Things You'll Need:
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Step 1
Measure the crib you're going to use. The mattress you choose should fit the dimensions of the crib exactly. A mattress that's spaced too far from the edges of the crib is dangerous: your baby could slip between the side of the crib and mattress.
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Step 2
Choose a firm foam or innerspring mattress. Foam mattresses come in different thicknesses and densities. Density is more important than thickness. Select foam mattresses with a density of at least 1 1/2 pounds per cubic inch. If the foam mattress doesn't indicate density, check the density or firmness of the mattress by pressing the tip of your index finger into the middle of the mattress. If your finger indents the foam easily, it's too soft. If you have to apply some pressure to indent the foam a little, it's dense enough. Innerspring mattresses measure firmness by the number of turns per coil. Look for mattresses with a minimum of 150 coils. You can measure firmness using the finger test also.
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Step 3
Look for breathable mattresses. Research indicates poor mattress ventilation as a cause for SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Look for mattresses that have visible ventilation holes.
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Step 4
Find a fire-retardant mattress. Most infant bedding is fire retardant, but check just to make sure.
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Step 5
Shop around. Most major toy and department stores carry infant bedding. Prices and selection will vary significantly from store to store. Expect to pay anywhere from $80 to $140 for your baby's mattress.
Comments
safetymom said
on 8/20/2007 There are some reports that suggests that babies should lie on their backs while they're asleep, as to prevent them from intoxication.
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