Overview
Remember: To reduce the risks of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) and sleep-related infant deaths, the AAP recommends room sharing – you sleep in the same room as your baby but without bed-sharing. They sleep in a bassinet, co-sleeper, or crib. Is a mini crib mattress better than a full-sized crib mattress? (1)
While standard, full-sized crib mattresses are strictly regulated (especially for their dimensions), mini crib mattresses have some leeway. They can come in different sizes and shapes. The main rule is that non-standard cribs must be sold together with a perfectly fitting mattress (the gap between the pad’s edges and the crib sides must never exceed ½ inches at any point). (2)
However, mini crib mattresses can be sold on their own. It’s essential, though, to ensure that the mattress fits the crib. So, you can’t use a mini crib mattress in a regular-sized crib.
How big is a crib mattress? Which mini crib mattresses are safe for your baby, and what are the factors to consider when choosing one? Can crib bumpers and pillows make an infant more comfortable?
We’ll answer these crib-related questions below and also share some of our top picks for the five best mini crib mattresses for your little one.
Are Mini Cribs A Good Idea & What Are The Benefits Of Choosing A Mini Crib Mattress?
Yes, mini cribs can be useful. They’re much smaller than traditional ones, creating a solution for limited spaces. Even if you have plenty of space, they’re also handy because they’re usually portable, and you can move them from room to room. (3)
Mini cribs are usually more budget-friendly than bigger cribs, can store easily, and can be a better option for a bassinet, which your baby can only use for about a month or two. Think of a mini crib as an upgrade for a bassinet but with fewer perks than a full-sized crib.
Mini cribs and mattresses come in varied sizes and shapes but are usually around
Here’s an example from Newton Baby:
What Age Is Good For A Mini Crib?
Since most mini crib mattresses are about 38” long, they’ll likely be good up to the time your baby transitions to a toddler bed.
Most toddlers move from a crib to their own bed at around 18 months to three years old. About a third of toddlers make the switch between 18 months and two years old. Although babies grow differently, most are around 36” (girls) and 37” (boys) by age two. (5)(6)
However, some toddlers are taller than others, and you might outgrow the mini crib mattress before they’re ready for a toddler bed (minimum age: 15 months). You might need to get a full-sized crib when that happens.
Also, some babies are more active than others and could climb out of their cribs earlier than expected.
Here are some real-life experiences from parents on Reddit: (7)
Quality & Safety Certifications For Mini Crib Mattresses
Aside from fitting perfectly in the cribs, here are some mini crib mattress certifications to consider for your baby’s added safety:
- GREENGUARD Gold Certified – Low chemical emissions, especially for toxic VOCs (volatile organic compounds), including formaldehyde, which can trigger asthma and might even cause nasopharyngeal cancer (8)(9)
- GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) Certified – Global textile processing standard for organic fibers (10)
- GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard) Certified – Global standard for organic latex products (11)
- CertiPUR-US Certified – Foam certification program that tests for formaldehyde, heavy metals (e.g., mercury, lead, etc.), ozone depleters, chemical flame retardants, and phthalates; also certifies for low VOC emissions (12)
Key Points: Our Top 5 Mini Crib Mattresses
- Organic Dream 5” Organic Cotton Mini Crib Mattress – GREENGUARD Gold Certified, hypoallergenic, and organic dual-stage mini crib mattress with breathable organic cotton cover (includes 100-night guarantee)
- Newton Baby Mini Crib Mattress – GREENGUARD Gold Certified breathable, dual-stage, and machine-washable air core mattress (includes 100-night sleep trial)
- DaVinci Complete Slumber MINI Crib Mattress – GREENGUARD Gold certified lightweight mini crib mattress with a 25-year warranty and a hypoallergenic, waterproof, and tear-resistant cover
- Sealy Antibacterial Mini Crib Mattress – GREENGUARD GOLD Certified hypoallergenic, antibacterial (hospital-grade surface), portable, and budget-friendly mini crib mattress with a waterproof cover
- LA Baby 3″ Soy Foam Mini/Portable Crib Mattress Pad – CertiPUR-US Certified antimicrobial and dust mite-proof mini crib mattress with an organic cotton top layer and waterproof cover
NOTE: All these products are made in the USA and are free from chemical flame retardants.
Continue reading to learn more about these mini crib mattresses.
Organic Dream 5” Organic Cotton Mini Crib Mattress
Pros & Best Features
- Special Features: Hypoallergenic and organic mini crib mattress
- Age Recommendations: Dual-stage (with infant and toddler sides)
- Weight/Height Limits: Not indicated
- Design & Construction Features: Breathable mattress with breathable organic cotton cover
Safety Features
- Materials & Type: Air core made of food-grade polymer and 100% certified organic cotton
- Firmness: Firm for the baby side, soft for the toddler side
- Breathability: Yes
- Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold Certified
- Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty, with a 100-night guarantee
Other Features
- Dimensions: 38” x 24” x 5”
- Weight: 8.1 lbs
- Care Options: Machine-washable removable cover
- Made In: USA
Recalls
- None
Cons & Downsides
- Some customer complaints about sagging even with a new mattress
What Customers Say
“Love the mattress – it’s a good 5inch depth with firm surface for baby. Breathable! ( I smushed my face in it and could breathe easily).” – Reviewer on Amazon
“I’ve used this mattress for my 11 month old for exactly 1 month now and it’s already caving in. I’m so disappointed.” – Reviewer on Amazon
Newton Baby Mini Crib Mattress
Pros & Best Features
- Special Features: Dual-stage, machine-washable air core mattress
- Age Recommendations: Baby and toddler
- Weight/Height Limits: Not indicated
- Design & Construction Features: Soft, eyelet removable cover
Safety Features
- Materials & Type: Wovenaire core made of 10% food-grade polymer and 90% air; free from lead and phthalates
- Firmness: Firm
- Breathability: Yes
- Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold Certified; meets CPSC, ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials), and the Australian Firmness Standards
- Warranty: 100-night sleep trial
Other Features
- Dimensions: 37.75” x 23.75” x 3”
- Weight: 9 lbs
- Care Options: Washable mattress and cover
- Made In: USA
Recalls
- None
Cons & Downsides
- Some complaints about gassing off
- Can be pricey
- Isn’t recommended for use with a waterproof cover because that can reduce the mattress’s breathability
What Customers Say
“Breathable, washable, and RECYCLABLE! Talk about peace of mind.” – Reviewer on Newton Baby
“Horrible chemical smell literally made my head hurt and I couldn’t imagine how my daughter felt about it.” – Reviewer on Amazon
DaVinci Complete Slumber MINI Crib Mattress
Pros & Best Features
- Special Features: Lightweight mini crib mattress with a 25-year warranty
- Age Recommendations: Babies
- Weight/Height Limits: Not indicated
- Design & Construction Features: Includes a hypoallergenic, waterproof, and tear-resistant cover
Safety Features
- Materials & Type: High-density polyester fiber fill
- Firmness: Extra firm
- Breathability: Not indicated
- Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold certified
- Warranty: 25 years
Other Features
- Dimensions: 37.00” x 24.00” x 4.50”
- Weight: 3.75 lbs
- Care Options: Removable cover
- Made In: USA
Recalls
- None
Cons & Downsides
- Not a dual-side mattress
- Some complaints about denting and being hot
What Customers Say
“This mattress fits snugly in the mini crib – just perfectly. I am glad for the waterproof nature and was pleased to learn what Greenguard Gold Certified meant and was present in this mattress.” – Reviewer on DaVinci Baby
“Baby has been sleeping on this mattress for about a month now. he’s 12lbs and there is already a very noticeable dent in the middle where he sleeps. this mattress runs hot.” – Reviewer on Amazon
Sealy Antibacterial Mini Crib Mattress
Pros & Best Features
- Special Features: Hypoallergenic, antibacterial (hospital-grade surface), portable, and budget-friendly mini crib mattress
- Age Recommendations: Babies
- Weight/Height Limits: Not indicated
- Design & Construction Features: Includes a waterproof cover
Safety Features
- Materials & Type: Hypoallergenic core made with sustainable materials
- Firmness: Firm
- Breathability: Yes, with airflow pockets
- Certifications: GREENGUARD GOLD Certified; also passes CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act) and ASTM crib mattress safety tests
- Warranty: One year
Other Features
- Dimensions: 38” x 24” x 2”
- Weight: 3.6 lbs
- Care Options: Removable cover
- Made In: USA
Recalls
- None
Cons & Downsides
- Not dual-sided
- No reviews yet, so you can’t find a comparison with other parents’ experiences
What Customers Say
- No reviews yet
LA Baby 3” Soy Foam Mini/Portable Crib Mattress Pad
Pros & Best Features
- Special Features: Antimicrobial and dust mite-proof mini crib mattress with an organic cotton top layer and waterproof cover
- Age Recommendations: Babies
- Weight/Height Limits: Not indicated
- Design & Construction Features: Non-toxic and non-allergenic
Safety Features
- Materials & Type: CertiPUR-US Certified soy foam core
- Firmness: Firm (offers extra support to your baby’s developing spine)
- Breathability: Not indicated
- Certifications: CertiPUR-US Certified
- Warranty: One year
Other Features
- Dimensions: 24″ x 38″ x 3”
- Weight: 5 lbs
- Care Options:
- Made In: USA
Recalls
- None
Cons & Downsides
- Some complaints about sagging
What Customers Say
“It’s a nice thickness to it and it’s firm, but soft. I love the cover it comes with too. We didn’t have any issue with weird smells.” – Reviewer on Amazon
“After using it with my infant for 2 months I noticed that the area of the mattress where my baby’s head typically lays was sunken in.” – Reviewer on Amazon
Summary & Recommendations
These mini crib mattresses are made in the US, meet safety standards, and are free from toxic fire retardants. Here are our recommendations on how to choose the right one for your baby:
Choose Organic Dream 5” Organic Cotton Mini Crib Mattress if you’re looking for:
- GREENGUARD Gold Certified dual-stage mini crib mattress
- Hypoallergenic and organic
- Breathable organic cotton cover
- 100-night guarantee
Choose Newton Baby Mini Crib Mattress if you don’t mind the high price tag and prefer:
- GREENGUARD Gold Certified dual-stage air core mattress
- Breathable
- Machine-washable mattress
- 100-night sleep trial
Choose DaVinci Complete Slumber MINI Crib Mattress if you want:
- GREENGUARD Gold Certified lightweight mini crib mattress
- Hypoallergenic, waterproof, and tear-resistant cover
- 25-year warranty
Choose Sealy Antibacterial Mini Crib Mattress if you like:
- GREENGUARD GOLD Certified budget-friendly mini crib mattress
- Hypoallergenic, antibacterial, and hospital-grade surface
- Portable
- Waterproof cover
Choose LA Baby 3″ Soy Foam Mini/Portable Crib Mattress Pad if you prefer:
- CertiPUR-US Certified mini crib mattress
- Organic cotton top layer
- Waterproof cover
- Antimicrobial and dust mite-proof
Safety Guidelines For Buying & Using Mini Crib Mattresses
Try To Avoid Second Hand Mini Crib Mattresses
Although you can save money by getting a second hand mini crib mattress, they aren’t guaranteed 100% safe. It might expose your baby to hidden dangers like mold, mildew, or dust mites.
Unless you can inspect the mattress before buying, you might receive one with sagging, lumpy, dirty, or other potentially unsafe sections.
You might also miss a recall announcement. Often, manufacturers or retailers directly contact buyers only.
Choose Firm & Flat Surface
The AAP recommends putting your little one to sleep on a firm, flat surface. Avoid soft and memory foam mattresses. (1)
Keep Your Baby’s Crib Empty
Never put crib bumpers, pillows, blankets, and stuffed toys in your baby’s crib. They can increase your baby’s suffocation risk. (1)
Always Put Your Baby To Sleep On Their Back
The AAP also recommends putting your baby on their back when sleeping. Although they might eventually roll over when they know how, at around 4+ months, the supine position is still the safe option. (1)
Guide On When To Lower Your Baby’s Crib Mattress
Here’s a handy guide from one of Cleveland Clinic’s pediatricians, Laura O’Connor, MD: (13)
Double-Check Before Flipping Your Baby’s Mattress
Infants need to sleep on a firm, flat surface. However, some crib mattresses are two-sided – the firm side is for babies, and the softer side is for toddlers. So, always double-check to ensure you’re using the firm mattress side up for your infant.
Factors To Consider: How Do You Choose A Mini Crib Mattress?
Size & Fit For Mini Crib Mattresses
Does Size & Fit Matter?
Yes. Mini crib mattresses are sold in different sizes. What’s important is that you get the one that perfectly fits your baby’s crib, with the gap not exceeding ½ inches at any point. (2)
The gap must be as small as possible to reduce the risk of your baby getting trapped and suffocating in it.
What Is The Right Thickness For A Mini Crib Mattress?
The CPSC doesn’t have a standard for the mini crib mattress’s thickness. However, it must have a thickness that meets the following measurements or distance in relation to the crib: (2)
- At the highest position/setting: At least 3 inches from the mattress top to the crib side’s top or end panel
- At the lowest position/setting: At least 20 inches from the mattress top to the crib side’s top or end panel
Firmness & Density Of Your Mini Crib Mattress
A mini crib mattress must be firm to reduce suffocation risks. Your baby must not “sink” into the mattress because this can cause suffocation. Avoid “memory foam” and other soft mattress types. (2)
Flexibility & Portability
Unlike regular-size crib mattresses, the minis are usually portable and more flexible. Most are made of lighter materials (such as foam) and are generally thinner (around 3-4 inches).
Choosing Safe Materials
Organic Mini Crib Mattress
Organic mattresses are free from toxic chemicals and are made from natural ingredients, such as the following: (14)
-
Organic cotton
-
Organic wool
-
Organic latex
Although organic products are often more expensive than traditional products, they can offer a safer sleep space free from toxic materials.
However, even non-organic mini crib mattresses can be safe for babies. Manufacturers might recommend airing the mattress for at least a week to eliminate off-gassing smells. Check the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Other Mattress Materials
- Coconut coir
- Innerspring
- PLA – Polylactic acid
Free From Toxic Chemicals
- Polyurethane foam and flame retardants – Mattresses with a foam core are common, but they might contain toxic chemicals like formaldehyde, lead, and flame retardants (14)(15)
- Vinyl & PVC (polyvinyl chloride) – Often used for water-resistant or waterproof covers, these toxic chemicals can affect the male reproductive system, causing possible irreversible problems with normal sex function and testosterone production as adults; avoid products with vinyl covers and parts (15)(16)
Other Safety & Special Features
Breathable Mattress & Crib Cover
Some mini crib mattresses are marketed as “breathable,” which might have better airflow to reduce “rebreathing” (inhalation of exhaled carbon dioxide instead of oxygen). The AAP doesn’t prohibit their use as long as they meet the CPSC safety standards. (17)
Anti-Allergy & Hypoallergenic Materials
Some mini crib mattresses can also offer peace of mind because they’re allergen-free. For example, if your baby has latex allergies, you can find a product free from this material.
Odor & Stain-Resistant Cover & Waterproof Mattress
A waterproof mattress can last longer, especially with a removable, machine-washable, stain-resistant cover. It can also protect your baby from mold and mildew that can grow in frequently damp areas (especially if there’s spilled milk or urine). Instead of vinyl, consider products made of polyethylene. (15)
No Recalls
Baby product recalls are often due to safety concerns, such as a crib mattress’s failure to meet the federal flammability standards or the AAP’s “Safe Sleep” guidelines.
If your baby’s mini crib mattress is recalled, stop using it immediately. Even if the product looks okay, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Mattress Lifespan, Quality, Durability, & Value For The Money
Ideally, your baby’s mini crib mattress will last until they’re ready for a toddler bed to get the best value for your money. This isn’t always the case because they’re smaller than standard crib mattresses.
However, it’s also a good idea to get a high-quality mattress durable enough to withstand constant use and occasional spills or blowouts.
Types: What Kind Of Mini Crib Mattress Is Ideal For Babies?
Flippable & Double-Sided Mini Crib Mattresses
For a dual-firmness mattress, it’s okay for the toddler side to be ultra-soft, but make sure your baby uses the firmer side.
Innerspring Mini Crib Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses have steel coils (must be wrapped in cloth to prevent accidents), making them more durable and longer-lasting than foam mattresses.
Other Specialty Mini Crib Mattresses
Air-core mattresses (such as Newton Baby) offer breathability. The inner parts are made of fibers interwoven to provide stability and structure but with gaps to let air pass through.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Some crib mattresses, such as Newton Baby, are surprisingly machine-washable.
We recommend getting a removable cover that you can replace and wash regularly. This helps keep your baby’s sleep space safe and clean and also extends the life of your mini crib mattress.
How Should I Clean My Baby’s Mini Crib Mattress?
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations
FAQs
Where Should I Place My Baby’s Mini Crib Mattress?
- A space in your room or your baby’s nursery with the least disturbance (consider one that isn’t under direct light)
Is It Better To Get A Dual-Sided Mini Crib Mattress?
- Depends on your baby’s needs
- Remember that mini crib mattresses are smaller; your baby might outgrow them before it’s time to flip to the toddler side
Bonus: Other Crib Products
Mini Crib Mattress Covers & Protectors
- Joey + Joan Waterproof Mini Crib Mattress Protector
- Sealy Waterproof Protection Fitted Toddler & Baby Mini Crib Mattress Pad Cover
- American Baby Company Waterproof Fitted Porta & Mini Crib Mattress Protector
Full-Sized Baby Crib Mattresses
- Emily Natural Crib Mattress (read our review here)
- Colgate CuddleSnooze Foam Superior Crib Mattress
- Avocado Eco Organic Crib Mattress
- Graco Premium Foam Crib & Toddler Mattress
- Delta Children Serta Perfect Start Dual Sided Baby Crib & Toddler Mattress
- Babyletto Pure Core Crib Mattress
- Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer Crib Mattress
- Dream On Me Snuggles Breathable Extra Firm Fiber Portable Crib Mattress
Mini Cribs
- Babyletto Origami Mini Portable Crib
- Graco Teddi 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib
- DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib
- Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Baby Crib with Mattress
- Dream on Me Aden 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib
- Stokke Sleepi mini
Recent Baby Product Recalls & Safety Warnings
Stay informed with the latest news by signing up for our regular Motherhood Community recall alerts so you never miss an important recall.
Check these comprehensive lists of product recalls by category:
- Crib recalls (up to 2023)
- Stroller recalls (2020 to 2023)
- Recalled toys list (2020 to 2023)
- Baby formula recall (2001 to 2023)
- Baby food recall (2015 to 2023)
- Pacifier recall (2019 to 2022)
- Baby wipes recall (2014 to 2022)
References
(1) https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/150/1/e2022057990/188304/Sleep-Related-Infant-Deaths-Updated-2022?autologincheck=redirected
(2) https://www.cpsc.gov/Business–Manufacturing/Business-Education/Business-Guidance/Non-Full-Size-Baby-Cribs
(3) https://www.newtonbaby.com/blogs/hush/mini-crib
(4) https://www.cpsc.gov/Business–Manufacturing/Business-Education/Business-Guidance/Crib-Mattresses-Business-Guidance-and-Small-Entity-Compliance-Guide
(5) https://www.sleepfoundation.org/children-and-sleep/when-to-switch-to-toddler-bed
(6) https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/g/normal-growth
(7) https://www.reddit.com/r/beyondthebump/comments/tm4njs/how_long_did_baby_use_mini_crib/
(8) https://www.ul.com/services/ul-greenguard-certification
(9) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2854792/
(10) https://global-standard.org/the-standard
(11) https://www.controlunion.com/certification-program/gols-global-organic-latex-standard/
(12) https://certipur.us/what-is-certified-foam/
(13) https://health.clevelandclinic.org/when-to-lower-crib-mattress
(14) https://www.cbsnews.com/essentials/are-organic-mattresses-worth-it/
(15) https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news/2023/08/mattress-chemicals-you-could-be-sleeping
(16) https://www.ecocenter.org/phthalates–toxic-chemicals-vinyl-plastic
(17) https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/150/1/e2022057991/188305/Evidence-Base-for-2022-Updated-Recommendations-for?autologincheck=redirected