According to Consumer Reports, the safest cribs have a firm mattress, a snug-fitting mattress pad and a fitted crib sheet, which should fit securely so you can't pull it up at the corners.
Crib mattresses come in foam and innerspring. Foam is lighter in weight and less expensive, but innerspring mattresses tend to be more popular.
Typical costs:
According to MySimon[1] , crib mattresses range from $30-$230. Anything in the $90-$150 range is considered ideal.
Parents should plan to purchase mattress pads, which are available for $20-$25 at JC Penney.
Parents will also need fitted crib sheets, which are available in a number of collections, including "Seaside"[2] and "Barnyard"[3] for $24 at babyGap[4] . Optional matching quilts, blankets and bed skirts increase the cost significantly.
Sears[5] offers a number of Trend Lab[6] four-piece crib sets for $159.
Shopping for a crib mattress:
According to MySimon.com[7] if you can place more than two fingers between the mattress and the crib, the fit isn't snug enough, and the mattress could be a danger to your baby.
Innerspring models should be firm, not soft; come with good border rods; and have visible ventilation holes.
When selecting a foam mattress, look for a high-density model. Mattress covers/ticking should be sturdy and preferably waterproof.
Mattresses should be in compliance with Technical Bulletin 603, a flammability standard adopted by California that went into effect on Jan. 1, 2005 (more information is available from The Bureau of Home Furnishings and Thermal Insulation).
Trusted brands include Colgate[8] , Evenflo[9] , Kolcraft, Sealy[10] (available through Kolcraft[11] ) and Simmons. Sealy and Simmons crib mattresses are available at JC Penney for $70-$119.
Sears[12] carries a limited number of Sealy and Kolcraft models for $59-$99.
Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. For medical decisions, always consult your physician for the right course for your infant or child.
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