Finding the perfect crib is exciting, but the mattress you put inside it matters even more. It serves as the foundation for your baby’s safety and sleep quality for years to come.
We analyzed sizes, materials, and firmness levels to determine which options keep infants safe during their most vulnerable months.
We reviewed the top crib mattresses available today. We will highlight their best features, point out potential drawbacks, and help you choose a safe, comfortable sleep surface for your little one.
- Hypoallergenic technology
- Greenguard Gold certified
- Temperature regulation features
- Easy to clean
- Removable cover
- For crib-to-bed transitioning
- Antibacterial cover
- Extremely affordable
- Greenguard Gold certified
- Ultra firm for premature babies
- Tested for flame retardants
- Lightweight
- Fits any full-size crib
- Water-resistant lining
- Breathable foam
- Greenguard Gold certified organic cotton
- Best quality
- Follows pediatrician recommended foam firmness
- Waterproof vinyl cover
- Durable two-sided design
- Long-lasting firmness
Bare and Back Are Best
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) works hard to promote safe sleeping habits for infants. Thanks to these efforts, sleep-related infant deaths have dropped significantly since the 1990s (1).
While risks never disappear entirely, you can make conscious choices to protect your baby. Remember this simple rule: Bare and back are best.
Here is what that looks like in practice:
- Bare mattress: The crib should contain nothing but your baby, a tightly fitted sheet, and the mattress. The CDC recommends removing blankets, toys, crib bumpers, and pillows. It might look stark, but it is the safest setup.
- Back to bed: Always place your baby on their back to sleep, for naps and at night.
The CDC also recommends keeping the crib or bassinet in your room for at least the first six months (2). This room-sharing arrangement helps you react quickly if something is wrong and makes breastfeeding much easier.
Choosing the Right Crib Mattress
The sheer number of options can feel overwhelming when you start shopping. It helps to be realistic about your budget and lifestyle. A mattress that works for your best friend might not be the right fit for you.
Size
Different cribs require specific mattress sizes. If the fit is not snug, dangerous gaps can form between the mattress and the crib walls.
Crib sizes have been standardized by law since 2011 to ensure safety. Most crib packaging will list the exact dimensions required. You can also check the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website for recalls and standards (3).
Here are the standard measurements to know:
Density and Resilience
Adults often love a plush mattress they can sink into. However, babies require a firm, flat surface for safety.
Firm mattresses support growing bones and reduce suffocation risks. If a mattress is too soft, a baby who rolls onto their stomach might get stuck, making it hard to push back up.
To test this in a store, press your hand into the center and edges of the mattress. It should snap back immediately. If your hand leaves an indentation, the mattress is too soft for an infant.
Weight
Mattress weight might not seem important until you have to lift it at 2 a.m. Changing crib sheets requires lifting the mattress, often from an awkward angle over the crib rail.
Materials dictate the weight. Foam mattresses are generally light, while coil innerspring models can be quite heavy. I recommend testing the weight in person if possible. Mimic the motion of lifting it out of a crib to see if it strains your back.
Foam or Coil?
Crib mattresses generally fall into two categories: foam or innerspring coil. Both can be safe and effective, but they have distinct pros and cons.
Consider these differences when deciding:
- Foam mattress: Typically lighter and more affordable. They offer excellent ventilation and come in various firmness levels.
- Coil mattress: Usually heavier and more expensive. However, they are often more durable and resilient, standing up well to jumping toddlers.
Organic, Eco-Friendly, or Conventional
The baby industry has a large market for organic and eco-friendly products. While terms like “natural” are common, certifications matter more than marketing buzzwords.
Organic mattresses use materials with fewer chemicals and avoid harsh flame retardants. The CPSC specifically recommends avoiding organohalogen flame retardants due to health concerns (6).
Eco-friendly mattresses might not be 100% organic, but they prioritize sustainable supply chains or recyclable materials.
One Thing Is Certain
Look for these trusted standards to verify claims:
- GOTS and GOLS: These certify that the mattress contains at least 95% organic materials and prohibits specific chemical flame retardants (7) (8).
- Greenguard Gold: Ensures the product has low chemical emissions and contributes to cleaner indoor air quality.
- CertiPUR-US: Specifically tests foam for hazardous chemicals and durability.
New or Used
Reusing a mattress from an older sibling or a friend can save money, but it comes with risks.
Buying a used crib mattress from a stranger is generally not recommended. You cannot know how it was stored or if it has hidden mold from improperly cleaned diaper leaks.
If you are reusing your own mattress, inspect it carefully. Ensure it has been stored in a dry place, fits current safety standards, and shows no signs of sagging or warping.
Bottom Line
Product Reviews
We have rounded up 10 excellent crib mattresses to help your baby (and you) sleep soundly.
Newton Baby Crib Mattress
Best Hypoallergenic Crib Mattress
The Newton mattress uses a unique “Wovenaire” technology that allows air to move freely through the core. It is made of 90% air and 10% food-grade polymer, which helps prevent overheating and reduces the risk of suffocation if your baby rolls over.
One of its biggest selling points is that it is completely washable. You can unzip the cover and throw it in the machine, and you can even wash the core in the shower. This prevents allergen and bacteria buildup over time.
It is Greenguard Gold certified and fully recyclable. At 11 pounds, it is substantial enough to feel sturdy but lighter than traditional coil mattresses.
Pros
- 100% washable core and cover.
- Highly breathable design.
- Greenguard Gold certified.
- Temperature regulating.
Cons
- Higher price point than standard foam options.
Our Ratings
Safety 1st Heavenly Dreams Crib Mattress
Best Newborn Crib Mattress
This Safety 1st mattress offers excellent firmness at a budget-friendly price. It is a high-density thermo-bonded fiber core that provides the sturdy support infants need without breaking the bank.
The cover is made of 100% vinyl, making it waterproof and incredibly easy to wipe down after accidents. It is also Greenguard Gold certified, giving parents peace of mind regarding chemical emissions.
Weighing in at just 7.5 pounds, this mattress is very lightweight. Changing sheets is a breeze since you can easily lift it with one hand.
Pros
- Budget-friendly.
- Very lightweight.
- Waterproof and easy to clean.
- Greenguard Gold certified.
Cons
- Not organic.
Our Ratings
Milliard Memory Foam Crib Mattress
Best Toddler Crib Mattress
The Milliard mattress is a dual-sided option perfect for families looking for longevity. One side features firm foam for infants, while the flip side has a layer of memory foam that contours to your toddler’s body as they grow.
This makes it an excellent choice for transitioning to a toddler bed. It comes with a soft, removable bamboo cover that is machine washable, a lifesaver during potty training.
The foam is CertiPUR-US certified. At 11 pounds, it is sturdier than basic foam mattresses but still manageable for sheet changes.
Pros
- Dual-sided for infants and toddlers.
- Removable, washable bamboo cover.
- Memory foam offers toddler comfort.
- Great value for the price.
Cons
- Heavier than standard foam models.
- Not organic.
Our Ratings
Dream on Me Portable Crib Mattress
Best Portable Crib Mattress
This Dream on Me mattress is designed to fit most standard portable cribs (roughly 24″ x 38″). It provides significantly more support than the standard pads included with pack-and-plays.
The antibacterial cover helps keep the sleep surface sanitary, which is vital for travel beds that might visit various environments. It is waterproof and cleans up easily with mild soap and water.
At only 3 pounds, it is incredibly easy to transport. Despite the low price and light weight, it is Greenguard Gold certified, ensuring low chemical emissions.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight (3 lbs).
- Fits most portable cribs.
- Antibacterial and waterproof cover.
- Greenguard Gold certified.
Cons
- Only fits portable cribs (check dimensions).
- Not organic.
Our Ratings
Sealy Baby Firm Rest Crib Mattress
Best Preemie Crib Mattress
The Sealy Baby Firm Rest uses 204 heat-tempered steel coils to create a durable, supportive surface. It features an anti-sag weight distribution system that keeps the mattress flat and safe for smaller babies.
The hospital-grade antibacterial cover is a standout feature. It helps prevent the spread of germs and is waterproof for easy cleaning. This is crucial for preemies who may have sensitive immune systems.
While it is a coil mattress, it weighs about 13 pounds, making it lighter than many other innerspring options. It strikes a good balance between heavy-duty support and manageability.
Pros
- High coil count for firm support.
- Hospital-grade antibacterial cover.
- Greenguard Gold certified.
- Made in the USA.
Cons
- Waterproof cover can be slightly noisy.
Our Ratings
Graco Premium Foam Crib Mattress
Best Affordable Crib Mattress
Graco offers a straightforward, effective mattress that arrives compressed in a box. Once unrolled, it expands into a full-size crib mattress that offers breathable firmness at a great price.
It features a water-resistant lining to handle diaper leaks and spills. Because it fits standard cribs, it works well from infancy through the toddler years. The foam core is breathable, helping to keep your baby comfortable.
Weighing 10 pounds, it is sturdy enough to stay in place but light enough for one person to maneuver. It is an excellent choice for parents who want safety and certification (Greenguard Gold) without extra frills.
Pros
- Very affordable.
- Convenient “mattress in a box” delivery.
- Greenguard Gold certified.
- Breathable foam core.
Cons
- Takes time to fully expand after unboxing.
- Not organic.
Our Ratings
Dream on Me Two-Sided Mini Crib Mattress
Best Two-Sided Crib Mattress
Designed specifically for mini cribs, this mattress maximizes versatility. One side is extra firm for newborns, while the flip side offers softer cushioning for older babies.
It is waterproof, hypoallergenic, and resists bedbugs, keeping the sleep environment clean and safe. The mattress is Greenguard Gold certified, meeting strict standards for chemical emissions.
At just 5 pounds, this is exceptionally lightweight. It makes the constant cycle of sheet changes much less of a chore. Note that this will not fit a standard-size crib.
Pros
- Dual firmness for infants and older babies.
- Waterproof and hypoallergenic.
- Greenguard Gold certified.
- Extremely lightweight.
Cons
- Fits mini cribs only (check dimensions).
- Higher price point for a mini mattress.
Our Ratings
Colgate Mattress Eco Classica III Organic Crib Mattress
Best Organic Crib Mattress
The Colgate Eco Classica III features an organic cotton cover that is gentle on your baby’s skin. It uses plant-based oils in its foam rather than petroleum-based oils, making it a more eco-friendly choice.
It is a dual-firmness mattress, so you can flip it when your child becomes a toddler. The waterproof backing on the organic cotton cover helps protect the core from accidents without relying on harsh chemicals.
Weighing 9.6 pounds, it is very easy to lift. It holds both Greenguard Gold and CertiPUR-US certifications, assuring high standards for indoor air quality and content.
Pros
- Organic cotton cover.
- Plant-based eco-foam.
- Dual-sided firmness.
- Lightweight and easy to change.
Cons
- Premium price tag.
Our Ratings
Serta Tranquility Eco Firm Crib Mattress
Best Waterproof Crib Mattress
The Serta Tranquility features a heavy-duty waterproof vinyl cover that wipes clean in seconds. If you deal with frequent messes, this barrier is a huge time-saver.
Inside, 120 heavy-duty coils provide robust support. It is a two-stage mattress, meaning it is firm enough for newborns on one side and has a layer of gel memory foam on the other for toddlers.
At 16 pounds, it is heavier than foam models, but the coil construction ensures it won’t sag over time. It is also Greenguard Gold certified, so you get waterproofing without dangerous chemical emissions.
Pros
- Durable waterproof vinyl cover.
- Two-stage design with toddler memory foam.
- Long-lasting coil construction.
- Greenguard Gold certified.
Cons
- Heavier than foam mattresses.
- Not organic.
Our Ratings
My First Mattress Crib Mattress
Best Foam Crib Mattress
This mattress focuses on quiet comfort. It features a soft, plush cover that is removable and washable, avoiding the crinkly noise associated with standard vinyl covers.
The high-density foam is CertiPUR-US certified and hypoallergenic. It is also mite-proof and antimicrobial, which is great for babies with allergies.
Weighing around 12 pounds, it feels substantial and durable without being overly heavy. The squared corners ensure a snug fit in standard cribs, reducing unsafe gaps.
Pros
- Quiet, soft removable cover.
- Hypoallergenic and mite-proof.
- CertiPUR-US certified foam.
- Square corners for a safe fit.
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than basic foam.
- Not organic.
Our Ratings
Keeping Your Crib Mattress Clean
Crib mattresses endure a lot of messes. Between diaper blowouts, spit-up, and drool, liquids and germs constantly threaten your baby’s sleep surface.
Keeping the mattress clean is vital for hygiene and longevity. Here is how to handle it efficiently.
Waterproof Mattress Pads
The smartest defense is a waterproof mattress pad. It acts as a shield between the mess and the mattress.
If a leak occurs, you simply strip the sheet and pad, toss them in the wash, and replace them. Zippered encasements are particularly effective because they fully seal the mattress, protecting it from bedbugs and dust mites.
Detergents and Cleansers
If a spill gets past the sheets, spot cleaning is usually sufficient.
Mix a small amount of baby-safe laundry detergent with warm water. Blot the liquid first, then wipe the area gently. Avoid soaking the mattress, as moisture trapped inside can lead to mold.
For disinfection, a quick wipe with rubbing alcohol after cleaning can help kill lingering bacteria.
Keeping Dry
Moisture is the enemy of crib mattresses. Ensure the surface is 100% dry before putting the sheets back on. If you did a deep clean, let the mattress air dry in a sunny, well-ventilated spot for a few hours to ensure no moisture remains.
Crib Mattresses FAQs
How Often Do You Need to Replace a Crib Mattress?
You should replace a crib mattress if you see visible sagging, tearing, or permanent stains. While high-quality mattresses can last through multiple children, you must inspect them carefully for firmness and hygiene before reusing them for a new baby.
How Often Do You Flip a Crib Mattress?
Flipping the mattress every three months helps prevent indentations and sagging. If you have a dual-sided mattress, ensure you are using the correct firmness side for your child’s age (firm for infants, softer for toddlers).
What Is the Best Thickness for a Crib Mattress?
Crib mattresses should be between 4 and 6 inches thick. A mattress thicker than 6 inches may allow the baby to climb out of the crib easier, while anything too thin might not provide adequate support.
Is Memory Foam Good for a Crib Mattress?
Standard memory foam is generally unsafe for infants because it is too soft and poses a suffocation risk. However, many crib mattresses use a firmer, specialized foam safe for babies, or include a memory foam layer specifically on the toddler side.
Do Breathable Crib Mattresses Prevent SIDS?
There is no medical evidence that breathable mattresses prevent SIDS. The most effective way to reduce SIDS risk is following safe sleep guidelines: placing the baby on their back, on a firm surface, with no loose bedding or bumpers.
Do I Need a Waterproof Mattress Cover?
Yes, a waterproof cover or pad is highly recommended. It protects the mattress core from urine, spit-up, and spilled milk, preventing mold growth and bacteria buildup inside the mattress.
What Are the Dimensions of a Standard Crib Mattress?
A standard full-size crib mattress must be at least 27 1/4 inches wide and 51 1/4 inches long. The thickness should not exceed 6 inches to ensure safety regulations are met.
In Conclusion
Your baby will spend thousands of hours on their crib mattress, so it pays to choose one that is safe and durable. Whether you opt for an organic model, a sturdy coil spring, or a lightweight foam option, prioritize a snug fit and a firm surface.Once you have the right foundation, you can rest easy knowing your little one is sleeping safely. Sweet dreams!
