Best Crib Mattress Reviews: Top 10 for 2022

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Searching for the perfect crib mattress can be a daunting task for parents. First, you have to figure out how to choose a crib mattress, and after that, you will have to find out where to buy the crib mattress as well. Lucky for you, we have already done most of the work and you can just keep reading to find everything you need!

As you read our crib mattress reviews, remember to look for these key traits that are particularly important functions of a safe and healthy crib mattress: firmness, comfort, support, breathability, temperature regulation, and being waterproof or easy to wipe clean. We also consider those that are GreenGuard Gold certified which ensures you find the best crib mattress that is not only good for the environment and reduces VOC emissions but is free from harmful chemicals, too. If you’re looking for something that is made to the Global Organic Textile Standard, we’ve got that too!

We will explain why some traits are so important when choosing a crib mattress in the guide that directly follows our best-of list. For now, enjoy sifting through our research about the best baby mattresses on the market; whether you’re looking for a high-density foam crib mattress, toddler mattresses, or an organic option, we have something for you.

Top 10 Crib Mattress Reviews

1. Newton Wovenaire (Editor’;s Choice and Safest Pick)

Newton Sunrise Pink

The Newton crib mattress is our #1 pick for the top crib mattress. It is designed with safety standards and hygiene in mind to provide your baby with a superior level of comfort that doesn’;t sacrifice functionality. It is also 100% recyclable so when you decide its lifespan has reached an end, you can easily dispose of it without it winding up in a landfill, as many baby mattresses unfortunately do.

  • Type: Wovenaire fibers
  • Height: 5.5 inches
  • Weight: 11 pounds
  • Corners: Square but not pointy
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty with a 100-night in-home trial period

The Newton crib mattress is comprised of a removable polyester case and a core made from their proprietary material, Wovenaire. Wovenaire is 90% air and 10% food-grade fine plastic polymer filaments spun together. This crib mattress is also GreenGuard Gold certified which means it is free from any harmful chemicals and reduces its VOC emissions.

Firmness, Support, and Comfort

Unlike some of the other best crib mattresses, the Newton does not feature dual firmness. Instead of providing two firmnesses, a softer one for the toddler years and a firmer one for infants, this mattress aims to be somewhere in the middle. Don’t let this discourage you though, they seem to have found the perfect level of supportive comfort which works well as a crib and toddler mattress.

Breathability and Temperature Regulation

The Newton crib mattress ranks Newton Sunrisevery high in the category of breathability and temperature regulation. The Wovenaire core is designed specifically to promote breathability as a defense against suffocation, a leading cause of injury-related death in infants. Its unique structure is 90% air which ensures proper airflow throughout the entire structure.

Wovenaire also excels in temperature regulation. Its open-air structure ensures it won’;t retain heat from your baby’;s body by actively dissipating and redistributing it all night long. Preventing overheating at night will allow some more restful baby sleep while also decreasing the chances of SIDS, which many believe can be attributed to being too hot.

Maintenance

The Newton baby crib mattress is 100% washable so you can rest assured your baby sleeps on a clean and sanitary surface free from bacteria, even when you hand it down to another child. Unlike other baby crib mattresses, where only the mattress cover can be washed, the Wovenaire core can easily be washed in a bathtub or shower using room temperature water. Avoid hot water as it can cause the material to shrink slightly.

Edge Support

No additional precautions are taken.

Pros:
  • 100% washable to eliminate bacteria buildup
  • Superior breathability to prevent the risk of suffocation
  • Zero off-gassing period
  • Great for use with multiple children as a crib and toddler bed mattress
  • 100% recyclable and made in the USA
Cons:
  • Not dual-sided
  • May not be affordable if you are on a strict budget
  • Not waterproof

2. Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer (Best Waterproof)

Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer

This crib mattress by Moonlight Slumber is our top choice for the best baby mattress with a waterproof cover. Not only is it easily cleaned, but it is also tested for extreme durability making it a good crib mattress to pass down from child to child. This baby crib mattress is made to be eco-friendly and GreenGuard Gold certified, reducing their VOC emissions while being made in the USA.

  • Type: Plant-based
  • Height: 5 inches
  • Weight: 10.27 pounds
  • Corners: Square
  • Warranty: Lifetime

Both sides of this Moonlight Slumber baby crib mattress are made out of environmentally friendly, plant-based, medical grade foam. It is GreenGuard Gold certified which ensures that your crib mattress does not contain any vinyl, antimony, lead, phthalates, or PVC and is non-toxic. The case is waterproof, stain-resistant, and odor resistant with a woven fire barrier lining underneath. It is made from medical grade, durable, stretch knit, nylon fabric.

Firmness, Support, and Comfort

The firm side – or the infant side – of the Moonlight Slumber crib mattress uses a firmer version of the plant-based foam which is ideal for infants. The toddler side is made from a plush version making it more ideal for your older childer. The dual-sided design allows you to use the mattress longer than one with only one level of firmness. Due to it being a dual firmness crib mattress, you can simply flip it over when your baby grows older. Therefore, instead of purchasing a completely different bed to maintain comfort as they grow, this crib and toddler mattress will see them through until they upgrade to a larger bed.

Breathability and Temperature Regulation

This Moonlight Slumber crib mattress sleeps cool and does not retain heat for extended periods of time but no specific steps are taken to facilitate this. Foam crib mattresses will retain some heat, but not enough to adversely affect your child. The knit mattress cover helps to promote airflow to make sure your baby stays at the right temperature.

Maintenance

One of the main reasons we love this Moonlight Slumber crib mattress is because it is waterproof. These foam mattresses have an interior that is water resistant and a case that is entirely waterproof! This combination helps to prevent bacteria from forming and allows your child to get that much-needed baby sleep on a completely clean and sanitary surface regardless of how many spills it has experienced.

Edge Support

No additional precautions are taken.

Pros:
  • Tested for long-lasting durability
  • Made in the USA with eco-friendly domestic components and high-quality imported fabric
  • Dual firmness crib mattress with an infant and toddler side
  • Water resistant foam mattress and waterproof cover makes it easy to clean
  • No off-gassing period
Cons:
  • Square corners are a bit more pointy than other options
  • Some find it is too firm overall
  • Pinched seam on top and bottom
  • No additional precaution is taken focusing on temperature regulation

3. Colgate Classica III (Best Memory Foam)

Colgate Classica III

The Colgate Classica III is one of our top recommended memory foam mattresses. Colgate is a family run company that has been making some of the best crib mattresses since 1955. They have a reputation for producing high-quality products that are not only durable but are CertiPUR-US certified and GreenGuard Gold certified, too.

  • Type: Memory foam
  • Height: 5.5 inches
  • Weight: 8.5 pounds
  • Corners: Square with inverted seams
  • Warranty: Conditional lifetime

It comes with an organic cotton cover that is triple layer reinforced, tear-resistant, waterproof, hypoallergenic, and phthalate-free. The dual layers inside are made from orthopedic memory foam. A natural flammability barrier encases the mattress beneath the cover on top. Not only this, but it is also GreenGuard Gold and CertiPUR-US certified so you can rest assured it has been tested free from thousands of harmful chemicals and flame retardants, and is made with non-toxic materials.

Firmness, Support, and Comfort

The dual-sided design Colgate Orthopedicof the Colgate Classica III baby crib mattress ensures proper supportive comfort for your child starting from infancy and continuing through to use on their toddler bed. The firmer infant side is made from high-density foam. The toddler side is less firm and gives additional comfort.

Breathability and Temperature Regulation

Multiple side vents in the mattress enable maximum airflow throughout even with the waterproof cover. Memory foam mattresses have been known to retain some heat but new designs have improved greatly in recent years so chances are your baby will not encounter this problem with the Colgate Classica III.

Maintenance?

The organic cotton cover is waterproof making this mattress very easy to clean. The inside is hard to near impossible to clean though. So if the organic mattress cover ever tears, which is unlikely, you will want to find additional coverage to ensure a bacteria-free environment.

Edge Support

No additional precautions are taken.

Pros:
  • Dual firmness with an infant and toddler side
  • Lightweight and easy to move
  • The waterproof cover makes it easy to keep clean
  • Family owned and made in the USA
  • More affordable than many of the other options
Cons:
  • Slight off-gassing period
  • Square corners are a bit pointy
  • Memory foam mattresses sleep hotter than other possible mattress materials

4. Heavenly Dreams by Safety 1st (Best Budget)

Safety 1st Heavenly Dreams

The Heavenly Dreams crib mattress by Safety 1st is our top pick for consumers on a strict budget. This mattress is affordable and high-quality. It is firm and lightweight which contributes to its status as one of the best infant mattress options currently available on the market.

  • Type: Thermo-bonded polyester
  • Height: 5 inches
  • Weight: 7.5 pounds
  • Corners: Rounded
  • Warranty: 5-year limited

The core is constructed out of high-density foam. This Saftey 1st mattress has a vinyl cover that is made from 100% vinyl, laminated with polypropylene which is resistant to stains, lead-free, phthalate-free, and odor resistant, earning it both GreenGuard Gold and CertiPUR-US certifications.

Firmness, Support, and Comfort

This Safety 1st crib mattress onlySafety 1st offers one firmness – extra firm. The extra level of support is ideal for infants making it a top pick when looking for the best infant crib mattress, especially if you don’;t prioritize the need to use it on a toddler bed. After the first year, some children find this mattress is too firm for extended comfort.

Breathability and Temperature Regulation

The Heavenly Dreams crib mattress by Safety 1st does not have any additional temperature regulation features. The polyester core does a good job at facilitating heat dispersion but there is still some retained. The vinyl cover is also less breathable than many other common materials.

Maintenance

This Safety 1st crib mattress can be cleaned easily due to its waterproof vinyl cover. You can easily wipe it down and flip it to get both sides without any hassle.

Edge Support

No additional precautions are taken but it does a good job without anything extra.

Pros:
  • Our most affordable option on our top picks list
  • Lightweight and easy to move
  • The waterproof cover makes it easy to clean
  • Zero off-gassing odor
Cons:
  • Imported instead of being made in the USA
  • 100% vinyl mattress cover is not breathable
  • Retains some heat
  • Does not feature dual firmness

5. Naturepedic’;s No Compromise (Best Breathable)

Naturepedic No Compromise

The No Compromise Classic Organic crib mattress by Naturepedic is our top pick for the best baby mattress with superior breathability. Naturepedic mattresses are made in the USA with a blend of domestic components and non-toxic, imported fabrics and components,  meaning that this mattress is CertiPUR-US certified and GreenGuard Gold certified. This organic cotton classic is extremely lightweight and offers a dual firmness upcharge if you want it to be double-sided and to continue using the mattress when your baby becomes a toddler.

  • Type: Certified organic cotton batting with polyethylene foam
  • Height: 6 inches
  • Weight: 2 pounds
  • Corners: Square
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime

The No Compromise crib mattress is made with organic cotton batting and polyethylene foam structured in a wavelike formation to provide durability without the weight of springs. All of the high-quality materials are allergy-friendly, non-toxic, and do not contain any latex, soy, GMOs, vinyl, PVCs, phthalates, formaldehyde, flame retardants, PFCs, or polyurethane foams, earning it a CertiPUR-US and GreenGuard Gold certification for your peace of mind. The mattress cover is made from an organic cotton fabric with a polyethylene surface treatment. It is resistant to stains, dust mites, and bed bugs.

Firmness, Support, and Comfort

The patent-pending wavelike Naturepedic e1543810496672formation surrounded by an additional layer on top and bottom offers superior support. Paired with the cotton batting, this crib mattress provides maximum comfort while also being firm enough to ensure an infant’;s safety.

Breathability and Temperature Regulation

In addition to the other benefits previously mentioned, the wavelike structure helps to promote air flow throughout the mattress without trapping any unnecessary heat inside. The cotton batting also works to mitigate overheating by not retain heat too long as it is highly breathable. The No Compromise crib mattress truly surpasses the competition when it comes to breathability and proper temperature regulation.

Maintenance

This crib mattress is waterproof due to the polyethylene treatment used on the cotton cover. It is easy to clean and easy to flip so you can wipe both sides. All of the seams are heat sealed to ensure the mattress stays 100% waterproof over time. The inside is also water resistant but the cotton batting is not. However, it will dry quickly.

Edge Support

No additional precautions are taken. However, the wavelike formation of the inside of the foam mattress does offer better edge support than a lot of its competitors.

Pros:
  • Superior breathability and air flow throughout
  • Made with CertiPUR-US and GreenGuard Gold certified non-toxic, organic materials
  • Made in the USA
  • Waterproof cover enables easy cleanup
  • Extremely lightweight making it very easy to clean and lift
Cons:
  • Dual firmness is not standard but can be purchased for an additional price
  • May not be affordable if you are on a strict budget
  • Square corners may be too pointy for preference
  • Not as durable as mattresses made from other materials some sagging will be visible after a couple years of use.

6. Sealy’;s Soybean Foam-Core (Best Firm)

Sealy Soybean Foam-Core

The Soybean Foam-Core crib and toddler bed mattress by Sealy is our top pick for the best firm crib mattress. This mattress is dual-sided but both sides have the same level of firmness. It is made in the USA and is extremely durable making it great for multiple children as your family grows over time. In case you are wondering, the Sealy crib mattress recall had nothing to do with this particular bed.

  • Type: Soybean foam
  • Height: 5 inches
  • Weight: 8.3 pounds
  • Corners: Square
  • Warranty: Lifetime warranty on workmanship and materials

One of the things that makes this crib mattress stand out is its use of renewable soybeans to make the core. Its CertiPUR-US and GreenGuard Gold certifications mean that this crib mattress is made without phthalates, formaldehyde, lead, mercury, PBDES, TDCPP or TCEP flame retardants. The case is made from Soybean Foam & Pearl embossed, organic material. Surrounding it is a layer of protective cotton-based cushioning.

Firmness, Support, and Comfort

This soybean foam Sealy Soybeanmattress feels firmer which is ideal for infants. The layer of cotton used cushioning works to counteract some of the firmness while still being supportive. However, some toddlers may find this mattress is too firm for their liking.

Breathability and Temperature Regulation

Built-in airflow pockets allow maximum breathability throughout this Sealy crib mattress. Heat retention is mostly mitigated by the mattress cover which does not allow a lot of heat to penetrate the core and the air pockets do the rest.

Maintenance

The mattress cover is waterproof and easy to wipe down if a spill occurs. The soybean foam on the inside is also water resistant, but should not be submerged or intentionally made wet. Waterproof lock-stitched binding ensures the entire bed is encased in a waterproof shield for any accidents your little one may have.

Edge Support

No additional precautions are taken.

Pros:
  • CertiPUR-US and GreenGuard Gold certified
  • Soybean foam mattress provides high durability
  • Lightweight and easy to move and flip
  • The waterproof mattress cover means it is easy to wipe clean
  • Made in the USA
Cons:
  • Square corners may be too pointy for some
  • It may be too firm as a toddler mattress
  • Makes noise with some movement which may disrupt light sleepers

7. Emily Crib Eco-Wool (Best Cotton)

Emily Eco-Wool

The Emily crib mattress by My Green Mattress is made with certified organic materials and is our top pick for the best cotton crib mattress. It is made in the USA with environmentally conscious materials and is double-sided so it can be flipped and used for twice as long as both a crib and toddler mattress. Both sides have the same level of firmness therefore it is not considered a double-sided mattress so it is not to be confused with other dual firmness crib mattresses.

  • Type: Cotton batting with wool over innerspring mattress
  • Height: 6 inches
  • Weight: 24.1 pounds
  • Corners: Rounded
  • Warranty: 10 years with a 100-night in-home trial to guarantee comfort

The case is certified organic, quilted cotton with American eco-wool sewn in underneath the material. Heavyweight organic cotton batting creates the core along with heavy-duty supportive innerspring coils. All-natural needle-punched insulator pads add an additional component to the core. The materials are also free from flame retardants and polyurethane foams, and are all CertiPUR-US certified and GreenGuard Gold certified to ensure your baby’s safety.

Firmness, Support, and Comfort

The Emily crib mattress boasts being Emily My Greensuitable for infants and toddlers alike. The innerspring core of this organic mattress provides the supportive firm an infant needs to remain safe. The cotton and wool batting allows it to stay comfortable, even as your child becomes a toddler.

Breathability and Temperature Regulation

The breathable cotton and wool allow maximum airflow throughout the mattress without retaining heat for any significant amount of time. The design of the innerspring mattresses is made to promote airflow and breathability by containing ample pockets of open space throughout the entire center of the bed. This organic mattress sleeps cool all night long.

Maintenance

It is not waterproof. You will want to purchase an additional waterproof cover to ensure the longevity of your mattress and in order to prevent the buildup of bacteria or mold within.

Edge Support

The Emily crib mattress incorporates a supportive edge. The design of the innerspring mattress, when paired with superior edge support, will reduce the chance of pinching and unnecessary injury.

Pros:
  • No odor or off-gassing
  • 100-night in-home trial period to guarantee satisfaction
  • Made in the USA with organic materials
  • Superior edge support for added safety via the innerspring mattress design
  • Supportive and soft due to hybrid cotton and innerspring core
Cons:
  • Innerspring mattresses weigh considerably more than a lot of competitors
  • Is less affordable and may not be affordable for all budgets
  • Only one firmness option
  • May make noise after the innersprings start to wear over time
  • Could be too bouncy for some toddlers who are easily disturbed

8. Milliard Dual Comfort (Best Soft)

Milliard Dual Comfort

The Milliard crib mattress is our top pick for a soft option. This dual firmness crib mattress is very affordable on any budget. Quality and safety standards are not sacrificed even at a low price.

  • Type: memory foam and supportive polyurethane foam
  • Height: 5.5 inches
  • Weight: 19 pounds
  • Corners: Square
  • Warranty: 30-day in-home trial period, no warranty information available on their site

Memory foam is used for the toddler side of the mattress and a more supportive polyurethane foam is used for the infant side of this mattress. This Milliard crib mattress is antimicrobial and resistant to mold, bacteria, dust mites, and other bugs. The case is 100% cotton with a water-resistant encasement.

Firmness, Support, and Comfort

Memory foam mattresses activelyMilliard conform under pressure and redistribute the weight to provide a superior level of comfort for your child all night long. This dual firmness Milliard crib mattress helps maintain the proper amount of supportive comfort for the child as they grow.

Breathability and Temperature Regulation

The cotton cover promotes healthy airflow. Memory foam does retain some heat but the dual-sided design allows more temperature regulation than you would expect. Overall, this crib mattress is breathable and will prevent your child from overheating while sleeping.

Maintenance

The mattress cover is not waterproof, but that’;s OK because it is water resistant and when it gets wet you can simply remove it and throw it in your washing machine. This makes it very easy to clean without restricting airflow with plastic-like materials.

Edge Support

No additional precautions are taken.

Pros:
  • Suitable as a crib and toddler bed mattress
  • Dual firmness crib mattress with an infant side and a toddler side
  • Durable and long lasting
  • Soft for extra comfort and targeted pressure point relief
  • Removable waterproof cover enables easy cleaning and a healthy mattress that lasts
Cons:
  • Polyurethane foam used in construction
  • Possible off-gassing period
  • It may be too soft for some heavier infants
  • Heavy and may be difficult to move
  • Imported and has no apparent warranty

9. My First Crib Mattress

My First Memory Foam

My First Crib Mattress by My First Mattress is made from memory foam and is extremely durable. It offers supportive comfort, and affordability without sacrificing quality. The core design makes this mattress exceptionally safe as well.

  • Type: Memory foam
  • Height: 5 inches
  • Weight: 9.95 pounds
  • Corners: Rounded square
  • Warranty: 10 years

The case of this crib mattress is made from plush velour with a waterproof encasement. The memory foam core is comprised of high-quality durable polyurethane foam. The materials are free from lead, phthalates, and fire retardants. They are also hypoallergenic, antimicrobial, and dust mite-proof.

Firmness, Support, and Comfort

As we have mentionedMy First previously, memory foam mattresses offer a superior level of supportive comfort by conforming to the weight applied by your child’;s body and actively redistributing the pressure. This crib mattress does not have dual firmness but should be able to provide proper supportive comfort through the infant stage and up until you need it for a toddler bed. As you may be familiar with, it provides both a soft and firm sensation simultaneously.

Breathability and Temperature Regulation

Memory foam mattresses do not excel in this category. However, the mattress cover does allow some airflow to get to the center of the mattress and it does not overheat.

Maintenance

The cover is waterproof, removable, and machine washable making it very easy to wipe clean when spills occur. The foam core is not suitable for moisture but the mattress cover should provide ample protection from accidents that are bound to happen.

Edge Support

No additional precautions are taken.

Pros:
  • Very affordable on any budget
  • Targeted pressure point relief
  • Removable cover is water resistant and machine washable
  • Superior comfort
  • Lightweight for a memory foam mattress
Cons:
  • Slight off-gassing period with odor
  • Needs 24-72 hours of decompression time before it’;s ready for use
  • Only one firmness
  • Some find the mattress is too firm once their child surpasses infancy

10. Serta Perfect Start

Setra Perfect Start Fiber Core

The Perfect Start crib and toddler mattress by Serta is one of our top picks that will accommodate even the tightest of budgets.

  • Type: Polyester fiber core
  • Height: 5 inches
  • Weight: 12.4 pounds
  • Corners: Square
  • Warranty: manufacturer’;s warranty available upon request to customer service

The case is made from a natural non-toxic vinyl material that is bot CertiPUR-US certified and GreenGuard Gold certified, with a cloth binding. A firm fiber core is complemented by a half-inch non-allergenic polyester fiber core for added comfort.

Firmness, Support, and Comfort

This crib mattress is firm enough Setra Perfect Startto prevent an infant from rolling over. The core is supportive and comfortable.

Breathability and Temperature Regulation

This crib mattress is breathable and will prevent overheating. The vinyl cover retains some heat but the core is shielded by the vinyl making it stay cooler overall. The polyester core does a great job at promoting airflow while distributing the heat it receives.

Maintenance

The waterproof vinyl cover makes this crib mattress very easy to clean. The vinyl is resistant to stains and can be wiped down with mild cleansers. The core is not water resistant but the cover should prevent it from getting wet for a long time.

Edge Support

No additional precautions are taken.

Pros:
  • Suitable as a crib and toddler bed mattress
  • CertiPUR-US and GreenGuard Gold certified
  • Waterproof for easy cleaning
  • Relatively lightweight and easy to move and flip
  • No odor or off-gassing period
Cons:
  • Pointy square corners
  • Does not feature dual firmness
  • It may be too firm for some toddlers

How To Pick The Best Baby Mattress

With all of the options and the seemingly limitless variations, it can be difficult to know how to pick a crib mattress that works for you and your child. This guide will help you determine what to look for when buying a crib mattress so you can make a knowledgeable decision that you will be happy with in the end.

Size and Height

When choosing a frame, you may find yourself wondering, how long are crib mattresses? Crib mattresses have a regulatory size to ensure safety across brands and to prevent gaps between the frame and the mattress that could cause small children to get trapped in their cribs.

baby wearing a bonnet

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regulations state that a crib mattress must be at least 27¼ inches wide by 51 ¼ inches long. The CPSC standards also require a crib mattress to be no more than 6 inches thick so small children will not run the risk of toppling out of the crib by falling over the top of the bars.

Many people prefer a crib mattress that is thinner than 6 inches so it provides minimal loft. The taller the crib mattress, the more likely a child will be able to climb out as they grow which could pose a potential threat or cause injury.

Materials

Just like mattresses for adults, the best crib mattresses are available in a variety of materials and structures that offer varying levels of supportive comfort which cater to specific needs and sleep preferences. When it comes to a foam vs a spring crib mattress, the main difference is weight. A spring mattress will generally weigh more than a mattress made from foam. An organic mattress may have different specifications entirely.

The weight of the crib mattress can make a difference if you anticipate moving it frequently for things like travel, or to clean after an unexpected accident. People with limited mobility may also have trouble moving a heavier crib mattress without assistance. Consider the weight of the mattress if you fall into one of these categories but for the most part, crib mattresses can be moved with ease from one place to another by an adult – an innerspring mattress may be lighter than a foam mattress.

Let’;s review more about what makes different types of crib mattresses unique.

Innerspring Mattresses

Innerspring mattresses have been around for a very long and considered traditional. They consist of a series of coils that respond to pressure applied by body weight. Innerspring baby crib mattresses are often more expensive and heavier options but can be more durable and last longer without showing signs of wear. Additionally, some innerspring mattresses will include border rods for additional edge support.

Foam Mattresses

Foam crib mattresses can be comprised of varying types such as memory foam and polyfoam. They come in a variety of thicknesses and firmnesses as well, some are double sided which means they feature a firm side and a softer side. Make sure you choose a firmer one for infants and small children to help them sleep on their back all night without rolling over onto their stomachs. Keep in mind that they tend to be lighter and easier to move than spring mattresses which can be helpful when cleaning frequently.

Organic Mattresses

They come in a variety of materials such as wool, natural latex, cotton, and many more. Many parents prefer an organic mattress because they do not contain chemicals that could potentially pose a threat if they release gas. They do not use flame retardants, vinyl, or polyurethane in their construction.

Material Certification

Strict regulations are enforced for crib mattress manufacturers regarding emissions and chemical components. All crib mattresses must be GREENGUARD Gold certified which denotes minimal emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other chemical components which pose health risks after extended exposure.

These crib mattresses must also be CertiPUR-US certified which guarantees they do not contain harmful chemicals such as lead or formaldehyde.

In addition to the two previous certifications mentioned, any product being advertised as an organic mattress should also be Global Organic Textile Standard Certified (GOTS) and/or Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified.

Make sure you check the certifications each mattress has to ensure it meets all the guidelines and more.

Round vs Square Corners

Crib mattresses come with either rounded or square corners. Square corners provide a snugger fit along the edge of most crib frames. This ensures you will not have a gap between the frame and the mattress which should be avoided to prevent pinching. Some find the square corners can be too pointy for their preference though, and they worry about poking. Some may suit certain crib sheets better than others, too.

mum checking on her baby

Rounded corners will prevent poking from happening but may also create little pockets for things like pacifiers to fall into because the mattress does not fit flush to the walls of the crib in the corners. There are benefits and drawbacks to crib mattresses with either rounded and corner crib; make sure you choose what is right for you and your family. You don’t have to stress about this minor detail too much.

Firmness, Support, and Comfort

The ideal crib mattress for a newborn or infant will be firm and offer a lot of support. These traits help a baby remain on their back all night long, something that is strongly recommended to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), a disease also referred to as cot death or crib death. Aside from SIDS, a baby runs a higher risk of suffocation when sleeping on their stomach at a very young age so sleeping on their back is the ideal position to reduce the risk and ensure a safer sleep.

The best crib mattresses for babies are firm and are supportive enough to prevent them from rolling over onto their stomachs during the night. Adversely, a softer crib mattress is too conforming and will make it easier for them to roll over. Thus, they should be avoided for infants.

However, keep in mind that the mattress you use for your crib may not be the same one you want to use as your toddler bed mattress. Softer crib options are more suitable as a toddler bed mattress and are not recommended until your child is a little older. Some crib mattresses are double sided so the mattress can change to suit your child’;s needs as they grow. These mattresses have a softer side for toddlers and have a firm side on the other for infants. This is a good option for a lot of families that offers diversity and saves some money in the long run.

Temperature Regulation And Breathability

One of the leading environmental causes suspected of contributing to SIDS is overheating in infants. This makes temperature regulation and breathability very important when deciding which crib mattress you should buy. The right mattress will help control body temperature throughout the night allowing your child to sleep safer and more comfortably.

Breathability also ranks really high on determining factors in top rated crib mattresses because they are good at preventing suffocation. Infants run a high risk of suffocation in the first few months before they have the strength and mobility to move their limbs and body more freely. Anything we can do to mitigate the threat of suffocation in infants, like increase breathability in a mattress, is a welcome and necessary adjustment. An innerspring mattress often has excellent airflow due to the construction of the core. 

Cloth covers retain more heat than a vinyl cover, but vinyl is less breathable than cloth. To combat this, many crib mattresses with vinyl covers are aerated or perforated in some way to help facilitate and promote more airflow and breathability.

Crib mattress reviews often rank mattresses with cloth covers that have been treated with a layer of polyethylene the highest because they provide a level of protection against liquids while still preventing overheating in small children.

Durability, Warranty and Affordability

The length of the warranty should be the first indication of its durability. Many people overlook the importance of durability in a crib mattress because they don’t expect to use it for more than a few years, three is pretty standard, before switching to a bigger bed. However, the same crib mattress can be used for future children as well if it is durable enough. Purchasing a high-quality crib mattress now may save you from having to buy again as your family grows.

Simply put, having a baby is expensive. Almost all expecting parents anticipate costs with a new baby and create a budget to prepare. With this in mind, the cost of a new crib mattress can play an important part in your decision. Of course, parents want to provide their kids with a comfortable and safe mattress, but the cost can be the determining factor for many people in the end. Fortunately, there are so many good quality options available on the market today that you will not have to sacrifice quality for affordability.

Waterproof vs Cloth Cover

When it comes to good quality crib mattresses, the cover material is very important. You want it to be breathable and of course safe. Most crib mattresses come with either a waterproof cover made from polyurethane or vinyl. They may also come with a fabric cover that can be made from materials like cotton or nylon.

little baby sitting up

Babies and small children use diapers, but they do not always eliminate leakage or prevent accidents from occurring. Bottles also have a tendency to leak or possibly come open if not properly sealed which can lead to a big mess. Many parents prefer to purchase a crib mattress with a waterproof case for precisely these reasons.

However, it does not mean you should ignore the many great choices available that have cloth covers. It simply means you should strongly consider purchasing a waterproof fitted-sheet to make your crib mattress as easy to clean as possible. When considering price, you may want to factor this additional cost into the total price if you are choosing a crib mattress without a built-in waterproof fabric cover.

Edge Support

At first, you may think this is only important for heavier people and couples who wish to maximize the usable surface area of their beds. However, it can be equally important for a crib mattress, only for different reasons. Some will include edge support in the form of border rods, while others will feature a denser foam.

Reinforced edges on a crib mattress prevent shrinkage when a small child rolls over. This is important to help reduce the potential for accidental injury from being pressed against the side or being wedged between the mattress and crib wall. In extreme cases, these scenarios could even cause suffocation. Edge support and a crib mattress that snugly fits into the bed frame will help mitigate this problem.

Unfortunately, many of our choices do not feature border rods, or any other specific edge support however, sometimes the firmness of the mattress is enough to prevent rolling. 

Conclusion: Who Wins In The End?

Now that you have a basic understanding of your options and you know what to look for in a crib mattress let’;s take a look back and review our top pick, along with what makes it so exceptional.baby girl sleeping in a crib

Our editor’;s choice and the safest pick for the best crib mattress is the Newton baby crib and toddler bed mattress. Here’s why we love it:

  • Its 100% washable case and core provide a sanitary, clean surface for your child to sleep on that will remain free from bacteria and allergens for many years, and possibly many children to come. It is easily removed so you don’;t have to wash the whole mattress every time either.
  • It’s 100% recyclable so you don’;t have to put any extra work into searching for a sustainable way to dispose of it in the future, just recycle it normally.
  • It’;s made in the USA.
  • It’;s made with new, unique core material named Wovenaire that is designed with safety and hygiene in mind so you don’;t have to worry about your baby overheating or running the risk of suffocation. Wovenaire is 90% air making it extremely breathable. Not only this, it is GreenGuard Gold certified for your peace of mind.
  • The square corners fit snugly in a crib frame without being pointed or sharp.
  • It only weighs 11 pounds making it easy to flip, move, and clean without any additional strain.
  • It comes with a limited lifetime warranty, as well as a 100-night in-home trial so you can more than confident you made the right decision.
  • There is zero off-gassing period or odor emitted from the mattress.
  • It provides the perfect level of firmness, support, and comfort for infants up to the toddler stage.

The Newton crib mattress is a bit pricey compared to some of the other top crib mattresses on the market but we are confident it is well worth it in the end. We highly recommend it and we hope you like it as much as we do!

Additional Resources

Emily Alexander
Emily Alexander

Emily Melynn Alexander was born on the east coast of the USA but has called Colorado home since 2000. She has a degree in English and Political Science from Metropolitan State University of Denver. She enjoys sleeping in locations all around the world.

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