Best Crib Mattress Pads Update 12/2024

Your life is about to become much more chaotic, and it will remain that way for several more years. Your baby’s bodily fluids will find their way to their mattress from places you never would have expected. After spending so much time (and money! ), you probably don’t want to ruin the crib mattress. With the aid of a mattress pad, especially one that is waterproof, the crib mattress can be maintained for use by subsequent infants and toddlers. If you want to make your baby’s crib more comfortable without increasing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), a pad is a great option.

Swaddlez Mini Crib Waterproof Mattress Pad

When it comes to mini-crib waterproof pads, the Swaddlez Mini Crib Pad is your best bet. Invest in a waterproof pad if you plan on using it during the night or during naps. The pad’s outer layer is made of bamboo viscose and it is filled with polyester. Because bamboo is so good at wicking away moisture, your baby can get back to sleep quickly after an accident. After years of use, bamboo still looks as though it were freshly cut. This barrier effectively blocks the passage of bacteria and dust mites. Using this pad, you won’t have to worry about whether or not your infant is sleeping in a clean environment. This mattress topper will fit any standard size mini or portable crib mattress and provide your baby with years of luxurious comfort.

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Complete resistance to any form of moisture. Provides protection from germs and allergens in the air. Highly malleable and comfy. It can be used with any kind of compact or folding bed. Drying it could cause it to shrink, so do so at your own risk.

SureGuard Mattress Protectors

This cover is made to be impervious to moisture, so it can withstand anything from common household spills and stains to mildew, mold, and other allergens. This skirt is made from a lightweight, breathable cotton, and it features an elasticized bottom edge so that it can be used with any standard or king-sized fitted sheet. It has been tested and verified to be free of harmful chemicals, so you can wash it in the washing machine with confidence.

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There are 9 different sizes to choose from. The terrycloth fabric is 100% cotton. 100% waterproof, impervious to dust mites and other allergens The Sealy Baby Crib Mattress Pad with Stain Protection is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. The knit top and quilted filling of the pad make it soft and supportive to sit on, and the pad itself fits snugly to prevent it from shifting around. The elastic edging and stretchy skirt make it easy to fit the pad under your baby’s mattress. This pad was thoughtfully designed with waterproofing and stain-repellent technology in mind, because childhood is full of accidents and messes. If you’re already running behind schedule, it’s good to know that this item can be laundered in a regular washing machine and dried in a conventional dryer.

4 Best Crib Mattress Protector 2022 | BabyCenter

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Size: 52″ x 28″ Waterproof Fully machine washable and dryable soft knit top with quilted padding. Keeping away from stains Security and ease of confinement

Little One’s Pad

Have you had enough of cheap protectors that stop working after a couple of washes? This premium pad has been made to withstand frequent use without losing its clean appearance or functionality. The product should maintain its quality even after being washed and dried in a dryer. To ensure your baby’s comfort and safety, the Little One’s Pad is constructed from four layers of soft, high-quality, non-toxic materials. After consulting with chiropractors and pediatricians, the right amount of filling and a soft, quilted top layer were used to design this cover.

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To scale, it measures 27 by 39 by 3 or 5 inches. Impenetrable in every way Designed to fit and function with travel cribs and playards

Biloban Zippered Crib Protector

This all-encompassing mattress protector guarantees a peaceful night’s sleep. A mattress protector can be zipped over the top of the bed and used to keep allergens and dust mites out of the sleeping area. The top is both waterproof and airy, providing extra security in the area where accidents are most likely to occur, making it ideal for your baby’s comfort and safety. These materials are hypoallergenic, so even babies with sensitivity to synthetics won’t have any problems. The zipper is also hidden, so your child won’t accidentally open it.

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Wrapped up tight in a case. Affordable. Waterproof. Having a large mess makes it even more unlikely that the fabric can be cleaned properly.

Milliard 2-Inch Ventilated Memory Foam Crib and Toddler Bed Mattress Topper

This topper is meant to be placed directly on top of your mattress rather than encircling it. The two inches of high-density memory foam in this topper ensure that it will not lose its shape quickly. A waterproof lid and ventilation holes increase airflow and protect against spills. The memory foam is molded to fit a child’s body, creating a cozy environment conducive to sleep. The risk of SIDS means that soft surfaces should be avoided around infants. A pediatrician should be consulted prior to placing a soft topper on a baby’s crib.

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Hypoallergenic, watertight, and measuring 52 by 27 inches in thickness Certified by CertiPUR-US

Organic Cotton Mattress Pad Protector

These mattress toppers are made from 100% certified organic cotton. Certification in accordance with the Global Organic Textile Standard (1) has been awarded to the business. The reinforced seams of this mattress cover make it extremely durable. It does not contain any harmful materials like bisphenol A, lead, phthalates, or latex. The polyurethane used to create the waterproof pad does not release any harmful gases, making it suitable for use in food preparation environments.

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Made with pride using only certified organic cotton throughout. Made to last. Great for the ease and convenience of baby. It takes some time for things to dry after being cleaned.

Carters Waterproof Fitted Crib Mattress Pad

This pad is made to fit a standard crib mattress and is just as high quality as the rest of Carter’s baby clothes and accessories. Between the mattress and the bottom sheet is a layer of waterproof polyester. You can simply throw it in the washing machine and dryer after each use.

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The dimensions are 28″ x 52″, and it is constructed of a waterproof polyester blend with no visible seams. Fleece-like warmth quilting

PureGrace Crib Mattress Protector

This mattress topper uses Tencel, a fiber extracted from eucalyptus trees. It is better for the environment and doesn’t aggravate allergies like cotton does. Tencel’s added softness is a bonus for your infant. This pad’s generous dimensions make it suitable for use with any conventional mattress. Toxic solvent chemicals are not used in the production of the water-resistant coating. Since there is no BPA, vinyl, PVCs, or phthalates, there is less of a chance of off-gassing, which is good for your baby.

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They don’t aggravate allergies and are easy on the planet. To the extreme of gentleness. Specifically, to go through a machine wash and dry. reduced chemical usage in production. Ten years of protection from the maker. An extravagant option for baby diapers.

Sweaty Tots Crib Mattress Protector

If your child has an accident, this cover will protect them from getting wet and will keep them cozy. The hypoallergenic material used in this product should reduce the number of cases of asthma and allergy symptoms experienced by many people. This pad can be washed and dried in the washing machine, making it easy to care for your baby in a play yard.

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Waterproof, hypoallergenic, and incredibly quiet, this 9″ A-line skirt is made from quilted bamboo and terry fabric and has been officially certified as meeting the rigorous requirements of OEKO-TEX Standard 100.

American Baby Waterproof Pad

This crib mattress protector features a top layer that is completely waterproof. The outer layers of the pad are made from a soft polyester that helps reduce noise caused by the baby’s movements. The convenience of machine washing makes cleanup a breeze. Because of its generously sized pockets, it can be used with a variety of different full-size mattresses. Keep in mind that drying on the manufacturer-recommended ‘tumble’ or ‘delicates’ setting may lengthen the drying process.

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It’s within most people’s price range. Absolutely impenetrable. constructed from a soft fabric. It took a long time to dry.

Margaux & May Waterproof Crib Mattress Protector Pad

Featuring four premium layers and a quilted top crafted from bamboo rayon, this pad by Margaux & May offers the utmost in comfort, luxury, and protection for your baby. This protector has been stitched with reinforced threads to prevent rips and tears and can be machine washed and dried. Your newborn can sleep soundly thanks to the quilted terry top, which is crafted from gentle, noise-reducing materials. The elasticized fabric is tailored for a close fit, ensuring a cozy and secure night’s sleep. Your baby is safe from allergens and bacteria on this hypoallergenic and bacteria-resistant surface. This item is designed to be low maintenance, as it can be washed and dried in a washing machine. Most ”cribs” of that size should be able to accommodate a mattress measuring 52 inches by 28 inches.

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Terry Cloth Made from 100% Waterproof Hypoallergenic Bamboo Rayon Measures 28″ x 52″

American Baby Bassinet Sized Pad

Another top-seller from American Baby, this mattress cover is tailor-made to fit the majority of popular bassinet models. The three-layer design blocks outside noise and provides extra padding for the wearer’s comfort. All of the materials used in its construction are top-notch quality. This pad can be thrown into the washer and dryer if an accident does occur. The elasticized interior and deep pockets make it suitable for use with a wide range of bassinet mattresses.

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It works with the vast majority of bassinet designs. Waterproof. Soft enough for a baby’s skin. that it can be cleaned easily by washing and drying. Affordable. Repeated washings may diminish the product’s quality. Not eco-friendly or organic in any way.

Gerber Water-Resistant Utility Protector Pad

The Gerber Water-Resistant Utility Protector Pad is the best purchase you can make for your baby’s comfort. With this luxurious mattress topper, your kid is guaranteed a good night’s sleep. As a layer between your sheets and mattress, the water-resistant barrier is perfect for keeping your mattress dry from sweat and accidental spills. It can be folded up into a small, convenient package and taken anywhere. It’s suitable for either a baby or an adult’s bedroom. It can be used as a changing mat or on a portable crib because it is water-resistant and easy to clean.

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coating that does not absorb moisture. Fleecy softness, perfect for a newborn. And it folds up, so you can take it with you wherever you go. Put on some fresh threads there. It isn’t completely impervious to water. After a few washes, the pilling becomes obvious.

FAQ

Baby Mattress Pads Overview

These covers will not only keep your baby’s mattress in pristine condition, but they will also protect your newborn from any potential dangers. Many of these products are designed to be hypoallergenic to ensure the safety of your baby from potential allergens. In addition, unlike blankets, pillows, and bumper pads, they add a bit of comfort without compromising security.

Amazon.com : Yoofoss Waterproof Crib Mattress Protector, Quilted Fitted Crib Mattress Pad, Ultra Soft Breathable Toddler Mattress Protector Baby Crib Mattress Cover (52''x28'') : Baby

Cot Bed Protector Types

Each design of pad has its own set of pros and cons. Use a fitted sheet no matter what kind you choose. Use of anything other than a fitted sheet has been linked to SIDS and is not recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.The tiniest conceivable proportionsMini pads are useless because they can only cover a small portion of the bed. These can be recycled or discarded after one use, and they take up less space.FittedGenerally speaking, formats will be presented in a tailored fashion. They are designed to fit snugly around a mattress and have elastic all the way around the perimeter. Many are completely waterproof, and some even have a thin layer of padding for added comfort and security.Lie FlatAnother alternative is to use a mattress topper on top of the mattress (in addition to the fitted sheet). These typically have a cover that can be removed and washed. There is often a layer of comfort foam or another material in these toppers that is unsafe for infants or toddlers under the age of one.

Bed Pads for Crib Safety

You should only buy products that have passed third-party safety testing and are made of non-toxic materials for your child. To guarantee a safe and snug fit, it is important to purchase a mattress in the correct size for your crib and to set it up in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. To avoid suffocation, infants and younger children should not use toppers or particularly thick, cushioned mattresses.

Crib Mattress Protector Key Considerations

While shopping for a crib, as with any other nursery item, there are a number of factors to consider.Being Protected by a Waterproof LayerThere will be spilled milk to mop up and dirty diapers to change. Don’t risk ruining your mattress or losing sleep over it by not having the tools you need to remove stains on hand. A waterproof mattress protector is essential for a baby’s crib. Letting your child’s accidents soak through the top sheet would be an expensive and annoying mistake. A mattress protector can keep liquids out and is highly recommended. You might want to pick up a second pad or two in case the first one gets dirty.Components of NatureIn order to shop with complete peace of mind that the item you’re purchasing does not contain any harmful chemicals, you should prioritize finding products that are made solely from natural materials.CottonCotton is ideal for infants because it is soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic. It can withstand the rigors of the washing machine without showing any signs of wear and tear, and it is tougher than most things.BambooBamboo is great for use with babies and young children because it is hypoallergenic and naturally resistant to the growth of germs. It is easy to keep up and causes little harm to the natural world.SizingBefore making a purchase, double-check the crib’s dimensions to ensure it will fit your baby. Most items will include a recommendation for your size.WarrantyA warranty can give you peace of mind because you will be using this for several years (or longer if you have more than one child).Use of Fireproof Crib Mattress ProtectorsIt is recommended that you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when caring for and maintaining your product. In this section, you’ll find information on how often you should wash it for regular use, as well as how to clean the cover when it gets dirty. In some cases, a simple spot cleaning may be sufficient. Smaller spills only require a quick rinse, but larger ones will necessitate washing and drying the cover before reuse.

Cleaning Tips

Because infants are so susceptible to toxins, you should only use cleaning products that have been specifically labeled as being safe for use around children. Many stains can be removed with just soap and water, or with a mixture of baking soda and water. Many eco-friendly cleaning products have entered the market in recent years, making them ideal for this application. This cover should be washed in a fragrance-free detergent safe for babies. Fabric softeners and dryer sheets contain chemicals that should be kept away from infants. Be sure the pad is completely dry before adhering it back to the mattress.The Benefits of a Crib Mattress ProtectorCovering the baby and the mattress is a win-win situation.Pest and allergen-free guaranteeWhile your child’s immune system is still developing, it’s best to keep him or her away from anything that might cause an allergic reaction. Beds and their linens can quickly become a haven for allergens like dust mites, mold, and mildew if they are not regularly cleaned. In addition to regular mattress cleaning, the use of a cover can provide an extra layer of protection. Products with antimicrobial properties are useful in limiting the spread of bacteria, which thrives in dark, damp environments. Many also work to ward off bed bugs, so you can sleep soundly without an extra blanket. Preventing the Effects of Moisture Most modern pads are watertight, or at least partially so. This will help keep your baby’s bed clean for longer and reduce the risk of mold and bacteria growth. The cleanliness and dryness of your baby’s sleeping space is essential to his or her well-being. It’s important to keep your baby dry, and many of these fabrics can do that. Perhaps this will assist you in putting your infant to sleep at night.Effortless Simplified Cleaning in Substantial Time SavingsOne of these protective covers can be a lifesaver if an accident occurs at 3 a.m. Cleaning the entire bed is unnecessary because the sheet and cover can be removed and washed independently. The amount of time spent cleaning up is cut in half. Still, it may take an hour or more to get a pad clean and dry, which can be a real problem in the wee hours of the morning. Have at least one extra pad and sheet on hand.

Consumer Report

IntroductionAlthough it may seem like a lot of work, picking out a crib mattress is a crucial first step in making your baby comfortable in their new sleeping quarters. Getting a good crib is essential, but so is investing in the best mattress you can afford. What’s in it for me? Your infant will spend a lot of time in his or her crib. It’s hard to believe that your newborn can sleep up to 18 hours a day when you’re up with him or her every few hours. Check the space between the mattress and the crib’s frame to ensure there are no dangerous protrusions. Additionally, a firm mattress is recommended. A one that is too soft may form to your baby’s head or face, which can lead to suffocation or even sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Both foam and innerspring varieties are available for use as baby crib mattresses. To properly support newborns and toddlers, either type will do nicely so long as it is of sufficient quality to not lose its shape too quickly. Of course, there are variants. The typical mattress is made of polyurethane foam, which weighs between 5 and 13 pounds, or about half as much as an innerspring mattress. If your baby sleeps on a foam mattress, you may find it easier to change the sheets by lifting only one corner at a time. With foam’s lack of bounce, it’s less likely that your kid will try to use it as a trampoline as they get older. Maybe it’s because of how common innerspring mattresses are in adult beds, but innerspring-mattressed cribs have remained the standard in the United States.

To Strive for Excellence

No matter what kind of mattress you end up getting, you should look for quality. Cheap foam and innerspring mattress borders and covers are typically made of vinyl, which is thin and prone to cracking, drying out, and ripping over time. More expensive covers often have extra reinforcements like a thicker laminate, triple-layer protection, or ultra-soft organic cotton. A heavier innerspring mattress results from increased steel or a thicker gauge, as well as denser padding. The same holds true for a mattress made of premium, high-density foam. If you’re looking for a new bed, you shouldn’t have to try as many out as the Princess and the Pea did. There is no need to spend more than $190–$200 on your baby’s mattress. Similar to the price range of innerspring mattresses (between $50 and $400 and up), foam mattresses fall into the same price range. One common factor in the higher prices is the use of more expensive materials like organic cotton or latex. Budget-friendly versions may be too soft and flimsy for daily use if they cost less than $90. More expensive models tend to be better made and more reliable.

Just like books, mattress covers can make or break your purchase.

Almost all of a mattress’s worth lies within. Crib mattresses can have a wide range in quality, from soft and cushiony in the store to hard and flat after baby starts using them. Now we know that not even the most reliable stores can promise truthful information from their sales staff. One proponent of innerspring mattresses argued persuasively that they were superior to their foam counterparts because the latter ‘breaks down’ after only a year and a half. Maybe 25 years ago, that was the case, but not today. A high-quality foam crib mattress will last as long as an innerspring crib mattress with typical use, says Dennis Schuetz, director of marketing for the Atlanta-based manufacturer Colgate Juvenile Products Company. That’s because modern foam mattresses for newborns can serve their purpose for a lot longer than in the past.

You need to do some retail therapy right now!

Now that you know what’s out there and at what price points, it’s time to go shopping for a crib mattress so you can see and touch the options in person. Who knows? Maybe there’s just one ideal starting point. The tag. The ingredients used to make the mattress must be listed on the label, as required by law. You shouldn’t buy something if the manufacturer or retailer doesn’t make this clear in the product description, packaging, or elsewhere. It is expected that you will be able to identify the components of each successive layer. When you press down on a mattress, your hand should spring back up immediately. According to Schuetz, the most common mistake is buying a mattress that is more comfortable for the adult than the child. In selecting a crib mattress, it is recommended that you go with one that is firmer than you might like. Babies need more support than adults do, he says, so whatever is cozy for you is likely too soft for your child.

Buy New

Replace the mattress in the crib if at all possible. For starters, the bed’s mattress will be spotless. When purchasing or accepting a used mattress, it is impossible to know the level of care the previous owner gave it or the conditions under which it was stored. Cleaning and drying the crib mattress after each use is essential for preventing the growth of mold and bacteria. For your second child, you can recycle the one you bought for your first by giving it a good washing and storing it in a dry place.

You Should Probably Hide Your Identity

Use a waterproof mattress cover to safeguard the mattress from accidents and ensure the baby’s sleeping environment is as clean and sanitary as possible.

Try It Out, Maybe It Will Work For You

Mattresses for full-size cribs are mandated by law to be at most 6 inches thick and 27 1/4 inches wide by 51 5/8 inches long. To make sure the mattress will fit in the crib, you should look for a store that offers trial sizes. If you can’t fit at least two fingers in between the crib mattress and the walls, it’s too small for the crib.

The Peace of Mind You Can Expect Is Well Worth It

One year, seven years, and even lifetime warranties are available for mattresses. Don’t be duped by an extended mattress warranty, and avoid paying more than necessary. Schuetz argues that warranties are primarily used as a means of encouraging consumers to make additional purchases. A high-quality crib mattress should serve its purpose without needing to be replaced (assuming the cover is not torn). Our team has not tested any of these baby bed mattresses.

Types

As long as it is high quality, it doesn’t matter if you choose an innerspring or foam mattress. Your young child will benefit from the high level of support and shape retention provided by both of these options.InnerspringThe number of layers, materials used, and quality of the cover all contribute to the comfort and cost of an innerspring mattress. This $80 Sealy Perfect Rest mattress has a vinyl cover that can be wiped clean with water. It has border rods for added strength (see Features) and weighs a total of 12 pounds. A vinyl-encased Simmons Kids Pampering Sleep Supreme 234-coil crib and toddler mattress can be had for about the same price (around $150). It is standard for mattresses to have one side that uses foam padding and the other that uses innerspring coils to accommodate infants and young children. To learn how to adjust the level of firmness in your mattress, check out Modularity in Functions.FoamPolyurethane is a common component of these mattresses. The Dream On Me orthopedic firm foam crib mattress, for instance, retails online for around $100, is water-resistant, and weighs only 8 pounds. It costs $70.

Features

Foam Rigidity The best foam mattresses have these qualities: firmness, weight, and durability. Apply force in the middle of the bed and to the side walls. It must not conform to the shape of your hand and must snap back quickly. For a parent, there is nothing more distressing than realizing their newborn is dozing with her head resting on something that will eventually mold to the shape of her skull.

The Foam’s Density You can tell how dense the foam is by checking the weight of the models you’re considering. It may be challenging to find this information in a store, but it is readily available online. In order to determine the mattress’s density, one must pick it up, place their hands on either side of its center, and press their palms together. If you press down too hard on a dense mattress, it will hurt.

Spring-like layers that are separated from one another It’s safe to assume that the better quality and more layers an innerspring mattress has, the more comfortable and supportive it will be. Top-notch mattresses have thicker padding and use heavier gauge steel in the innersprings, both of which add weight to the mattress.

Straps for securing fences A quality innerspring mattress will always have these rods on both the top and bottom. Because of their increased firmness, durability, and strong side and edge support, your baby’s mattress will not sag when he or she stands or moves close to the edge.

Number of Coils and Wall Thickness of the Steel An innerspring mattress’s “coil count,” or the total number of springs or steel coils inside, is often used as a selling point. Although it may seem counterintuitive, a higher number of coils is not always an indication of a more supportive mattress. Colgate Children’s Products’ Dennis Schuetz says that the amount of steel used in the springs, not the number of coils, is the best indicator of a high-quality innerspring mattress. There are innerspring crib mattresses on the market with anywhere from 80 to 280 coils. It’s possible that the 150-coil version provides more comfort than the 200-coil one. Exactly what is going on here? The steel used in the 150-coil mattress might be thicker than that used in the 200-coil mattress. The thickness of crib mattress coils can range from 19 to 12.5 gauge (the lower the number, the thicker the steel). According to Schuetz, the ideal range for the coil count is between 150 and 300. It’s fair to say that somewhere between 135 and 150 is the sweet spot. No higher than 15.5 gauge steel should be used. The Colgate Cradletyme Ultra II 150-coil innerspring crib mattress with border rods and coir fiber costs about $170 and weighs about 22 pounds. (The subsequent paragraphs provide additional information about coir fiber.) The 13.5-gauge steel is wound into 150 coils, and nylon ticking keeps water out while allowing air to circulate and preventing rust. You can see the sequential steps of its construction in this picture.

Insulating Pads for the Heat It is common practice to place an insulator pad on top of the steel coils in a mattress to prevent them from poking through the fabric. Schuetz says the mattress’s insulator is crucial. While a mattress with a cheap insulator may feel fine while you’re trying it out in the store, it may not hold up over time. Excellent insulator pads use coir fiber, which is made from coconut husk strands. Fiber-wrap pads (also known as “rag” pads) are made from compressed fabric scraps. While both coir-fiber and fiber-wrap pads are effective, coir-fiber pads are more expensive. The lowest quality insulator pads are made out of woven polyester. For the same reason they don’t last as long, holes develop in them frequently. The areas where the baby’s weight is greatest cause them to become dangerously concave. According to Schuetz, some manufacturing facilities insulate with hard felt, which is similar to compressed carpet padding (and less expensive than coir fiber). In addition to woven polyester, he notes that some mattresses use cheap plastic mesh insulator pads.

Padding in Several Layers The coils in a mattress are covered with a layer of padding, such as foam, cotton, or polyester. Adding foam and cotton as quality indicators also drives up the cost. Polyester, which is less than ideal because it forms pockets in mattresses, is being used more frequently as a result of the increasing cost of mattress components. Don’t ever buy a mattress without first knowing what’s in it. You can find more information in-store, on the mattress’s tag, or on the manufacturer’s website. If you can’t take apart the mattress and look at the parts before you buy it, you shouldn’t buy it.

Cover The mattress is wrapped in fabric or vinyl from top to bottom. A vinyl cover with perforations can still be quite functional, but fabric allows more airflow. A multilayer vinyl cover can take more wear and tear before ripping or leaking than a fabric cover. Ideally, you want a mattress with a three-ply (triple laminated) cover to ensure that it lasts as long as possible.

Convertibility Convertible mattresses with a dual level of firmness are more expensive, but they can be used from the time your child is in a crib until they are ready for a full-size bed. There’s a softer, baby-friendly side and a more supportive, grown-up side. Some of these beds feature regular foam or springy memory foam on the toddler side. (After your baby’s first birthday, when the risk of SIDS decreases, you can flip the mattress.) There is a water-resistant soft fabric cover on the Sealy Posturepedic Springfree crib mattress that costs $180. One side is made of soybean foam, which is ideal for newborns, and the other side is made of latex foam, which is ideal for toddlers. Be careful not to put convertibility ahead of other features. Your little one may still prefer a mattress that is on the firm side even as he enters the toddler years. After sleeping in a comfier bed, his interest in coming back is likely to wane. A dual-firmness mattress should not be flipped for at least the first few months after purchase.

Ventilation Systems There is no way for liquid to pass through the top of a waterproof mattress. If this is a problem, you may want to look into getting a mattress that has ventilation built right into the design.

A Covering Seal The purchase of a mattress protector is recommended, even if the mattress itself is waterproof. Putting a mattress protector on top of your baby’s mattress will make him or her more comfortable while also eliminating the risk of suffocation. There’s a chance she’ll still feel the cold vinyl mattress cover through the fitted sheet if she doesn’t use one. With a removable and washable waterproof cover, your baby’s mattress will be protected from wet diapers and other accidents. A damp cloth and some mild soap are all that’s needed to clean a crib mattress after it has gotten wet or dirty.

Antimicrobial Armor Manufacturers claim that by using these covers, the growth of mold and bacteria—the primary causes of musty odors—can be mitigated. Do you really need to have that neat accessory? No, absolutely not. Overuse of antibacterials in consumer goods is a cause for concern, say some. There should be no soap and water left on the mattress after an accident involving a baby. The best way to keep the crib mattress clean after use is to store it in a see-through bag, as bacteria can’t grow in the presence of light. Never store it in a damp cellar or a hot, stuffy attic.

Going Organic

Unfortunately, there are no legal standards for the claim, so even though you can find a wide selection of crib mattresses labeled “natural” or “organic,” you still can’t be sure that they weren’t made with potentially dangerous chemicals. For all we know, the cotton used in the covering was grown using organic methods, but that doesn’t make the word “organic” mean anything. Since we haven’t attempted to conduct any kind of test on an organic mattress, we can’t say whether or not it is safer for your baby. If you are concerned about the chemicals used to prevent fire damage, you may feel better about using wool or another naturally flame-resistant material.

The Best Crib Mattress Cover of 2023

Eco-Friendly

A number of renewable and sustainable materials, such as cotton, bamboo, coir, plant-based foam, and natural latex (rubber from tree sap that has been injected with air), go into making an eco-friendly foam or innerspring mattress, as cited by Colgate. There are also fewer carbon emissions generated during the production of some eco-friendly crib mattresses, as pointed out by Dennis Schuetz of Colgate. Several bodies within the industry have come up with their own set of standards. Schuetz maintains that the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute can be trusted to accurately measure product emissions. Unfortunately, there is no industry standardization for what constitutes a “natural” mattress. Parents should inquire specifically about the materials and processes used in the production of each component of a mattress. It’s possible for a mattress to be labeled as “organic” when in fact, only the cover is made from organic materials and the inner fillings are not. Some crib mattresses are sold with the label “natural” or “organic,” even though they contain less than 10% organic content. Schuetz says, “One of the newest mattresses on the market has one layer of organic cotton, but is probably 85 percent plastic,” adding that this is not a Colgate product. In my opinion, this is giving the customer the wrong impression. A mattress that looks and feels natural but is actually covered in vinyl or plastic is also on the market. Then that’s all you need to know, which is fantastic. However, it is still possible to receive an item that isn’t exactly what was advertised; therefore, additional research is warranted prior to making a purchase in this category. Since a mattress must go through additional steps to be made waterproof, “it is not natural or organic,” Schuetz says. Consumers should know that the USDA seal of approval they may see on organic textiles only applies to the cultivation of the fiber and not necessarily to any processing that may have occurred afterward. Those who are label connoisseurs also have the choice of purchasing textiles from European and Japanese labels. The International Oeko-Tex Association issues the Oeko-Tex label to ensure that no harmful chemicals have been used in the production of the fabric. The construction materials and methods are also taken into account. Some mattresses sold in the United States carry the Oeko-Tex label, but it is usually not a reliable indicator of the mattress’s overall safety because it only applies to a small portion of it. The comfort layer of the Colgate Natural I mattress, for example, consists of a combination of coir fiber and natural latex that has been certified as safe by Oeko-Tex. Inquire as to how natural or organic each component is. The value difference can be better assessed if you are familiar with the common usage. Another common standard is GOTS, or the Global Organic Textile Standard. Unfortunately, it hasn’t caught on with the public at large. Fabrics made from natural fibers should adhere to these specifications. A textile product must contain at least 70% organic fibers in order to be certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS).

So Long As

There is usually a price premium when purchasing an eco-friendly mattress over a conventional one. You should check out the current models currently on the market. The cover of the $280 Pure Rest organic innerspring crib mattress (cotton and wool) is made from organic cotton. According to the maker, it complies with federal flammability requirements and features a “chemical-free wool layer” sourced from organically raised sheep. The manufacturer of the displayed Naturepedic No-Compromise Organic Cotton Classic 150 crib mattress claims that the polyethylene plastic waterproof surface is free of vinyl/ PVC, phthalates, lead, and antimicrobial biocides. On average, it costs $260. The non-toxic mattress cover may lessen the risk of poisoning while you sleep. Some green foam mattresses are made with soybeans and other plant oils. One example is the Sealy Posturepedic Springfree, which features a “soy-enhanced” foam core. The mattress’s fabric cover is “wet-resistant,” according to the manufacturer, and it weighs in at a scant 11.9 ounces. The Colgate Eco Classica I Crib Mattress costs $190 and measures 28 inches by 52 inches by 8 inches. It is made from foam “made with plant oils,” has a damask-style cover with a waterproof backing, and can support up to 30 pounds. The following are characteristics of an eco-friendly mattress.

Boundary Cloth

Non-“green” mattresses typically have a vinyl cover. (Vinyl has been used for conventional mattresses for a long time because it is long-lasting, easy to clean, and inexpensive.) Cotton, organic cotton that has not been bleached or dyed, and bamboo yarn are all viable alternatives to plastic for use in coverings. Because its fiber naturally resists the growth of microorganisms and fungi, bamboo is a renewable resource with significant potential. Without a waterproof barrier, such as polyurethane or polyethylene plastic, a mattress can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria from a baby’s wet diaper. Whether or not the organic bed you’re looking at claims to be watertight, you should still use a waterproof pad. The 2 in 1 Organic Cotton Ultra from Naturepedic is ideal for both infants and toddlers because it has a quilted, organic cotton cover on one side and a waterproof, antimicrobial surface on the other. We begin at $400. This company makes both a treated and an untreated version of their crib mattress. Quilted organic cotton deluxe is available for $360.

Mattress protectors that are both watertight and made from organic materials

Almost all of them are made with an organic cotton layer, but the waterproof ones also use polyurethane. You can get a Snoozy Organic Cotton Waterproof Crib Mattress Pad for just $25. The polyurethane coating is guaranteed to keep water out despite the organic cotton construction; the manufacturer notes that it contains none of the toxic chemicals typically associated with plastics.

wool pillowcases

If you prefer not to use a chemical product but still want to safeguard your baby’s mattress, woolen pads can do the trick. Wool pads have been reported by some parents to be only “water resistant,” so use caution. Costing $195, Pure Rest’s fitted organic moisture pad is a great investment for your baby’s crib. The Natura Puddle Pad, an alternative wool pad, retails for about $70.

Multilayered Pads

According to Sealy, the 12-pound Sealy Posturepedic Springfree Soybean & Latex Foam-Core Crib Mattress’s fabric cover is “wet-resistant”. Some mattresses eschew foam in favor of natural latex rubber, which is created from a liquid collected from tropical trees. Some infants may be allergic to latex, but a mattress with latex encased coils may be safe for them. Avoid a latex mattress if you have any doubts about sleeping on one.

Coir

Before the environmental movement, the coils of high-end innerspring crib mattresses were typically covered with an insulator pad made of coir, which consists of shredded and woven coconut shell husks bound with latex adhesive. Similarly, it is now present in other ‘natural’ mattresses, both foam and innerspring. The Colgate Natural 1 ($370) and the Coco Mat ($400) from Natural Mat use coir as the main filling, encasing it in cotton padding, lamb’s wool, or mohair fleece in place of foam or innersprings. Coir mattresses are heavy, but they last a long time and are environmentally friendly.

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