The crib mattress can help keep your little love snug and safe. As a parent, your baby’s safety is your number one priority. When shopping for the perfect mattress, remember to keep you and your baby’s needs top of mind.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Mattress
1 - Use a waterproof cover: The mattress cover should be waterproof to resist any accidents or spills that are common with babies. If the mattress or mattress cover is not waterproof, there’s an increased likelihood of mold or mildew building over time from the retained moisture.
2 - Use the ‘Two-Finger Test’ for sizing: The mattress should be no more than two fingers between the mattress and crib. Try sticking your fingers between the mattress and the crib. If more than two fingers fit, there’s a higher risk for your baby’s arms or legs to get stuck in the empty space.
3 - Find the right level of firmness: Before buying a mattress, test it with your hand or an object. For your baby’s safety, your hand or the object should not leave a print or conform.
4 - Keep a clean crib mattress cover: When cleaning the mattress cover of wet spills, use a damp cloth or sponge. Some crib mattresses have removable and washable covers. If your crib mattress doesn’t include a waterproof mattress cover, consider buying one to extend your mattress’s lifespan.
5 - Be cautious of crib mattress materials: For your baby’s health and safety, it’s important to consider the materials that go into making the mattress. Baby’s and infants are highly susceptible to synthetic materials commonly used in mattresses. Barrier covers and pads are recommended for conventional petroleum-based mattresses to protect against chemical off-gassing.