We recommend the best crib mattress if you’re looking for a product you can buy once and then never worry about again. We spent 24 hours looking into hundreds of crib mattresses and tested 22 of them for a month. We believe the Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer, which has two sides, is our top pick for most families. It gives your child a firm, comfy, and easy-to-clean place to sleep from the time they are babies until they are old enough for a big kid bed.
Although you are looking for a mattress, you may also need other things that are common in baby nurseries. Along with the best baby monitors, the best diaper pails, and top-rated baby cribs, we have also researched crib sheets for mattresses for children.
Our Favorite Crib Mattresses
- Best Overall: Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer Crib Mattress
- Best Value: Newton Baby Crib Mattress And Toddler Bed
- Best Eco-Friendly: Serta Perfect Slumber Dual-Sided Crib Mattress
- Best Affordable: Graco Premium Crib & Toddler Mattress
- Best Waterproof: Milliard Premium Memory Foam Crib Mattress
- Best Durable: Honeycomb Orthopedic Firm Fiber Standard Baby Crib Mattress
- Best Organic Dual-Sided: Modera Organic Cotton Dual-Sided Crib Mattress
- Best Foam Dual-Sided: Dourxi Dual-Sided Comfort Memory Foam Crib Mattress
1. Best Overall: Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer Crib Mattress
Moonlight’s Little Dreamer is a top-rated mattress for babies and toddlers. On March 18, 2024, it received the Mom’s Choice Awards GOLD for its special design that works for both newborns and toddlers. This award shows how good and useful it is. The mattress is waterproof and made from safe, medical-grade materials. It has strong fabric and tight seams, making sure it stays comfortable for many nights. Your baby will sleep well on this high-quality crib mattress.
Safety is very important to Moonlight. The Little Dreamer mattress uses CertiPUR-US certified foam, meaning it has no harmful chemicals. It also has a fire barrier woven in, with no spray-on fire retardants. The seams are strong and safe, adding more protection. Cleaning the mattress is easy. Use a damp sponge with warm, soapy water. Do not use harsh chemicals, diaper wipes, or household cleaning wipes to keep it in excellent shape. Moonlight promises its products will last. The Little Dreamer is designed to last 8 years, giving your child comfort as they grow. Enjoy a safe, strong, and award-winning crib mattress that helps your baby sleep peacefully.
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2. Best Value: Newton Baby Crib Mattress And Toddler Bed
The Newton Baby Crib Mattress keeps your baby safe and cozy. It has a special core that lets air flow through, helping your baby sleep well. The soft, non-toxic cover keeps your baby comfortable and cool all night. Certified by Greenguard Gold, this mattress is a great pick for any nursery. Its size of 52″ x 28″ x 5.5″ fits most cribs perfectly. With its special breathe-thru design, your baby can easily breathe through the mattress. The core is made of 90% air and 10% yogurt-cup material, making it very airy. This makes a safer sleep spot for your baby.
The Newton mattress is fully washable. Both the cover and the core can be cleaned, which is rare among crib mattresses. Made from high-quality materials, it fits standard cribs and has no harmful stuff like foam, glue, latex, or springs. This gentle surface will help your baby sleep soundly and comfortably. This mattress is good for both infants and toddlers. Extra layers of comfort and support help keep your baby’s natural posture as they grow. We know how important your baby’s safety and comfort are. That’s why this crib mattress is not only safer but also more comfortable, making sure your baby gets the best start in life.
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3. Best Eco-Friendly: Serta Perfect Slumber Dual-Sided Crib Mattress
The Serta Perfect Slumber Dual-Sided Crib and Toddler Mattress is a great choice for your baby. It is made with safe, non-toxic materials, free from harmful chemicals. This mattress meets strict safety standards for flammability, lead, and phthalate content. There are no toxic fire retardants used. When it arrives, give it 24 to 72 hours to return to its full shape. If the room is warm, the memory foam will expand faster. In colder rooms, it might take a bit longer.
The mattress is crafted from healthy, eco-friendly materials. The firm fiber core is made from recycled plastic bottles, ensuring a healthier and longer sleep for your baby and toddler. Both sides have a durable, waterproof vinyl cover that is easy to clean and hypoallergenic. When your baby moves to a toddler bed, flip the mattress to keep it fresh. This mattress has the GREENGUARD Gold certification, meaning it has low chemical emissions and helps maintain healthy indoor air. It is also JPMA certified, ensuring it meets safety standards for juvenile products.
Choosing the Serta means you are picking safety, comfort, and sustainability for your child. It gives you peace of mind, knowing your baby is sleeping on a high-quality, safe mattress.
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4. Best Affordable: Graco Premium Crib & Toddler Mattress
The Graco Premium Crib & Toddler Mattress is made to help your child sleep safely and comfortably. Tested by independent labs, it holds several important certifications. This mattress is GREENGUARD Gold, OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100, and Formaldehyde Free certified, which means it meets high safety and health standards. One of the best features is its soft, waterproof cover. You can easily remove this cover and wash it in a machine on a delicate cycle. Just unzip it, wash it with cold water, and hang it up to dry. Avoid using the dryer to keep it in good shape.
When you get this mattress, it will come in a box and is free of fiberglass and chemical flame retardants. It fits any brand of standard full-size crib and toddler bed. To get the best shape and comfort, let the mattress expand fully at room temperature for up to 48 hours. The mattress is made of CertiPUR-US-certified foam, which means it meets strict standards for content, emissions, and durability. Independent labs check to make sure it’s safe and long-lasting. It measures 52 inches long, 28 inches wide, and up to 4.5 inches high, and weighs just 7 pounds. The core is made of durable polyurethane foam, and it comes with a 6-year limited warranty.
This mattress is a great pick for your baby’s crib or toddler bed. It offers safety, comfort, and easy care, making it a smart choice for your child’s sleep needs.
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5. Best Waterproof: Milliard Premium Memory Foam Crib Mattress
When it comes to your baby’s sleep, comfort and safety are what matter most. The Milliard Premium Memory Foam Infant Crib Mattress and Toddler Bed Mattress provide both in one excellent product. It features a firm foam base with a top layer of high-quality memory foam, offering durability, comfort, support, and luxury. Your baby will sleep better every night. The mattress includes a removable, machine-washable, ultra-soft cover. This cover adds extra softness and is waterproof, making life easier for parents. Any spills or accidents can be cleaned up quickly.
Safety is a big concern for parents, and the Milliard mattress addresses this. The foam is CertiPur certified, meaning it is low in harmful chemicals and free from heavy metals. It meets all US standards for crib mattresses, giving you peace of mind. This mattress is made to last. It’s strong 3lb. construction ensures it will keep its shape over time, providing long-lasting support for your child. Measuring 27.5″x52″x5.5″, it fits all standard-size cribs. With the Milliard Premium Memory Foam, you can relax knowing your child is sleeping comfortably and safely. It’s a smart choice for any parent looking for quality and convenience in one package.
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6. Best Durable: Honeycomb Orthopedic Firm Fiber Standard Baby Crib Mattress
When thinking about your baby’s safety, the Honeycomb Orthopedic Firm Fiber Baby Crib Mattress is a great pick. This Dream On Me mattress has Greenguard Gold Certification, meaning it passes all safety tests for flammability, phthalates, and lead. Made in the USA, it also has a 10-year warranty, so you can relax. This mattress has a 5-inch fiber core, giving firm support for both infants and toddlers. It’s perfect for your child’s different growth stages, providing the support they need.
Keeping this mattress clean is easy. It has a waterproof cover that stops liquids and stains, making sure your baby’s bed stays hygienic and safe. It stays fresh, and you can just wipe it with mild soap and warm water if it gets dirty. The design is stylish too. The white honeycomb vinyl cover looks modern and matches any nursery decor. At 52 inches long, 28 inches wide, and 5 inches thick, this mattress is lightweight, weighing just 8 pounds. It’s easy to move around. The Honeycomb Orthopedic offers safety, support, and style, making it a wonderful choice for your baby’s crib.
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7. Best Organic Dual-Sided: Modera Organic Cotton Dual-Sided Crib Mattress
The Organic Cotton, Dual-Sided, Cooling Gel Memory Foam mattress is made for a child’s comfort and safety. This mattress is perfect for both babies and toddlers, giving them the right support and comfort as they grow. One side has a firm and flat surface, which is great for newborns. Made with high-density foam, it offers the right firmness and stability. The flat surface supports a baby’s growing bones, and the strong edges keep the baby safe as they start moving in the crib. This setup makes a secure place for those early, delicate days.
Flip the mattress to find a soft layer of memory foam that fits a toddler’s body. The super soft, cooling gel foam is breathable, helping to keep the child comfy by supporting a healthy posture. It also spreads heat, making it good for any season. A growing child will sleep soundly on this comfy and flexible surface. Safety is very important, so all mattresses, covers, and related materials are CertiPUR-US certified and tested to ensure they are safe. They are free of harmful fiberglass, which gives parents peace of mind.
This mattress is a wonderful gift for baby showers, toddler birthdays, and nurseries. Give the gift of sweet dreams with the dual-sided, organic cotton, cooling gel memory foam mattress.
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8. Best Foam Dual-Sided: Dourxi Dual-Sided Comfort Memory Foam Crib Mattress
Choosing the right crib mattress for your baby is crucial. The Dual-Sided Comfort Memory Foam Toddler Bed Mattress offers two great options in one. One side is firm to support infants, while the other is slightly softer for toddlers’ comfort. This mattress is designed to be breathable and cozy. It has three layers: gel-infused memory foam, open-cell memory foam, and a high-density support core. These layers work together to keep the mattress cool, allowing air to flow and moving heat away from your baby’s body. This helps your baby sleep comfortably through the night. The mattress includes a removable outer cover for easy cleaning. The cover comes in white and sky blue, so you can choose a pattern that matches your home. Just remove and wash the cover to keep your baby’s bed clean and snug.
This mattress fits any standard crib, convertible crib, and toddler bed. It measures 52 x 27½ x 6 inches and arrives compressed in a lightweight box. For the best results, unroll the mattress and let it expand for at least 72 hours at room temperature. Safety is very important. Made with CertiPUR-US-certified foam, this mattress is free from harmful chemicals like phthalates, lead, and mercury. Dourxi offers a 60-day return policy and a 10-year limited warranty to ensure you are happy with your purchase. If you have any questions, you can reach out via Amazon messages or support email. In the end, this mattress combines safety, comfort, and convenience, making it an excellent choice for both infants and toddlers.
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I Also Tested Some Other Crib Mattresses
While looking for the best crib mattresses, I tried four others and read a lot more to narrow down the list of mattresses I would test.
Halo DreamWeave Breathable Crib Mattress
There are numerous aspects in which this crib and toddler mattress is comparable to the Newton Baby Essential Crib Mattress, the most notable of which is the woven polymer inner. Since I had used a Halo BassiNest bassinet for my first two babies, I was curious to see how the crib mattress fared in terms of its performance. The toddler side of the Halo boasts a TPU waterproof interior, a feature the Newton Baby Essential lacks. It was comfortable for me, and it might work for some families. It was a touch heftier than the Newton, and it lacked the features that made my top picks stand out.
Sealy Perfect Rest Crib and Toddler Mattress
Although this waterproof mattress was simple to wipe dry and had a dry feel to the touch, there was no way to determine whether or not water had stayed on the inside, just like with all of the sealed mattresses that I tested. It only took 15 seconds to add a sheet, and even though it’s weird, it’s not difficult to lift. This mattress complies with Washington State’s Chemicals of High Concern to Children regulations, despite its plastic construction. The EWG advised me to avoid vinyl whenever possible. Of course, the concern with vinyl is that it adds more chemicals to your child’s sleeping room.
Sealy Soybean Foam-Core Crib And Toddler Mattress
There are some similarities between this mattress and the Perfect Rest. The soybean foam core is the primary difference. In the end, I didn’t choose it as the winner because the moisture lingered slightly longer than on the Perfect Rest, and it shares the same vinyl construction as that alternative.
Kolcraft Pure Sleep Therapeutic 150 Crib Mattress
The same company makes both Kolcraft and Sealy, so the choices were essentially the same. There are more advanced mattresses from these brands, like one that vibrates, but I wanted to test more basic ones. Although Pure Sleep satisfies Washington State’s Chemicals of High Concern to Children standards, it employs vinyl. Nevertheless, I appreciated the fact that it replaces foam with coils.
Test and Analysis of the Best Crib Mattress
There is no crib mattress on the market that has not been put through a third-party testing process to guarantee that it satisfies the regulatory requirements for safety. In my search for the best crib mattresses, I also looked at other qualities that parents care about:
Value
When you’re picking a crib mattress, it’s essential to find one that’s safe for your baby and fits your budget. The Graco Premium is a favorable choice because it’s affordable and has top safety certifications. The Graco Premium boasts safe foam construction and a machine-washable cover. Another excellent option is the Newton Baby Crib Mattress, even though it costs a bit more. It’s worth it because it’s super breathable and simple to wash, keeping your baby comfy and safe. The Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer is also a winner, with its award-winning design and long-lasting durability.
Breathable and Comfortable
You want your baby to sleep comfortably without getting too hot. The Newton Baby Crib Mattress is fantastic for this because it lets air flow through, so your baby stays comfy all night. Another excellent choice is the Organic Cotton Dual-Sided Crib Mattress, which has a special cooling gel that helps keep your baby’s bed just right. And don’t forget about the Dual-Sided Comfort Memory Foam Toddler Bed Mattress, which stays cool and cozy with its special memory foam layers.
Quality
When it comes to crib mattresses, you want something that will last. Strong materials and safe seams make the Moonlight Slumber a fantastic choice. The Graco Premium is also of excellent quality and doesn’t have any harmful chemicals. Additionally, the Serta Perfect Slumber Dual-Sided utilizes recycled materials, making it environmentally friendly.
Durability
You need a crib mattress that will last through all the jumping and playing your baby does. The Moonlight Slumber and the Honeycomb Orthopedic are both durable options. You can trust the durability of the Honeycomb with its 10-year warranty.
Dual-Sided for Comfort
Some crib mattresses have different sides for infants and toddlers. The Serta Perfect Slumber Dual-Sided and the Organic Cotton Dual-Sided Crib Mattress both do this, so your baby stays comfy as they grow. The Dual-Sided Comfort Memory Foam is another good choice, with a firm side for babies and a softer side for toddlers.
Materials
It’s important to know what your crib mattress is made of. The Organic Cotton Dual-Sided is made with organic materials and safe foam, so it’s healthy for your baby. The Newton is made with a special material that’s mostly air, which makes it safe and comfy. And the Serta Perfect Slumber uses recycled plastic bottles in its core, which is good for the environment.
Nowadays, mattress companies are working hard to make goods that don’t contain some of the most dangerous chemicals. The following chemicals should be avoided at all costs:
Waterproof
Babies can make a mess, so it’s beneficial to have a waterproof crib mattress. The Honeycomb Orthopedic and the Serta Perfect Slumber both have waterproof covers that are simple to clean. The Graco Premium and the Milliard Premium Memory Foam also have waterproof covers that you can wash in the machine.
How simple it is to switch sheets
This is something that you will end up doing a lot of times, perhaps even more than once in a single night, thus the mattress shouldn’t get in the way of you conducting this process. When I dressed the mattress with the best crib sheets that Babcare tested and found not to shrink too much, I timed myself while the mattress was on the floor. After testing 14 mattresses, the average time was 15 seconds. It took longer for the thicker, heavier mattresses.
Easy to clean
Cleaning up after your baby shouldn’t be a hassle. The Newton and the Graco Premium are both simple to clean because you can wash them in the machine. The Milliard Premium also has a removable cover that you can wash, so spills and accidents are no big deal.
Eco-friendly
Crib mattresses made with eco-friendly materials are available if you care about the environment. The Serta Perfect Slumber uses recycled plastic bottles in its core, so it’s beneficial for the planet. Made with organic materials and safe foam, the Organic Cotton Dual-Sided is a healthy choice for your baby and the environment. Additionally, Newton’s construction utilizes recyclable materials, ensuring your satisfaction with your purchase.
Bottom Line
Over a month, we looked at more than 22 crib mattresses to find safe and healthy ones for our babies. Finding the best crib mattress is no longer as difficult as once, thanks to the abundance of options available. But it’s still not as simple as taking a nap. There are now more organic and low-gas mattresses than ever before, which is good news. A lot more companies are making eco-friendly goods (with less off-gassing) now than they were even five years ago, let alone ten or more years ago. We suggest that, based on your price, you choose the best product made from the healthiest materials.
If you are unsure about our choices and would like to conduct additional research, we suggest that you be attentive regarding greenwashing and steer clear of off-gassing products (such as polyurethane foam and vinyl) if your budget permits it. Since babies spend a lot of time in their cribs, we think you should pick the cleanest, best mattress you can find. We prioritize natural materials like latex and cotton over those tainted with chemicals like foam, vinyl, and other additives to create a healthier environment for your child, promoting sleep tranquility and dreams. We think that our wide range of high-quality items has something for every family and every budget.
