Your Guide to Buying the Best First Mattress for Your Baby
New parents are undoubtedly on a mission to get more zzz’s, so it surely makes sense to research the best mattress for your baby and find out what really goes on under the surface they lie on for over 8 hours every day.
New parents are undoubtedly on a mission to get more zzz’s, so it surely makes sense to research the best mattress for your baby and find out what really goes on under the surface they lie on for over 8 hours every day.
But, did you know that, on average, new parents spend the most time researching prams, where their babies will spend a meagre 1-2 hours a day? In fact, the least researched product is a baby's mattress, where babies spend 8+ hours a day.
So, what do you need to consider when buying your baby’s first mattress?
At Snüz, we've put together a comprehensive guide to help you ask the right questions when researching the best baby mattress options.
The Snüz Guide to Buying the Best Baby Mattress
We've created this guide to make shopping for your baby's first mattress easier. Our goal is to give new parents essential information and tips to help you make an informed decision, ensuring your baby sleeps safely and comfortably.
By answering common questions and addressing key considerations, we aim to make your shopping experience straightforward and stress-free.
Choosing the Right Baby Mattress Size
For safety reasons, you must make sure whatever mattress you buy for your little one is the right fit for their sleep space. Whether you're buying a crib, cot, or cot bed, the fit of your baby’s mattress is a key aspect of ensuring a safe sleep environment.
Ensure the gap between the mattress and the crib or cot is no more than 1 cm wide to avoid trapped fingers and tears. An improperly fitted mattress can lead to an increased risk of SIDS, so always double-check if you’re not sure.
Most cribs and cots will come with user guides detailing recommended mattress sizing, though it’s always worth checking if you’re unsure. Most importantly, there should be enough space between the top of the mattress and the cot to prevent your little one from climbing out.
In general, mattress dimensions are...
| Mattress Size | Dimensions (W x L) |
|---|---|
| Crib | 36.5 x 80.5 cm 38 x 89 cm 46 x 82 cm 42 x 77.5 cm 83 x 50 cm |
| Cot | 60 x 120 cm |
| Cot Bed | 70 x 140 cm 68 x 117 cm 70 x 132 cm |
| Single Bed | 90 x 190 cm 90 x 200 cm |
Get a Perfect Fit with SnüzPod4
One of the standout features of the SnüzPod4 is that it comes complete with a custom-fit mattress, ensuring perfect sizing for your baby's sleep environment.
This mattress has been meticulously designed to fit the SnüzPod bassinet with precision, eliminating any concerns about gaps or ill-fitting mattresses. The snug fit not only provides optimal safety but also enhances the overall comfort of your little one, allowing them to sleep soundly and securely.
With the SnüzPod4's custom-fit mattress, you can have peace of mind knowing that your baby is resting on a mattress that has been specifically tailored to meet the highest safety standards.
The Best Baby Mattress Materials
It’s so important to be aware of your baby’s mattress composition and how it affects the support being offered. But with so many options available, it can be challenging to know what materials are best for your baby.
Foam Mattresses
Foam mattresses have been used for many years in the manufacturing of baby mattresses. They were initially popular due to their low cost and lightweight design.
However, most foam mattresses tend to lose shape over time, which may affect the support they offer your little one.
It’s good practice to ensure the foam mattress you choose is firm and dense enough to prevent sagging and maintain its shape as your child grows.
Pocket Spring Mattresses
In contrast, pocket spring mattresses provide excellent support while maintaining their shape over time. The individual springs work independently, ensuring your baby's weight is evenly distributed and providing optimal comfort.
However, these mattresses tend to be more expensive than foam options, so it’s essential to consider your budget when making a decision.
Natural Mattresses
Natural or organic mattresses are becoming increasingly popular amongst parents who want to reduce their baby's exposure to chemicals. They are made from natural materials such as cotton, wool, and coconut fibres, making them hypoallergenic and breathable.
These mattresses tend to be on the pricier side but may be worth the investment if you prefer environmentally friendly and chemical-free options for your baby.
SnüzSurface™ Technology
SnüzSurface Air boasts an innovative 3D mesh cover for optimum comfort whilst simultaneously providing the firm, supportive core recommended by safe sleep experts.
Our SnüzSurface Duo, Pro, and Max mattresses combine the latest technology to offer varied levels of support for your baby. Expertly layered foam and pocket springs provide the ultimate comfort for your little one.
Learn more about the mattresses that make up our unique SnüzSurface range, and be sure to find out which SnüzSurface is right for you. Compare the features and benefits of each to see which is right for your little one.
The Importance of a Breathable Baby Mattress
Breathability is vital for your baby's mattress to ensure proper airflow. This helps regulate your baby's body temperature and reduces the risk of overheating.
A breathable mattress also decreases moisture buildup, lowering the chances of mould and mildew that can cause allergies and respiratory issues.
Additionally, a well-ventilated mattress promotes a safer sleep environment by reducing the risk of suffocation. By choosing a breathable mattress, you prioritise your baby's health and comfort, leading to better sleep quality and overall well-being.
This also extends to the bedding used on the mattress, as this can alter the effectiveness of any breathable features or technology.
Check out our range of breathable bedding to keep your little one cool and comfortable through the night.
Keep Cool With a SnüzSurface™ Mattress
Our range of SnüzSurface mattresses features a 3D breathable surface, keeping your little one cool by helping with temperature regulation. With a waterproof membrane they’re also ideal for any night time nappy leaks in the early days and perfect during the potty-training years!
How Long Should a Baby Mattress Last?
Baby mattresses typically last around 3-5 years, depending on use and care.
According to Babycentre, newborns tend to sleep between 16 and 18 hours a day on average. This extensive amount of sleep is crucial for their development, helping with brain growth, physical development, and overall well-being.
It's also important that the sleep your baby gets facilitates full sleep cycles to maximise the benefits of their sleep. Choosing a quality mattress can help support this by providing adequate comfort and support for your baby's growing body.
Sleep is such a cornerstone of your baby’s routine that it makes sense to invest in a high-quality, comfortable mattress. A good mattress not only supports your baby's back but also ensures they have a safe and restful sleep environment.
Regularly airing and rotating the mattress, using mattress protectors, and following cleaning guidelines can extend its lifespan and ensure it remains in good condition for your child's comfort and safety.
SnüzSurface™ Lasts Longer
Our SnüzSurface technology ensures our mattresses retain their shape and support over time, ensuring they last longer than traditional foam options.
A mattress with dual firmness, such as our SnüzSurface Duo, can offer long-lasting, adaptive support as your child grows.
With supportive dual layers and pocket springs, our mattresses provide long-lasting comfort for your little one as they continue to grow.
Our SnüzSurface Air and SnüzSurface Duo mattresses come with a 2-year guarantee, while our SnüzSurface Pro and SnüzSurface Max mattresses come with a 5-year guarantee. This way, parents can rest assured that their little ones will experience the ultimate comfort and support as they grow.
Caring for Your Baby’s Mattress
Proper care of your Snüz cot or crib mattress is essential to ensure its longevity and maintain a hygienic sleep environment for your baby.
Here are some tips to help you keep the mattress in the best possible condition:
- Regular Cleaning – Wipe the surface with a soft, damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals and bleach.
- Deep Cleaning – Follow the manufacturer's instructions for spot-cleaning or specific cleaning products.
- Rotating – Turn the mattress every 3 months to prevent uneven wear.
- Mattress Protection – Use a breathable, waterproof mattress protector to guard against spills and leaks.
- Checking for Wear – Regularly inspect for sagging, rips, or exposed springs. Replace if any are found.
- Drying – Completely air-dry the mattress before placing it back in the crib to prevent mould and mildew.
How Do I Clean My Snüz Mattress?
One of the amazing features of our SnüzSurface range is its unique, machine-washable mesh cover. This cover can be washed at 40 degrees C, ensuring it remains clean and hygienic for your little one.
When accidents happen, simply unzip the cover and let the washing machine do the rest. After washing, make sure the cover is fully dry before putting it back on the mattress to maintain its quality and functionality.
Also, for dry spillages or everyday maintenance, you can easily vacuum the surface of the mattress as needed to keep it fresh and tidy.
Should I Use a Baby Mattress Protector?
Though our SnüzSurface mattresses are waterproof, we always recommend pairing them with a mattress protector for ease of use and to keep them in perfect condition.
A mattress protector adds an extra layer of defence against spills, stains, and accidents, prolonging the life of your mattress.
Many parents swear by having two to three mattress protectors to use in rotation should accidents occur, ensuring they’re always prepared! This way, you can quickly switch out a soiled protector for a fresh one, maintaining a clean and hygienic sleeping environment for your little one.
Should You Reuse or Buy a New Baby Mattress?
While reusing a cot mattress might seem economical, it’s recommended that you buy a new mattress per child for health and safety reasons.
If this isn’t possible, ensure the mattress you reuse is clean, in suitable condition, and has a history of ownership and usage.
Why Can’t You Reuse a Baby Mattress?
A used mattress may harbour bacteria and allergens or lose its supportive structure over time, potentially compromising your baby’s safety and comfort.
Additionally, a used baby mattress will have less life left in it (if any at all), so you’ll only need to place it sooner than you would with a new mattress.
In contrast, a new baby mattress is specifically designed to provide optimal support and comfort for your growing child. Plus, it will have the added benefit of being free from any previous owner's history or potential germs.
Summary: Find the Best Mattress for Your Baby at Snüz
Choosing the right mattress for your baby is crucial to ensure their safety, comfort, and well-being while they sleep.
Featuring sizes that will see your baby from crib to cot and into their first ‘big’ bed, SnüzSurface is designed to provide support where they need it most throughout their formative years.
Each mattress provides optimal comfort and support with the added benefits of breathability, durability, and easy-care features.
Shop our full range of baby mattresses online at Snüz today!
FAQs
A firm, breathable mattress is best for a baby. It ensures proper support, reduces the risk of suffocation and overheating, and complies with safe sleep guidelines. Choose one that fits snugly in the crib and is made from hypoallergenic, non-toxic materials for added safety.
Babies sleep better on a firm mattress because it provides the necessary support for their growing bones and ensures a safer sleep environment by reducing the risk of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). A firm surface also aids in preventing the baby from sinking into the mattress.
A baby mattress should typically be between 8 to 12 cm thick. This provides the necessary firmness and support while ensuring the mattress fits snugly in the crib, preventing any gaps that could pose a risk to the baby's safety.
Yes, baby mattresses need fitted sheets to provide a clean and comfortable sleep surface. Ensure the sheets are designed for the specific mattress size, made from breathable, hypoallergenic materials, and fit securely to avoid any loose fabric that could pose a risk to your baby.
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