Finding the Best Crib Mattress for a Peaceful Night’s Sleep

The first year with baby can feel exhausting, but did you know newborns actually sleep for up to 16 hours (or more) per day? As your little one spends such a large portion of their early life asleep in a crib, it’s important to find a comfortable crib mattress that’s reliably safe. Of course, there’s a lot to consider when it comes to buying a crib mattress: Is it made without allergens and harsh chemicals? Is it comfortable? Will it last? And, most importantly, how firm should it be? Here, we answer all of those questions and more—before listing the best crib mattresses for every need.

Types of Crib Mattresses

There are many types of crib mattresses, the option you choose depends on your particular needs and budget. While it’s okay to buy some baby gear second hand, for hygiene reasons it’s best to buy a crib mattress new. Here are the main types to consider:

• Innerspring crib mattress. Like a traditional full-size mattress, this type features sturdy metal coils surrounded by layers of soft padding. This type of crib mattress is durable and holds its shape well. If you opt for an innerspring mattress, check the coil count—this specification refers to the amount of springs inside. Mattresses with a high coil count tend to be more supportive, but they often come with a high price tag.
• Foam crib mattress. Crib mattresses made from polyurethane foam are another great option. This type tends to be affordable, lightweight and easy to clean. The best options are made with a high-density foam, as this creates a firm and supportive sleep surface.
• Double-sided crib mattress. A double-sided mattress offers the best of both worlds. Typically made from foam, this type features a high-density, firm side for infants and a softer side for toddlers that crave a little extra comfort. They tend to be slightly more expensive than a regular crib mattress, but you’ll be able to use them for longer, which may justify the cost. One thing to note is that after changing the crib sheet, you’ll need to be careful about placing the correct side of the mattress facing upwards.
• Breathable crib mattress. A breathable crib mattress (also known as an air-core mattress) is the newest type to hit the market. These mattresses boast a breathable cover and a core made from food grade polymer, a material that allows air to circulate freely.
• Natural fiber crib mattress. Crib mattresses made from natural fibers—like organic cotton, coconut coir, sugarcane and wool—are a good choice if you dislike synthetic materials. However, they tend to be expensive and the options may be limited.

What to Look For in a Crib Mattress

Of course, safety is going to be at the forefront of a parent’s mind when they look for a mattress for their child; who doesn’t want the safest crib mattress they can find for their little one? According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), a crib mattress should have a hard, flat surface that doesn’t indent when baby is lying on it. The sleep area should be free from loose bedding and only contain the mattress with a fitted sheet designed for that particular model. Follow these sleep safety guidelines in order to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), and keep the following tips in mind as you do your research:

• Firmness. It’s important to check how firm a crib mattress is before making a purchase. For safety reasons, infants should sleep on a firm surface that doesn’t indent or contour to the shape of their head when they lie on it. A simple way to test the firmness of a mattress is to press your hand into the center, upon release the mattress should quickly snap back into its original shape. If you can still see an indentation, it’s not firm enough for baby. “It’s important to follow the golden rule for physical safety when shopping for a crib mattress: Go with a firm mattress that fits snugly inside of the crib,” says Ali Alhassani, MD, a pediatrician and head of clinical at Summer Health.
• Density. If you opt for a foam mattress, density is another factor to consider. This unit of measurement refers to the weight of the foam. High density foam mattresses tend to be better quality and more long-lasting. To test the density of a mattress, press the sides to see how pliable it is (denser foam is harder to squeeze).
• Size and fit. Check your measurements to ensure that the mattress will fit snugly inside baby’s crib. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commision (CPSC) sleep safety guidelines, a gap larger than two fingers between the sides of the crib and the mattress can pose a safety risk.
• High-quality materials. Crib mattresses are strictly regulated. But it’s still important to choose products made from top-grade materials. Our advice? Check the product certifications to ensure the mattress is up to par. Greenguard Gold certified items have passed rigorous testing for harmful chemicals. Another certification to look out for is the CertiPUR-US seal, which indicates the polyurethane foam used meets the highest standards for content, emissions and durability.
• Reputability of the company. “Stick to the top brands,” says Gina Posner, MD, a board-certified pediatrician in Fountain Valley, California. “It’s so important to get one that’s tried and true, and from a company that has good safety standards.” Even once your purchase is complete, it’s important to keep tabs on your mattress over time: “Parents should regularly inspect their cribs and mattresses as well as stay updated with safety guidelines to ensure their baby is sleeping in the safest environment possible,” Alhassani adds.

Best Crib Mattresses for Every Need

Not sure where to begin? Don’t sweat it! We’ve done the research and gathered the best crib mattresses on the market, so there’s one less thing to keep you up at night.

How We Chose the Best Crib Mattresses

A crib mattress is an important tool to keep your baby safe and comfortable during sleep. To choose the best crib mattresses, we consulted with two pediatricians for recommendations on the must-have features to look for in these sleep surfaces. We then looked at the most popular crib mattresses on the market, narrowing the field based on elements like quality of materials, construction and design. Every mattress chosen meets standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics for safe sleep. Reviews from real parents were considered, with every mattress chosen having an average review of at least four stars or higher.

Interested in learning more about our editorial process? Read about how our team develops and reviews all articles here.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

Plus, more from The Bump:

The Best Baby Cribs for All Styles and Budgets

The Best Crib Sheets for Your Little One’s Sleep Space

10 Ways You Can Make Sure Baby Is Sleeping Safely