How to Pick Out a Crib Mattress
Because babies spend a lot of time sleeping, invest in a quality crib mattress. Not only will the mattress provide comfort for your baby, property selection is a matter of safety. The crib mattress should fit the crib and provide enough support to keep the baby safe while he or she sleeps. Unlike other baby purchases, the crib mattress isn't about style, so take time to research the possibilities.
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Instructions
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Set your crib mattress spending budget. While prices vary, the most expensive mattress isn't necessarily the best option. The budget will give you a starting point when selecting mattresses.
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If selecting a foam mattress, lift various mattresses to compare the weights. A heavier foam mattress is generally better quality because of its higher density.
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Test the firmness of the mattress options, especially foam mattresses. Press on either side of the mattress with your hands to determine how hard it is to squeeze it. The mattress that is hardest to squeeze is the firmest, providing a safer surface for your baby.
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Press your hand into one side of the foam mattress. Lift your hand and watch to see how long it takes for the mattress to go back to its original shape. The faster the mattress recovers, the better quality it is.
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If selecting an innerspring mattress, compare the number of coils. In general, the more coils the better. Also look at the thickness of the steel used in the coils. A thicker steel coil will provide more support than thinner steel. The lower the gauge of steel, the thicker it is. When a crib mattress has more coils, the steel is often thinner to fit all of the coils in it. Finding a balance between the number of coils and thickness of the steel is key.
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Look for an innerspring mattress with sturdy border rods around the edge of the mattress. This provides support at the edges, particularly when the baby begins standing.
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Compare the insulator layer of the innerspring mattress options. Look for a layer of fiber that holds up better than other materials. It costs more but should prevent the pad from sinking down into the coils.
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Compare the mattress covers on any type of mattress. Vinyl covers are common but vary in quality. Look for a mattress with a double- or triple-laminated cover. Nylon-reinforced covers are also good options because they help the vinyl stretch while preventing tears.
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Consider whether to buy a mattress with vents, which help the mattress breathe but may allow airborne particles inside the mattress.
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Compare the warranties on the crib mattresses. While the warranty isn't the most important factor, it can be a deciding factor if two mattresses are under consideration.
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Tips & Warnings
The crib mattress should fit snugly into the crib. Try to fit two fingers side by side between the mattress and the side of the crib. If you can fit them both, the mattress doesn't fit properly.
References
- Photo Credit babies crib image by jedphoto from Fotolia.com
