Crib Mattresses And Baby Safety

Unlike their parents, babies do not need to have an overly soft or cushy mattress. In fact, a crib mattress that is too soft can be a hazard and can create dangerous situations that could lead to smothering. It is believed that one of the causes of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) is due to the baby sleeping on a mattress that is too soft. When babies are first born, they are not able to lift their heads and this fact means that a soft and cushy crib mattress can be very dangerous for your newborn.

In addition to being comfortable and supportive, crib mattresses must properly fit the crib in which it will be used. If the mattress does not fit snugly into the crib, then it can shift position and this can create an unsafe situation where the baby can get caught and be hurt. It is important to eliminate any possibility that the baby could become trapped in a gap between the side of the crib and the mattress.

In most instances, the proper fit of a crib mattress is not an issue because cribs and mattresses generally come in standard sizes. However, because it is such an important safety issue, this is crucial information to know. It is easy to test to see if the mattress is fitting the baby furniture properly. Simply test the fit by sliding a finger in between the edge of the mattress and the crib frame. If you are able to put more than one finger-width in between the bed frame and the mattress, then the crib mattress is the wrong size.

An infant crib mattress must also have waterproof qualities for obvious reasons. If the one you have did not come with a waterproof treatment, then this is easy to remedy. Waterproof mattress covers can be purchased anywhere that baby bedding accessories are sold or they can be ordered from a baby store online. Keep in mind that this crib mattress will be used for at least two years or longer, if additional babies come along. Remember to keep the crib clean and in good condition since it may be past down to future generations.

Crib mattresses can be made of foam or they can have a coil inner spring construction. The cost is not necessarily a good indication of the quality of the mattress and it is a good idea to do some research on bedding accessories and to comparison shop. If you purchase from a baby store online, then you will be able to enjoy a discount, although it is always wise to look for sales at the local baby furniture stores as well.