Question 1

What size is a standard crib mattress?

Accepted Answer

A standard full-size crib mattress typically measures about 27-1/4 inches by 51-5/8 inches and is no more than 6 inches thick. Full-size cribs are built around those dimensions, so a standard mattress should sit snugly in a standard crib. Mini and portable cribs use smaller mattresses, so check the crib's own specifications before you buy rather than assuming a standard size will fit.

Question 2

How firm should a crib mattress be?

Accepted Answer

A crib mattress should be firm and flat. Current safe-sleep guidance recommends a firm, flat sleep surface for infants, meaning one that returns to its shape quickly when pressed and does not conform around a baby's head or body. A crib mattress that feels plush by adult standards is not the right choice for an infant, and it should not be softened with a topper or extra padding.

Question 3

How should a crib mattress fit in the crib?

Accepted Answer

A crib mattress should fit snugly against all four sides of the crib with no meaningful gap. The test most commonly cited is that no more than two fingers should fit between the mattress and the side or end of the crib. If there is more space than that, the mattress and crib are not a good match, and you should use a different combination rather than filling the gap.

Question 4

What is the difference between a foam and an innerspring crib mattress?

Accepted Answer

A foam crib mattress uses a solid foam core and is lighter, which makes sheet changes and cleaning easier. An innerspring crib mattress uses a coil unit with padding over it, so it is heavier and often holds its edge shape longer. Either construction can be appropriate as long as the mattress is firm, flat, and fits the crib properly, so weight, cover material, and price usually decide it.

Question 5

What is a dual-sided crib mattress?

Accepted Answer

A dual-sided crib mattress, often called two-stage, has a firmer infant side and a slightly less firm toddler side. The infant side is the one to use from the start, and the mattress is only turned over when the manufacturer says the child is ready for the toddler side. Follow those instructions rather than flipping it early because the other side feels more comfortable to you.

Question 6

How do I choose a crib mattress?

Accepted Answer

Start with fit and firmness, then compare construction and cover. Confirm that the crib mattress matches your crib's size, is firm and flat, and sits snugly on all sides, since current safe-sleep guidance puts those three points ahead of everything else. From there, weigh a waterproof or wipeable cover, how much weight you want to lift during sheet changes, and whether a dual-sided mattress that carries into the toddler years is worth it.

Crib Mattresses

Filters

What size is a standard crib mattress?

How firm should a crib mattress be?

How should a crib mattress fit in the crib?

What is the difference between a foam and an innerspring crib mattress?

What is a dual-sided crib mattress?

How do I choose a crib mattress?

Crib Mattresses

Filters

Product Grid

What size is a standard crib mattress?

How firm should a crib mattress be?

How should a crib mattress fit in the crib?

What is the difference between a foam and an innerspring crib mattress?

What is a dual-sided crib mattress?

How do I choose a crib mattress?