Updated at: 07-03-2023 - By: Jane

Your life is about to get a whole lot messier, and it will continue to be so for the next few years. Somehow, someway, your baby’s bodily fluids will make their way to their mattress from places you never would have thought possible. You probably don’t want to risk ruining the crib mattress after spending so much time (and money!) selecting it. The crib mattress can be preserved for future children and toddler use with the help of a mattress pad, especially if the pad is waterproof. A pad is a safe way to add softness and comfort to your baby’s crib without using pillows, bumpers, or blankets, all of which should be kept out of the crib to reduce the risk of SIDS.

Swaddlez Mini Crib Waterproof Mattress Pad

The Swaddlez Mini Crib Pad is the most reliable mini-crib waterproof pad. When shopping for a pad to use during the night or during naps, make sure to get one that is completely waterproof. The pad has a TPU waterproof membrane, polyester filling, and a bamboo viscose outer layer. Your baby will sleep soundly thanks to the bamboo’s ability to absorb moisture, which will be quickly drawn away after an accident. Even after prolonged use, bamboo retains a fresh appearance. Dust mites and bacteria are no match for this barrier. This pad makes it so simple to maintain a sanitary sleeping environment for your infant. Your baby will adore the supreme comfort of this mattress pad, and it is designed to perfectly fit any mini or portable mattress.

Baby Products Online - Pack n Play mattress protector - waterproof mini mattress protector - suitable for 38-inch x 24-inch cribs including, Graco, Dream On Me, Baby Trend, Cosco - mattress surface - Kideno

Highlight

Absolute imperviousness to water. Offers defense against bacteria and dust mites. Extremely pliable and cozy. To be used with any small or portable bed. Put it in the dryer at your own risk, as it may shrink.

SureGuard Mattress Protectors

This 100% waterproof cover is made to withstand anything from common spills and stains to mildew, mold, and other allergens. The cotton fabric is ultra-sheer and breathable, and the elasticized bottom edge of the skirt means it can be used with any standard or king-sized fitted sheet. It’s safe to wash in the washing machine and has been certified to be free of dangerous chemicals.

Highlights

A total of 9 available sizes The fabric is cotton terry. Invulnerable to moisture and allergens, 100 percent waterproof The Sealy Stain Protection Crib Mattress Pad has been awarded the GREENGUARD Gold Certification. The pad is comfortable to sit on thanks to its knit top and quilted filling, and it fits snugly for extra protection. A stretchable skirt makes it simple to fit the pad under your baby’s mattress, and elastic edging ensures that it stays put. Babyhood is full of accidents and messes, so this pad is thoughtfully designed with waterproofing and stain-repellent technology. You should also be pleased to know that this item can be washed and dried in a conventional washing machine and clothes dryer, which is great news if you have a hectic schedule.

Highlights

Size: 52″ x 28″ Waterproof Machine washable and dryable Cozy knit top padded with quilting. Avoids staining Comfortable confinement

Little One’s Pad

Tired of cheap protectors that fail you after a couple of washes? Designed with longevity and cleanliness in mind, this high-quality pad stands up to repeated use. This product ought to hold up well even after repeated washes and tumble-drys. The Little One’s Pad is padded with four layers of high-quality, non-toxic materials for added comfort and safety for your baby. This cover was designed with the appropriate amount of filling and a plush, quilted top layer after consulting with chiropractors and pediatricians on safety.

Highlights

Dimensions: 27″ x 39″ x 3″ or 5″ Unbreakable in any way Created for use with portable playards and cribs

Biloban Zippered Crib Protector

A full night’s sleep is ensured by this encircling mattress protector. To keep dust mites and allergens out of your mattress, a protective cover can be slipped over the top and then closed with a zipper. Designed with your baby’s comfort and safety in mind, the top is both waterproof and airy, providing extra security in the area where accidents are most likely to occur. Even babies with allergies won’t have an issue with the materials. In addition, the zipper is concealed so you won’t have to worry about your child stumbling into it.

Highlights

Completely encased in a cover. Affordable. Waterproof. Especially with a sizable mess, you won’t be able to clean the fabric thoroughly.

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

This topper doesn’t surround your mattress; rather, it rests atop it. This topper has 2 inches of high-density memory foam, so it won’t flatten out anytime soon. Included ventilation holes improve airflow, and a waterproof top should prevent leaks and spills. The memory foam is contoured to the shape of a child’s body to provide a cocooning feel that aids in relaxation and rest. When it comes to infants, remember that the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) makes soft surfaces unsafe. Before placing a soft topper on a baby’s crib, parents should seek advice from a pediatrician.

Highlights

52″ x 27″ x 2″ thick 100% watertight hypoallergenic Verified by CertiPUR-US

Organic Cotton Mattress Pad Protector

The cotton used to make this mattress topper is certified organic. The Global Organic Textile Standard (1) has granted the company certification. This mattress protector has sturdy construction thanks to its reinforced seams. There are no noxious substances like BPA, lead, phthalates, or latex in it. Polyurethane used to make the waterproof pad is safe for use in food applications and does not off-gas VOCs.

Highlights

Proudly crafted with 100% organic cotton that has been officially verified. Built to last. Fits baby’s comfort level nicely. To dry after cleaning requires some time.

Carters Waterproof Fitted Crib Mattress Pad

If you like Carter’s other high-quality baby clothes and accessories, you might also like this pad that is custom-made to fit a standard crib mattress. Waterproof polyester is used to create a barrier between the mattress and the fitted sheet. Washing and drying it is as easy as tossing it in the machine.

Highlights

Measurements: 28″ x 52″; made from a waterproof polyester blend; no seams Quilted softness

PureGrace Crib Mattress Protector

Tencel, a fiber found in eucalyptus trees, is used to make this mattress topper. It is hypoallergenic by design and better for the environment than cotton. Your baby will appreciate the extra softness that Tencel provides. Because of its generous sizing, this pad can be used with any standard mattress. The water-resistant coating isn’t manufactured using any toxic solvent chemicals. In addition to reducing your baby’s exposure, the absence of BPA, vinyl, PVCs, and phthalates also reduces the possibility of off-gassing.

Highlights

They are hypoallergenic and environmentally friendly. Super gentle. To be washed and dried in a machine. Produced using fewer chemicals. The manufacturer backs it up for ten years. A splurge compared to other diapers.

Sweaty Tots Crib Mattress Protector

This cover will keep your little one dry and comfortable in the event of an accident. This product is sure to be well-received by a wide range of households, as the hypoallergenic material should prevent problems with bed bugs and dust mites. This pad can be cleaned in the washing machine and dried in the dryer, making it convenient for you to care for your baby in a play yard.

Highlights

Cooling 9″ A-Line Skirt in Quilted Bamboo and Terry Fabric All-Waterproof, Hypoallergenic, and Very Quiet Officially Accredited to the Stringent Requirements of OEKO-TEX Standard 100

American Baby Waterproof Pad

A 100% waterproof layer is incorporated into the design of this crib mattress pad. The outer layers are made from a soft polyester that helps keep the baby’s pad from making as much noise as others do when the baby moves. Machine washability makes cleanup a breeze. It can be used with most standard full-size mattresses thanks to its roomy pockets. Note that drying on the “tumble” or “delicates” setting, as recommended by the manufacturer, may increase drying time.

Highlights

Affordable to almost anyone. Strictly watertight. Fabricated using a gentle fabric. Took much longer to dry.

Margaux & May Waterproof Crib Mattress Protector Pad

This ultra-plush pad by Margaux & May has four premium layers and a quilted top made from bamboo rayon, providing the utmost in luxury and protection for your baby. To prevent rips and tears, this protector is sewn with sturdy, reinforced threads and can withstand repeated washings and dryings. The quilted terry top is made from soft, noise-reducing materials, so your baby can rest easy. For comfort and security while sleeping, the elasticized material is cut to provide a close fit. You can rest easy knowing that your infant is protected from allergens and bacteria on this hypoallergenic and bacteria-resistant surface. This product is designed to be easy to care for, as it can be machine washed and dried. The 52″ x 28″ size should work with most “cribs” of that size.

Highlights

Size: 28″ x 52″ 100% Waterproof Hypoallergenic Bamboo Rayon Terry Cloth

American Baby Bassinet Sized Pad

This pad is made to fit most standard bassinet mattresses and is another best-seller from American Baby. The three-layer construction serves to dampen ambient noise while adding to the wearer’s sense of security and comfort. It is made of 100 percent polyester, cotton, and waterproof vinyl. If an accident does happen, you can simply toss this pad into the washing machine and dryer. There is an elastic lining and deep pockets, so it can fit a variety of bassinet mattress thicknesses.

Highlights

Compatible with the vast majority of bassinet models. Waterproof. Gentle enough for a newborn. the ability to be washed and dried after use. Affordable. Possible quality decline after multiple washings. No green credentials; not organic.

Gerber Water-Resistant Utility Protector Pad

If you want to make sure your baby is as comfortable as possible, get them a Gerber Water-Resistant Utility Protector Pad. On this high-quality mattress pad, your child will have a restful and enjoyable night’s sleep. The water-resistant barrier is ideal for use as a layer between the sheets and the mattress because it provides protection from spills and perspiration. It’s portable and easy to store thanks to its compact folding design. You can either give it to your baby or keep it for your own bedroom. Because it is water-resistant and simple to clean, it can also be used as a changing mat or on a portable crib.

Home Sweet Home Dreams Inc Overfilled Quilted Down Alternative Hypoallergenic Waterproof Mattress Pad, Queen - Walmart.com

Highlights

a coating that won’t soak up water. Baby-friendly fleecy softness. Folds up for easy portability. Use it as a place to change clothes. It’s not totally watertight. The pilling is noticeable after washing.

FAQ

Baby Mattress Pads Overview

Not only will these covers keep your baby’s mattress in pristine condition, but they’ll also shield your newborn from harm. In order to keep your baby safe from irritants and irritants, many of these items are made to be hypoallergenic. One more benefit is that they provide a little extra coziness without sacrificing safety (unlike blankets, pillows, and bumper pads).

Cot Bed Protector Types

Pads come in a variety of styles, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Always make sure to use a fitted sheet no matter what kind you go with. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using only a fitted sheet to prevent sudden infant death syndrome.The smallest possible sizeMini pads only protect a small section of the bed and are therefore ineffective. These are more compact and can be reused or thrown away after use.FittedYou’ll see most formats in a fitted style. Similar to fitted sheets, these have elastic around the edges to keep them in place on your mattress. Many are watertight, and some even have a thin layer of padding for comfort and safety.Lie FlatThe use of a mattress topper on top of the mattress (but still with the fitted sheet on top) is another viable option. These typically have a removable, washable cover. Many of these toppers have a layer of comfort foam or some other material that shouldn’t be used until the baby or toddler is at least a year old.

Bed Pads for Crib Safety

To ensure your child’s safety, you should only buy products that have been independently tested for safety and are made from non-toxic materials. If you want to make sure your crib mattress fits securely, you should get the right size for your crib and install it according to the directions. Toppers and thicker options with extra cushioning should be avoided for newborns and younger babies.

Crib Mattress Protector Key Considerations

There are many things to think about when shopping for a crib, just as there are when shopping for any other item for the nursery.Having a Waterproof CoatingThere will be messes to clean up, diapers to change, and milk to spill. To avoid ruining your mattress or waking up in the middle of the night to look up stain removal tips, stock up on supplies now. Every mattress protector for a baby’s crib should be watertight. It would be a costly and annoying mistake to have those accidents seep through the top sheet and into your child’s bed. The use of a waterproof cover, which will prevent liquids from reaching the mattress, is recommended. Consider getting a two-pack or an extra pad to have on hand in case one needs to be washed.Natural SubstancesIf you want to buy something and not have to worry about it being filled with toxins, look for one that is made entirely from natural ingredients.CottonCotton is great for infants because it is hypoallergenic, lightweight, and comfortable. It’s also tougher than most things, so it can take a beating from the washing machine without showing any signs of wear.BambooSince bamboo is naturally antimicrobial and hypoallergenic, it is a fantastic material for use with infants and young children. It has a minimal impact on the environment and can be maintained indefinitely.SizingCheck the measurements of your baby’s crib twice before you buy it. The recommended size will be displayed on the majority of products.WarrantySince you will be using this for at least a few years (possibly longer if you have more than one child), a warranty can provide peace of mind.The Importance of Using Safe Crib Mattress CoversWhen it comes to care and maintenance, it’s best to stick to the instructions provided by the manufacturer. How often to wash for regular use, and how to care for the cover when it becomes soiled, are both detailed here. Spot cleaning might be all that’s required in certain situations. While smaller spills can be cleaned up with just a quick rinse, larger spills will require washing and drying the cover before reuse.

Cleaning Tips

Use only cleaning products that are specifically labeled as being safe for use around children, as infants are particularly vulnerable to toxins. The use of soap and water, or a mixture of baking soda and water, can remove many stains. In recent years, a plethora of environmentally friendly cleaning solutions have become widely available, making them perfect for use in this kind of setting. Baby-safe detergent without added fragrance is ideal for washing the cover. Chemicals in dryer sheets and fabric softeners should be avoided around infants. Before re-adhering the pad to the mattress, make sure it has dried thoroughly.Baby Mattress Protector AdvantagesThe baby and the mattress both benefit greatly from being covered.Security from Pests and AllergensKeep your baby away from anything that could trigger an allergic reaction while their immune system is still developing. A bed and its linens can quickly become a breeding ground for allergens like dust mites, mold, and mildew if they are not properly maintained. An additional layer of defense provided by a cover is warranted in addition to routine mattress cleaning. Some items feature antimicrobial properties that prevent the growth of bacteria (which is common in damp places). Many can also repel bed bugs, giving you peace of mind without the need for a second cover. Defending Against Wetness The majority of modern pads are either partially or wholly waterproof. You should do this to prevent your baby’s bed from becoming a breeding ground for bacteria and mold and to keep it clean for as long as possible. Your baby’s sleeping area should be kept clean and dry to ensure his or her health and safety. Also, many of these fabrics are moisture-wicking, so your baby will stay dry. If you’re having trouble getting your baby to sleep at night, this might help.Effortless Cleaning in Much Less TimeHaving one of these protective covers on hand can be a godsend for those accidents that happen in the wee hours of the morning. The sheet and cover can be removed and washed separately, saving you time and effort from having to clean the entire bed. Time spent tidying up is drastically reduced as a result. Having a clean and dry pad can still take an hour or more, which can be a major issue in the middle of the night. One spare pad and sheet is a must.

Consumer Report

IntroductionChoosing a mattress for a baby’s crib may seem like a tedious chore, but it’s actually quite important. Buying the best mattress you can afford is just as important as getting a good crib for your baby. Why should I care? The crib is where your baby will spend a lot of time, for one thing. A baby can sleep up to 18 hours a day, which may seem impossible to believe when you have to get up in the middle of the night to soothe a fussy newborn. Make sure there are no sharp corners or other hazards between the mattress and the crib’s frame. Plus, you’ll want a firm mattress. Having one that is too soft can cause it to mold to your baby’s head or face, which can cause suffocation or even sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Crib mattresses can either be made of foam or innerspring. When it comes to supporting infants and toddlers, either type will do the job admirably provided it is of high enough quality to retain its form. However, there are some variations. Polyurethane foam, the material most commonly used to make mattresses, weighs about half as much as an innerspring one, between 5 and 13 pounds. Changing your baby’s sheets will likely involve lifting just a corner at a time, but a foam mattress may make this task easier. The lack of springiness in foam makes it less likely that your child will use it as a trampoline as they get older. Cribs with innerspring mattresses continue to be the norm in the United States, perhaps because of the prevalence of innerspring mattresses in adult beds.

The Quest for Quality

Try to find a high-quality mattress no matter the type you end up buying. The vinyl coverings and borders of the least expensive foam and innerspring mattresses are flimsy and easily rip, crack, and dry out over time. Covers with higher price tags are typically more robust, with features like puncture resistance, double or triple laminate reinforcement, or ultra-fine organic cotton. More steel or a higher gauge, as well as higher quality padding, will cause an innerspring mattress to be heavier. It’s the same with a higher-density, higher-quality foam mattress. However, you shouldn’t have to go through as many mattresses as the Princess and the Pea did to find one that suits you. Your baby will be fine on a mattress that costs you anywhere from $90 to $200. Foam mattresses and innerspring mattresses both cost around the same, between $50 and $400 and up. Those that cost a little more tend to be made of organic cotton or natural latex. Models that cost less than $90 could be too squishy and flimsy to use regularly. Models with a higher price tag are typically more sturdy and secure.

No Mattress Is As Good As Its Cover

Almost everything of value about a mattress is found within. The quality of some crib mattresses can vary greatly between how they feel in the store and how they hold up after baby starts using them. As we’ve seen, not even the most trustworthy stores can guarantee truthful information from their salespeople. One person made the compelling case that innerspring mattresses were superior to foam ones because the latter “breaks down” after about 18 months. Perhaps that was the case 25 years ago, but not any longer. According to Dennis Schuetz, the director of marketing for the Atlanta-based manufacturer Colgate Juvenile Products Company, a high-quality foam crib mattress will last as long as an innerspring crib mattress with typical use. Because nowadays, foam mattresses for infants can last a lot longer.

It’s time to go shopping!

Once you have an idea of what’s available in various price points, it’s time to head to the store to get a feel for what a good crib mattress looks like and feels like in person. Perhaps there’s a single best place to begin? The tag. The law requires manufacturers to disclose the mattress’s raw materials. If the manufacturer or store doesn’t make this clear in the product description, packaging, or elsewhere, you shouldn’t buy it. In fact, it’s expected that you’ll be able to determine what makes up each layer. Also, your hand should immediately spring up when you press down on a mattress. Schuetz claims that choosing a mattress that is suitable for the parent rather than the child is the most common oversight. You should choose a crib mattress that is firmer than you would prefer. He explains that babies require more support than adults do, so if something is comfortable for you, it’s probably too soft for your baby.

Buy New

The crib mattress should ideally be replaced. The mattress will be clean, for one thing. You can never be sure of the previous owner’s level of care or storage conditions when acquiring or accepting a used mattress. It’s important to properly clean and dry the crib mattress after each use to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria. If you buy a brand new one for your first child, wash it thoroughly, and store it somewhere dry, you can reuse it for your second child.

Put on a Mask

Protect the mattress from spills and keep the space the baby sleeps in as clean and sanitary as possible by using a waterproof mattress cover.

See If It Suits You

Full-size crib mattresses are required by law to be at least 27 1/4 inches wide and 51 5/8 inches long, and at most 6 inches in thickness. Try to find a store that has sample cribs available so you can test the mattress inside one to make sure it fits before making a purchase. More than two fingers should fit between the mattress and the crib walls, so if there is less space than that, the mattress is too small.

Assurances Are Nothing to Stress Over

Mattresses come with varying warranty lengths, from one year to seven years to life. Don’t be fooled by the length of a mattress’ warranty, and don’t shell out more money for one. “Warranties are mostly a marketing tool to entice the consumer to spend more,” argues Schuetz. As long as the cover doesn’t get torn, a good crib mattress should last as long as you need it. Any of these mattresses for infant beds have not been evaluated by us.

Types

It doesn’t matter if you go with an innerspring or foam mattress, as long as it’s a high-quality one. Both are highly supportive and will retain their form well for your young child. Innerspring The comfort and price of an innerspring mattress are both affected by its construction (how many layers it has, what those layers are made of, and the quality of the cover). The vinyl cover of the $80 Sealy Perfect Rest mattress shown here is easily cleaned with a damp cloth. It weighs 12 pounds and features border rods for added strength (see Features). For about the same price (around $150), you can get a vinyl-covered Simmons Kids Pampering Sleep Supreme 234-coil baby crib and toddler mattress. The ‘baby’ side of this mattress is padded with foam, while the ‘toddler’ side makes use of innerspring coils; this is a common feature among mattresses. See Modularity in Functions for information on changing the firmness of your mattress. Foam Standard materials for these mattresses include polyurethane. Examples include this $70 Dream On Me orthopedic firm foam crib mattress, which is waterproof, weighs only 8 pounds, and sells online for just under $100.

Features

Hardness of Foam Top-tier foam mattresses tend to be firm, substantial, and long-lasting. Place pressure on the middle and the sides of the bed. It shouldn’t give to the shape of your hand and should snap back easily. There is nothing worse than knowing your baby is resting her head on something that will eventually take the shape of her skull.

Density of the Foam Check the weight of various models to determine the density of the foam (the heavier the better). Finding that information in a store can be difficult, but you can find it online. The density of a mattress can be checked by picking it up, putting your hands on opposite sides of its center, and pressing your palms together. Pressing too hard on a dense mattress will cause discomfort.

Discrete Spring-like Layers A good rule of thumb when shopping for an innerspring mattress is this: the more layers it has, and the higher the quality of those layers, the better the mattress will be. Higher quality mattresses with thicker padding and heavier gauge steel in the innersprings tend to be heavier overall.

Fence Posts These rods should always be present on the top and bottom of an innerspring mattress before purchase. Your baby’s mattress will not sag when he or she stands or moves close to the edge thanks to their increased firmness, durability, and strong side and edge support.

Count of Coils and Thickness of Steel An innerspring mattress’s “coil count,” or the total number of springs or steel coils inside, is a common selling point. However, a high number of coils isn’t necessarily indicative of a more supportive bed. According to Dennis Schuetz of Colgate Children’s Products, evaluating the quality of an innerspring mattress is not about counting the number of coils, but rather the amount of steel used to make the springs. Some innerspring crib mattresses may have as few as 80 coils while more expensive ones may have as many as 280. The model with 150 coils may be more supportive than the one with 200. What gives? It’s possible that the steel used in the 150-coil mattress is of a higher gauge than that used in the 200-coil mattress. Crib mattress coils can be anywhere between 19 and 12.5 gauge thick (the lower the number, the thicker the steel). Schuetz recommends looking for a coil count between 150 and 300. “A decent middle ground is around 135–150. The steel gauge should be no higher than 15.5. For around $170, you can get a Colgate Cradletyme Ultra II 150 coil innerspring crib mattress with border rods and coir fiber that weighs in at 22 pounds. (More on coir fiber can be found in the following paragraphs.) Nylon ticking provides waterproofing, ventilation holes allow for airflow, and the 13.5-gauge steel is wound into 150 coils. In this image, you can see how its construction unfolded in successive layers.

A Thermal Insulating Pad In order to prevent the steel coils from poking through the mattress, an insulator pad is placed on top of them. Schuetz explains that a mattress’s insulator is one of its most important parts. A mattress with a low-quality insulator may feel comfortable while shopping, but it may not last long. Coir fiber, extracted from shredded coconut shells, is used in high-quality insulator pads. Pads made of pressed scraps of cloth are known as fiber-wrap pads (or “rag” pads). In terms of cost, coir-fiber pads are more expensive than their fiber-wrap counterparts, but both types of pads are effective. Woven polyester is used to make the lowest quality insulator pads. For the same reason that they don’t last as long, they frequently develop holes. They also become dangerously concave at the points where the baby’s weight is concentrated. Schuetz says that some factories use hard felt, which is like compressed carpet padding (and cheaper than coir fiber), as an insulator. He also mentions that some mattresses have cheap plastic mesh insulator pads in addition to woven polyester.

Layers of Cushioning Cushioning, typically foam, cotton, or polyester, is placed on top of the coils in a mattress. Quality indicators like foam and cotton also raise the price. As the price of mattress components rises, polyester has become more widely used despite being suboptimal due to its tendency to form pockets. Never purchase a mattress without first learning its composition. In-store, on the mattress’s tag, and on the brand’s website, you should be able to find a detailed explanation. Don’t buy a mattress if you can’t inspect the inner components first.

Cover The mattress is entirely encased in fabric or vinyl. Fabric allows more air to pass through than vinyl, but a vinyl cover with perforations can still be quite functional. A multilayer vinyl cover is more durable than one made of fabric because it can withstand more abuse before ripping or leaking. In order to ensure that your mattress lasts as long as possible, you should look for one with at least a three-ply (triple laminated) cover.

Convertibility Dual-firmness convertible mattresses are in the upper price range, but they can be used from the time your child is in a crib all the way up until they are ready for a big kid bed. One side is softer and more suitable for infants, while the other is firmer. The toddler side of a few of these beds is outfitted with either regular foam or springy memory foam. (After your baby’s first birthday, when the risk of SIDS drops, you can flip the mattress.) The $180 Sealy Posturepedic Springfree crib mattress has a side made of soybean foam, perfect for newborns, and a side made of latex foam, perfect for toddlers, with a water-resistant soft fabric cover. Do not prioritize convertibility above other features. Even when your infant grows into a toddler, he will prefer a firm mattress. His desire to return will likely diminish after he tries out a softer bed. You shouldn’t flip a dual-firmness mattress too soon after purchase.

Air-Exchange Ducts Waterproof mattresses do not allow moisture to escape through the top. Consider purchasing a mattress with built-in air ducts if this is an issue.

Sealing Overlay Even if the mattress you choose is leakproof, investing in a separate waterproof cover is a good idea to prevent stains. Your baby will sleep more comfortably on a mattress cover, which is not a suffocation risk because it is placed under the sheet. Without one, the fitted sheet may not be able to keep the cold vinyl mattress cover from bothering her. Your baby’s mattress will be safe from wet diapers and other spills with a washable waterproof cover. However, when a crib mattress gets wet or soiled, it should be cleaned with a damp cloth and some mild soap.

Protective Sheathing that Kills Germs The growth of mold and bacteria, the sources of unpleasant odors, can be slowed by using these covers, according to the manufacturers. Is it necessary for you to have this cool addition? Certainly not. Some people worry that antibacterials are being overused in consumer goods. Baby mattresses should be cleaned with soap and water after any accidents to stop the growth of bacteria. When you’re done using the crib mattress, seal it up in a storage bag that can be seen through (light prevents the growth of bacteria). Put it away in a dry, cool place, not a musty basement or hot, stuffy attic.

Benefits of a Crib Mattress Pad | Baby Nursery| Sealy Baby

Going Organic

You can find a wide variety of crib mattresses labelled “natural” or “organic” if you want to ensure that no harmful chemicals were used in their production but unfortunately there are no legal standards for the claim. The term “organic” may or may not mean anything; for example, the cotton used in the covering may have been grown using organic methods. We can’t say whether or not an organic mattress is safer for your baby because we haven’t tried to test one. Natural materials like wool may not require additional chemicals to make them flame resistant, which is a plus if you’re worried about the chemicals used to prevent fire damage.

Eco-Friendly

Cotton, fast-growing bamboo, coir, plant-based foam, and natural latex (rubber from tree sap that has been injected with air) are just some of the renewable and sustainable materials that make up an eco-friendly foam or innerspring mattress, according to Colgate. In addition, as Dennis Schuetz of Colgate points out, “the manufacturing process for some eco-friendly crib mattresses tends to produce fewer carbon emissions. A number of professional groups have developed their own criteria for the industry. According to Schuetz, the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute is an honest organization that conducts product emissions testing. Unfortunately, the definition of a “natural” mattress is not regulated by any sort of industry standardization. When shopping for a mattress, it’s important for parents to ask detailed questions about the construction of each individual part. A mattress may be labeled as organic when in fact only the cover is organic and the inner fillings are not. You can find crib mattresses labeled “natural” or “organic” that are made up of only 5 percent natural or organic materials. Schuetz claims, “One of the newest mattresses on the market has one layer of organic cotton, but is probably 85 percent plastic,” adding that it is not a Colgate mattress. “This is misleading the customer. As an alternative, you can purchase a mattress that claims to be all natural but is actually covered in vinyl or plastic. If that’s all you need to know, then great. Yet, it is still possible to end up with something that isn’t quite what was advertised, so it’s important to do additional research before making a purchase in this category. Because of the processes required to make a mattress waterproof, “it is not natural or organic,” Schuetz says. The USDA seal of approval that consumers may see on organic textiles actually only applies to the cultivation of the fiber and not necessarily to any subsequent processing that may have occurred. European and Japanese textile labels are another option for label-savvy consumers. The Oeko-Tex label, issued by the International Oeko-Tex Association, guarantees the presence of no harmful chemicals in the fabric. It also considers the manufacturing process and any chemicals used in the mattress’ construction. The Oeko-Tex label can be found on some U.S.-made mattresses, but it is often misleading because it only applies to a small section of the mattress. The Colgate Natural I mattress is one such option, as it features an Oeko-Tex-approved combination of coir fiber and natural latex in its 5-inch thick comfort layer. Discover how organic or natural each ingredient is by inquiring about it. Knowing the standard usage helps you evaluate the value difference. The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is another benchmark you may encounter. However, it hasn’t gained widespread acceptance. This is a set of guidelines for the manufacture of fabrics from natural fibers. According to GOTS, in order to qualify for certification, a textile product must be made up of at least 70% organic fibers.

Provided That

Eco-friendly mattresses typically cost more than traditional mattresses. Take a look at a few of the available models today. Organic cotton is used in the cover of the $280 Pure Rest organic innerspring crib mattress (cotton and wool). The manufacturer claims that it satisfies federal flammability requirements and has a “chemical-free wool layer” that comes from sheep that were raised organically. The polyethylene plastic waterproof surface of the shown Naturepedic No-Compromise Organic Cotton Classic 150 crib mattress is said to be free of vinyl/ PVC, phthalates, lead, and antimicrobial biocides, according to the manufacturer. It goes for $260 on the market. This mattress’s protective cover may reduce toxicity levels for sleepers. Soybeans and other plant oils are used in the production of some eco-friendly foam mattresses. The Sealy Posturepedic Springfree, for instance, is made with a foam core that has been “soy-enhanced. The manufacturer boasts that the mattress’s fabric cover is “wet-resistant,” and the bed tips the scales at a feather-light 11.9 ounces. The 8-ounce, $190 Colgate Eco Classica I crib mattress features foam “made with plant oils,” a damask-style cover with a waterproof backing, and a weight limit of 30 pounds. Some qualities of an environmentally friendly mattress are as follows.

Cloth Enclosure

The vinyl cover is a common feature of non-“green” mattresses. (Vinyl has been used for standard mattresses for many years due to its durability, cleanliness, and low cost.) The alternatives to plastic are cloth covers made from cotton, organic cotton that has not been bleached or dyed, or bamboo yarn. Bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource with inherent antimicrobial and fungal properties in its fiber. Unless there is a waterproof layer, typically made of polyurethane or polyethylene plastic, diaper leaks can soak into the mattress and create a breeding ground for bacteria. The use of a waterproof mattress pad is recommended regardless of whether or not the natural mattress you purchase specifically states that it is waterproof. Naturepedic’s 2 in 1 Organic Cotton Ultra features a quilted, organic cotton cover on one side and a waterproof, antimicrobial surface on the other, making it suitable for both infants and toddlers. Pricing starts at $400. In addition to their waterproofed crib mattresses, this company also produces an untreated version. For $360, you can purchase the Quilted Organic Cotton Deluxe.

Waterproof, organic mattress protectors

The majority of these have a layer of organic cotton, but the ones that claim to be waterproof also use a layer of polyurethane. For only $25, you can buy a Snoozy Organic Cotton Waterproof Crib Mattress Pad. Despite being constructed from organic cotton, the manufacturer guarantees that the polyurethane coating will keep water out because it does not contain any of the toxic chemicals commonly associated with plastics.

Pillowcases made of wool

Pads made of wool can absorb leaks if you don’t want to use a product with chemicals but still want to protect your baby’s mattress. However, be wary, as some parents have reported that wool pads are only “water resistant,” not waterproof. Pure Rest’s fitted organic moisture pad for cribs costs $195. Another wool pad, the Natura Puddle Pad, can be purchased for around $70.

Layers of Cushioning

The 12-pound Sealy Posturepedic Springfree Soybean & Latex Foam-Core Crib Mattress has a “wet-resistant” fabric cover, according to the company. Natural latex rubber, derived from a liquid harvested from tropical trees, is used to make some mattresses instead of foam. Although some infants have latex allergies, the material may not be a problem if it is sewn into the mattress’s support structure. It’s best to stay away from a latex mattress if you have any reservations.

Coir

Coir, which consists of shredded and woven coconut shell husks bound with latex adhesive, was commonly used as an insulator pad atop the coils of higher-quality innerspring crib mattresses prior to the advent of the green movement. Other “natural” mattresses, both foam and innerspring, now feature it as well. Instead of using foam or innersprings, the Colgate Natural 1 ($370) and the Coco Mat from Natural Mat ($400) use coir as the main filling, encasing it in cotton padding, lamb’s wool, or mohair fleece. The heavy weight of a mattress made from coir is a tradeoff for its durability and sustainability.

Evaluate this thread

Rate this post