Crib Mattress Review

Today's parents have many more choices in bedding than their parents or grandparents did decades ago. Among those choices is what's known as the "mini crib." The mini crib is almost a cross between a full-sized stationary crib and a portable crib; it is designed to provide a permanent sleep solution in homes where space is limited. Unfortunately, when you buy these cribs brand new the mattresses that come with them are normally less than desirable.

There are several good reasons why you probably don't want to use the mattress that came with your mini crib. Consider the following:

• the mattress is probably very thin
• it is most likely made with cheap materials
• it likely won't last as long as a high quality mattress
• if it's too flimsy it won't provide adequate support
• it may even be unsafe if it doesn't fit properly

What to Look for in a Mini Crib Mattress

When you're shopping for a mini crib mattress there are some things to be aware of. First and foremost is the importance of fit. Just like with full-sized stationary cribs, the mattresses for many cribs vary in size depending on the model of crib they are used for. You'll need to take interior measurements of your crib to make sure you buy the appropriate mattress. Having a mattress that's too loose poses a suffocation risk to your baby because it may allow his head to be wedged between it and the sides of the crib.

The danger of suffocation is increased if your mini crib utilizes soft sides rather than hard rails. For a soft sided crib you might have to get a crib mattress that is slightly bigger in order to make up for the flexibility of the sides. If that's not possible you can always purchase foam sheeting and fill in any gaps yourself. But if you decide to do that, make sure the foam is securely wrapped and fastened to the crib so that it can't come loose during sleep.

One other thing you should consider when you're shopping for mini crib mattresses is whether or not you want to protect the mattress from baby's messes. If protecting the mattress is important to you, you can purchase one that is encased in a vinyl cover. Another option is to purchase a vinyl or rubber mattress topper which will provide the same protection. Either way, protecting the mattress from urine and feces will also cut down on the risk of bacteria growth.

Different Types of Mini Crib Mattresses

Just like standard crib mattresses you'll be able to choose from inner spring, foam, and organic constructions. All of the same advantages and disadvantages apply to a mini crib mattress - just as they do to full-sized crib mattresses. Make sure you thoroughly investigate all of your options before making your choice. And whenever you do, never purchase a mini crib mattress unless all of your questions are answered to your satisfaction.

As for the various choices, the foam crib mattress is quickly becoming a popular choice for new parents. Since the main reason for using the mini crib is a lack of space, parents are looking for a lightweight mattress that can be moved around with ease. That makes foam a prime candidate. It is lighter than an inner spring mattress, more durable than an organic mattress, and provides great support and comfort for your baby. You can purchase foam mini crib mattresses made from either Talalay or Dunlop latex. You also might find memory foam crib mattresses, but they are rare because their odor tends to be bothersome to babies.

An Added Bonus

If your mini crib mattress falls within certain size parameters you may enjoy an added bonus that few parents think of. As it turns out, many models of mini crib mattresses can be converted for use in a juvenile bed. The mini crib mattress might be slightly smaller than ideal, but in most cases it is still very much usable. If you want to take advantage of this benefit you'll just have to purchase a juvenile bed of roughly the same size. They do exist, believe me.

If you're especially handy you might be able to build your own juvenile bed to fit the mattress perfectly. Then, with subsequent children you can continue to use the mini crib and juvenile bed over the course of the next few years. Think of the money you could potentially save this way!

Not a Life-Long Investment

When you purchase a new mini crib mattress understand that it is not a life-long investment. A good mattress will typically have a life of 10 to 15 years, after which it will need to be replaced. If you're receiving a hand-me-down mini crib and mattress from relatives, you may be able to get a few years out of it before having to replace it. Either way, don't get your heart set on keeping the same mattress for the rest of your life. Make your purchase with the knowledge that at some point the mattress will need to be replaced.

Why is this important? Because of the fact that buying the most costly mattress doesn't necessarily mean it is the wisest available choice. When you're shopping you need to check on the reputation of the manufacturer, the materials used in the mattress, and how long the mattress and its materials typically last. In other words, if you spend top dollar on a mattress that the manufacturer claims will last 50 years, you're probably wasting your money. No mattress is perfect. They all wear out and break down over time.

At the end of the day you're shopping for a mini crib and mattress that will be a temporary bedding solution for your children. Find that balance between the highest possible quality and a realistic amount of money you can afford. If you have the money to purchase the top-of-the-line product, that's great! Otherwise it's not the end of the world if you have to settle for something a little less.