Types of Crib Mattresses - Crib Mattress Buying Guide

Last updated: October 2020

In this guide:





What makes a good crib mattress? What makes a good crib mattress for your little one is different from what makes a good mattress for yourself. There’s a wide range of options for crib mattresses and they can vary greatly in price. Betty’s guide is here to help you find the best crib mattress for you. Let’s start first with understanding the types of crib mattresses available.

There are different types of crib mattresses based on the materials used and the type of core the mattress has. We’ll take you through the three main categories and highlight the major differences of each type.

 

Innerspring Coil Crib Mattresses

As you can probably tell from the name, innerspring crib mattresses have spring coils at their core to make them sturdy and resilient. Some models include border wire or rods around the edges of the mattress for added support and structure. The coils at the core are covered by cushioned layers that serve different purposes. These layers can be made of orthopedic foam, natural cotton, protective polyurethane foams, or waterproof vinyl covers. Innerspring crib mattresses are often described by their coil count, which indicates the level of firmness and support (the more the coils, the more the support).

Weight: 15 to 30 lbs

Parents like innerspring crib mattresses because they…

  • Are more durable and offer maximum posture support
  • Have better air circulation due to the spaces between springs
  • Offer better weight distribution and edge support

Price range: $80 to $300


 

Foam Crib Mattresses

Foam crib mattresses are typically made from polyurethane, a material commonly used in other furniture products. Foam mattresses offer a wide range of firmness and comfort levels depending on the density and type of foam used. They come in either memory or gel foam and are lighter weight than innerspring coil mattresses.

Weight: 8 to 15 lbs

Parents like foam crib mattresses because they...

  • Are lightweight and easy to lift when changing sheets

Price range: $50 to $250


 

Double-sided Crib Mattresses

Double-sided mattresses (also referred to as two-in-one mattresses) have different levels of firmness on each side so your child can use it through the baby and toddler years. Dual firmness crib mattresses have a firmer side for infants and a plush softer side for toddlers.

Parents like double-sided crib mattresses because they…

  • Can get extra mileage on your purchase by using it through the baby and toddler years
  • Don’t have to go through the period of adjustment your child would need for a new mattress

Price range: $40 t0 $300

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