Crib mattress features have far more to do with your baby's safety, than with baby nursery themes, nursery decor, or nursery accessories.
So let's get right down to the stuffing, so to speak, and consider the anatomy of a baby crib mattress.
Baby Crib Mattress Fit Factor
Take accurate measurements of your baby crib along, when choosing a crib mattress. A snug fit is a safe fit. A perfect match between crib and mattress has been established if the gap around the mattress is a good deal less than two adult fingers. If the space is large enough to accommodate two fingers, your search isn't over yet! Cribs from the well-known Pottery Barn Kids, and reputable manufacturers of baby furniture, such as Bellini, Pali, and Simmons, are standard. These shouldn't present a problem when fitted with a full-size crib mattress. However, it is always sensible to check the fit yourself.
Baby Crib Mattress Firm Factor
The best crib mattress gives your baby a firm sleeping surface, with just the right amount of give to ensure comfort and snugness. A too soft mattress presents a safety hazard, as it can lead to suffocation. The baby mattress is one item where quality is without question more important than cost. Most reputable manufacturers supply a crib mattress with a softer side for a baby, and a slightly firmer surface on the reverse, suitable for a toddler.
Baby Crib Mattress Foam Factor
One of the most frequently asked questions is whether a foam crib mattress, or a coil product, is the best option. This really is a matter of personal preference. Both have their place. With a foam crib mattress, changing the sheets are easier, as it is lighter. At the same time, it offers an acceptable firmness level. A coil crib mattress is usually a more durable product, with the robustness to give super support to a toddler. Any materials used in the manufacturing process, should be hypo-allergenic.
A foam crib mattress that is very effective for posture protection and support, is an innerspring with viscoelastic foam, such as the Support Supreme manufactured by Starlight.
Baby Crib Mattress Fluid Factor
There are always little night time mishaps of one kind or another, with a baby or toddler. A waterproof or water-resistant crib mattress cover is standard on most lines. Look for a quality product, such as the Million Dollar Baby or Da Vinci coil crib mattress, with its reinforced, triple layer cover that is also anti-microbial. A Sealy crib mattress also offers good value for money. A loose waterproof cover is never recommended. The risk of suffocation is too high.
Baby Crib Mattress Flammability Factor
It is very reassuring to know that a crib mattress has an internal fire barrier. There are strict Federal standards manufacturers of mattresses have to comply with. The cotton and wool used for many innerspring mattresses, gives a degree of natural flame resistance, without the use of chemicals. The manufacturer's warranty usually also gives a fair indication of the durability, and compliance standard of the mattress.
A website such as www.nsc.org has a library of safety information with regards to cribs, crib bedding, and the crib mattress. Make sure that all your nursery decor comply with safety regulations.
If you consider your baby's countless crib-hours, you don't want to be caught napping when it comes to the safety and quality issues of the baby crib mattress!
