Nursing mothers around the world seem to be asking the same questions regarding child care. One common question is, “What crib mattress should I buy?” We understand that they want the best for their babies, which is why this article is about the topic.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends firm mattresses for babies. When a baby becomes a toddler, he is strong enough to sleep on a softer mattress. From our research, we learned that the topic of discourse is a question mostly asked by new moms. Hence, we will answer the question, having an infant in mind.
In compliance with the recommendations of the AAP and the regulations of the relevant agencies responsible for Children’s safety, crib mattress manufacturers are producing high-quality mattresses. We will look at the qualities of some of the best crib mattresses.
What Crib Mattress Should I buy?
There are various top-quality crib mattresses in the marketplace. To choose the best mattress for your baby, below are some of the qualities and features you should look out for.
1. Buy only a new Mattress
The first rule, when it comes to buying crib mattresses, is to avoid buying used ones. Ensure that you buy a new mattress for your baby. A used mattress may not be very safe or hygienic.
There is a possibility that it may have been exposed to moisture, which may result in allergens. Another reason why a used mattress is not recommendable for an infant is that you have no idea how long the previous owner used it. Many old crib mattresses contain toxic chemicals. The mattress could fall into that category.
2. Firmness
For a newborn, it is recommendable to get a firm crib mattress. New crib mattresses have two unique sides for different purposes. Typically, one side will be firmer than the other side. The firm side is specially designed for babies.
Firm mattresses prevent the risk of SIDS. To test the firmness of the mattress, you can place your forearm on it. If it returns or springs back to its original shape, then it is firm enough to provide all the support that your baby needs to sleep well.
3. Durability
You can choose a durable crib mattress too. Some crib mattresses comprise of the foam alone while some others consist of innerspring. As long as the mattress you intend to buy is firm, then you are good to go.
Mattresses constructed with heavy-duty springs tend to last longer than foam mattresses, although you should go for anyone you find more suitable.
4. Certification and Approval
If you are going for a foam mattress, you should consider the type of chemicals used for the foam. Excellent crib mattresses should contain non-toxic or harmful chemical substances. That is, they must provide eco-friendliness.
To get this type of mattress, look for a crib mattress that satisfies the regulations and standards of the relevant agencies. How do you know this? To learn if a mattress is certified, check for approval seals on the packaging.
5. Hospital-grade Waterproof cover
The waterproof cover prevents liquid substances like water or pee from soaking the mattress. This protective covering is usually machine-washable, but also easy to clean.
With regular use of damp cloth and mild soap, your mattress cover will remain new. The hospital-grade cover has antibacterial treatment, making it extremely safe and very hygienic for babies. You can choose to buy a crib mattress with this type of feature.
6. Breathability
Some top-quality crib mattresses are breathable. This initiative is commendable, and it is a good development for babies. A breathable mattress allows your baby to sleep comfortably without the risk of suffocation. This reason alone is enough to prove that caring moms need this mattress.
Another advantage of this type of mattress is that it prevents overheating. Heat is one of the factors responsible for people’s inability to sleep. This is the same with babies. A breathable mattress will reduce sweating.
How to Verify the Authenticity?
To check the authenticity of a crib mattress, we told you to look for certification and approval seals. Crib mattresses may have different seals.
Having at least one seal proves that the product meets certain safety standards. Some of the seals you can find on the label of a crib mattress signifying certification are right below.
1. GREENGUARD
GREENGUARD certifies baby mattresses that pass the low chemical emissions test. When a mattress meets the required standard, it gets a GREENGUARD Gold certification. Any infant mattress with a seal from this organization is a top-quality mattress.
2. CertiPUR-US
CertiPUR-US is the agency responsible for informing the public that the foam in a mattress meets the standards for content, emission, and durability.
The organization uses independent and accredited laboratories to carry out testing. Any foam manufacturer that meets their set standards qualifies for certification. That company gets a seal from the organization.
3. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
This organization certifies any crib mattress that meets the safety standards and regulations of the commission. When you find a seal from this commission on the label of an infant mattress, it means that the mattress is safe for babies.
Final Verdict
With everything that we discussed in this interesting article, we believe that we have provided the perfect answer to the question- what crib mattress should I buy? The best crib mattress for an infant is the firm mattress.
If a mattress seems too firm for your baby, you can buy a crib mattress topper. This mattress pad is softer, but it provides the level of comfort and safety that an infant needs. Relevant agencies approve and certify mattress toppers or pads.
To buy the best crib mattress or mattress pad for your baby, we suggest visiting Amazon. The e-commerce platform sells a wide range of baby products. One impressive thing about this globally-recognized outfit is that they sell top-quality and original products at incredible prices.
