Having a baby is an exciting and wonderful time in our lives. Naturally, we want the best for our little bundle of joy. There are many things that one needs to purchase when having a child. From strollers to car seats and diaper bags, there is a multitude of items that need to be purchased. However, probably one of the largest purchases that you will make will be the crib that your child sleeps in. But it is all about the mattress that your little one sleeps on. It is all about their safety and comfort.
In our search, we reviewed dozens of crib mattresses to identify the best of the best. Some of the features that we considered in our search were materials that the crib is made with, portability and more. We scoured the web to find some of the best crib mattresses on the market today. Our top picks are below.
Created with premium materials, the Graco Premium Foam Crib Mattress was awarded the 2020 Women’s Choice Award for 9 out of 10 Customer Recommended Crib & Toddler Mattresses. This is a wonderful choice of mattress for your baby. It features premium breathability so that your baby can get the best night’s sleep possible.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Crib Mattresses
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Crib Mattress Overall | Graco Premium Foam Crib Mattress | 4.4 |
| Best Hypoallergenic Crib Mattress | Milliard Hypoallergenic Crib Mattress | 4.4 |
| Best Budget Crib Mattress | Dream On Me Crib Mattress | 4.0 |
| Best Portable Crib Mattress | Delta Children Twinkle Stars 3-Inch Mini/Portable Crib Mattress | 4.5 |
| Best Daybed With Trundle | Bundle of Dreams Mini Crib Mattress | 4.5 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Crib Mattress Overall: Graco Premium Foam Crib Mattress
The Graco Premium Foam Crib Mattress even begins as a great choice because of how it arrives at your home. It comes compressed inside an easy to carry box. This also makes it a great gift for a baby shower, as the box is not huge when it arrives. After arrival and being rolled out of the box, the mattress only takes a mere 3 days to expand completely. The mattress will be a very comfortable choice for your child, as it has a foam core, but is very firm, which is important for growing babies and their bone structures.
The mattress is also GREENGUARD Gold certified, meaning that it is free any harmful materials or chemicals. It will fit in any standard full-sized crib, and later on, down the road, can also be used as a toddler bed as well. With an easy-to-remove and waterproof cover, it makes it easy to clean using a mild soap. It is both machine and hand washable. Inside of the mattress is 4 layers. The first one is a polyurethane core made of foam, which has premium airflow technology. The second is the fire barrier, the third a separation barrier, and finally last but not least, an embossed polyester cover with a moisture barrier.
Graco Premium Foam Crib Mattress Key Features:
- Made with breathable materials
- GREENGUARD Gold certified
- Appropriate mattress firmness
- Maximum airflow
Best Hypoallergenic Crib Mattress: Milliard Hypoallergenic Crib Mattress
When it comes to comfort, the Milliard Hypoallergenic Crib Mattress is of the highest quality. It is made to fit in any standard sized crib. It also converts to a toddler bed when the time comes. The mattress is reinforced both on the top and sides of the mattress. The bottom of the mattress is made with flame-retardant materials. Inside the mattress is a fiberglass encasement in order to meet federal fire safety standards, while adhering to non-toxic standards. It is a well-ventilated mattress, allowing for a good night’s sleep for baby.
It is created with 28D CertiPur certified foam, and thus, the mattress itself will not lose its shape whatsoever. With its’s waterproof cover, there will be no worry about messes, as it wipes clean every time. Once the mattress arrives at your home and you unroll it, simply allow 72 hours for it to expand to its full shape. This mattress grows with your child. It is a great mattress not only for your infant, but for babies of older age, and even toddlers as well. Many consumers love the great quality of the outer material and the fact that it does not crinkle or make noises as some other mattresses can.
Milliard Hypoallergenic Crib Mattress Key Features:
- Firm and does not lose shape
- Made with 28D CertiPur foam
- Great for babies and toddlers
- Waterproof cover built right in
Best Budget Crib Mattress: Dream On Me Crib Mattress
This sweet crib mattress, the Dream On Me, is built to last from the newborn right into the toddler years. It will fit on any standard size crib, as well as any toddler bed in the later years. With a protective polyurethane foam wrap on each side, baby will be able to sleep comfortably at night and during naptimes. This mattress also features a hypoallergenic foam-insulating layer. It is phthalate and lead-free, so there is no need to worry about harmful chemicals around your baby. It also has a fire layer in the mattress.
Leaks are a worry of the past with this mattress’s lock-stitched waterproof binding. With a laminated waterproof cover that is also stain-resistant, it helps to guard against leaks seeping into the mattress. It also helps to prevent any mold or mildew and odors, and it is anti-bacterial as well. The mattress is very easy to clean. Every mattress is made right here in the United States and meets all safety and quality standards that a crib mattress should. The mattress features an adorable cloud design, or you can flip it over for the plain side. The mattress itself has a thickness of 5″ and a weight of 12 pounds.
Dream On Me Crib Mattress Key Features:
- Lock-stitch waterproof binding
- Antibacterial
- No harmful chemicals
- Laminated waterproof cover
Best Portable Crib Mattress: Delta Children Twinkle Stars 3-Inch Portable Crib Mattress
There are still places that we visit when we have a baby. For example, grandma and grandpa’s house, or a family vacation. Since you cannot lug the entire crib out the door with you, portable crib mattresses are here to save the day. The Delta Children Twinkle Stars 3-Inch Mini/Portable Crib Mattress is a great choice for your portable crib/play yard when you are on the go. This firm mattress features a non-toxic fiber core that will keep baby asleep all naptime long. This mattress is proudly made in the U.S.A.
With its waterproof vinyl cover, you will not have to worry about leakage onto the mattress. It is also stain-resistant. This makes it very easy to clean up when the time comes, as well as making sure that your little bundle of joy stays dry all night long. The thermo-bonded polyester fiber in the mattress’s core makes for a nice, firm and safe sleep space for your baby, wherever you may be. This mattress is dual-sided and it will also grow with your child, as toddlers will be able to use it as well. this portable mattress is just the right size and will fit most standard play yards or portable cribs.
Delta Children Twinkle Stars 3-Inch Portable Crib Mattress Key Features:
- Greenguard Gold certified
- Waterproof cover
- Meets safety standards, made with no toxic chemicals
- Dual-sided
Best Mini Crib Mattress: Bundle of Dreams Mini Crib Mattress
The Bundle of Dreams Mini Crib Mattress is a breathable mattress that’s dual-sided, with a firmer side for infants, and a softer side for toddlers. It is 100% organic, and eco-friendly. It is even recyclable for when the time comes to move to a big-kid bed. It comes with a removable and washable cover, which is entirely water repellant. The cover is machine washable, so you can just toss it in with the baby’s regular wash load. For your little one, there is a nice and firm side, whereas, on the other side, it is plush for your big kid.
This mattress has won the 2018 National Parenting Product Award. There is no off-gassing or VOCs with this mattress, so you and baby can both sleep safely knowing that this mattress is top quality in comfort and safety. The mattress emits zero harmful emissions. It is Greenguard Gold certified and meets all safety regulations. The cotton that it is made with 100% organic cotton. The mattress itself measures 38 inches by 24 inches. It will fit most mini-cribs, but just be sure to check the dimensions of your mini-crib before you purchase. At only nine pounds, it is a super lightweight crib mattress, too, which makes it great for if you are traveling somewhere that has a mini crib.
Who Should Buy A Crib Mattress
If you or your significant other are expecting, then the first purchase you will likely make will be a crib. For a friend who’s expecting, you may want to take this opportunity to purchase a celebratory gift for the expecting mother. If that’s the case, check out The Best Gifts for Pregnant Women. Following the crib purchase, a crib mattress will be the next purchase. There are plenty of different crib mattresses that are out there, so you want to be informed when you choose to purchase a crib mattress for the little one that you are expecting. Alternatively, a crib mattress can also be purchased for a toddler who is moving into a “big-kid” bed.
If you have been invited to a baby shower and are not sure what kind of gift to bring, a crib mattress also can make a great baby shower gift. Although, you will need to know the dimensions of the expectant couples crib that they have or are going to purchase. But a crib mattress will be a much-welcomed gift for your expectant friends so that their wee one can sleep soundly at night.
Important Features To Consider
A crib mattress should be safe for your baby, as well as being the right firmness for your child. They should also be free of any toxic chemicals, inside or out, and ideally, they should be waterproof or at least have a waterproof removable cover. Here is what to consider when selecting a crib mattress.
- Safety. This is most definitely the biggest concern overall. You want your baby to be safe and sound while they are sleeping. In saying that, it is important that you purchase the correct sized mattress for your baby’s crib. It is critical to have the right size mattress, otherwise, the child can fall between gaps between the mattress and the crib. Crib mattresses should be free of any kind of chemicals or toxins, and there should be no “off-gassing,” that your child could inhale.
- Firmness. This is a pretty big deal. With a newborn, they should always have a firm sleep surface to avoid suffocation. Whether that is from the mattress being made with coils, a firmer memory foam, or something else, babies need to sleep on their back on a firm mattress. When they become a toddler, most crib mattresses tend to convert into a more soft foam on the other side of the mattress, so they can sleep on that when they are a bit older.
- Non-toxic. No crib mattress should be made with any kind of material that can be potentially toxic to your child. Some of these include phthalates, lead, and more. Look for mattresses that are toxin and free and ideally made from natural materials.
- Waterproof. Baby’s urinate, a lot. You hope that those really great diapers you purchased do their job and keep your little babe snug and dry during the night. But, leaks and accidents do tend to happen. There are crib mattresses that have a waterproof liner sewn right onto them. Others have removable waterproof covers that you can toss in the wash. Some can even repel liquids. Look for a crib mattress that has one of those three things for easy cleanup when those leaks do happen. That way you will have an easy cleanup process when they do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all crib mattresses fit all cribs?
Despite them all looking the same, no, all crib mattresses do not fit all cribs. Each crib can be different, from style to size. That is why it is important to take into consideration the size of the crib when purchasing a mattress for it. It is imperative to measure the size of the crib so that you can find a crib mattress that is sized appropriately. Otherwise, if the mattress is too small, it may leave gaps in between the crib and the mattress. This can result in the child getting stuck between the two, and also pose a suffocation hazard. Before you purchase a crib mattress, double and triple check the size so you know what size crib mattress to get.
How long is a crib mattress good for?
In general, crib mattresses can last for three or more years. This is provided that the mattress has been treated gently and is in good shape. However, just because they can be good for years, safety standards are always ever-evolving and changing. You will want to check up on the safety standards every now and again to make certain that your current crib mattress is up to date. How long a crib mattress is good for also depends on the materials that it is made with as well. It is important to inspect and clean your mattress every now and again, if nothing else, to get rid of excess dust. If you are diligent about taking care of your crib mattress, it can last for years.
Do breathable crib mattresses work?
Breathable crib mattresses are actually pretty great. By allowing maximum airflow through the mattress, it helps your baby from overheating, so they are especially helpful in the summertime when the weather is warm. While many people claim that breathable crib mattresses help to prevent SIDS, there has been no hard evidence to back up that claim.
Should you reuse a crib mattress?
It is not advisable to reuse a crib mattress. The reasoning behind this is because it has the potential to put your baby at risk. Because a baby laying on a mattress at night can leave lumps in the mattress, it is not a good idea to reuse a mattress. You are better off purchasing a new one.
Other Products We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other crib mattresses. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best crib mattresses list, they’re the best of the rest and each of them is still a great option for your little one. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Memory Foam Crib Mattresses
Beautyrest Platinum Cool Dawns Innerspring/Memory Foam Crib Mattress
This crib mattress features AirCool gel and memory foam for a good night’s rest. It also has a layer of firm foam.
Key Features:
- Waterproof
- Greenguard certified
- Double-sided for infants and toddlers
Cost: $180
Dourxi Breathable Dual Firmness Crib Mattress
The Dourxi mattress has three layers of foam for comfort and safety. It provides just the right firmness for your baby.
Key Features:
- Washable cover
- Dual firmness; can use into toddlerhood
- Made with non-toxic materials
Cost: $120
Milliard Premium Memory Foam Next Stage Crib Mattress
This premium mattress is 100% hypoallergenic. The memory foam is CertiPUR-US certified.
Key Features:
- Waterproof mattress encasement
- Made with safe, non-toxic materials
- Easy to clean
Cost: $98
Created with CertiPUR-US certified polyurethane foam, your little one will sleep peacefully during the night. It is also a hypoallergenic mattress.
Key Features:
- Fits all standard size cribs
- Plush removable washable cover
- Meets all federal and CPSC standards
Cost: $76
Serta iComfort Dawn Mist Firm Memory Foam Crib Mattress
Featuring breathable memory foam, this mattress has the ability to whisk away heat from your child’s body so they do not overheat. Soy-enhanced foam provides the firmness your infant needs.
Key Features:
- Converts to toddler mattress
- CertiPUR-US certified
- Water and stain-resistant backing
Firm Crib Mattresses
Breeze Breathable Crib Mattress
This crib features a breathable but firm surface for baby’s comfort. It is made of all-natural materials.
Key Features:
- Greenguard certified
- Dual firmness on each side of the mattress
- Breathable surface
Cost: $260
Colgate Eco Classica III Dual Firmness Crib Mattress
This super firm mattress is a whopping 6 inches thick. It is designed to fit most standard size cribs.
Key Features:
- Greenguard Gold certified
- Soft waterproof cover included
- Can transition from crib to toddler mattress
Cost: $187
NapYou Dual Comfort Crib Mattress
Featuring a firmer side for infants and a softer side for a toddler, this mattress supports your baby. It will fit standard size cribs.
Key Features:
- 100% waterproof cover
- Made with certified CertiPUR-US foam
- Removable cover
Cost: $120
Sealy Baby Perfect Rest Crib Mattress
With 15o extra firm coils, this mattress is a great option for your newborn. The firm layers are hypoallergenic.
Key Features:
- Waterproof surface
- Greenguard Gold certified
- Easy to clean
Cost: $80
Serta Perfect Start Deluxe Fiber Core Crib Mattress
The firm thermo-bonded polyester provides baby with a firm sleeping surface. The two-sided mattress grows with your child into toddlerhood.
Key Features:
- Woven fabric waterproof cover
- Greenguard Gold certified
- Stain-resistant
Coil Crib Mattresses
DaVinci Deluxe Coil Waterproof Crib Mattress
This crib has 160 coils for maximum firmness. It is 100% non-toxic.
Key Features:
- Waterproof mattress cover
- Greenguard Gold certified
- Dual-sided
Cost: $100
Delta Children Twinkle Stars Deluxe Innerspring Crib Mattress
With 162 coils, this mattress gives balanced support for your little one. It is a dual-sided mattress that will grow along with your child.
Key Features:
- Greenguard Gold certified
- Waterproof cover
- CertiPUR-US certified
Cost: $80
Dream On Me Coil Crib Mattress
This mattress features 130 coils for ideal firmness and a good night’s sleep. It fits most standard sized cribs
Key Features:
- Easy to clean
- Constructed with high-quality materials
- Greenguard Gold certified
Cost: $43
Sealy Nature Couture Cotton Bliss Premium Coil Crib Mattress
The high coil count in this mattress makes this mattress firm and ready for baby to sleep. It is also dual-sided.
Key Features:
- Cotton blend waterproof cover
- Greenguard Gold certified
- Made in the U.S.A.
Cost: $130
Stearns & Foster Baby Dynasty Sunrise Crib Mattress
This mattress is made of a hybrid coil and soy foam, making an interesting blend of comfort for your little baby. There is a breathable fabric that covers the mattress.
Key Features:
- CertiPUR-US Certified
- 204 posture supportive steel coils
- Allergy barrier and waterproof liner
Waterproof Crib Mattresses
DaVinci Deluxe Coil Waterproof Mini Crib Mattress
This mini-crib mattress features a waterproof mattress cover. It is also lightweight for a crib mattress.
Key Features:
- Over 50 coils and polyester fiberfill
- Greenguard Gold certified
- Easy to clean
Cost: $60
Kolcraft Pure Sleep Waterproof Crib Mattress
Featuring a waterproof and breathable cover, this mattress provides support via its 150 coils for support. It fits both cribs as well as toddler beds.
Key Features:
- Easy to clean
- Greenguard Gold certified
- Perma-dri cover
Cost: $63
This is a long-lasting waterproof crib mattress that is Greenguard Gold certified. It is also a temperature-regulating mattress.
Key Features:
- 2-stage mattress, for infants and toddlers
- 100% washable
- 3-D spacer cover
Cost: $350
Sealy Baby Flex Waterproof Crib Mattress
With a 2-stage design, this mattress is perfect for baby and toddler. It has a soft cotton waterproof cover.
Key Features:
- Greenguard Gold certified
- Airy and light design
- Features 204 premium coils
Cost: $117
Serta Tranquility Eco Firm Innerspring Crib and Toddler Mattress
The vinyl cover of this crib mattress is totally waterproof. It also features square corners for a tight fit in the crib.
Key Features:
- Dual-sided for infants and toddlers
- Greenguard Gold certified
- Features 120 innerspring coils
Cost: $134
