Baby Mattress Guide

It's not uncommon for new parents to receive a used crib that has been passed down by older siblings or grandparents. Baby cribs, especially the old handcrafted units, can last for several generations before needing to be replaced. However, the same can't be said for the mattresses. For this reason, many parents prefer to replace a baby mattress that is 10-12 years old. If you're a new parent in this position, here are some helpful tips.

Be Informed About Baby Mattresses

One of the best things you can do for your baby is to be an informed consumer. Let's face it, baby mattress manufacturers and retailers all want to sell you their mattress over that of the competition. That's normal. But you as a parent must have the means to separate the sales pitch from the truth to determine what the best mattress is for your baby. Take the time to learn about the various types of baby mattresses available and the materials they are made from.

As you shop, you will undoubtedly be faced with the question of purchasing synthetic verses an organic baby mattress. Advocates of organic mattresses make some legitimate claims concerning health issues with standard mattresses. Yet while their claims are a cause for investigation, none of the issues raised about synthetic mattresses has proven conclusively to have a negative effect on a baby's health. Be aware of the claims of organic mattress advocates, but make an informed decision by investigating all your options and applying common sense.

You also need to be informed about quality manufacturers. There are plenty of fly-by-night and overseas manufacturers who do not put the same emphasis on quality as other trusted mattress makers. Your baby mattress should always be of the highest quality to ensure maximum comfort and safety for your child. Our website provides the opportunity for consumers to provide reviews of all kinds of mattresses, and is a good place to glean valuable information.

Learn How to Fit a Mattress

If you're a new parent you may not be aware that a baby mattress needs to be properly fitted to the crib. By no means should the mattress be able to move freely inside the crib, and there should be no gaps between the crib frame and the edges of the crib mattress. If gaps are present a limb could be pinched, causing significant injury. It's also a good idea to get a soft-sided rail pad which is affixed around the perimeter of the crib, on the inside. This pad protects the baby from making contact with the rails. Just be sure any pad you use is attached firmly so that it will not move.

Latex foam makes a great replacement mattress because it can be custom cut to fit the exact size of your crib. Most cribs made within the last ten years or so will adhere to standard size requirements, but older cribs, especially ones passed down through families, will not necessarily be a standard size. With a few measurements and a phone call, you can have a latex foam baby mattress that fits your crib perfectly.

Learn your Baby's Sleep Habits

Although not as common in babies as in adults, sleep problems can arise with a mattress that is not suitable for your baby's sleep habits. Take some time to observe her sleeping to see if she's fitful or looks uncomfortable. If that's the case, you might want to change the mattress cover, the mattress pad, or even the mattress itself. This may be especially true if you're using an old coil spring mattress passed down with an older crib.

Think Long-Term When Buying a Baby Mattress

One of the keys to successful parenting in all areas is to think long-term. If you're not used to thinking this way, purchasing a replacement baby mattress is a good place to start. Thinking long-term with baby mattresses means understanding that you may have more children down the road, and that you may pass along your crib and mattress for your grandchildren, just as your parents did for your kids. As long as you're buying a new baby mattress you might just as well invest in one that's likely to last for many, many years. Low quality mattresses maybe less expensive now, but they may wear out and breakdown more quickly. In the long run it's worth the extra money for a quality mattress.

Baby mattresses are important investments for all parents, regardless of where they live or how much money they make. Do right by your baby and investigate all of your options before choosing a mattress for the crib. He may not be able to thank you, but you'll rest much more peacefully knowing that you've secured the best baby mattress you could find.