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A safe, comfortable crib mattress can play an important role in ensuring that an infant sleeps safely and soundly.
Quick links
- Best organic crib mattress: Naturepedic Classic Organic Crib Mattress Lightweight
- Best flippable crib mattress: Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer Crib Mattress
- Best durable crib mattress: Safety 1st Heavenly Dreams Mattress
- Best recyclable crib mattress: Lullaby Earth Super Lightweight Eco-Plus Crib Mattress
- Best lightweight crib mattress: Graco Premium Foam Crib and Toddler Bed Mattress
- Best eco-friendly crib mattress: Colgate Eco Classica III Crib Mattress
- Best firm crib mattress: Sealy Soybean Foam-Core Crib Mattress
- Best hypoallergenic crib mattress: Milliard Hypoallergenic Baby Crib Mattress
- Best washable crib mattress: Newton Crib Mattress
- Best portable or mini-crib mattress: Dream On Me Portable Crib Mattress
- Best nontoxic crib mattress: Nook Pebble Air Lightweight Crib Mattress
Medical News Today’s methodology
MNT chooses mattresses, sheets, pillows, and other bedding that meet the following criteria:
- Certifications: MNT will choose products that have CertiPUR-US or other certifications. This means that the products are low in pollutants and free from heavy metals and volatile organic compounds.
- Materials and fill: MNT selects products made from different materials and fills, such as memory foam and latex, to suit a range of sleep and lifestyles.
- Budget: MNT features products to suit a wide range of budgets.
- Warranties and return policies: MNT will include products that carry warranties and clear returns policies.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Best organic crib mattress: Naturepedic Classic Organic Crib Mattress Lightweight
This mattress is certified organic and nontoxic by the Global Organic Textile Standard and Greenguard. This means that it contains few or no harmful materials or chemicals.
Learn about the best organic mattresses for adults here.
The flippable design makes it suitable for both infants and toddlers. It also features organic cotton batting, which may provide firmness and comfort.
This mattress has a food-grade polyethylene waterproof that is stain-resistant and waterproof. It also has a built-in dust mite and bed bug barrier.
The Naturepedic Classic Organic Crib Mattress is available in three different versions with adjusted prices:
- standard lightweight: $269
- lightweight 2-stage : $299
- innerspring 2-stage: $329
Payment plans are available.
The dimensions are 27 1/4″ x 51 5/8″ x 6″. Depending on the model, the mattress weighs between 10-19 Ibs.
Customers receive a 100-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty. Products ship within 3-5 business days and returns are free.
Learn more about Naturepedic mattresses here.
Pro
- certified organic and nontoxic
- waterproof and stain-resistant outer fabric
- different models available to suit either infants and toddlers
Cons
- more expensive than other options
- may not fit all cribs
- rolled edges may catch debris
Best flippable crib mattress: Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer Crib Mattress
This crib mattress is suitable for both newborns and toddlers. People can flip it depending on what they require. For example, the infant side consists of firm, high-density foam, while the toddler side uses cool gel memory foam.
Learn about flippable mattresses for adults here.
The mattress is nontoxic, hypoallergenic, and resistant to both odors and stains. It is also polyvinyl chloride (PVC)-free and eco-friendly. It has CertiPUR-US and Greenguard certification, meaning that it contains no harmful chemicals.
The manufacturer states that there are no indentations or stitching, which are possible sources of germ buildup. It has a woven fire barrier.
The Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer Crib Mattress costs $199.
The dimensions are 27.5″ x 52″ x 5″.
Customers receive free shipping and a lifetime warranty. Products ship within 3-5 business days and returns are free.
Pros
- flippable to suit either infants or toddlers
- nontoxic and hypoallergenic
- stain-resistant and waterproof
Cons
- possibly too firm for some toddlers
- some user report poor breathability of fabric, causing babies to sweat
Best durable crib mattress: Safety 1st Heavenly Dreams Mattress
This mattress is lightweight, weighing 7.5 Ibs. However, it is worth noting that it can only bear up to 50 lb.
The Greenguard-certified mattress features what the manufacturer calls a high density, thermo-bonded foam core. The core offers support and is 100% polyester.
There is a wipe-clean cover that is waterproof, stain-resistant, and odor-resistant. The durable mattress is also tearproof.
The Safety 1st Heavenly Dreams Mattress retails for $60.99. Payment plans are available.
The dimensions are 27.5″ x 52” x 5″.
Customers receive free shipping and a 10-year warranty. Products ship within 3-5 business days and returns are free.
Pros
- lightweight
- low-cost
- stain-resistant and waterproof
Cons
- vinyl cover is not breathable
- only accommodates up to 50 Ibs
Best recyclable crib mattress: Lullaby Earth Super Lightweight Eco-Plus Crib Mattress
This Greenguard-certified mattress is also lightweight, at just over 7 lb. The mattress has a patented WaveSupport core, which the manufacturer claims provides comfort and support.
This crib mattress is waterproof and made from recyclable, food-safe materials. It is also easy to wipe clean.
Learn how to recycle a mattress here.
It contains no vinyl, PVC, phthalates, perfluorinated compounds, or allergens.
The Lullaby Earth Super Lightweight Eco-Plus Crib Mattress retails for $169.
The dimensions are 27.5” x 52” x 6”. Customers receive a lifetime warranty.
Pros
- lightweight
- flippable to suit either infants or toddlers
- stain-resistant and waterproof
Cons
- may not fit some toddler beds
- some users report sags after less than 2 months use
Best lightweight crib mattress: Graco Premium Foam Crib and Toddler Bed Mattress
This product is a low-cost and lightweight option, weighing 7 Ibs.
This mattress has Greenguard and CertiPUR-US certification and features a removable cover that is hand washable.
The foam mattress is firm and contains no lead or phthalates. Its material consists of antimicrobial and antistatic substances.
This mattress comes conveniently rolled up. However, people must lay it out flat within 2 weeks of purchase and allow it to expand over 72 hours before use.
The Graco Premium Foam Crib and Toddler Bed Mattress retails for $89.99.
The dimensions are 27.5″ x 52″ x 5″. Customer receive a 6-year limited manufacturer’s warranty.
Pros
- lightweight
- low-cost
- water-resistant cover
Cons
- mattress must expand for around 72 hours before use
- not stain resistant
- only accommodates up to 50 Ibs
Best eco-friendly crib mattress: Colgate Eco Classica III Crib Mattress
This product is nontoxic, and Greenguard and CertiPUR-US certified. It is made from sustainable plant-based oils.
Learn about the best eco-friendly mattresses for adults here.
The mattress is hypoallergenic, water-resistant and easy to clean. It features a soft cotton cover that is certified organic.
This two-sided mattress can suit both infants and toddlers. The firm infant side provides support for newborns and infants, while the softer side offers comfort for toddlers.
The Colgate Eco Classica III Crib Mattress retails for $219.99.
The dimensions are 27.75″ x 52″ x 6″. Customers receive a lifetime warranty.
Pros
- made using sustainable materials
- flippable to suit either infants or toddlers
- stain-resistant and waterproof
Cons
- customer report stitching coming loose
- rounded edges may not fit all cribs properly
Best firm crib mattress: Sealy Soybean Foam-Core Crib Mattress
This mattress is very firm, which is ideal for infants, but it might be too firm for toddlers.
Using soy-based foam core makes the mattress sustainable and durable. This means it maintains its optimal firmness for infants longer.
Learn about the best firm mattresses for adults here.
Sealy constructs this mattress using soybean oils produced by United States farmers. This use of natural, renewable resources makes it an environmentally friendly product. It is Greenguard and CertiPUR-US certified.
The mattress has a removable waterproof cover and is odor and stain resistant. However, it is worth noting that people cannot wash the whole mattress.
The Sealy Soybean Foam-Core Crib Mattress retails for $149.99.
The dimensions are 27.25″ x 51.5″ x 5″. Customers receive a lifetime warranty.
Learn more about Sealy mattresses here.
Pros
- made using sustainable materials
- stain-resistant and waterproof
Cons
- only cover is washable
- may be too firm for toddlers
Best hypoallergenic crib mattress: Milliard Hypoallergenic Baby Crib Mattress
The airflow built into this mattress, along with the materials, make it hypoallergenic. This means it is suitable for people with allergies.
Learn about hypoallergenic pillows here.
This mattress features a removable bamboo cover that is 100% waterproof. This cover is also machine washable. The mattress is CertiPUR-US certified.
Milliard states that the memory foam design helps increase weight distribution for a more restful sleep.
The design of this mattress allows for maximum airflow to regulate sleeping temperatures.
The Milliard Hypoallergenic Baby Crib Mattress retails for $64.99.
The dimensions are 27.5″ x 52” x 4.75″ and the mattress weighs 7.3 Ibs.
Pros
- hypoallergenic
- low-cost
- stain-resistant and waterproof
Cons
- some customers report a strange odor
- no warranty
Best washable crib mattress: Newton Crib Mattress
Newton claims that the material in the mattress is breathable, which may help to reduce overheating or sweating.
The mattress is easy to clean and 100% washable. The removable cover is machine washable, while people can fully rinse and clean the woven mattress beneath.
This mattress is hypoallergenic, 100% recyclable, Greenguard certified, and U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission certified.
Newton states that this mattress has a 2-stage design to suit both infants and toddlers.
The Newton Crib Mattress retails for $299.99.
The dimensions of the mattress are 28″ x 52″ x 5.5″ and it weighs 11 Ibs. Customers receive a lifetime warranty.
Pros
- hypoallergenic
- recyclable
- entire mattress is washable
Cons
- high cost relative to other crib mattresses
- heavier than other crib mattresses
Best portable or mini-crib mattress: Dream On Me Portable Crib Mattress
This mattress is designed specifically to fit portable or mini cribs.
It provides a blend of support and airflow due to its interwoven steel coil core wrapped with hypoallergenic foam. The reinforced vinyl cover is waterproof, antibacterial, and may prevent mildew and odors. The manufacturer states that it is easy to clean with mild soap and water.
It has a 2-stage design that features a more firm side for infants and a softer side for toddlers.
The Dream On Me Portable Crib Mattress retails for $44.99.
The dimensions of this mattress are 24″ x 38″ x 3″. It weights 3.5 Ibs. Customer receive a 10-year warranty.
flippable to suit either infants or toddlers
Pros
- lightweight and portable
- stain-resistant and waterproof
- flippable to suit either infants or toddlers
Cons
- smaller than conventional cribs
- customer report receiving the wrong size mattress
Best nontoxic crib mattress: Nook Pebble Air Lightweight Crib Mattress
This crib mattresses uses sustainable materials and nontoxic flame retardant. It is Greenguard and CertiPUR-US certified.
Learn about the best nontoxic mattresses for adults here.
The cover is made with organic cotton, sustainable eucalyptus, and infused with zinc to help it prevent mold, fungi, and dust mites.
The cover is available in four different colors, all tinted with water-based dyes. Nook claims that the raised, “pebbly” surface promotes air flow.
The Nook Pebble Air Lightweight Crib Mattress retails for $199.
The dimensions of this mattress are 28″ x 53″ x 4″ and it weighs 9 Ibs. Customer receive a lifetime warranty.
Pros
- sustainable and nontoxic materials
- breathable
- choice of colors
Cons
- not waterproof or stain resistant
- some users report an odor during early use
- higher cost then competitors
The table below compares the crib mattresses in this article:
| Price | Size | Warranty | Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Naturepedic | $269-329 | 27.25″ x 51.5″ x 6″ | lifetime | 10-19 Ibs |
| Moonlight | $199.99 | 27.5″ x 52″ x 5″ | lifetime | around 10 Ibs |
| Safety 1st | $60.99 | 27.5″ x 52” x 5″ | 10-year | 7.5 Ibs |
| Lullaby Earth | $169 | 27.5″ x 52″ x 6″ | lifetime | 7 Ibs |
| Graco | $89.99 | 27.62″ x 52″ x 5″ | 6-year | 7 Ibs |
| Colgate | $219.99 | 27.75″ x 52″ x 6″ | lifetime | 9.44 Ibs |
| Sealy | $149.99 | 27.25″ x 51.5″ x 5″ | lifetime | 8.3 Ibs |
| Milliard | $64.99 | 27.5″ x 52” x 4.75″ | none | 7.3 Ibs |
| Newton | $299.99 | 28″ x 52″ x 5.5″ | lifetime | 11 Ibs |
| Dream On Me | $44.99 | 24″ x 38″ x 3″ | 10-year | 3.5 Ibs |
| Nook | $199 | 28″ x 53″ x 4″ | lifetime | 9 Ibs |
To purchase the best crib mattress, look for:
- firmness. According to the
American Academy of Pediatrics , a firm mattress is suitable for infants, while toddlers may prefer a medium-firm surface - a good fit for the crib, so it is not possible to insert more than 2 fingers between the mattress and the frame
- certification by independent 3rd parties regarding safety and non-toxicity of materials
- a company with a good reputation and positive online reviews from multiple sources
- new rather than used products, to avoid potential hazards of wear and tear
Getting enough good quality sleep plays a vital part in ensuring infant health and well-being. It is typical for a newborn to sleep for 14–17 hours per day and for an infant to sleep for 12–15 hours per day.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends a crib with a firm mattress as a safe sleep environment for infants.
Putting an infant to sleep on their back can reduce the risk of
The AAP provides the following recommendations for crib mattress safety:
- A crib mattress should be firm and fit the crib properly, leaving no gaps at the side.
- Cover the crib mattress with a fitted sheet that is suitable for the mattress.
- Any mattress toppers or sheets should fit tightly on the mattress so that they do not move, bunch up, or create gaps during sleep. They should never cover the infant.
- People should not try to use alternatives to a crib mattress, such as cushions or pillows. Also, do not use these in addition to a crib mattress.
- Do not use damaged or worn crib mattresses that may change shape during sleep.
The AAP also states that commercial products that claim to prevent SIDS may not offer any actual benefits.
The following are common questions and answers about crib mattresses:
How should a person choose a crib mattress?
People should consider the size of the crib and choose a mattress that fits it properly, with no gaps.
They may also wish to choose a mattress from a reputable brand. Looking for customer reviews from multiple online sources can help identify reliable brands and products.
Some companies also have third-party certifications, such as CertiPUR-US certification, which identifies products free from harmful chemicals. These certifications can help with identifying safe and high-quality products.
Is it better to buy new or used crib mattresses?
While used crib mattresses are often low-cost and a more eco-friendly option, they are not as safe as a new crib mattress. They may have wear and tear that can pose choking or suffocation hazards. Bacteria and mold may also be present but undetectable in these products.
With this in mind, it is best to buy a new crib mattress when possible to ensure it is clean and safe.
What can people do with old crib mattresses?
It is possible to recycle used mattresses at specified locations or with certain providers.
A firm crib mattress that fits the crib properly can help ensure safe and comfortable sleep for an infant.
Researching brands and products is important, as different mattresses have varying features and specifications. People may also wish to explore reputable brands and products with many positive reviews.