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The 10 Best Crib Mattresses to Buy in 2021

Are you looking for a crib mattress to provide comfort for your baby while keeping him/her safe? Here are the 10 best crib mattresses in 2021

Best overall crib mattress: Graco Premium Foam Crib and Toddler Mattress

Best two-sided Crib MattressSafety 1st Transitions Baby Crib & Toddler Mattress

Best Crib Mattress for sensitive skinSealy Soybean Natural Dream Infant/Toddler Crib Mattress

Best organic Cotton Crib MattressNaturepedic Organic Cotton Classic 150 Seamless 2-Stage

Best breathable crib mattressLullaby Earth Breeze 2-Stage

Things to consider before buying crib mattresses

Type of Mattress

Crib mattresses come in two major categories, foam and innerspring. The difference is explained below

Foam

These are the most popular mattresses in the market, mainly because they are lightweight and are relatively cheap. They come in different sizes ranging from high-density options that go up to 6 inches to thinner options that are 3 inches thick.

Whether the foam is high density or not, you should always make sure that it is firm enough to avoid Sudden Death Infant Syndrome ( SIDS).

Though nowadays, most manufacturers design dual-sided mattresses with different firmness on either side. One side will be firm and therefore meant for infants, while the other side is softer and more suitable for toddlers.

This design saves you money in the long run since you will not have to invest in another mattress once your child gets older. Instead you just turn the mattress and use the softer side.

Before buying a mattress, you should make sure you know if the core is washable or not. Most cores are not washable, but few can be washed. However, they will need to be air-dried for 2-6 hours.

If you choose for the non-washable core, you should ensure that the cover will completely protect the core from dust and bed bugs.

Innerspring

These mattresses have steel coils covered by a layer of foam, fabric, and padding. These types of mattresses are of better quality and are, in turn, more durable. The downside is that they are expensive and are also heavier. This means that you will need a lot of energy, just turning this mattress to fit or remove sheets.

The best innerspring mattresses have about 135 – 150 coils, while the steel gauge should be 15.5 or less.

Organic mattresses

There are several organic mattresses in the market, which are either Foam or innerspring. They use natural materials such as food-grade polymers, wool, organic cotton, cotton fibers, and natural latex.

Most natural materials are pure hence high quality. This means that there are no additional chemicals hence safe for your baby’s skin and health. Due to their quality, they are expensive therefore are not that popular for parents on a budget. However, natural materials are best, especially for kids with allergies.

Before buying, you should always check if the material is certified organic.

Cover

This is just as important as the core, as it will be In direct contact with your baby. The best covers are breathable to ensure that your baby stays safe in case he/she turns to sleep on her belly. Breathable covers also make the sleeping surface cool for extra comfort during sleep time.

They are often waterproof or have a waterproof backing to protect the foam from getting wet.

Top 10 crib mattresses

Best overall crib mattress

Graco Premium Foam Crib and Toddler Mattress

Description

The Graco Premium Foam Crib Mattress is made of polyurethane foam that is breathable to increase airflow. It comes in standard dimensions of 57 inches long, 27.6 inches wide, and 5 inches high. These dimensions, together with the polyurethane foam, provide the ideal firmness suitable for infants’ development. This mattress will fit standard full-size toddler beds and cribs.

This mattress is Greenguard gold, and JPMA certified. This means that it has not only been tested to meet the chemical emission standards but also tested for safety, performance, and functionality by these bodies.

Graco Premium mattress comes with a removable cover that is water-resistant. The cover can be easily be removed by unzipping it and is machine washable. However, the cover can only be air-dried, which may be inconvenient.

You should also note that upon purchase, you need to unroll it immediately or within 2 weeks of purchase to ensure that it expands fully for maximum performance.

Graco Premium mattress is overall a great option to make sure that your baby is comfortable while still ensuring he/she is safe from hazardous materials.

Graco Premium Foam Crib and Toddler Mattress

What We Like

  • Removable outer cover that is machine washable
  • Core made with breathable foam to enhance airflow
  • The cover is made of 100 percent polyester
  • Meets ASMT and CPSC safety standards
  • The mattress is water and stain resistant

What We Don't Like

  • Has to be unrolled within 2 weeks of purchase to expand

Best two-sided Crib Mattress

Safety 1st Transitions Baby Crib & Toddler Mattress

Description

Safety 1st transitions is an awarding winning mattress that was chosen as the most recommended brand for toddler and crib mattress. This crib mattress comes with a 5- year warranty, which shows how confident they are with their quality and workmanship.

Safety 1st Transitions crib mattress design comes with two different firmness options on either side to grow with your child. The infant side is firm to provide extra support to infants, while the toddler side has extra cushioning meant to be used when your baby grows. Your baby will always be comfortable due to the high-density core made of polyester fabric.

It features a waterproof cover that prevents liquids from seeping into the mattress. However, this cover is not removable, and the mattress is not machine washable, but it can be easily cleaned by wiping it down.

For assured safety, it is PVC, and GREENGUARD Gold certified and meets the federal flammability standards.

Overall, this is a great crib mattress designed with safety and comfort in mind. In addition to this, the Baby crib and toddler mattress offer longevity due to the ability to use the infant side and the toddler side.

Safety 1st Transitions Baby Crib & Toddler Mattress

What We Like

  • Comes with water and stain-resistant cover
  • The high-density core cushioning provides extra comfort to your baby
  • Two-sided hence can be used by both toddlers and babies
  • The base is safe for newborns to prevent sudden Infant death syndrome
  • Made of hypoallergenic material

What We Don't Like

  • The cover is not removable
  • This mattress cannot be washed

Best Crib Mattress for sensitive skin

Sealy Soybean Natural Dream Infant/Toddler Crib Mattress

Description

The Sealy Soybean Natural crib mattress is the best option if you are looking for a mattress made with natural materials. This means that it will have less crude oils hence protecting your baby’s sensitive skin. It comes with a lightweight, soybean foam core that is durable. The foam is free of mercury, lead, formaldehyde, and flame retardant chemicals.

This soybean foam core mattress is firm enough, making it suitable for newborns. However, you may need to change the mattress once your baby gets to the toddler age since it does mot feature dual firmness like other crib mattress brands.

It comes with a waterproof vinyl cover reinforced with lock-stitched binding to ensure that there are no leakages. The cover is also stain-resistant, and during cleaning, it can easily be wiped. Keep in mind that this material cannot be cleaned using detergents, so during cleaning, make sure you use a damp cloth or sponge.

This Sealy Soybean foam crib mattress will fit the standard size crib and toddler beds. It comes with a square-cut edge design that provides a snug fit in the baby’s crib.

This crib mattress has a few downsides, such as the permanent waterproof cover. This is very inconvenient for parents who prefer running their covers through a washing machine. Also, you would have to buy a new mattress once your baby gets to the toddler age.

However, the soybean mattress is overall a great option for parents who want a crib mattress made of natural materials since the fabric is infused with soybean oil.

Sealy Soybean Natural Dream Infant - Toddler Crib Mattress

What We Like

  • Comes with a stain-resistant cover
  • The soy material feels cool on your baby’s skin
  • The waterproof vinyl cover is odor resistant
  • The base is firm hence suitable for newborns
  • It is CertiPUR-US certified

What We Don't Like

  • The mattress is not washable
  • The cover is not removable

Best organic Cotton Crib Mattress

Naturepedic Organic Cotton Classic 150 Seamless 2-Stage

Description

The Naturepedic Organic cotton classic 150 crib mattress is made of 100 percent organic cotton. This makes it a great option for babies with allergies. This is also complemented by the fact that it uses materials that are free from latex and wool, which are often the cause of many allergies.

This two-sided mattress comes with a waterproof and seamless cover that is made of food-grade polyethylene. Therefore, this cover can be easily wiped clean.

Naturepedic crib mattress comes with dual firmness support for the infant and toddler stage, which is economical as you won’t have to buy another mattress once your baby grows. Its edges are supported by the heavy-duty 150 coils innerspring with reinforced border rods. This feature is convenient for infants and heavy toddlers. However, you should note that the coils make this mattress very heavy.

Therefore, it will be a hassle if you want to change the sheet.

For safety, the Naturepedic crib mattress is Greenguard Gold certified and does not use flame retardants. It also has no polyurethane foam, and hence these safety features mean that this crib mattress does not have a chemical odor that would be uncomfortable for your baby.

The only downside of the Naturepedic organic crib mattress is the weight, as it weighs around 20 lbs. The innerspring coils are the main culprits for their weight, but their functionality will prove useful for your infant or toddler. It is overall a great option since it grows with your baby.

Naturepedic Organic Cotton Classic 150 Seamless 2-Stage

What We Like

  • Has the dual firmness feature to be used by your infant and toddler
  • Made of 100 percent organic cotton
  • Comes with a waterproof cover
  • Features an inner coil spring to help your baby sleep comfortably
  • The cover is dust resistant

What We Don't Like

  • It is expensive
  • It is heavy

Best breathable crib mattress

Lullaby Earth Breeze 2-Stage

Description

If you are looking for a mattress that is breathable, then the Lullaby Earth Breeze 2-Stage crib mattress is the best option for you. This feature is achieved by the removable pad, which has a 3 dimension mesh design that allows 360 degrees circulation of air.

Though it is breathable, the cover has a waterproof backing to protect the mattress from urine or liquid spills.

The breathable cover can be removed and can be cleaned by running it through the washing machine.

Unlike most breathable crib mattresses, Lullaby Earth breeze passes the flammability standards without the use of flame retardants. It is also completely safe for your baby as it is made without vinyl, PVC, or polyurethane foam. For this reason, it is GreenGuard gold certified.

However, you should note that even though the cover is breathable, you should always ensure that your baby sleeps on his/her back. All in all, this is a great option since it is lightweight, and its removable cover is easy to clean.

Lullaby Earth Breeze 2-Stage

What We Like

  • Comes with a breathable cover
  • The mattress core is waterproof
  • The waterproof cover is easy to clean
  • It is lightweight and has the dual firmness feature
  • Made of non-toxic materials

What We Don't Like

  • The mattress does not hold up well after a few months of use

Milliard Memory Foam Crib Mattress

Description

The Milliard memory foam crib mattress has two layers comprising a firm base, and close to the surface is topped off with memory foam. This makes it suitable if you want a mattress that will grow with your child. As a plus, the memory foam is made with 3lb construction to ensure that it does not dent after prolonged use.

Milliard memory crib mattress is breathable to allow airflow hence ensuring that your baby is always comfortable. It comes with a bamboo fabric cover that is non-toxic and water-resistant. It is removable and can be run through the washing machine along with your crib sheets.

Millard crib mattress manufacturers also emphasize safety as it is CertiPUR-US certified, meaning that it is free from dangerous chemicals. Its standard size will fit most cribs, and your standard size baby crib sheet will also be a perfect fit.

However, not all experts advise on the use of memory foam, especially for infants. All in all, this is a great option since they emphasize on baby’s safety and comfort by the use of high-quality materials.

Milliard Memory Foam Crib Mattress

What We Like

  • Has memory foam for extra comfort
  • Has a natural bamboo cover great for sensitive skin
  • Has a firm side and soft side to grow with baby
  • Durable design to ensure it does not bottom down
  • CertiPUR-US certified

What We Don't Like

  • Memory foam may not be the best option for infants

Colgate Eco Classica III Crib Mattress

Description

Colgate Eco Classica III crib mattress is durable and long-lasting as it is handcrafted with inverted seams and high-quality materials. This mattress will, therefore, hold up well during the infant and toddler years of your child. Additionally, it comes with a dual firmness design for longevity.

Colgate Eco Classica III is GreenGuard gold and CertiPUR-US us certified, and it meets state and federal flammability requirements.

It comes with an ultra-soft certified organic cotton that has a waterproof backing to ensure that the mattress is protected from urine or liquid spillage. During cleaning, it is wiped with a damp sponge or cloth using cold water. However, you should note that some parents complained that there were leakages after prolonged use, which can be inconvenient since the mattress may be ruined.

Overall, Colgate Eco Classica III is a great option that not only prioritizes safety but also comfort.

Colgate Eco Classica III Crib Mattress

What We Like

  • Has comes with a dual firmness design
  • Made of high-quality materials
  • Comes with a soft cover made of organic cotton
  • Has no chemical odor
  • It is easy to clean

What We Don't Like

  • The cover cannot be removed for thorough cleaning

Newton Wovenaire

Description

The Newton Wovenaire is popular among parents due to its foamless design. This makes it one of the best breathable crib mattress in the market. This design means it is mainly made of air hence reducing the risk of suffocation just in case your baby sleeps on his/her belly.

The Wovenaire core is made of food-grade polyethylene, which is best for babies with allergies. It is also GreenGuard Gold certified for safety.

It comes with a removable 3 dimension cloud cover, which is made of 100 percent polyester. This cover is machine washable. For additional hygiene, Wovanaire core can also be washed, making it stand out from most crib mattresses made of foam.

However, you would have to air dry it for a few hours after washing the core. This may be inconvenient if your little one wants to take a nap during cleaning time. The cover may also be too rough on your baby’s sensitive skin.

Overall, the Wovenaire crib mattress is a great option if you are looking for a breathable option.

Newton Wovenaire

What We Like

  • The foamless design makes it extremely breathable
  • Made of food-grade polyethylene
  • The core and the cover can both be washed
  • The design makes it lightweight
  • Made of hypoallergenic materials

What We Don't Like

  • Has a rough cover which may irritate the baby’s skin

Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer Crib Mattress

Description

Moonlight Slumber little dreamer is a dual-sided crib mattress that comes with an extra firm foam design on one side and extra plush on the other. This will prove economical in the long run since you will just need to flip on the soft side once your baby gets older.

Its design is complemented by the elegant medical grade stretch knit fabric, which is removable, water, and odor resistant. The safely sewn seams will keep out dust and bedbugs. On top of these, it is GreenGuard gold certified; hence you will never have to worry about your baby’s safety.

Like most baby crib mattresses, Moonlight slumber can be easily cleaned by wiping it down with a damp sponge or cloth. Though it cannot be cleaned using harsh detergents since they will breakdown the mattresses’ surface.

The only major downside of this crib mattress is the fact that you cannot remove the cover for thorough cleaning like most parents like. But overall, Moonlight slumber little dreamer checks all the boxes of a good crib mattress.

Moonlight Slumber Dual Sided Baby Crib Mattress

What We Like

  • Comes with medical grade stretch knit water-resistant fabric
  • Can be easily cleaned by wiping it down
  • It is sewn to keep out bedbugs and dust
  • It is greed guard gold certified
  • It is dual-sided, which is economical

What We Don't Like

  • The cover cannot be removed for cleaning

NapYou Dual Comfort Crib Mattress

Description

NapYou Dual comfort crib mattress comes with a 100 percent waterproof cover that is made of organic cotton. The cover is also breathable to keep your little one cool and comfortable throughout the night. This crib mattress has a supportive layer that cradles your baby throughout the night while the memory foam layer provides support and proper posture for your child.

Once your child gets to the toddler edge, it can be flipped to be used on the more plush side hence saving you money. After use, the cover can be removed, and it is made even more convenient by being compatible with most cleaners and dryers.

NapYou Dual mattress is made of foam that is CertiPUR-US certified to create a safe environment for your child by making sure that there will be no harmful chemicals to harm them.

This mattress’s dimensions are 52 x 27 5 x 5.5 inches so it will fit most cribs and toddler beds.

However, NapYou crib mattress is loaded with fiberglass which may irritate the baby’s skin.

NapYou Dual Comfort Crib Mattress

What We Like

  • Has a breathable cover for temperature regulation
  • Comes with a two-sided design for longevity
  • Has a supportive layer and a memory foam layer for support
  • It can be cleaned in most cleaners and dryers
  • It is lightweight and easy to install

What We Don't Like

  • Fiberglass may irritate the baby’s skin

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