes to construction, there are a lot of varieties for a baby mattress. They come in natural fibers, anti-allergy fillings, and foam spring interiors; Some brands even combine two or more of these features.
Regardless of what you choose, there are four essential aspects that you should always consider when buying a mattress. Here they are:
- They should be firm but not rough
- Can perfectly fit the crib without any gaps
- Doesn’t snag easily
- Have no signs of damages (such as wear and tear)
If you take heed on these four features, picking the right baby mattress won’t be hard. There are still some other important considerations when choosing one, which we will discuss later.
5 Top-rated Baby Mattress Selection
When it comes to a baby mattress, we can only settle for the best. The following mattresses that we are going to feature possess all the necessary qualities that would make them a comfortable haven for your little angels.
1. Sealy Soybean Foam-Core Crib Mattress (Our BEST Seller)
When it comes to baby mattresses, nothing can beat the Sealy Soybean. This particular crib mattress is extra firm but still lightweight, which makes it easy to transport wherever you want. As the name of this product suggests, it has soybean oils integrated all over its padding, enabling the surface of this foam to be smooth and waterproof!
Aside from being waterproof, this mattress is also stain-proof. So, if your baby has frequent leaks with his/ her diapers, the cover of this bed will prevent it from soaking through.
In addition, this mattress uses material pockets on its corners so that air can freely circulate inside. This feature makes the foam more breathable than those that are using plastic and metal vents. Aside from that, the material pockets prevent the mattress from leaking stale air or smelling during an extended period of use.
One of the things you’ll love about the Sealy Soybean Foam Core is that it emits no chemicals, making it GREENGUARD Children & Schools certified. This means that Sealy Soybean is 100% safe for your children to sleep on,creating quality indoor air and healthy sleep surroundings for your baby.
Do we need to mention that the Sealy Soybean Foam-Core Crib Mattress was named America’s Best For Baby Mattress and Bedding in 2014? That’s how trustworthy this product is!
Pros:
- Waterproof and stain proof
- Lightweight and highly supportive
- Can fit any standard cribs
- Firm and durable
- Easy to wash
Cons:
- If you cover it with tight crib sheets, its corners will get rounded
2. Safety 1st Heavenly Dreams White Crib Mattress (Best Choice for Money)
If you are on a tight budget but still looking for a quality mattress for your baby, then the Safety 1st Heavenly Dreams is your best choice.
Despite being inexpensive, this mattress displays impressive features, especially for babies with sensitive skin. Constructed using hypoallergenic materials, babies can sleep and relax without getting rashes or skin irritations.
The imported materials used for this mattress, high-density thermo-bonded fiber core, allows it to provide more support and stability, giving your baby form, but comforting support. This means not only will it last after repeated use, but it can stand up to bouncing and rocking motions without sagging or deteriorating.
Lightweight and sturdy, this mattress can grow with your child, making it a smart and solid investment. Also, it has a vinyl cover, making it waterproof and easy to clean: just wipe it down and it’s done.Finally, the Safety 1st Heavenly Dreams White Crib Mattress is GREENGUARD GOLD certified, which makes it as a 100% safe and healthy sleeping space for your baby. This product has contains no harmful lead or phthalates, too!
Pros
- Firm and lightweight
- Durable and sturdy; can last for a long time
- Waterproof surface
- Easy to clean
- No harmful chemicals present
Cons
- This mattress may be too short for standard cribs
3. My First Mattress Mattress Premium Memory Foam Crib Mattress with Removable Waterproof Cover
Looking for a baby mattress whose firmness can last long? If so, the My First Mattress Premium is the right choice for you. The quality of its materials makes it an ideal resting haven for your child that can be used into their toddler years.
This mattress is made with CertiPUR-US certified polyurethane foam, making this bedding firm but still flexible and lightweight. Moreover, this feature enables the product to provide quality support and cushioning, which are both essential to infants.When it comes to the health of your child, this mattress contains no harmful chemicals. It is hypoallergenic (contains no chemicals or elements that can cause allergies) and is free from harmful lead and phthalate. Better yet, its entire construction is protected by antimicrobial properties and is mite-proof!
The plush velour cover of this bedding is waterproof and can be removed if you want to clean it. Take note: It is only machine washable!
Also, the materials used in My First Mattress Premium exceed both the US Federal Flammability Standard and the CPSC Standard.
Pros:
- Firm and durable
- Passed CSPC and US Federal Flammability standards
- Hypoallergenic and safe for your babies
- Waterproof cover is removable
- Ten years guaranteed warranty
Cons:
- Some users report that this mattress has a strong smell
4. Graco Premium Foam Crib and Toddler Bed Mattress
The Graco Premium Foam Mattress is an excellent choice if you are looking for a thick and firm bedding for your infant. With a dimension of 52 inches (length) x 27.6 inches (width) x 5 inches (height), we guarantee that this mattress can provide quality support and adequate cushioning.
This mattress sports a water-resistant inner lining beneath the surface so that it can prevent diaper leaks from penetrating throughout the foam, which is 100% waterproof anyway.
Made with protective features, like anti-microbial and anti-static properties, it passed the US Federal Flammability standards. The Graco Premium Foam Mattress has no lead and phthalates both of which are hazardous to your child’s health.
It can fit any standard size cribs and is very easy to carry since it is lightweight. If you are not using it, it has a box in which you can store this mattress; It can be even be decompressed so that you can store it in its box or any compartment when you want.
Pros
- Can be stored in a small compartment or box
- Waterproof surface and water-resistant lining
- Thicker than other mattress brands
- Have protective features
- Passed US Federal Flammability standards
Cons
- You need to expand this mattress before you can use this. Expansion time takes at least 48 hours
5. Dream On Me Spring Crib and Toddler Bed Mattress
The Dream On Me brand is already popular when it comes producing high-quality pieces of furniture and amenities for babies, with one of their best sellers being the Spring Crib and Toddler Bed Mattress.
Lightweight and made to fit any standard cribs, it has an interwoven, heat-tempered coil system that provides babies with firmness and support, It also has a 6-gauge steel border wire installed all around the perimeter to add more stability, which means, regardless of your child’s movements, this bedding will remain stable!
The two outer layers of this mattress are hypoallergenic, and padded with additional cushion for added support. Also, it has tight bindings that can deter the development of mold, unwanted odors, and mildew. So not only are your babies comfortable, but their health is protected too!Its entire construction does not contain lead and toxins, plus it is non-flammable, as it passed the US Federal Flammability standards.
Pros
Firm, durable and highly stable
Hypoallergenic and free from toxins
Waterproof and can disperse odors and bacteria
Non-flammable
Lightweight and can fit any standard cribs
Cons
Warranty only covers defects
Benefits of having the best baby mattress
For protection and safety – Babies are sensitive and frail as they develop early on, especially in terms of their bones. They can easily be hurt or harmed if they don’t have an adequate support system that can nourish their growth. And for that reason, a firm, secure mattress is a must.
For comfort – We want our babies to feel as much pleasure as they can when they are small. They should not feel any itchy or rough sensations that could create rashes on their skin. If they experience these unwanted conditions, they will get restless and unhappy. And we all know how our babies respond to these pesky stimulants: by crying. So for their peace of mind, and yours, a good mattress is essential.
For their personal space – If you are going to buy a mattress, you are also going purchase a crib. It is useless if you select a mattress without a crib that can contain it. After all, mattresses are essential to give our babies the space they need to move freely. If you put them on the same bed that you are sleeping, the risk of them getting rolled over, or falling off, is high. And you don’t want this happen.
Considerations When Choosing a Baby Mattress
When choosing a mattress for your infant, there are key factors that you must take a look at. These components are essential to choosing a bed that is suitable and comfortable for the needs of your baby.
Materials
The contents of the crib define its overall performance. Just like the food we eat, if it has inferior ingredients, it will be less than satisfactory.
When it comes to the materials, the cover of the mattress should be one of your top priorities. Make sure that it can protect the mattress core from getting damaged. Aside from that, it should be able to prevent the insides of the mattress from wearing down and falling apart.
There are various types of covers for beds that you can opt for. Some are made with a strengthened nylon to reduce the formation of holes and tears. Other covers are designed to be waterproof so that leaking diapers won’t soak the mattress. One of the benefits of having a waterproof mattress is that it can be easily washed. Most often, waterproof covers are removable, and that’s why washing them is an easy task.
Firmness of the mattress
Many parents ask us: “Why do you want us to buy a firm mattress when a soft one would be more comfortable for our baby?” Well two reasons: safety, and proper development.
A firm mattress is safer than those that are soft. The reason for this is that beddings that have soft construction have higher chances of suffocating your baby. Even the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development suggested that a mattress should be firm and has fitted sheet cover.
In fact, soft beds are one of the leading causes of SIDS (Sudden infant death syndrome). n addition, firm mattresses give your child’s muscles and bones the support needed to grow properly. So, if you are a concerned parent, better choose those beddings that are firm.
It is easy to determine if a mattress is soft or not. Just press hard its middle portion. When it bounces back to its original form, then it is firm. If you notice that it conforms to the shape of your hands and takes long to return to its initial form, leave that mattress.
Hypoallergenic
You need a mattress that won’t trigger allergies in your baby or cause your little ones to develop pesky skin conditions. If your child has been diagnosed with asthma or skin allergies, don’t let him/ her rest on a mattress that is not hypoallergenic.
Ventilation
Air vents should be present to the mattress that you will choose. They are not only there for comfort and breathability, but they have other important functions as well.
Air vents help in the circulation of air inside the bedding. This air drastically reduces the chance of odors and molds to build up inside your baby mattress.
Flammability
We don’t want to imagine the worst, but sometimes, we have to to be properly prepared. For instance, what if there is a fire that razes your house? Did you know that textiles like foam and beddings are quick to catch fire?
That’s why you need to select a mattress that can resist fire to some extent. This means that when it gets contact with fire, it shouldn’t burn quickly.
Taking Care of a Baby Mattress
You need to know how to maintain the mattress of your child to preserve its quality and longevity. Not to mention, it saves you money!
Rotating the mattress
Each season, you should flip your baby’s mattress so that the bottom will be at the top. In the same manner, do this process again once the season changes.
This practice helps in regulating the stability and firmness of your mattress. It prevents the bed from wearing and sagging down.
Putting covers
Directly exposing your baby to the mattress will quickly wear out its surface. Moreover, leaks will quickly penetrate the insides of your bedding if there is no protective covers.
How to Clean a Baby Mattress (From Urine)
Things you need:
- Baking soda
- Vacuum cleaner
- Enzyme cleaner
- Clean cloth
1. Smoothly wipe the remaining urine with the use of the cloth. Make sure that you don’t exert too much pressure so that the liquid will not go further into the mattress.
2. Spray the urine with an enzyme-based cleaner and wipe it smoothly with a cloth. This type of cleaners is ideal for breaking the uric acid in urine.
3. Afterwards, sprinkle the wet area with baking soda. Let it dry overnight.
4. To remove the baking soda, use a vacuum but do it gently.
How to Clean a Baby Mattress (From Poop)
Things you need:
- Spoon
- Old rags
- Enzyme cleaners
- Spray bottle
- Vinegar
- Latex gloves
1. Be brave. Wear latex gloves and pick up only the solid poop. Cover it in paper and throw it into a suitable trash can. The remaining poop should be scraped using a spoon. Unpleasant, but necessary.
2. Spray the “damaged” area with an enzyme-based cleaner. Let it dry for 10 minutes.
3. Wipe the area with the old rags. If necessary, you need to scrub the area a bit harder so that you can eventually remove the poop stain.
4. Spray a dash of vinegar to the area so that you can effectively kill the smell of the poop.
5. When it comes to drying, you can either let it air dry or use a fan and let its breeze remove the liquid.
In any of these situations, having a mattress cover and sheets will prevent this!
Compliance Standards for Baby Mattress
The Federal regulations 16 CFR 1632 and 1633, as ordained by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), state that all baby mattresses should pass the flammability standards.
Moreover, the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) specifies that the following contents should be not present, or at on a minimum level.
Lead – Baby mattresses should contain not more than 100 parts per million (ppm) of lead. Lead is a harmful element that can intoxicate children of 12 years old and below.
Phthalates – Under the child care article, a baby mattress should not contain more than 0.1% of DEHP, DBP, and BBP (variants of phthalates). These three are already banned. Before them, the DINP, DIDP, and DnOP were the first to get banned because of their harmful effects on the health of infants.
Manufacturers of baby mattresses should have a third-party CPSC-accredited laboratory to test their products.
Furthermore, these manufacturers are required to put a permanent label on their products and its packaging that indicates every detail of manufacturing.
On the other hand, the IPSA has released a safety standard for the proper size of crib mattresses. Included in this specification is some regulations that would require manufacturers to ensure that the foam of their beddings is firm to prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SDIS).
SUMMARY
It takes a lot when it comes to nurturing our infants. They are fragile, little creatures that need extra care and attention. For this reason, having the best baby bed mattress will give parents an advantage, providing a comfortable sleeping environment for their young ones. Futhermore, read other tips to help your baby sleep better on beddingstock.
