How long do mattresses last for cribs?

Question

My son is 18 months and it seems like its already getting crapy.

Answer 1

I agree with the previous answers - depends on the mattress. Yes, you need to flip it often. However, a couple of other things I've found helpful:
- Mattresses can collect bacteria, germs, etc., which is especially dangerous for newborns. So if you are going to reuse a mattress, best to use a zippered vinyl mattress cover to protect it as much as possible from spills, germs, etc.
- Sheet protectors are great - the ones like the changing pads that prevent diaper leakage from coming through to the mattress. This way it will last as long as possible.
- A tip for not always having to change the sheets in the middle of the night with diaper leakage: get several sheets and mattress protectors, and layer them over each other...vinyl zippered protector, sheet, rubber mattress protector, sheet, rubber mattress protector, sheet, and so on. Cuts down on storage needed and disruptions at night, to keep you and your baby sleeping as much as possible.
- Check to see if there's a manufacturer's warranty. Usually there is for at least a year or two, and I have heard up to 25 years though I didn't buy one that expensive myself. If you don't know, look at the tags and look it up on the internet on the manufacturer's website, or call the manufacturer. If there is a warranty still in place and the mattress is bad, may be able to get a replacement.
- If you store a mattress in between children for use with later children, store in a clean, dry, dark place to eliminate as many germs etc. as possible.
- Hope this helps. Good luck!

Answer 2

I don't remember... Is that the standard crib mattress size? If it is, then here is what I did... I found the cheapest new mattress, then I went up one level in price. (I don't get all wrapped up over fancy names. If its a firm and certified mattress, go as cheap as you can...) I did that twice, and each mattress was used for two kids (one at a time)... I probably could have used the same mattress for a third or even all four of my kids, but there was a divorce in the middle... Each kid used the mattresses in the crib and then in the toddler bed... My youngest is now 5 and has been in a twin bed for almost 3 years now...

Answer 3

I agree with the previous answer - it depends on if the mattress was a good one or not to begin with, and to flip and rotate your mattress often. My one lasted through my 5 children - honestly!

Answer 4

some mattresses are better than others.. just turn over and rotate often.. and if it is not lasting, dont worry, just get a new more durable one, pretty soon you will be switching to a toddler bed anyway and will need a stronger one..

Answer 5

I'm pretty sure mine was used by me and both my brother and sister, make sure you use mattress pads and sheets and my mom even used the plastic sheets for accidents or leaky diapers.

Answer 6

flip and rotate often.
The trick is to always buy the best in the first place. It should then last as long as needed for a baby.

Answer 7

you can always get a new one for 20-30 dollars but at 18 mos you are almost ready for a big boy (youth) bed

Answer 8

Usually about three kids worth.