Best Crib Mattresses Designed for Safe, Comfortable, and Supportive Sleep

Written by Mindsmaking Commerce Writer
Fact Checked by Mindsmaking Professionals
18th, June, 2025
A crib mattress is one of the most important nursery purchases. To help, we’ve reviewed the best crib mattresses, and our top pick is the Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer Crib Mattress, which meets rigorous safety standards.
Mindsmaking selects products based on editors’ research and community wisdom , with accurate prices and details at the time of publication. Commission may be earned from shopping links.
Getting a crib mattress is one of the most crucial investments in baby products. Since your baby will spend much time enjoying good sleep, choosing a mattress that ensures sound sleep and gives you space to catch your breath is important.
Many infant crib mattresses also serve as toddler beds, meaning they can grow with your baby. When choosing a mattress, consider safety standards like breathability, washability, and firmness.
Adults may prefer soft mattresses, but that doesn’t apply to infants. You don’t want a mattress that folds under your baby’s weight; you need one that remains flat when your baby lies on it.
Here's a sneak peek of our Best Crib Mattresses Designed for Safe, Comfortable, and Supportive Sleep




Best for Durability
Naturepedic Organic Crib Mattress - 2-Stage 252 Coil Infant & Toddler Mattress with Protector Pad
Price: $215
Amazon


How We Choose the Best Crib Mattress
To help you narrow down your choices, we have carefully researched different cribs on the market using the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards to determine the best options.
All crib mattresses selected met the following criteria:
Safety Standards Certification: We chose mattresses with CertiPUR-US® and GREENGUARD Gold certification (1). These certifications ensure your mattress is free from harmful chemicals and toxins, such as formaldehyde, phthalates, and heavy metals. They also confirm low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions for better breathability.
Our mattresses comply with Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regulations, validating that they meet federal safety standards.
Comfort: The mattresses selected comply with American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommendations, ensuring the highest comfort level. They are firm and flat, keeping your baby comfortable for sound sleep.
Size: To reduce the risk of suffocation and entrapment, we followed the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards recommendation that a full-size crib mattress should be at least 27 1/4 inches x 51 1/4 inches and less than 6 inches thick. Even better, the mattress should fit snugly in the crib, leaving no more than a two-finger gap between the mattress and crib frame. (3)
Price: We considered different price ranges when selecting these crib Mattresses, understanding that parents' budgets may vary. Buying an expensive mattress does not always guarantee safety. Some parents have testified that they purchased budget-friendly mattresses and had a great experience.
Our Best Crib Mattresses Designed for Safe, Comfortable, and Supportive Sleep
Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer Crib Mattress
Why we like
- The dual-sided design provides appropriate support for infants and toddlers, eliminating the need for a new mattress as your child grows.
- The mattress meets rigorous safety standards and is free from harmful chemicals and flame retardants.
- The waterproof and stain-resistant cover allows simple cleaning with a damp sponge and warm, soapy water.
- It has a lifetime warranty, showing the manufacturer's trust in its durability.
Something to Note
- It is slightly more expensive than other crib mattresses
Customer’s Review
A first-time parent shared her thoughtful journey in selecting the right crib mattress, stressing how important the decision was for their baby's safety and comfort. She said, “I knew this was one of the most critical purchases I’d make, so I did a lot of research.” She initially leaned toward another brand but mentioned it felt too firm for her liking. After weighing several options, she eventually chose the Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer. She appreciated its dual-sided firmness, perfectly firm for newborns on one side and slightly softer for toddlers on the other.
She also highlighted the mattress’s eco-friendly materials and high-quality construction. One feature that particularly impressed her was the side-stitched seams. “It prevents spills or accidents from seeping into the mattress and causing mold,” she explained. The mattress fit perfectly into her baby's Babyletto Hudson crib, leaving no unsafe gaps, something she found reassuring.
Another mom shared how the mattress perfectly fit her toddler’s bed. She mentioned that it was sturdy and had just the right level of firmness, ideal for her growing child. After experiencing a few spills and nighttime accidents, she appreciated how low-maintenance the mattress was. “It’s so easy to clean, just a quick wipe, and it’s like nothing ever happened,” she said. What stood out most for her was the comfort. She noted that this one felt soft and quiet, unlike some waterproof mattresses that feel stiff or make loud crunching sounds. “It doesn’t have that plastic feel or those annoying noises when my child moves around,” she added, clearly impressed by the thoughtful design.
Newton Baby Crib Mattress and Toddler Bed
Why we like
- The breathable design lowers the risk of suffocation, giving parents peace of mind.
- It promotes airflow to prevent overheating.
- Designed to grow with your child, transitioning from infancy to toddlerhood without compromising support.
- The washable components make keeping the mattress clean and free from allergens simple.
Something to Note
- The mattress is relatively heavier, which could make changing sheets slightly more cumbersome.
Customer’s Review
A new mom shared how the Newton mattress became a true source of comfort during a challenging time. Battling postpartum anxiety, she said this was “one of the best decisions I’ve made” for her baby’s safety and her peace of mind. She recalled pressing her face into the mattress just to see for herself, and was amazed at how breathable it was. “I could breathe right through it,” she said, which helped ease many of her worries. The quality, she mentioned, far exceeded her expectations. She appreciated the added protection from the included mattress cover, which gave her extra confidence. But what she valued most was how easy it was to clean. “With my baby struggling with acid reflux for months, being able to wash it thoroughly made such a difference,” she explained. Although she admitted the higher price and acknowledged that other mattresses might meet similar safety standards, she remained firm in her belief. “This was the best choice for us, nothing could change my mind,” she said, completely reassured by her purchase.
Another mom shared how she chose this crib mattress as a baby shower gift, hoping it would be the perfect match for the Pottery Barn crib the expecting couple had picked out. She said the process couldn’t have been easier if they had added it to their Amazon registry, and having it shipped straight to their front porch was seamless. Once the couple set it up, she was thrilled to hear how well it fit. “It fits perfectly inside the crib,” she mentioned, noting that the snug fit gave her confidence in the choice. What made her even more satisfied were the mattress’s features. She appreciated how it was breathable, waterproof, and incredibly easy to clean, qualities she believed every new parent would love. “It checked all the right boxes,” she said. In her eyes, it was a thoughtful purchase that delivered on every promise. “It was worth it,” she added, pleased to have given a gift that made a difference.
Lullaby Earth Breathe Safe 2-Stage Breathable Crib Mattress
Why we like
- Holds multiple certifications, assuring its safety and quality.
- The removable and washable cover simplifies cleaning, promoting a hygienic sleep environment.
Something to Note
- The cover requires hang drying,
- The foam construction may retain heat
Customer’s Review
A first-time mom shared how she spent countless hours researching, determined to find the safest crib mattress for her son. She said, “So many top-rated options looked great at first, but then I’d read the fine print and find they included flame retardants.” With growing concerns about the potential health risks, she said she simply couldn’t compromise. “I wasn’t going to settle, not when it came to something this important,” she explained. When she finally discovered this mattress, she felt overwhelming relief. She appreciated that it had no chemical smells or artificial scents, something she had struggled to find. “It was exactly what I’d been searching for,” she said, confident that her persistence had paid off.
Another mom shared her excitement about the mattress and cover combination, saying it exceeded her expectations. She mentioned how it gave her son the comfort he needed for restful, uninterrupted sleep. “He sleeps so peacefully now, it’s made such a difference,” she said. What impressed her was the way the mattress arrived. It came in pristine condition, carefully packaged in a sturdy, protective box. Drawing from her experience in the shipping industry, she noted, “I’ve seen so many mattresses arrive poorly wrapped or damaged, but this company got it right.” She appreciated the attention to detail from start to finish and felt confident in her choice. The quality and care put into the product and delivery made this a standout purchase for her.
Naturepedic Organic Crib Mattress - 2-Stage 252 Coil Infant & Toddler Mattress with Protector Pad
Why we like
- One side is firm for newborns, and the other is softer for toddlers, so you don’t have to buy a new mattress anytime soon.
- The 252 coil system means it lasts for years and keeps its shape.
Something to Note
- Firmness Might Feel Too Stiff at First
Customer’s Review
A new parent shared how delighted she was to see her son settle into his crib so easily, napping peacefully from the very first day home from the hospital. “It was such a relief, he took to it right away,” she said. She appreciated the mattress's practical features, especially the waterproof cover that came with it. After a few breast milk spills, she found it washed beautifully and held up well. “It’s so durable and easy to clean,” she mentioned. What stood out most to her was the balance between firmness and comfort. She said, “It’s firm enough to be safe but still soft enough to feel cozy.” The mattress fit perfectly into her standard crib, which made the setup hassle-free. In her words, this was an ideal choice, one she would happily recommend to other new parents looking for peace of mind and a great night’s sleep for their little one.
Another mom shared how much she appreciated the mattress’s sturdy design. She said it felt solid and reliable, which she sought in a crib mattress. She also loved that it was waterproof and noted how easy the cover was to clean. “I just toss it in the washing machine, and it’s good as new,” she mentioned. For her, the blend of durability and everyday convenience sealed the deal. “It’s been worth every penny,” she said, satisfied with her choice.
Sealy Baby Soybean 2 Stage Crib Mattress
Why we like
- The mattress is a high-density foam enhanced with soybeans, offering infants a firm and durable sleeping surface.
- Its lightweight construction makes it easy to change sheets.
- The mattress has a waterproof surface, enhanced with a plastic-free stain, and a liquid barrier to help keep the mattress protected.
Something to Note
- Some have raised concerns about using soybean oil in the foam, suggesting its eco-friendliness may be overstated.
Customer’s Review
A careful parent shared how she spent hours researching crib mattresses and reading countless reviews before finally deciding on Amazon's Sealy Soybean Foam Core Crib Mattress. She said, “I wanted to ensure I got the safest and best mattress for my baby, so I did my homework.” The mattress arrived quickly, well-packaged, and fit snugly in the crib with no gaps, a feature she immediately appreciated. “The fit was perfect,” she mentioned, feeling reassured about the safety. While she found the firmness satisfactory, she admitted that she preferred it to be a little firmer. “It’s firm, but I was hoping for something even firmer,” she said. However, she acknowledged that as a solid foam mattress without coils, it was expected to hold its shape over time. The well-bound edges added to her confidence in its durability. Initially, she thought the quilted waterproof plastic cover would be fabric, but she appreciated the protective quality it offered. “It’s not fabric, but the protection it gives is exactly what we need,” she explained. Another bonus for her was how lightweight the mattress was. “It’s almost like an air mattress, so easy to handle when changing sheets,” she noted, making it even more convenient for daily use. Compared to similarly priced mattresses at local stores, she felt this one was much higher quality, leaving her very pleased with her purchase. “For the price, it’s a great find,” she said, satisfied with her decision.
Another soon-to-be parent shared how overwhelmed she felt by the countless decisions she had to make while preparing for her first child. Selecting a crib mattress was one of the most daunting tasks, and she spent months researching to finalize her choice. “It felt like an endless task,” she said. With a budget of $200, she wanted to find the safest, most eco-friendly mattress within that range. She chose this one because of its Greenguard certification, lack of off-gassing, and lightweight design, making sheet changes easier. “It was exactly what I was looking for in terms of safety and convenience,” she mentioned. Taking advantage of discounts, she was thrilled to get the mattress for just $112, a deal she felt was too good to pass up. “For that price, the quality was incredible,” she said, feeling satisfied with her well-researched purchase.
Mini Crib Mattress | 2-Stage Dual Firmness
Why we like
- The water-repellent cover is made of organic cotton. This makes it completely machine washable.
- Designed with two firmness levels to support infants and toddlers at different growth stages.
Something to Note
- More expensive than other mini crib mattress options
Customer’s Review
One mum shared how delighted she was to discover that this mattress fit perfectly in her baby’s mini crib. “It was exactly what I needed,” she said, relieved to find the right fit finally. What stood out most to her was the mattress’s firmness and support; it gave her real peace of mind knowing it created a safe sleep environment for her newborn, ticking all the right boxes regarding sleep safety guidelines. “It feels secure and safe, just what we were looking for,” she added. She also loved the practical design, especially the removable, washable cover that made cleaning incredibly easy. “It’s so easy to keep clean, which is a big plus for us,” she appreciated. And with speedy delivery and a price that beat many others she’d looked at, she felt she’d made a brilliant choice. “It offered great value for the price,” she said confidently.
Another mum shared how impressed she was when the mattress arrived. Unlike many of the shrink-wrapped ones she’d seen before, this came in a perfectly sized box; something she noticed and appreciated immediately. “It arrived perfectly packaged, which was a nice surprise,” she said. She found the mattress incredibly lightweight yet firm, offering that perfect balance between support and softness for her baby. “It feels just right, not too soft, but supportive enough,” she mentioned, feeling reassured about her baby’s comfort. She also pointed out the organic cover as a standout feature. “It felt exceptionally smooth, and there were no chemical smells at all,” she said, pleased with the natural materials. It fit snugly in her baby’s mini crib and was a much-needed upgrade from the overly soft DaVinci mattress that came with it. “This is exactly what we were looking for,” she said, feeling certain that this mattress was the perfect solution for her baby’s sleep.
Serta Perfect Start Dual-Sided Baby Crib Mattress
Why we like
- This mattress offers a firm side for infants and a softer side for toddlers, adapting to your child's developmental needs.
- The mattress is GREENGUARD Gold certified, ensuring low chemical emissions and contributing to a healthier indoor environment.
- It provides good value for budget-conscious parents.
Something to Note
- Distinguishing between the toddler and infant sides isn’t very easy
Customer’s Review
A mom shared how she was initially concerned about the firmness of the mattress, unsure if her baby would find it comfortable. “I was a little worried at first,” she said, wondering if the firmness would be too much for her little one. To her surprise, her baby loved it. “She sleeps soundly on it every night,” she mentioned, relieved that her concerns were unfounded. Another major win for her was that the mattress had no unpleasant odors, something she appreciated when ordering furniture online. “It’s always a gamble with online purchases, but this one was perfect,” she said. She felt it was a great value for the price and rated it five stars. “Definitely worth it,” she said, thoroughly pleased with her decision.
For one family, the mattress had been used for seven months, and their son slept soundly without any issues. “He’s been sleeping great, no complaints,” they said, pleased with how well it had held up. Despite some reviews suggesting otherwise, they found the mattress wasn’t noisy. “It’s been quiet the entire time,” they mentioned, happy to report that there was no squeaking or creaking. Even after months of use, there was no sagging where the baby slept, which reassured them about its durability. “It still looks as good as when we first got it,” they added. Now that their son had turned 13 months, they were preparing to flip it to the toddler side, confident in the quality and support of the infant side. “We’re really happy with it, and we’re excited to keep using it for the next stage,” they said, feeling sure that the mattress would continue to serve them well.
What To Look For In The Best Crib Mattress
There are many guidelines about baby cribs and mattresses, so much so that they can be confusing. Here is a simplified guideline to help you make your decision.
- Look for firmness; a firm mattress supports infant development and reduces the risk of suffocation or SIDS.
- Make sure it meets safety certifications. Look for JPMA-certified cribs and mattresses that meet CPSC crib safety standards.
- Always prioritize breathability. Opt for safe baby cribs with hypoallergenic, non-toxic materials to prevent allergies and overheating.
- Get a waterproof mattress. It is easy to clean, and a waterproof cover protects against spills, leaks, and bacteria buildup.
- Ensure the mattress fits snugly within the crib with no gaps to prevent entrapment hazards.
How to Use, Care for, and Maintain a Baby Crib Mattress
Whatever your choice of baby crib mattress, it’s essential to maintain it properly for your baby’s comfort. Here are some tips to help you manage it effectively:
- When you unbox your new mattress, allow it to air out for a few days before using it. This will help eliminate any odors that may have developed during shipping or manufacturing.
- Check the size of the mattress against your crib by doing a two-finger test to ensure it fits snugly. This prevents the risk of entrapment.(2)
- Follow the bare bed rule when placing your baby on the mattress. Avoid blankets, pillows, and stuffed animals, as they can increase the risk of suffocation. Also, always place your baby on their back to sleep to keep their airways open.(1)
- If you want to use the mattress for your next baby, clean it thoroughly and store it in a cool, dry place to prevent bacterial growth.
- If you are using a dual-sided mattress, make sure to switch at the right time. Consult your pediatrician before making this transition to ensure your baby is ready for the toddler side.
Read This Next
No posts available
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my baby’s crib mattress need to be firm?
Newborns need a firm, flat mattress to ensure safe sleep and reduce the risk of suffocation. While adults prefer softer mattresses, babies lack the strength to reposition themselves if they sink into one. A firm mattress provides the right support for healthy spinal development and keeps them in a safe sleeping position.
Is a more expensive crib mattress always better?
Not necessarily! While some premium mattresses offer extra features like organic materials or advanced breathability, a safe, high-quality crib mattress doesn’t have to break the bank. Many budget-friendly options, like the Sealy Baby Soybean Crib Mattress, meet all safety standards and receive high praise from parents.
How do I know if a crib mattress is safe?
Look for certifications like CertiPUR-US and GREENGUARD Gold, which ensure the mattress is free from harmful chemicals. It should also meet Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) guidelines, which include size requirements to prevent gaps where the baby could get trapped.
Can I use the same mattress for my newborn and toddler?
Yes! Many crib mattresses, like the Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer, have a dual-sided design: a firm side for infants and a softer side for toddlers. This lets you use the same mattress as your baby grows, saving you money in the long run.
How often should I clean my baby’s crib mattress?
Regular cleaning is key; a waterproof or washable cover makes it easier. You can even wash the entire mattress like the Newton Baby Crib Mattress to keep it fresh and allergen-free. Aim to clean spills immediately and deep-clean the mattress every few months.