Amongst all things baby, a crib mattress is probably on the very top to-buy list of many parents-to-be (alongside a baby crib, a baby stroller and a car seat). However, choosing the right baby mattress is not that straightforward a task – not with the many different types available on the market.
From traditional innerspring to eco-friendly options, each offer unique benefits and considerations and while they are all safe for baby, things like breathability, durability and washability may vary. It goes without saying that parents would want the safest crib mattress, one that has met all safety requirements and certifications!
Our comprehensive review below aims to guide you through some of the best crib mattress options available. We chose our favourites in several categories in case you are looking for something specific(i.e. organic, mini crib sizes). Rest assured they are all well-designed and firm as should be the case, following safe sleep practices set forth by the American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP).
What is the best crib mattress that will suit most families? Delta Children’s Serta Perfect Slumber fits the bill with its all-rounder features (think lightweight, waterproof, dual-sided, hypoallergenic…) and affordability. The Newton baby mattress is deemed the safest crib mattress with its breathability and excellent air circulation while Naturepedic is the best rated crib mattress when it comes to organic composition. Want the easiest-to-manage? You can’t go wrong with foam and for that, we have Graco’s for you.
Babyletto makes the best mini crib mattress for those who opt to save space but if we are talking about the best dual sided mattress for cribs, Moonlight Slumber’s EZ Dreamer is the one we’d go for. Nothing beats the Dream On Me Twilight when it comes to being the most affordable, although the Organic Dream has a pretty unbelievable price point too for an organic reversible newborn crib mattress.
Our Top 8 Best Crib Mattress Picks (with a bonus Crib Mattress Protector recommendation) – A Quick Summary
Four Things We Looked At When Choosing The Best Crib Mattress
SAFETY
A critical safety factor is the firmness of the mattress – it must be firm enough to prevent baby’s face from sinking into it, which can reduce the risk of SIDS.
The fit of the mattress in the crib is also essential – it should fit snugly with no gaps around the edges to prevent baby’s limbs from getting stuck.
MATERIAL
Choose hypoallergenic, non-toxic, and free from harmful chemicals (i.e. phthalates, formaldehyde, flame retardants). Look for safety certifications like CertiPUR-US for foam or GOTS for organics.
Additionally, materials that enhance breathability and temperature regulation can contribute to safer and more comfortable sleep environments.
EASY TO CLEAN
Look for a durable mattress that can withstand wear and tear over time, and consider a waterproof or water-resistant cover to protect against spills and accidents.
Trust us, the latter simplifies the whole cleaning process incredibly, maintaining a hygienic sleeping environment for baby.
WEIGHT
A lighter mattress can be easier to handle, making tasks such as changing sheets, rotating or flipping the mattress, and cleaning more manageable for parents.
However, it’s essential that the mattress remains stable and secure within the crib frame to ensure safety.
The Different Types of Baby Crib Mattress
Before we delve into some of the best crib mattresses on the market, it’s worthy to understand just how many different types there are available to help you make an informed decision:
Foam Mattresses
Innerspring Mattresses
Organic Mattresses
Breathable Mattresses
These are often made from materials that naturally allow air to pass through – open-cell foams, spacer fabrics, and mesh-like/woven fabrics are some examples, although food-grade polymers (that are structured in a way that creates air channels throughout the mattress) are pretty common too.
The core of these mattresses is usually designed with a porous or open structure, which not only allows air to flow freely but also aids in the evacuation of carbon dioxide that baby exhales. This design helps in reducing the risk of rebreathing exhaled air, a concern linked to SIDS. The covers are typically made from lightweight, breathable fabrics that do not retain heat, further enhancing air circulation.
In this article:
Best Crib Mattress Reviews
OVERALL BEST CRIB MATTRESS
Dimensions: 52” x 27.5” x 5”
Weight: 9.6 pounds
Materials: sustainably sourced fiber core, vinyl cover
Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold certified, JPMA and ASTM certified
- Friendly price point
- Double-sided versatility
- Ease of maintenance – waterproof cover included
- Lightweight
- Safety and health – hypoallergenic, fire retardant
- Made in USA
- 7-year warranty
- Cover is not removable
Why We Love It
First of all, the Serta Perfect Slumber is dual-sided. This means you get both an infant mattress and a toddler mattress at the price of one, the firmer side being that for newborns (with the recommended firmness threshold) to help reduce the risk of SIDS. The other side is made softer to provide additional comfort to toddlers as they grow, a versatility that makes this a practical, long-term investment.
This is essentially a foam baby crib mattress, but it is made from premium sustainably-sourced firm fibre core with a non-toxic construction. One small detail that we like is that it has square corners instead of rounded ones so it fits snugly into any standard crib without gaps in the corner.
And the best part is? The price. Made in USA with a 7-year warranty under its pocket, we can hardly believe the price point – let’s just say it is easily the most affordable eco-friendly option.
Things to Take Note Of
BEST BREATHABLE CRIB MATTRESS
Dimensions: 52” x 28” x 5.5”
Weight: 11 pounds
Materials: wovenaire food-grade polymer
Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold certified
- Innovative breath-thru technology
- 100% washable design
- Non-toxic and hypoallergenic
- Cooling and prevents overheating
- Expensive
- Cover is water resistant only
Why We Love It
If there is one thing that parents worry about when transitioning their baby to the crib, it is the risk of suffocation (if baby accidentally sleeps face-down on their stomach!). With the Newton Baby Crib Mattress, a lot of that anxiety is pushed aside all thanks to a unique design that allows air to circulate freely through the mattress core.
Literally made up of 90% air (and 10% of food-grade polymer), the patented core allows baby to breathe right through it. This feature significantly reduces the risk of suffocation and rebreathing of carbon dioxide, which are critical concerns for infant safety during sleep. Same goes with the cover – it is completely breathable and unzips for easy washing.
Speaking of which, breathability is not the only distinguishing aspect of the Newton baby mattress – it stands out with a 100% washable design too. Unlike typical baby mattresses that mostly have washable covers only, the entire Newton crib mattress can be thoroughly cleaned so parents can effectively remove allergens, dust mites, and other potential irritants. On that note, you’d be glad to know that it is non-toxic and hypoallergenic and is completely free of foam, glue, latex or springs.
Things to Take Note Of
There is no hiding the fact that this is one expensive mattress for crib so it could be a consideration for budget-conscious families. However, like us, many parents find that the safety features and durability justify the investment.
Another issue worth noting is that the mattress cover is water resistant only and not waterproof. If a huge accident occurs, mess may run through it and get into the mattress and while you can easily pop it into the wash, drying takes time (and that may not be so ideal when it is in the middle of the night, but there’s always the playard!). It rarely occurs though but if it really is going to bug you, Newton recommends adding the waterproof crib mattress pad to the equation.
BEST ORGANIC CRIB MATTRESS
Dimensions: 51.62” x 27.25” x 6”
Weight: 11 pounds
Materials: organic cotton, wool and latex
Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold certified, GOTS certified
- Organic
- Dual-sided
- Waterproof
- Made in USA
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Expensive
Why We Love It
Nothing beats organic if we’re talking about “best non toxic crib mattress”. While there are certainly more organic options in the market nowadays compared to before, the Naturepedic Organic Baby Crib Mattress still stands out to be the best.
And that’s because of the comprehensive certification by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) it holds under its belt. This certification ensures that the entire manufacturing process — from the raw materials to the finished product — adheres to rigorous organic and non-toxic standards. If you don’t already know, GOTS certification is recognized globally as one of the leading standards for organic textiles, backed by independent certification of the entire textile supply chain. Such level of certification provides an added layer of trust and assurance, that the mattress is truly organic and is the safest baby mattress.
Made in the USA by skilled Amish craftsmen in Ohio, it has a 3D mesh surface that allows baby to breathe even if they are facing down – breathability that compares to that of Newton’s. In fact, comparisons are often made between the two – see the Newton vs Naturepedic crib mattress here. Also, it’s not easy to find an organic toddler mattress but the dual-sided design of this one here gives you just that.
Things to Take Note Of
It probably comes as no surprise but price is its biggest con, as is the case with many organic products. The higher cost is due to the quality of the organic materials and certifications it holds, all justifiable in our opinion.
Some parents find the mattress too firm for toddlers, even though the firmness is a safety feature for infants. It’s important to assess whether your child will need a softer surface as they grow, for which you may want to consider the option below.
AFFORDABLE ORGANIC CRIB MATTRESS
Dimensions: 52” x 28” x 6”
Weight: 9.6 pounds
Materials: sustainably sourced fiber core, vinyl cover
Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold certified
- Affordable organic option
- Breathable and hypoallergenic
- Dual-sided design
- Made in USA
- Price
- Cover is water resistant only (not waterproof)
Why We Love It
The Organic Dream crib mattress is gaining momentum as of late earning praises from parents and we can see why. Like the Naturepedic, it is made in the USA using certified organic cotton but stands only about half the price of the former, making it more accessible for parents looking for an organic option.
While it is not GOTS certified, it holds the same GREENGUARD Gold certification indicating the highest level of indoor air quality.100% hypoallergenic and non-toxic, it enhances air circulation and reduces the potential for allergenic reactions, making it ideal for babies with sensitive skin or respiratory issues. Its design centers around breathability as well with a Breathe-Thru Technology that allows baby to breathe right through, reducing SIDS and CO2 rebreathing.
For parents who find the Naturepedic a tad too firm for their toddlers, this is an alternative to consider. The Organic Dream is dual-sided with a softer side tailored for the comfort of older toddlers but of course, you can always get the infant mattress only at a lower price.
With just a $20 difference though, we think the dual version is a better bargain given you’re getting a toddler crib mattress as well. If you live in a country with hotter climate though, this version with cooling gel technology may be an even better fit.
Things to Take Note Of
BEST MINI CRIB MATTRESS
Dimensions: 37.5” x 23.5” x 3”
Weight: 7 pounds
Materials: gel memory foam, cotton/polyester cover
Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold certified
- Designed for mini cribs
- Waterproof cover
- Dual sided
- Non-toxic materials
- Lightweight design
- Does not fit all mini cribs
Why We Love It
If you choose to use a mini crib to save space, you’ll need a mini crib mattress as all that we’ve mentioned so far are standard crib mattress options (although some of them do come out with their own mini versions i.e. Newton and Organic Dream). We like Babyletto’s most because it is specifically designed just for mini cribs.
The precise fit means there are no dangerous gaps in mini cribs and best of all, it features a dual-sided design with a firm side for infants and a softer side for toddlers. The outer layer is made of soft cotton with waterproof backing so you don’t have to worry in the maintenance front and being GREENGUARD Gold certified, you can be assured there is none of those nasties going into its composition.
The standout aspect has to be its lightweight and fully recyclable core though. Not only does this feature facilitate easy sheet changes and crib maintenance for parents, it also supports environmental sustainability, making it a unique option among mini crib mattresses for those looking to minimize their ecological footprint while ensuring their child’s well-being.
Things to Take Note Of
Some parents find the mattress to be too firm, especially on the infant side, but bear in mind that firmness is what you’re after it is crucial for safe infant sleep to reduce the risk of SIDS.
And while it is specifically made for mini cribs, note that it doesn’t fit all mini cribs to a T as mini cribs do not come in one standard dimension (instead, they fall within a certain range) so make sure you measure the interior of your crib first to ensure it is the right fit.
Some parents may find the price a tad too steep – for a more affordable option (that is also a top rated crib mattress), click here.
BEST DUAL SIDED CRIB MATTTRESS
Dimensions: 52” x 27” x 4.5”
Weight: 8 pounds
Materials: performance fabric foam core with medical-grade stretch knit cover
Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold certified, CertiPUR-US certified
- Made in USA
- Odour and stain resistant
- Hypoallergenic and antimicrobial
- Medical-grade, dual firmness
- Price
Why We Love It
The award-winning Moonlight Slumber EZ Dreamer Crib Mattress is no stranger in any crib mattress reviews and it has its hypoallergenic and antimicrobial properties to thank for. Specifically designed to resist allergens, microbes, and mold, it provides a safer and healthier sleeping environment for babies particularly those with sensitive skin or allergies.
Constructed from a medical-grade, dual-firmness foam that offers tailored support for infants and toddlers, it is complemented by a flexible, 4-way stretch-knit cover that is waterproof and reinforced with extra-tight safe-sewn seams to last the nights.
Speaking of which, durability is another aspect that makes this stands out as the best infant mattress. Its ability to maintain its shape, firmness, and support over years of nightly use distinguishes it from other dual-sided crib mattresses, giving parents the confidence that they’re getting their money’s worth – a mattress that can withstand years of use from infancy through toddler years without losing its shape or support.
Things to Take Note Of
BEST AFFORDABLE CRIB MATTRESS
Dimensions: 52” x 28” x 5”
Weight: 12 pounds
Materials: memory foam with inner coil spring
Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold, JPMA and ASTM certified
- Cost-effective
- 88 interwoven steel coils
- Dual-sided
- Waterproof cover
- Durability
- Weight
- Initial smell
Why We Love It
For families seeking a quality mattress without the high price tag, the Dream On Me Twilight is an excellent choice.
Its affordability does not come at the expense of quality though – it meets all standard safety requirements (including being free from harmful chemicals and flammability standards), is dual-sided for longevity use, and includes a waterproof and stain-resistant cover that makes cleaning up spills and accidents easy.
Its 88 interwoven heat-tempered springs is another distinguishing aspect that sets it apart from other affordable baby crib mattresses. This coil system provides a robust foundation of support, ensuring firmness that is essential for infant safety and proper spinal alignment. Unlike many budget-friendly options that often rely on less durable foam, this innerspring construction offers a higher level of durability and longevity, making it an exceptional choice within its price range.
Things to Take Note Of
The innerspring construction makes it heavier than standard foam mattresses, which might make changing sheets or flipping the mattress more challenging.
Some parents have also reported a noticeable off-gassing smell when new. It is advisable to air out the mattress before first use to mitigate this issue.
BEST FOAM CRIB MATTRESS
Dimensions: 52” x 27.6” x 4.5”
Weight: 7 pounds
Materials: high density foam with polyester cover
Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold certified, CertiPUR-US certified
- Lightweight
- Breathable foam core
- 10-year limited warranty
- Waterproof and machine-washable outer cover
- Initial odour
Why We Love It
First of all, the Graco Premium Crib & Toddler Mattress has a CertiPUR-US certified foam construction. This certification ensures that the foam used in the mattress is free from harmful chemicals and pollutants, i.e. you can be certain there is no PBDEs, TDCPP, or TCEP flame retardants, mercury, lead, other heavy metals, formaldehyde, and phthalates in it.
And unlike other foam crib mattresses, the foam core is of a unique breathable nature that helps reduce the risk of SIDS and regulate baby’s temperature throughout the night. Likewise with the outer cover, the ultra-soft material enhances airflow and is waterproof to help prevent moisture from penetrating the foam core.
Another thing that we like about the Graco is that it is the lightest full-sized crib mattress on our list, making changing sheets or flipping the mattress a piece of cake.
Things to Take Note Of
BEST CRIB MATTRESS PROTECTOR
Dimensions: 52” x 28” x 6”
Materials: 80% cotton, 20% polyester
Fit type: fitted sheet style
- 100% waterproof
- Hypoallergenic
- Breathable
- Noiseless
- Ease of use
- Heat retention in hotter climates
Why We Love It
And while we’re at it, here’s the best crib mattress protector for those who’d like an extra layer of protection for their crib mattresses. Made with hypoallergenic cotton terry surface, the SafeRest protector not only provides a soft, comfortable sleep surface but also protects against allergens, dust mites, and bacteria, making it ideal for babies with allergies or sensitive skin.
The waterproof membrane effectively blocks fluids, spills, urine, and other accidents from reaching the mattress, thereby preventing mould, bacteria, and allergen buildup that can occur due to moisture. And despite being waterproof, the material is highly breathable so it does not retain heat and helps keep baby cool and comfortable throughout the night.
Unlike many other waterproof protectors that can produce a crinkling sound when baby moves, the SafeRest protector is engineered to be completely silent. This feature is especially important for maintaining a quiet sleep environment that does not disturb baby’s rest. The combination of waterproof protection without the disruptive noise sets this mattress protector apart from others, ensuring babies can sleep soundly and comfortably.
Things to Take Note Of
How We Come Up with Our Best Crib Mattress Picks
In shortlisting the best crib mattress options for parents, we undertake a meticulous selection process that emphasizes safety, quality, and materials.
Our selection process begins with an in-depth analysis of safety standards, ensuring each mattress adheres to strict regulatory guidelines. We evaluate firmness to guarantee optimal support for infants, reducing SIDS risks, and scrutinize materials for non-toxic, hypoallergenic properties. By assessing customer reviews and conducting our own durability tests, we identify products that offer long-lasting comfort and performance.
Our team collaborates with paediatric experts and adheres to the latest scientific research, culminating in a curated list of top recommendations. Trust us to help you find a safe, comfortable, and durable crib mattress—because your baby deserves the best.
What to Look for When Choosing the Best Crib Mattress
1. Size and Fit
Size and fit are essential aspects to ensure safety and compliance with official regulations. The CPSC specifies that full-size crib mattresses should be at least 27 1/4 inches by 51 1/4 inches, and no thicker than 6 inches. To assess a good fit, the mattress should fit snugly in the crib, with no more than two fingers’ width of space between the edge of the mattress and the crib sides. This tight fit is to prevent baby from becoming trapped and potentially suffocating between the mattress and the crib.
For mini cribs, which are smaller and often used in spaces where a full-size crib would be impractical, the mattresses should also fit snugly according to the specific dimensions of the mini crib. There is no standard mini crib size – instead, the fall within a certain set of dimensions – so always measure the interior of your crib to ensure the mattress is a good fit.
2. Firmness
Firmness is a crucial factor to consider. A mattress that is too soft can conform to the shape of your baby’s head or face, which increases the risk of suffocation. Which is why the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends a firm mattress to reduce the risk of SIDS and to prevent suffocation hazards, not to mention to support baby’s growing bones.
For innerspring mattresses, firmness can generally be assessed by the number of coils and the gauge of the wire – the more coils and a thicker gauge indicate a firmer, more supportive mattress. For foam mattresses, density is the key indicator of firmness—the higher the density, the firmer the mattress.
To test firmness, press your hand on the mattress and see how quickly it regains its shape; a firm mattress will snap back promptly without conforming to the shape of your hand. This level of firmness helps ensure the mattress provides sufficient support for your baby’s growing body and remains safe for use.
3. Material
Look at both the cover and filling – the former should ideally be hypoallergenic, breathable, and either waterproof or water-resistant (to protect against spills and accidents, and also to make cleanup easier) while the latter should be made from firm, high-quality materials such as foam or innerspring coils to provide adequate support for your baby’s development. You will want to choose a cover that doesn’t make noise when baby moves too, as this can disturb their sleep.
Avoid mattresses with phthalates and formaldehyde as these components can off-gas and contribute to indoor air pollution. Consider a mattress with good air circulation features, especially if you live in a warmer climate or if the baby tends to sleep hot. Breathable mattresses can help prevent overheating and provide a comfortable sleep environment.
4. Safety Certifications
All top crib mattresses would have met all safety standards set by reputable organizations. Look for certifications like Greenguard Gold which ensures low chemical emissions, or CertiPUR-US for foam mattresses which guarantee that the foam is free from PBDE flame retardants, ozone depleters, and other heavy metals such as mercury and lead.
Meanwhile, GOTS sets stringent ecological and social criteria throughout the entire supply chain of organic textiles (from the harvesting of the raw materials through environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing up to labelling) in order to provide credible assurance to the consumer. For a product to be GOTS certified, it must have a minimum of 95% certified organic fibers.
5. Weight and Price
A lighter mattress can be advantageous because it’s easier to manoeuvre and change sheets, which is particularly helpful during frequent cleanings and maintenance. However, the weight should not compromise the mattress’s firmness and safety.
The price of a crib mattress often reflects its quality, materials, and features such as organic certifications or advanced technology like breathability and water resistance. While higher-priced mattresses may offer better quality and longer durability, there are budget-friendly options that still meet safety standards without compromising on the essential features. It’s important to balance cost with the benefits each mattress offers, ensuring you find a product that provides both value and safety for your child.
Other FAQs
Foam and innerspring mattresses are popular choices. Foam mattresses are generally lighter, easier to move and change sheets, and often less expensive, while innerspring mattresses are usually more durable and supportive.
The best type of mattress for a baby crib depends on several factors including safety, durability, and your baby's comfort. Additionally, look for mattresses that are firm to reduce the risk of SIDS, are made with non-toxic materials for safety, and have waterproof covers to simplify cleaning.
To ensure a crib mattress is safe, check that it fits snugly in the crib without large gaps as gaps can pose a danger to baby.
The mattress should be firm to prevent your baby from sinking into it. Verify that it meets standard regulatory certifications such as CertiPUR-US for foam safety and GreenGuard Gold for low chemical emissions. Also, look for mattresses made from hypoallergenic and non-toxic materials to avoid potential allergies and exposure to harmful chemicals.
The frequency of replacing a crib mattress can depend on the quality of the mattress and how well it's maintained. Generally, a crib mattress should last through the time one child uses a crib, typically up to 3 years.
If the mattress shows signs of wear and tear (such as sagging, broken coils, or tears in the cover), it should be replaced immediately to maintain safety and comfort. For those planning to use the same mattress for a second child, ensure it is still in excellent condition and is thoroughly cleaned.
Not all crib mattresses are waterproof. While many come with waterproof covers or have water-resistant layers to protect against spills and accidents, others might not offer this feature and instead come with removable covers that need to be washed regularly.
A waterproof crib mattress (or with water-resistant features) is no doubt highly beneficial as it helps prevent the buildup of mold, mildew, and bacteria, not to mention making cleaning ups easier. If waterproof is something you’d put high priorities on, get an additional crib mattress protector - it's totally worth it.
