Crib mattresses? Help.?

Question

I have no idea where to start in researching crib mattresses. I obviously want to get the best one there is. Anyone know? What have you used? Thanks!

Answer 1

I found this very helpful when shopping for baby mattress. It is not the price that is important, but the safety. I bought a Sealy from Walmart and it works great. I think it cost around $60. Here is a buying guide:

Crib Mattress Features
Whether you opt for a foam or innerspring crib mattress, there are several key things you should look for in every type of crib mattress:
Make sure the crib mattress is firm. Compare different mattresses by squeezing them at the center and the edges as well.
Measure your crib before buying your crib mattress. Crib mattresses typically measure 51 5/8" long by 27 ¼" wide and cannot be more than 6" thick. The mattress should fit snugly into the crib with a space of no more than two adult fingers between the mattress and the crib.
Quilted vinyl or multiple layers of laminated vinyl reinforced with nylon will add to the durability and water resistance of the mattress.
Fabric binding along the seams of the mattress allows air to escape, which will alleviate some of the pressure on the seams caused by movement over time.
Vent holes positioned on the sides of the mattress away from baby's head will help to keep the mattress fresher and allow odors to escape. Vent holes will also help to alleviate the pressure that can build up against the seams of the mattress.

Crib Mattress Safety Tips
Remove any and all plastic shipping bags from your crib mattress. Never use any type of plastic bag or sheet of plastic to cover or protect your crib mattress. Plastic bags can cause suffocation and should always be kept out of the reach of children.
Leave a space of no more than two adult fingers between the crib mattress and the crib.
The firmer the crib mattress, the better it is. Some studies have linked soft, down-filled mattresses to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Answer 2

I feel your pain. It can seem like an overwhelming decision. Basically there are 4 choices:

Normal inner spring
Normal foam
Organic inner spring
Organic foam

The main difference between normal and organic is that the organic ones do not contain any fire-retardant chemicals. Fire retardant chemicals have been suggested as a cause of SIDS and certain cancers. Organic mattresses depend on materials that are naturally flame-retardant.

The difference between foam and innerspring is harder to quantify. Some sources indicate that foam can not harbour dust mites, they may also be more resistant to mold and mildew. Innerspring is generally considered more supportive and more comfortable. It is also said to last longer but on the other hand given the abuse crib mattresses receive (urine, spit up, jumping, etc) and the fact that second-hand/hand-me down crib mattresses have been linked to SIDS how long do you need the mattress to last?

Answer 3

I just have the 60 dollar sealy one from target. Works great for us.

Answer 4

try craigs list.