Crib Mattresses: Product Guide & Review of Styles, Features, & Safety

Multi-layer Covers
These are often the best choice.

Allergy-Reducing Cover/Anti-Microbial Layer
To help reduce germs.

High-Coil Count
The higher the count, the firmer the mattress.

Insulator Pad Made of Coir Fiber or Fiber Wrap
This keeps the coils from poking through the cushioning layers of the mattress.

Border Rods
These provide support and durability.

Mattress Cover
Options include fabric or vinyl. Fabric breathes better, but vinyl offers more resistance to stains, leaks, and dust mites.

Ventilation Holes
With a vinyl cover, these holes help air to circulate – the more holes, the better.

The JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association) recommends a standard size of 51 5/8 by 27 inches, and no more that 6 inches thick. Most standard mattresses will fit standard size cribs, but always check just in case!

Mattresses should fit snugly in the crib – no more than a one-inch space between the mattress and the crib. If you can comfortably fit two or more fingers between the mattress and the crib, it’s too big.

The firmer the mattress, the better. Overly soft bedding has been linked to SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).

Choose mattresses that are fire retardant. Many eco-friendly mattresses are naturally fire retardant, meaning no flammable chemicals are used.

Newer is better. Try to avoid hand-me-downs.

Other safety notes to consider:

When choosing sheets for the mattress, look for those that fit securely around the corners.

For babies under 1 year old, use only a fitted sheet with a mattress pad and/or waterproof pad.

Place baby on his or her back to sleep.

For more safety tips, visit the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA).