A quality mattress is one of the key ingredients in helping your little one get a good and safe night’s sleep. There are so many varieties, materials, and differing opinions around the best mattress to use, it can make shopping for the right one a difficult task. But with newborns spending up to 18 hours out of 24 sleeping, it’s important to find the perfect mattress for your baby.

How the mattress fits

The first and arguably most important thing is the fit of the mattress. Getting the right size and shape to fit snugly in your little ones sleeping space is essential to prevent

there from being any gaps around the edge that their little fingers or limbs could get stuck in. With this in mind it is best practice for you to purchase your crib, cot, or Moses basket first, and then buy the mattress.

Many cots and cribs are sold alongside mattresses designed specifically to fit the cot size. Some may have a sticker on the base recommending the right size, so make sure to do your research and find the exact size needed for your crib.

Mattress depth is also something to note. The space between the top of the mattress and the cot should be big enough to prevent your child from attempting to climb out. Again, your cot will most likely come with a user guide detailing the recommended depth and size to make it easier to know which size to get. Any mattress you choose should conform to BS 1877-10: 1997. It should also be at least 8cm to 10cm deep to support your baby while they sleep.

Breathability

To help create a safer sleeping environment ensure your mattress has good breathability to help regulate your baby’s temperature. Research has shown that overheating is associated with an increased risk of SIDS. Choosing a breathable mattress will help to draw moisture away from your baby so they don’t overheat, and the mattress stays dry.

The importance of a firm mattress

An equally important feature of your baby’s mattress is its firmness. The mattress needs to be firm, flat, and in a good condition, with no rips, tears, or sagging. The firmer the

mattress the better. A good test to check the firmness is to press on the mattress in the centre and at the edges. When you push your hand down into the mattress and remove it, how quickly does it regain its shape? Faster is better; sleeping babies make an

impression on the foam, and it can be difficult for them to change position if the mattress retains its shape.

Mattress types FOAM

Foam mattresses are usually the cheapest option. They are generally the lightest type, offer good support, and are easy to clean as they often have a PVC wipe-clean material on top. However, they do tend to lose their shape over time so these would be better for short-term use in a Moses basket or crib. Foam is also considered to be less breathable than other options on the market.

SPRUNG

 Sprung mattresses have a coil-sprung interior with layers of foam or felt padding, that allows for increased airflow. Whilst being on the more expensive side, parents tend to

like this option as it is a familiar style of mattress, not dissimilar to what you as an adult would have on your own bed.

DOUBLE-SIDED

This style of mattress is becoming increasingly popular as it offers great longevity and value for money. This style will have a firmer side for newborns to pre-school and then a slightly softer side that can be flipped over for when your child is older.

ORGANIC

Organic mattresses are made from chemical and allergen-free natural materials such as bamboo, coconut fibres, and natural latex to name a few. Natural mattresses are one of the firmest varieties of baby mattresses, providing optimal support as recommended by safe sleep experts. They are also made without the use of any chemicals and are naturally fireproof thanks to the breathable wool, which also helps regulate your baby’s body temperature. Organic crib mattresses can be expensive, but some people say the peace of mind is worth the price.

What your baby’s mattress is made of

Many parents are interested in knowing exactly what’s being used in their baby’s products. Natural Baby Shower are a huge advocate for natural, organic, and sustainable materials and believes it’s so important for your little one to be surrounded by safe, natural, and chemical-free materials. This is why they love The Little Green Sheep mattresses, their award-winning products are handmade using only natural

materials.

WOOL

Wool is the magic ingredient in The Little Green Sheep mattresses. It is naturally anti-allergenic, temperature regulating, and naturally fire-retardant and isn’t made with chemicals.

COCONUT FIBRES

From the husk of coconuts, coconut fibre makes the perfect material for forming the sturdy core structure of a mattress. Rather than individual springs, layers of coconut coir act like thousands of tiny natural springs to reduce pressure points and provide even support.

NATURAL LATEX

Born as sap from the Hevea Tree, natural latex works like glue to bring the coconut fibres together, or as a layer of natural foam for extra comfort.

COTTON

Compared to more synthetic covers, 100% cotton covers offer that added element of breathability. Whilst being super soft for delicate skin.

How to care for your baby’s mattress

Once you have your mattress it is important to look after it so it lasts as long as possible and stays in the best condition. With this in mind, it is recommended to air your mattress a few times a week by removing all of the covers until you need it next. To clean, it is best to spot-clean or wipe down when needed. Some have removable covers that can be machine-washed. If you do wipe it clean, be sure to allow time for the mattress to fully air dry before the next use.

Always use a mattress protector for those inevitable little leaks at night. This will keep your mattress in the best possible condition and protect it from any accidents.

Should you reuse or buy new?

As a general rule, experts advise that parents buy a new mattress for each child instead of handing them down. This helps parents know that their child is getting the best possible support and quality of mattress from day one. If this is not possible for you, ensure the mattress you reuse is one you know the history of, that is clean and in suitable condition with no sagging or tears.

Now you know what to look out for, you can make an informed decision when it comes to choosing your little one’s mattress. Take a look at the range of mattresses available at Natural Baby Shower, available in all shapes, sizes, materials, and designs.