A Comprehensive Guide To Choosing The Perfect Crib Mattress
Posted by Ann on 13th Sep 2023
Choosing The Perfect Crib Mattress
Posted 13 Sep • Ann
When embarking on the journey of selecting the ideal crib mattress for your baby, it's crucial to pay attention to several key features that ensure both safety and comfort. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through these essential considerations.
Size And Fit
Crib Dimensions: Full-size crib mattresses are subject to strict regulations imposed by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). These regulations mandate dimensions of at least 27 1/4 inches in width by 51 1/4 inches in length and a maximum thickness of six inches.
Snug Fit: To guarantee your baby's safety, the mattress must snugly fit within the crib frame, leaving no more than a two-finger gap between the mattress and the crib's edges.
Firmness
The Importance of Firmness: Crib mattresses are intentionally designed to be firmer than adult mattresses, serving as a critical safety measure to mitigate the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Choosing the Right Type: Whether you opt for an innerspring crib mattress with a higher coil count or a foam crib mattress that swiftly regains its shape when pressed, firmness remains paramount.
Double-Sided Options: Many crib mattresses feature a dual-sided design, with one side catering to infants (firmer) and the other side offering a softer surface suitable for toddlers.
Edge Support: Another feature you can look for is extra edge support on the sides of the mattress. This helps keep infants near the center of the mattress and assists toddlers when they are standing so their feet aren't easily caught between mattress and crib bars.
Materials
Cover and Filling: When assessing crib mattress materials, consider both the mattress cover and filling. Is the cover Polyester, Bamboo, Cotton, Tencel, Vinyl? Is it Organic? What is the mattress core made of? Is it breathable?
Ease of Cleaning: Opt for a crib mattress with either an integrated waterproof outer cover or a removable, washable cover for inevitable messes. Some crib mattress, like ergoBean, use a nontoxic water repellent treatment on the cover so it is breathable and washable while making messes easy to clean.
Vinyl Concerns: Some crib mattresses are vinyl-covered, raising concerns about materials like PVC (polyvinyl chloride) containing phthalates. Due to potential health implications, it's advisable to avoid crib mattresses containing PVC.
For Discerning Parents
Certifications And Designations
Dive into the world of certifications and designations associated with crib mattresses, each promising added safety and quality assurances.
GREENGUARD Gold Certification: This certification guarantees compliance with industry standards for low chemical and VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) emissions.
GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): GOTS sets worldwide standards for organic materials, demanding at least 95% organic mattress materials and prohibiting certain substances like polyurethane and chemical flame retardants.
CertiPUR-US Certification: CertiPUR-US certification vouches for foam meeting specific standards for content, emissions, and durability. It signifies low VOC levels, phthalate-free composition, and exclusion of harmful substances.
GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard): GOLS ensures that a latex mattress contains a minimum of 95% organic latex, with stringent regulations for the remaining 5%.
Watching a baby sleep peacefully is perhaps the only thing more comfortable than sleep itself
Sanjana Lagudu
Weight
Practicality Matters: Consider the weight of the crib mattress as you'll frequently be changing sheets. Lighter mattresses simplify the sheet-changing process.
Price
Budget Considerations: While crib mattresses span a wide price range, remember that higher price tags don't necessarily equate to superior quality. Many mid- to lower-priced mattresses offer safety, comfort, and durability within a reasonable budget.
By conscientiously evaluating these features, you'll be well-equipped to select a crib mattress that fosters a secure and comfortable sleeping environment for your baby.