In commercials for cribs, we often see a sleeping baby dozing peacefully on the mattress, cuddled up in blankets. If you’re a parent, you already know that never happens! However, choosing the proper crib mattress is one of the main things you can do to make sure that your baby is more comfortable in their crib. Part of this process should focus on choosing the right size crib mattress, which will make a difference in your baby’s sleep cycle. Here’s a quick guide to familiarize you with crib mattress sizes.
Choosing the Right Crib Mattress Size
To get the best fitted mattress for your crib, you’re going to need to choose the proper crib mattress size. It’s extremely important that your baby’s crib mattress fits exactly inside the crib, since a too-tight or too-loose mattress could present a safety hazard for your child. Your crib’s mattress should sit snug inside the crib, easily pressing up against the corners without bowing in the middle. The edges should be flat against the crib, without bunching up or folding. Any space in between the mattress and the edge of the crib could mean that your baby could be at risk for suffocation.
For your baby to be comfortable in the crib, it should be perfectly level. If your crib mattress size is too large, it will bunch up in the middle or around the edges. This could cause your baby to have trouble sleeping, or to sleep at an awkward angle inside the crib. Also, your baby could become caught in certain areas of the mattress, which could inhibit oxygen flow or restrict breathing. Since restricted oxygen flow is thought to be one of the major causes of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome), it’s best not to take this risk with your baby.
Measuring Your Crib
In order to find the proper crib mattress size, you’re going to need to measure your crib. It’s best to use measuring tape, though you can sometimes get away with using a yardstick. Be sure to measure the inside of the crib, not the outside. Start at the corners, and measure both the length and width of the crib. Be sure to write down your measurements! You should also measure the total depth of your crib, since some mattresses shouldn’t come up within a certain height of the top of the crib.
If you’re measuring a round crib, you’re going to need to take several measurements. Measure the width of the crib at the largest point, and then do the same for the length. Then, measure the entire circumference of the inside of the crib with measuring tape. Next, measure the depth. This way, you can be sure to purchase a crib mattress that will fit your round crib.
Learn More About Crib Mattress Sizes
Want some more information to help you learn about the proper crib mattress size? Here are some of our other articles:
- Standard Crib Mattress Size
- Baby Crib Mattress Size
- Mini Crib Mattress Size