The 10 Best Crib Mattresses & Their Top Features

Overview

Each year, as many as 4,000 babies unexpectedly die in the US from accidental suffocation, SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome), and unknown causes. (1)

What’s alarming is that, according to the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission), they have received at least 494 incidents relating to crib mattresses, including 139 fatalities, between January 2010 and April 2021. (2)

According to the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), many of the reported deaths were of babies who suffocated on their infant sleep positioners, mattress, pillows, or various items inside their cribs. (1)

A lot of these babies were placed on their backs to sleep but rolled over and accidentally suffocated on thick materials in their sleeping environment. (1)

What kind of mattress is best for your baby, how thick should it be, and do they fit in all cribs? Is there a difference in crib mattresses, and at what age can your baby sleep on a soft mattress?

Continue reading to get answers to your questions, mama.

What’s The Best Mattress For My Baby’s Crib?

To reduce suffocation and strangulation risks, the “Safe Sleep” guidelines of the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) recommend putting your baby to sleep on a firm, flat surface such as a tightly fitting crib mattress placed in a safety-approved crib. (3)

This crib mattress should be covered by a fitted sheet, with no other bedding, blankets, or pillows placed inside the crib.

For added safety, the AAP doesn’t recommend mattress toppers in the sleeping areas of babies younger than one year.

Because they’re soft and adjustable, mattresses or mattress covers with memory foam are strongly discouraged.

Mattress size matters, depending on your crib or sleeping surface. For example, use only mini crib mattresses for a mini crib and a standard crib mattress for a standard-sized crib.

Considering that babies spend most of their time sleeping, it’s best to pick a GREENGUARD Gold-certified crib mattress. Products with this certification have low emissions of harmful chemicals, including formaldehyde and other VOCs (volatile organic compounds).

It’s also ideal to choose GREENGUARD Gold-certified furniture for the rest of your baby’s nursery.

You might also want to pick CertiPUR-US certified products which are free from other toxic chemicals (e.g., phthalates, formaldehyde, and flame retardants).

Others opt for those with OEKO-TEX certification, which means that the product is free from harmful chemicals.

Plenty of parents also prefer buying non-toxic, organic GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified or GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard) certified products.

Our Top 10 Choices For The Best Baby Crib Mattresses

All these 10 baby crib mattresses have GREENGUARD Gold certification:

• Newton Baby Breathable (Original) 2-Stage Crib Mattress ($299.99) – 100% hypoallergenic, allergen-free, and breathable mattress made from 10% food-grade polymer and 90% air

• Babyletto Mini Crib Mattress (Pure Core) With Hybrid Waterproof Cover ($129) – Hypoallergenic mini crib mattress with a removable fitted cover made with food-grade polyethylene

• My Green Mattress Emily Organic Crib Mattress ($299) – GOTS and GOLS organic certified standard crib with OEKO-TEX-certified Dunlop latex resistant to dust mites, mold, and mildew

• Sealy Soybean Foam-Core Crib & Toddler Mattress ($129.99) – Budget-friendly CertiPUR-US certified soybean foam mattress

• Bundle Of Dreams Eco-Air Crib Mattress ($179.99) – Hypoallergenic and 100% breathable crib mattress made from eco-friendly materials

• Colgate Eco Classica III Crib Mattress ($244.99) – Hypoallergenic crib mattress with a certified organic cotton cover and durable food-grade waterproofing

• Lullaby Earth Healthy Support Innerspring (Waterproof) Baby Crib & Toddler ($219) – Lightweight (7 lbs) crib mattress made of food-grade polyethylene and polyester

• Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer Dual-Sided Crib Mattress ($199.99) – CertiPUR-US certified foam mattress with a medical-grade, flexible, four-way stretch-knit cover

• Graco Premium Foam Crib & Toddler Mattress ($149.99) – Lightweight (7 lbs) and breathable CertiPUR-US certified foam mattress

• Avocado Luxury Organic Crib Mattress ($1,379) – Luxurious, handmade, and GOTS-certified organic crib mattress with 170 organic cotton-wrapped, handmade coils and a 25-year limited warranty

Continue reading to learn more about these crib mattresses for your little one.

1. Newton Baby Breathable (Original) 2-Stage Crib Mattress

Price

• $299.99

What Makes It Special

• GREENGUARD Gold Certified 2-in-1 full-size crib mattress that can be used as a toddler bed
• 100% hypoallergenic, allergen-free, and breathable mattress
• Patented Wovenaire core made from 10% food-grade polymer and 90% air
• No metal or steel coils
• Designed to last through your baby’s toddler years
• Eco-friendly and recyclable parts
• 100-night free trial

Key Features

• Material: Food-grade polymer and eco-friendly natural viscose material made from reconstituted wood pulp

• Product Safety: Free from toxic chemical fire retardants, foam, glue, latex, lead, phthalates, memory foam, and metal springs

• Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold, CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission), ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials), and Australian Firmness Standard

• Size: 52” x 28” x 5.5”

• Age Or Weight Limit: Up to 130 lbs

• Standard Or Mini Crib Mattress: Standard size

• Sleep Trial: 100-night sleep trial

• Breathable: Yes, 100%

• Waterproof: No, but a waterproof cover is available (sold separately)

• Machine-washable: Yes (low heat setting for the dryer)

• Warranty: Lifetime-limited warranty for the crib mattress and 2-year limited warranty for the crib mattress pad

Product Recall

• None

Cons

• It isn’t organic.
• The breathable material lets air and most liquids (such as pee) pass through the mattress, possibly causing a big mess.
• The waterproof mattress protector can help contain messes, but it can make the crib mattress less breathable. So, these protectors are advisable only for babies older than one year.

Brand’s Other Crib Mattresses

• Standard Size Crib Mattress (Essential): $249.99
• Standard Size Crib Mattress (Waterproof): $349.99
• Mini Crib Mattress (Essential): $199.99

2. Babyletto Pure Core Mini Crib Mattress With Hybrid Waterproof Cover

Price

• $129

What Makes It Special

• GREENGUARD Gold Certified, hypoallergenic mini crib mattress
• Hybrid waterproof quilted cover (soft cotton cover on baby’s face and a PVC-free* waterproof lining)
• Removable fitted cover made with food-grade polyethylene
• Lightweight (4 lbs)
• Eco-friendly, fully recyclable parts
• Fire barrier using polyester and modacrylic

* PVC means polyvinyl chloride, a toxic material often used to manufacture plastics

Key Features

• Material: 100% recyclable polyester core

• Product Safety: Free from chemical flame retardants, synthetic latex, polyurethane, soy foam, allergens, PVC, PFCs (perfluorochemicals), and dyes

• Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold Certified, ASTM, and CPSC

• Size: 37.50” x 23.50” x 3.00”

• Age Or Weight Limit: Up to 149 lbs

• Standard Or Mini Crib Mattress: Mini

• Sleep Trial: None

• Breathable: Breathable polyester layers

• Waterproof: Yes

• Machine-washable: Yes

• Warranty: 10 years for the mattress; one year warranty for the cover

Product Recall

• None

Cons

• Some complaints about the extra firm mattress being too hard and uncomfortable for their babies to sleep on
• It’s a smaller, mini crib mattress, which isn’t actually a downside unless you accidentally bought this thinking it’s a standard-sized crib mattress.

Brand’s Other Crib Mattresses

Pure Core

• Crib Mattress (Pure Core) with Dry Waterproof Cover ($189)
• Bassinet Pad with Dry Waterproof Cover ($79)
• Crib Mattress with Smart Water Repellent Cover ($189)
• Crib Mattress with Hybrid Quilted Waterproof Cover ($199)

Coco Core (With Naturally Firm Coconut Core)

• Mini Crib Mattress with Smart Water Repellent Cover ($199)
• Crib Mattress with Dry Waterproof Cover ($269)
• Crib Mattress with Smart Water Repellent Cover ($289)

3. My Green Mattress Emily Organic Crib Mattress

Price

• $299

What Makes It Special

• GREENGUARD Gold-certified crib mattress made of organic materials
• GOTS and GOLS organic certified standard crib
• GOTS-certified organic cotton
• GOTS-certified organic wool
• GOLS-certified organic coconut coir
• OEKO-TEX-certified Dunlop latex
• Firm, heavy-duty innerspring with supportive edges
• Made from eco-friendly, sustainably sourced materials
• Naturally cool latex resistant to dust mites, mold, and mildew
• 120-night sleep trial

Key Features

• Material: Organic coconut coir, organic cotton, organic wool, and latex

• Product Safety: Free from chemical flame retardants and polyurethane foam

• Certifications: CPSC, GREENGUARD Gold, GOTS, GOLS, and OEKO-TEX certified

• Size: 27 ¼” x 52” x 6”

• Age Or Weight Limit: 50 lbs

• Standard Or Mini Crib Mattress: Standard

• Sleep Trial: 120-night sleep trial

• Breathable: Yes

• Waterproof: No

• Machine-washable: No

• Warranty: 10 years

Product Recall

• None

Cons

• It has metal innersprings.
• It has materials made of latex, which can cause a reaction in those allergic to latex. Watch out for latex allergy symptoms, including sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, runny nose, scratchy throat, wheezing, cough, and difficulty breathing. (4)

Brand’s Other Crib Mattresses

• None

4. Sealy Soybean Foam-Core Crib & Toddler Mattress

Price

• $129.99

What Makes It Special

• GREENGUARD Gold Certified soybean foam mattress
• CertiPUR-US certified
• Thick, embossed waterproof cover
• Eco-friendly, renewable material sources
• Lightweight (8.3 lbs)
• Mattress also fits toddler bed frames

Key Features

• Material: Soybean foam core (high-density polyurethane foam with natural soybean oils)

• Product Safety: Free from lead, phthalates, flame retardants, and other harmful chemicals

• Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold Certified, CertiPUR-US certified, CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act), and ASTM

• Size: 51.63 x 27.25 x 5 inches

• Age Or Weight Limit: Toddler years (0-4 years old)

• Standard Or Mini Crib Mattress: Standard

• Sleep Trial: None

• Breathable: Not indicated

• Waterproof: Yes

• Machine-washable: No, water-resistant covers are designed to be wiped clean and air-dried

• Warranty: Lifetime warranty

Product Recall

• None

Cons

• Some customers complain that despite having a soybean foam core, this product still contains 76% polyurethane foam with 24% blended fiber batting (cotton, rayon, and polyester), as stated on the label.

Brand’s Other Crib Mattresses

Some of the brand’s crib mattresses:

Butterfly Collection

• Sealy Butterfly Breathable Knit Crib and Toddler Mattress ($109.99)
• Sealy Butterfly Cotton Comfort Superior Firm Crib and Toddler Mattress ($119.99)
• Sealy Butterfly Posture Support Crib and Toddler Mattress ($99.99)
• Sealy Butterfly Waterproof Crib and Toddler Mattress ($99.99)

Hybrid Mattress Collection

• Sealy Baby Posturepedic Grace 2-Stage Hybrid Crib and Toddler Mattress ($149.99)
• Sealy Celestial Cool Antibacterial 2-Stage Hybrid Crib and Toddler Mattress ($99.99)
• Sealy Cozy Cool Hybrid 2-Stage Coil & Gel Crib Toddler Mattress ($199.99)
• Sealy Healthy Dream Hybrid 2-Stage Crib and Toddler Mattress ($179.99)
• Sealy Naturalis Hybrid 2-Stage Crib and Toddler Mattress ($179.99)
• Sealy Posture Perfect 2-Stage Hybrid Crib and Toddler Mattress ($99.99)

Innerspring Mattress Collection

• Sealy Cozy Rest 2-Stage Crib and Toddler Mattress ($64.99)
• Sealy Baby Firm Rest Antibacterial Crib and Toddler Mattress ($89.99)
• Sealy Baby Posturepedic Evolution 2-Stage Crib and Toddler Mattress ($129.99)
• Sealy Baby Posturepedic Grow 2-Stage Crib and Toddler Mattress ($129.99)
• Sealy Baby Prestige Sleep 2-Stage Antibacterial Crib and Toddler Mattress ($79.99)
• Sealy Baby Stargazer 2-Stage Crib and Toddler Mattress ($149.99)
• Sealy Baby Ultra Rest Antibacterial Crib Mattress ($79.99)
• Sealy Brilliant Nights 2-Stage Crib and Toddler Mattress ($79.99)
• Sealy Cotton Comfort 2-Stage Crib Mattress ($129.99)
• Sealy Cotton Cozy Rest 2-Stage Crib and Toddler Mattress ($129.99)
• Sealy FlexCool 2-Stage Crib and Toddler Mattress ($129.99)
• Sealy Nature Couture Cotton Bliss 2 Stage Crib and Toddler Mattress ($149.99)
• Sealy Ortho Rest 2-Stage Crib and Toddler Mattress ($59.99)
• Sealy Ortho Rest Crib and Toddler Mattress ($59.99)
• Sealy Perfect Rest Crib and Toddler Mattress ($79.99)
• Sealy Posture Haven 2-Stage Crib and Toddler Mattress ($99.99)
• Sealy Precious Rest Crib and Toddler Mattress ($69.99)
• Sealy Premier Posture 2-Stage Crib and Toddler Mattress ($99.99)

5. Bundle Of Dreams Eco-Air Crib Mattress

Price

• $179.99

What Makes It Special

• GREENGUARD Gold-Certified crib mattress
• Hypoallergenic and 100% breathable
• Eco-friendly and recyclable materials
• Dual firmness mattress (firm side for babies and softer for the toddler side)
• Water-repellent, certified organic cotton cover

Key Features

• Material: Bundle fiber with memory technology

• Product Safety: Free from foam, chemical flame retardants, VOCs, and other harmful chemical emissions

• Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold

• Size: ‎52 x 28 x 5 inches

• Age Or Weight Limit: Up to three years old

• Standard Or Mini Crib Mattress: Standard

• Sleep Trial: 120-day guarantee

• Breathable: Yes

• Waterproof: Yes

• Machine-washable: Yes, cover only

• Warranty: Lifetime warranty

Product Recall

• None

Cons

• Some complaints about the mattress being too soft and bouncy

Brand’s Other Crib Mattresses

• Bundle of Dreams Classic Crib Mattress ($229.99)
• Bundle of Dreams Mini Crib Mattress ($159.99)

6. Colgate Eco Classica III Crib Mattress

Price

• $244.99

What Makes It Special

• Hypoallergenic crib mattress
• GREENGUARD Gold-certified, CertiPUR-US certified, and CPSIA compliant
• Dual firmness mattress (firm side for babies and softer for the toddler side)
• High-density EcoFoam on the baby side
• Less-firm EcoFoam on the toddler side
• Certified organic cotton cover
• Durable food-grade waterproofing
• Eco-friendly foam mattress

Key Features

• Material: Eco-friendly foam material made with sustainable plant oils

• Product Safety: Free from phthalates, harmful emissions, and chemical fire retardants

• Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold, CertiPUR-US, and CPSIA

• Size: 27 ¼” x 51 ⅝” x 6”

• Age Or Weight Limit: Not indicated

• Standard Or Mini Crib Mattress: Standard

• Sleep Trial: None

• Breathable: Not indicated

• Waterproof: Yes

• Machine-washable: Not indicated

• Warranty: Conditional warranty to the original purchaser as long as they own the mattress

Product Recall

• None

Cons

• It contains foam materials.

Brand’s Other Crib Mattresses

Some of the brand’s crib mattresses:

CuddleSnooze Collection

• Cuddlesnooze Hybrid Superior ($349.99)
• Cuddlesnooze Innerspring Superior ($329.99)
• Cuddlesnooze Foam Superior ($299.99)
• Cuddlesnooze Hybrid Grand ($249.99)
• Cuddlesnooze Innerspring Grand ($229.99)
• Cuddlesnooze Hybrid Premier ($199.99)
• Cuddlesnooze Foam Grand ($199.99)
• Cuddlesnooze Innerspring Premier
• Cuddlesnooze Foam Premier ($129.99)

Eco Collection

• Natural I Crib Mattress ($419.99)
• Eco Visco Classica Crib Mattress ($309.99)
• Colgate Eco Spring 2-N-1 Crib Mattress ($299.99)
• Eco Spring Ultra II Crib Mattress ($229.99)
• Eco Classica I Crib Mattress ($189.99)
• Eco Foam Supreme Crib Mattress ($129.99)

Classica Collection

• Visco Classica Crib Mattress ($249.99)
• 2-n-1 Crib Mattress ($199.99)
• Ultra II Crib Mattress ($189.99)
• Classica III Crib Mattress ($169.99)
• Colgate Classica I Crib Mattress ($164.99)
• Little Aristocrat I Crib Mattress ($129.99)

zenBaby Collection

• zenBaby Luxe Crib Mattress ($319.00)
• zenBaby Hybrid 2-In-1 Crib Mattress With Kulkote ($279.99)
• zenBaby 2-Stage Crib Mattress With Kulkote ($219.99)

7. Lullaby Earth Healthy Support Innerspring (Waterproof) Baby Crib & Toddler

Price

• $219

What Makes It Special

• GREENGUARD Gold-certified standard-sized crib mattress
• UL (Underwriters Laboratory) formaldehyde-free verified
• Patented waterproofing technology against spit-up, urine, or other messes
• Lightweight (7 lbs)
• Uses a patented WaveSupport core to make the mattress lighter
• Reinforced edge support
• Dual firmness (firmer side for babies and soft, cushiony toddler side)

Key Features

• Material: Food-grade polyethylene and polyester

• Product Safety: Free from flame retardant chemicals, formaldehyde, PFCs, pesticides, glues, adhesives, GMOs (genetically modified organisms), polyurethane foam, and vinyl or PVCs

• Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold-certified, UL formaldehyde-free verified, and MADE-SAFE certified (free from harmful chemicals that can harm human health)

• Size: 27 ¼” x 51 ⅝” x 6”

• Age Or Weight Limit: Not indicated

• Standard Or Mini Crib Mattress: Standard

• Sleep Trial: 30-day money-back guarantee

• Breathable: Not indicated

• Waterproof: Yes

• Machine-washable: No, designed to be wiped clean with mild detergent

• Warranty: Lifetime limited warranty

Product Recall

• None

Cons

• Some complaints about the crib mattress easily sagging after a few months of use

Brand’s Other Crib Mattresses

• Breathe Safe Breathable Crib Mattress 2-Stage ($279)
• Breathe Safe Breathable Mini Crib Mattress ($199)

8. Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer Dual-Sided Crib Mattress

Price

• $199.99

What Makes It Special

• GREENGUARD Gold-certified standard-sized crib mattress
• CertiPUR-US certified foam
• Dual-sided crib mattress with reinforced seams
• Hypoallergenic, odor and stain-resistant, and waterproof performance fabric cover
• Medical-grade, flexible, four-way stretch-knit cover
• Woven fire barrier without toxic, spray-on fire retardant chemicals

Key Features

• Material: Foam infused with plant oils

• Product Safety: Free from harmful emissions and fire retardant chemicals

• Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold and CertiPUR-US

• Size: 27.5” x 52” x 5”

• Age Or Weight Limit: Not indicated

• Standard Or Mini Crib Mattress: Standard

• Sleep Trial: None

• Breathable: Not indicated

• Waterproof: Yes

• Machine-washable: No, only wipe clean with a clean, damp sponge (don’t use bleach, diaper wipes, or harsh chemicals)

• Warranty: Lifetime product warranty

Product Recall

• None

Cons

• This product contains foam materials.
• Some complaints about the mattress easily sagging after a few months of use

Brand’s Other Crib Mattresses

Dreamer Collection

• Luxury Dreamer Crib Mattress ($234.99)
• Little Star Crib Mattress ($269.99)
• SleepyTyme Crib Mattress ($119.99)

Starlight Collection

• Starlight Shimmer Crib Mattress ($224.99)
• Starlight Supreme Crib Mattress ($294.99)
• Starlight Sparkle Crib Mattress ($349.99)

Mini Collection

• Little Dreamer Mini Crib Mattress ($129.99)

9. Graco Premium Foam Crib & Toddler Mattress

Price

• $149.99

What Makes It Special

• GREENGUARD Gold-certified
• CertiPUR-US certified foam mattress
• JPMA certified (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association)
• Firm, breathable foam mattress core
• Water-resistant, machine-washable outer cover
• Lightweight (7 lbs)

Key Features

• Material: 100% polyurethane foam and 100% polyester outer cover

• Product Safety: Free from toxic emissions

• Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold, CertiPUR-US, and JPMA

• Size: 52”x 27.6”x 5

• Age Or Weight Limit: Not indicated

• Standard Or Mini Crib Mattress: Standard

• Sleep Trial: None

• Breathable: Yes

• Waterproof: Yes

• Machine-washable: Yes (outer cover)

• Warranty: Six-year limited manufacturer’s warranty

Product Recall

• None

Cons

• This product is made of foam.
• Some complaints about the mattress not expanding to full size and sagging after a few months of use

Brand’s Other Crib Mattresses

• None

10. Avocado Luxury Organic Crib Mattress

Price

• $1,379

What Makes It Special

• Handmade in Los Angeles using certified organic materials
• GREENGUARD Gold-certified standard-sized mattress with organic, absorbent mattress pad protectors
• GOTS-certified organic crib mattress
• 100% GOTS certified organic cotton, wool, hemp, and latex-infused coconut fiber pad
• MADE-SAFE certification
• Formaldehyde-free verification by UL Environment
• STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX Class 1 certification
• Two-stage flippable design with reinforced coco-fiber perimeter
• 170 organic cotton-wrapped, handmade coils
• Eco-friendly
• Climate Neutral Certified manufacturing process (no carbon emissions)

Key Features

• Material: Organic certified latex foam, unbleached organic cotton cover, organic certified hemp pads, and organic certified coco-fiber perimeters

• Product Safety: Free from off-gassing toxic chemicals, fiberglass, pesticides, dyes, polyurethane foams, memory foams, latex blends, chemical adhesives, vinyl, and chemical flame retardants

• Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold, GOTS, ASTM, CPSC, and MADE-SAFE

• Size: 28” x 52” x 6” plus 28” x 52” x 0.5” for the mattress pads

• Age Or Weight Limit: Up to four years old

• Standard Or Mini Crib Mattress: Standard size

• Sleep Trial: 100-night sleep trial

• Breathable: Yes

• Waterproof: Moisture-resistant

• Machine-washable: Not indicated

• Warranty: 25-year limited warranty

Product Recall

• None

Cons

• It’s several times more expensive and heavier than most crib mattresses.
• Some complaints about sagging after a few months of use

Brand’s Other Crib Mattresses

• Avocado Eco Organic Crib Mattress ($349)
• Avocado Organic Crib Mattress ($439)

Summary & Recommendations

Choose Newton Baby Breathable (Original) 2-Stage Crib Mattress ($299.99) if:

• You prefer a 100% hypoallergenic, allergen-free, and breathable mattress made from 10% food-grade polymer and 90% air

Choose Babyletto Pure Core Mini Crib Mattress With Hybrid Waterproof Cover ($129) if:

• You want a hypoallergenic mini crib mattress with a removable fitted cover made with food-grade polyethylene

Choose My Green Mattress Emily Organic Crib Mattress ($299) if:

• You prefer GOTS and GOLS organic certified standard crib with OEKO-TEX-certified Dunlop latex resistant to dust mites, mold, and mildew

Choose Sealy Soybean Foam-Core Crib & Toddler Mattress ($129.99) if:

• You want a budget-friendly CertiPUR-US certified soybean foam mattress

Choose Bundle Of Dreams Eco-Air Crib Mattress ($179.99) if:

• You prefer a hypoallergenic, 100% breathable crib mattress made from eco-friendly materials

Choose Colgate Eco Classica III Crib Mattress ($244.99) if:

• You prefer a hypoallergenic crib mattress with a certified organic cotton cover and durable food-grade waterproofing

Choose Lullaby Earth Healthy Support Innerspring (Waterproof) Baby Crib & Toddler ($219) if:

• You’re looking for a lightweight (7 lbs) crib mattress made of food-grade polyethylene and polyester

Choose Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer Dual-Sided Crib Mattress ($199.99) if:

• You like a CertiPUR-US certified foam mattress with a medical-grade, flexible, four-way stretch-knit cover

Choose Graco Premium Foam Crib & Toddler Mattress ($149.99) if:

• You prefer a lightweight (7 lbs) and breathable CertiPUR-US certified foam mattress

Choose Avocado Luxury Organic Crib Mattress ($1,379) if:

• You want a luxurious, handmade, and GOTS-certified organic crib mattress with 170 organic cotton-wrapped, handmade coils and a 25-year warranty
• You don’t mind the hefty price tag

Factors In Choosing A Crib Mattress

Safety & Breathability: What’s The Best Thing For A Newborn To Sleep In?

SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) is a serious risk for babies younger than one year old. So, it’s very important to keep their sleeping environment as safe as possible by following the AAP’s Safe Sleep guidelines:

• Use a firm, flat surface.
• A crib or bassinet is preferable for babies to have a safe space separate from older kids and adults.
• Crib mattresses made with breathable materials are preferred.
• Don’t put anything that could obstruct airflow or your baby’s breathing, including blankets, soft toys, crib bumpers, sleep positioners, and pillows.
• Avoid using inclined sleepers and other products not designed for sleeping, especially those with a sharp incline higher than 10 degrees.

Materials & Certifications

We recommend organic crib mattresses with a GREENGUARD Gold certification because they’re tested and certified to be free from toxic fumes and emissions that could harm your baby.

Other certifications to consider:

• CertiPUR-US certification – free from toxic chemicals (e.g., phthalates, formaldehyde, and flame retardants)
• GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) – for textiles made from natural organic fibers, such as wool, cotton, silk, or bamboo
• GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard) – products refined from natural rubber (e.g., latex foam mattresses)
• OEKO-TEX certification – textiles free from harmful chemicals

Waterproof

These mattresses can last longer because they’re protected from various messes, but they might be less breathable.

Ideal Size & Fit: Do All Crib Mattresses Fit All Cribs?

A full-size crib mattress should have dimensions of 28 inches x 52 ⅜ inches to fit snugly into the standard crib without gaps between the mattress and the crib.

A mini crib mattress should measure at least 38 inches x 24 inches.

While most manufacturers make cribs with these dimensions, some also create other sizes. However, they’re required by law to sell their products with crib mattresses that fit snugly and pass the safety standards.

How Thick Should A Crib Mattress Be?

Mini and standard crib mattresses should have a maximum thickness of 6 inches.

Firmness

A crib mattress should be firm enough to support your baby’s weight, even for prolonged sleeping periods.

It shouldn’t sag or conform to your baby’s body the same way as a memory foam because that could obstruct airflow to your baby’s nose and lead to suffocation.

Adjustable Or Multi-use Options

Babies quickly outgrow their crib, but many budget-savvy parents pick a crib mattress that can also double as a toddler bed.

Many of these mattresses have two different surfaces – a softer toddler side and a firmer baby side.

Cost: How Much Should You Spend?

It depends on your budget. However, you can find good options available at a little over $100, such as the Sealy Soybean Foam-Core Crib & Toddler Mattress at $129.99.

If you want to splurge, the Avocado Luxury Organic Crib Mattress costs $1,379.

Sustainability

Some manufacturers claim that they follow sustainable manufacturing processes to ensure that they produce child-safe, eco-friendly products.

Crib Mattress FAQs

Does My Baby Need A Crib Mattress & Will It Make A Difference To Their Sleep?

The AAP recommends using a crib or bassinet as your baby’s sleeping space so they can have a separate place to sleep from adults or older kids who might accidentally cause them to suffocate.

A firm, flat, and separate sleeping space can reduce their risk of SIDS and help them sleep better and safer.

Is There A Difference In Crib Mattresses?

Yes. Different types of crib mattresses can include:

• Foam-free, spring-free crib mattresses
• Foam mattresses
• Innerspring crib mattresses
• Eco-friendly crib mattresses
• Standard-sized crib mattresses
• Mini crib mattresses

At What Age Can Babies Sleep On A Soft Mattress?

The AAP recommends the Safe Sleep guidelines for babies younger than one year old. So, once they turn one, you can start putting your baby on a soft twin mattress or flip their 2-in-1 crib mattress to the toddler side.

What’s The Best Way To Clean A Crib Mattress?

It depends on your crib mattress. Be sure to read their label.

Many have removable, machine-washable covers, but others can only be wiped clean with a damp cloth with mild detergent.

 

REFERENCES

(1) https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/do-not-use-infant-sleep-positioners-due-risk-suffocation

(2) https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Family/commission-approves-safety-standards-crib-mattresses/story?id=82493485

(3) https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/150/1/e2022057990/188304/Sleep-Related-Infant-Deaths-Updated-2022

(4) https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/latex-allergy/symptoms-causes/syc-20374287