How Long Does A Crib Mattress Last? Safety And Other Considerations Update 10/2024

Adults place a high value on their own beds. We spend a lot of time researching the comfort, longevity, firmness, and cooling of a mattress or pillow. In addition, we want the finest value for our money. Even more careful consideration should be given to our child’s mattress, especially when it comes to a crib. The safety of your infant or toddler is equally as vital as their comfort, so don’t forget that. Aside from the obvious questions of whether or not you’ll be able to use the bed in the future if you have another child, you may also wonder if you may accept a hand-me-down from a generous family member or friend. How long do crib mattresses last? And other related questions will be addressed in this post.

Baby Beds Lifespan Factors

Type

Your baby’s mattress’s lifespan will greatly rely on the sort of material it is made of, such as memory foam or innerspring. It’s not uncommon for memory foam to fail over time, especially if its density is low. Discrepancies in shape and support are more likely when the density of the foam is reduced, hence indentations are more likely. Suffocation is a real danger to an infant if there is an indentation in the skin. When it comes to mattresses, innerspring coil structure tends to endure longer, regardless of whether the mattress is for an adult or a baby. Over time, they can break through. It’s time to get rid of it when this happens.
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Durability

When purchasing a crib mattress, keep in mind the material the cover is composed of. Material and construction are two of the most important factors in determining the bed’s longevity. Thin covers, such as vinyl, will eventually lose their structural integrity. Look for a ticker that is constructed of nylon, which is a robust material.

Waterproof Capacity

Unfortunately, accidents do occur. Quite a bit. Blood, vomit spit, pee, blowouts, and drool all have the potential to impair the mattress’ life expectancy. Mold, mildew, and dangerous germs can grow and fester if a liquid soaks in. Stains also violate the manufacturer’s warranty. The lifespan of a waterproof mattress is far greater than that of a non-waterproof mattress. A protection or a separate pad can be purchased if yours is not.

Stain Resistance

Stains will void your guarantee, therefore a stain-resistant material is perfect for extending its lifespan. Some are pre-treated to resist stains. Your mattress may need to be cleaned more frequently if it isn’t waterproof, therefore you’ll need to use a waterproof mattress cover.

Care and Maintenance

Taking care of your crib mattress now can help it endure longer in the long run. The following are the top three suggestions for you:

  1. As soon as an accident occurs, clean it up immediately. Don’t allow them to soak up all the moisture in the bed.
  2. Consider purchasing a cover to keep liquids from spilling or leaking out.
  3. Prevent the accumulation of any undesirable objects or creatures by routinely inspecting and cleaning your mattress (like dust mites).

You can help your bed last for years by following these three simple actions.

Storage

Proper storage is critical whether you plan to use it for a second kid or give it away to someone else. Avoid placing the bed near a sink or other wet areas. Also avoid direct sunshine and heat, which will weaken the material’s structural integrity. Store it in its original box or in a plastic wrap to keep it dry and at room temperature.

Is it Still Safe to Use?

Firmness

In order for the bed to be secure, it must nevertheless feel substantial to the touch. Babies, in particular, are exempt from this regulation. Getting smothered by a surface that is excessively soft puts them at risk of becoming immobilized. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is more likely as a result of this (SIDS). A toddler bed doesn’t need to be as solid as a full-size bed, but it still needs to be comfortable. It is common for cot mattresses to have dual-sided: one that is firm for infants and one that is softer for toddlers. See if there is a visible difference in the firmness of the two sides of the bed.

Indentation

There should be no indentations in this bed if it is intended for a baby. It’s time for a new mattress if you feel your body sinking into a particular section of the old one. Again, indentations pose a safety risk to babies who are unable to move or roll on their own at this time. They pose a significant risk of asphyxia.

Loose Threads

Make sure there are no missing stitches. Putting them in your baby’s mouth or pulling on them can put them at risk for choking. There is a risk of exposure of filler or other materials, as well as choking, as they unravel. An old mattress with loose threads is a sure sign that it’s time to replace it.

Harmful Pathogens

You may be exposed to hazardous microorganisms if your bed is old or hasn’t been properly cared for.. In addition to bacteria and fungi, the list also includes mold, mildew, and algae. Having these in the home raises the risk of respiratory issues, such as allergies and asthma, for infants and toddlers. Because of the difficulty breathing, there may be an increased risk of SIDS.
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Foam crib mattresses

Polyurethane, a foam resin or composite, is commonly used to make memory foam mattresses. When compared to other types of mattresses, foam ones are often more cheap.

There are numerous health and safety concerns with memory foam mattresses for babies, including the increased risk of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Please keep this in mind before purchasing one (SIDS).

Make sure you try out the foam crib mattress before you buy it, even if you decide against it. If you press on the foam with your hand, time how long it takes for it to return to its original shape. Your child’s safety is at risk if the structure is unable to recover rapidly, which indicates that it lacks the necessary resiliency.

Memory foam mattresses with a higher density are also better for babies because they are firmer. Using your hand, feel out the density of a mattress (mattresses with high densities are usually heavier).

Innerspring crib mattresses

In terms of “conventional” mattresses, innerspring mattresses are the most popular. Steel coils inside give them their well-known toughness and pliability.

Additional comfort is provided by innerspring mattresses that include polyester, foam and cotton blends.

If you want to know how long an innerspring mattress will last and how thick its steel coils are, you need to look at its coil count and steel gauge. Choosing thicker gauges and higher coil counts is the greatest option because they provide the most support and are more likely to survive a long time.

It’s worth the money to get an innerspring mattress for your infant, despite the higher price tag, to ensure that they enjoy a decent night’s sleep.

Double-sided mattresses

As previously said, some crib mattresses are meant to grow with the child.

The harder side of a double-sided mattress is designed for infants, while the softer side is made for toddlers.

Changing a child’s mattress is as simple as flipping it over. Dual-firmness mattresses, like their innerspring counterparts, are fantastic for lasting the test of time, but they can be a little pricey.

Tips to Make a Cot Bed Last Longer

Proactive care and maintenance are your best allies if you want to get the most out of your crib (second only to nap time). Here are a few pointers for extending the life of your mattress:

  • The cover should be cleaned with mild detergents on a regular basis, as well as when mishaps occur (if removable)
  • Antibacterial sprays can be used to disinfect PVC coverings.
  • Your mattress should be vacuumed once a month.
  • Make use of soapy sponges to mop up any spills that may have occurred.
  • To ensure even wear, rotate or flip it frequently.
  • Make sure it’s completely dry before using it for bedding, blankets, or a newborn.

How Do You Keep It Clean?

One of the best methods to make sure your mattress lasts as long as possible is to keep it clean. Keep your baby’s crib mattress clean by following these simple instructions.

  • Take a look at your product’s label for the correct directions.
  • Clean up spills and mishaps as quickly as possible.
  • Invest in a waterproof mattress cover if the mattress doesn’t already have one to assist prevent leaks.
  • Vacuum the crib mattress to get rid of any dust, grime, or dust mites that might be hiding there.
  • If you have any washable covers, remove them and throw them in the machine.
  • Use a moderate detergent and warm water to wash the mattress by hand.
  • Soap should be rinsed from the bed.
  • Allow the mattress to air dry in the open air.
  • In addition to drying the mattress, exposure to the sun will help prevent the growth of germs, mold, and mildew.
  • The mattress should be cleaned with a disinfectant spray before being placed in the crib.
  • Clean, dry bedding should be placed on the mattress once it is totally dry.
  • The sun is an excellent disinfectant for mattresses and bedding, so use it whenever feasible.
  • Consider reading a crib-related article on the number of crib sheets to purchase. Keep the mattress clean and dry by using additional bedding!

How Do You Store It (For The Next Baby?)

If your baby’s crib mattress is still in good shape when it’s time to switch to a toddler bed, you might want to consider storing it. In the following steps, we’ll show you how to safely store your items.

  • Make sure the mattress is secure and firm.
  • Ensure that the mattress and all of its bedding and covers are washed in accordance with the instructions.
  • So that mold and germs do not grow on your mattress and bedding, expose them to the sun to dry.
  • Keep the mattress in its original box if you have one, or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep dust and bacteria out.
  • Mattresses should be stored in a cool, dry environment that isn’t subject to significant weight.
  • If you can, put the mattress on its side while it’s in storage so that it retains its firmness.
  • The quality of the mattress will degrade if exposed to direct sunshine, moisture, or heat.
  • Do all the safety tests I’ve shared and give it a thorough wash and dry before using it again.

When Should You Replace A Crib Mattress?

It’s not a hard and fast rule that you’ll need to change your baby’s crib mattress after three years. There are usually obvious signals that it’s time for a mattress replacement. The following are a few of these warning signs:

Safety And Other Considerations

Always make sure the mattress is safe before using it. Is it forming a ball? Is it more pronounced in the places where the baby spends the most time? Is the foam visible through the material?

Firmness

The firmness of the mattress is important, whether you’re buying a new or old mattress. There should always be some resistance from the mattress. You don’t want your kid to be smothered by the soft sides of the mattress as it folds.
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While the mattress should not be rock firm, it should allow your baby to rest comfortably without sinking in. When checking the mattress’s firmness, pay attention to whether or not the infant appears to be in discomfort when lying in the crib.

Pathogens

The germ and bacteria aspect is one of the greatest concerns parents have about utilizing an older or previously used mattress. Using someone else’s mattress means you have no idea how often it was cleaned or what might be lying inside.

It’s possible that the mattress has been exposed to mold or mildew while it was in storage, which could cause your child to suffer from allergies and asthma. It is possible that the mattress needs to be replaced if you experience any of the following symptoms, especially around night or nap time

Loose Threads

Remove any threads that have come free because of unraveling stitching. A choking hazard could arise if your child tugs on the threads and swallows them. Sponge or foam can be exposed when threads are unraveled, and this could be dangerous. A new, stain-resistant and waterproof cover can be readily installed if the sponge is in good condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Would you recommend buying a used mattress?

This isn’t a good idea in general. Because it’s unlikely you’ll come across an unblemished old mattress, you should steer clear of any mattress with a stain on it. A stain could be lying beneath the surface, even though it’s not visible to the naked eye. As the new owner, you don’t know what kind of adventures this bed had prior to your arrival.

Should you buy a new mattress for your second baby?

How you cared for it with your first child and how long you used it will determine the answer to this question. This crib may still have some life remaining in it if it was well-maintained and the baby was moved to a new bed during the first three to five years of life. It may be time for something different, though, if your first child had many accidents that weren’t cleaned up right away, and they spent lots of time jumping and bouncing on the surface.

Are firm mattresses or soft mattresses better for a baby?

Babies require a firm mattress to support their skeleton, prevent asphyxia, and much more. SIDS is more likely to occur on a mattress that is too soft. Check out here and this for more information on this topic.

What purpose does a crib mattress pad serve?

Your baby will benefit from the added comfort of a mattress pad as well as the added protection it provides against spills and stains, which could extend the life of the mattress itself.

What’s the difference between a mini crib and standard cribs?

Size is the most significant difference between the two. While a regular crib is 28 inches broad and 52 inches long, the width and length of a tiny crib are 24 and 38 inches respectively. Although a newborn can sleep in a conventional crib, it’s just not as comfy, thus a small cot is better suited for a younger child.

Is It OK (And Safe) To Reuse A Crib Mattress, Such As An Old One?

If you’re a parent, this is a no. Nevertheless, if it’s a crib mattress that you’ve taken good care of and haven’t used in the preceding three years, there’s a good chance that you can use it again.

If you saw that your child was frequently jumping on the mattress as they grew bigger and more active, it may be time to buy a new one!

Conclusion

There are several variables that affect the lifespan of a baby mattress, as you can see. A lot of these factors are under your direct control as a parent. A typical lifespan is five years, however some manufacturers claim they can last up to ten. Make sure to keep the five-year guideline in mind and lower it if the bed has had a rough existence, and raise it if you’ve been diligent in caring for the item.

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