We’ve done our research, and have compiled a list of our favorite crib mattresses based on our customer feedback and online sources. Dr. Rachel is also a pediatric chiropractor and so posture and safety are her top priority. All these factors went into consideration when compiling our list of TOP 7 crib mattresses of 2022.
Why is the mattress important?
Let’s be real. You’re pregnant. You’re embarking on this new journey into parenthood and you’ve been doing your research online. You’ve asked friends, colleagues, your mom, etc. You’ve learned so much scouring the web late at night. You now have a list as long as an ancient scroll with “recommendations” and”must-haves” – IT’S OVERWHELMING! How do you decide where to put your budget? where can you save? What matters most and what do you “absolutely-can’t-live-without-it” actually need.
We’ve discovered, after chatting with many families in our retail store, that crib mattresses are often one of those items that fall into the grey area of needs vs wants. Is it really worth it to get the organic mattress with all the bells and whistles or can you get by with an inexpensive one? Keep in mind that your baby will spend upwards of 18 hours/day in their crib at times….
What’s in a mattress?
You’re diving into the world of crib mattresses – but what should you look for? What is important to you? Many factors go into crib mattress selection and we based our recommendations on these following factors:

- Firmness: To put it simply, mattresses all vary with how they are constructed on the inside, and that will greatly affect how firm (or soft) they are. They can be made of many layers, or one solid slab. You’ll want to get one on the firmer side, with minimizes the chances of the mattress molding to your baby’s head and body, and causing a suffocation hazard while sleeping. A firmer mattress will help reduce your risk of SIDS.

- Waterproof: Not all mattresses are waterproof, however it’s something that comes in very handy. Your baby will spit up or have “blow outs” while in their bed and you don’t want bacteria or germs to soak into the fabric. If the mattress itself is not waterproof, you can often get a cover separately to protect it. Keep an eye on the labels though – because often times, waterproof materials can contain PVC/vinyl, phthalates, lead or antimicrobial biocides.

- Fit/Size: This is important as you need your mattress to fit snugly in your crib. By law, all crib mattresses must measure 27 1/4″ x 51 5/8″ and be no more than 6′ thick. Many mattresses will have rounded corners and that might create a gap in your crib. It is highly recommended that you go visit a local store (if you can) that carries crib mattresses in stock and see how they fit in a crib. You should not be able to fit more than 2 fingers between the mattress and the crib.

- Materials/Quality: What your mattress is made of is incredibly important. These can vary from the highest quality organic materials/fabrics to very inexpensive products. So, make sure you always check the label and know what’s in your mattress. Keep in mind that lower quality mattresses with vinyl coverings can often dry out, leading to cracks and tears in your mattress. If you plan on using it for either future babies, or to transition to a toddler bed, you’ll want it to last and keep it’s shape.

- Cost: This is a factor that is very important to many families. Budget can often help determine or guide your decision. Generally, a less expensive mattress, made with lower quality materials, will be flimsier and softer, creating a hazard for your child. For many, finding a balance between cost and quality is key. [According to Consumer Reports, a mattress that costs between $90 and $200 would be a good choice for your baby and your family.]

- Convertability: If you’re anything like me, you want your mattress to not only last through several children, but you want it to be suitable for both the baby and toddler phase. You want it to provide firmer support for your infants, when it’s the most important for them while sleeping on their backs, but also want to provide comfort to your toddler as they transition out of their toddler bed. There are several crib mattress brands on the market that offer 2 sided mattresses giving you the best of both worlds.

- Safety: This goes without saying that the safety of your child when in their crib is of the utmost importance. You want non-toxic materials. You want it to be sturdy enough that it won’t flip or cave when your child begins to stand on it. You need it to be firm enough to provide a safe sleeping surface without a suffocation risk. You need it to fit correctly in your crib so your child can’t become trapped between the gaps. You want it to be clean. [If possible, always buy your mattress new – don’t get a second hand mattress. You don’t know what types of germs may be lingering from a previous mess that went uncleaned or undiscovered.]
Types of Crib Mattresses
There are 2 major types of crib mattresses, but I like to consider 2-sided mattresses their own category. Here’s a breakdown:
- Innerspring Crib Mattresses: Innerspring mattresses are more traditional in the sense that it’s most likely the style of mattress you grew up with. They have a core of springs or coils in the center. The coils can be different shapes, quantities and sizes that can be wound more tightly or loosely. All these factors will affect the overall firmness and comfort of the mattress – essentially the more coils/layers you have, the more comfortable and supportive your mattress will be. Those coils are surrounded by a layer of padding, typically polyurethane or cotton batting, and the entire mattress is covered with a top layer that is often quilted. The pattern of the quilt will affect the general feel of the mattress. A large or wide pattern will feel softer and less firm than a tighter and smaller pattern.Innerspring crib mattress will tend to be heavier than the foam core alternative. This is something to consider when you’re having to switch out your sheets!
- Foam Crib Mattresses: Foam crib mattress have been a favorite for a long time for several reasons. They’re lightweight and a high quality foam will not mold to your infant’s body, keeping them safer when sleeping. You can find them in a variety of densities, which will affect their firmness and often come 2-sided. These are often made of polyurethane.
- 2-Sided Crib Mattresses: A 2-sided mattress means is that one side of the mattress will be firmer and intended for newborns/infants, while the other side will be slightly softer and designed for toddlers to provide additional comfort as they get older. Innerspring mattresses and foam mattresses can be 2-sided.
Baby Logic’s TOP 7 Crib Mattresses
OK, now that you know all about crib mattresses, the types available to you, and what to look for, here are our TOP 7 Best Crib Mattress choices and our reasons why we love them!
- Best Organic: Organic Cotton Classic Seamless Lightweight Mattress by Naturpedic
- Best Budget Friendly: Orthopedic Crib Mattress by Dream on Me
- Best Breathable: Breeze Breathable Crib Mattress by Nook Sleep
- Best 2-Stage/2-Sided: Newton’s 2-Sided Infant and Toddler Crib Mattress
- Best Lightweight: Healthy Support Waterproof Crib Mattress by Lullaby Earth
- Best Eco-Friendly: Babyletto Pure Core Non-Toxic Crib Mattress with Smart Cover
- Best Innerspring: Ultra II Innerspring by Colgate Mattress
BEST ORGANIC
Organic Cotton Classic Seamless Lightweight Mattress by Naturpedic

Why we love it: The Classic Seamless Lightweight mattress is made of organic cotton and fill, it’s waterproof (thanks to a non-GMO sugarcane coating)and does not contain ANY flame retardants, phthalates, vinyl, PFCs or polyurethane. Their patented wavesupport™ offers firm support for your baby while keeping the mattress lightweight. They also offer a 30 day money back guarantee if it doesn’t work for your family.
BEST BUDGET FRIENDLY
Orthopedic Crib Mattress by Dream on Me

Why we love it: The Dream on Me Orthopedic mattress features a soft vinyl cover that can easily be wiped down with warm water. It’s waterproof and won’t make a dent in your wallet. The polyester core adds comfort to the infant side, while adding structure and support to the toddler side. This mattress gives you a whole lot of bang for your buck!
BEST BREATHABLE
Breeze Breathable Crib Mattress by Nook Sleep

Why we love it: So many reasons! The Breeze Breathable Crib mattress comes in a multitude of colors, no sheet is necessary (the cover zips off for easy cleaning), it’s made of non-toxic and organic materials, it weighs only 7lbs AND it’s breathable! Phew! Its cover is made of their 3D SafeSleep Breathe-Thru Technology™ which increases air flow surrounding your baby keeping them extra safe while sleeping.
BEST 2-SIDED (2-STAGE)
Newton 2-Stage Waterproof Mattress

Why we love it: The Newton waterproof mattress is great for many reasons! It provides a firmer sleeping surface for babies, but can be flipped over to a softer yet supportive side for your toddler. It has a dual-layer quilted cover for added comfort and a waterproof layer is added to the toddler side to aid in potty training and reduce messes. The Newton mattress is chemical-free AND fully breathable for added peace of mind. As an added bonus – the cover is removable + machine washable! HUGE parenting win!
BEST LIGHTWEIGHT
Healthy Support Waterproof Crib Mattress by Lullaby Earth

Why we love it: The Healthy Support Waterproof Crib mattress weighs in at ONLY 7 LBS, making swapping out sheets a dream. It’s also made of food-grade polyethylene and polyester, keeping it safe and non-toxic for baby. It’s waterproof (always a bonus) and features a firm surface with reinforced edges to keep your toddler safe as they begin stand in their crib.The inside core isn’t your traditional foam either – picture foam waves surround by non-toxic waterproof sheeting.
BEST ECO-FRIENDLY
Babyletto Pure Core Non-Toxic Crib Mattress with Smart Cover

Why we love it: The Babyletto Pure Core Crib mattress not only provides your baby with a safe and comfortable night’s sleep giving you peace of mind, but you can sleep well also knowing what’s inside! It is made of non-toxic polyester core with a breathable water repellant cover. This mattress is vegan and is free of all chemicals and additives like vinyl, PVC, dyes, allergens and phthalates. As an added bonus, the cover comes off easy and can be washed when needed.
BEST INNERSPRING
Ultra II Innerspring by Colgate Mattress

Why we love it: The Ultra II Innerspring crib mattress by Colgate is tried and true. Designed by a long-standing company, it features an eco-friendly inner core, dual-layering for added comfort, breathable sides for added freshness and 150 coils of durable steel and reinforced edges. Your baby will sleep soundly (and so will you).
Want More?
Want to check out more TOP recommendations from our experts? Do you have other gear questions? Keep reading!
- What’s the difference between all the types of Ergobaby carriers?
- Baby Logic’s TOP 7 BEST infant car seats of the year.
- Which HALO bassiNest is the best for you and your newborn?
- What type of stroller is the best for my family?
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