The 5 Best Crib Mattresses for Your Baby

All mattresses sold in Canada need to follow government regulations^[1] for fit and firmness. Beyond that, here are some other features you may wish to look for:

• Sizing: The best crib mattress for your family is the one that safely fits your baby’s crib or toddler’s bed frame. Standard crib mattresses measure around 51 ⅝ to 53 inches long and 27 ¼ to 28 inches wide. Mini cribs are much smaller, usually coming in around 34 inches long and 24 inches wide. Just like cribs, some toddler beds come in standard crib size and some don’t, so crack out that measuring tape before buying. Health Canada recommends you check that the mattress is firm and ensure it fits tightly into the crib with no more than 1 and 3/16 inches (or three centimetres) between the mattress edge and the inside crib frame. It should be no more than six inches thick.^[2]
• Breathable: Some crib mattresses include airflow pockets that boost air circulation in and around the mattress. Because they prioritize air flow, they are also good for babies who sleep hot. Some breathable mattresses are not waterproof, so you might want to skip airflow technology if you’re concerned about leaky diapers.
• Antibacterial, antimicrobial or hypoallergenic: Hypoallergenic mattresses are tightly woven from natural, breathable materials such as cotton, bamboo, silk or wool. They’re designed to resist dust mites and prevent mould and mildew by dispersing moisture.^[3] They may also be treated with an antimicrobial or antibacterial cover to prevent harmful germs from taking up residence.
• Waterproof: A protective waterproof layer makes for easy cleaning of late-night diaper leaks, plus the plastic barrier prevents water from seeping into the core of the mattress where mould and bacteria can grow. Waterproofing—whether it’s part of the mattress or courtesy of a removable cover—helps keep your mattress stain-free. This is important if you’re passing the mattress down from one baby to the next, or if you’re buying a reversible mattress and plan to get several years of use out of it.
• Greenguard certified: The Greenguard Environmental Institute is a reputable third-party group that rigorously tests products for harmful toxins. There are two certification levels: Greenguard, which ensures the product meets strict emissions limits, and the more stringent Greenguard Gold that also considers safety factors for sensitive individuals, including children.
• Organic: Organic mattresses are made with organic materials and without synthetic chemicals. If you’re in the market for an organic mattress, look for certification from a reputable agency such as the Global Organic Textile Standard.

Health Canada has several safety guidelines for choosing and using a crib mattress:

• Picking a crib mattress: Make sure that the mattress fits snuggly in your crib with no more than 1 and 3/16 inches (three centimetres) between the sides of the crib and the mattress.^[4]
• Buying second-hand: Only use a second-hand crib mattress if it’s in good condition. That said, if you don’t know how the crib mattress was cared for or stored, it could harbour bacteria, mould or moisture trapped inside.^[5]
• Following manufacturer guidelines: Each crib mattress is designed for a specific age and weight. Stick to these guidelines!^[6]
• Choosing sheets: Buy fitted sheets that are designed for a crib mattress of the same size to make sure the sheet can’t come loose. Twin mattress sheets are much larger and shouldn’t be used with a crib mattress.^[7]
• Placing your crib: Keep the crib away from hazards that may fall or drape into the crib, or that your baby may be able to reach from the crib. Some examples include lamps, curtains, windows, blind cords, electrical plugs, electrical cords and extension cords.^[8]
• Putting items in the crib: Keep the crib empty. That means no pillows, blankets, toys or bumper pads.^[9]