Baby Mattress Problems

Mattress Size

• While cribs and crib mattresses generally come in one standard size, look out for mattresses that do not fit properly in your crib. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, mattresses that are too small pose a safety hazard, as babies can become trapped in gaps between the mattress and the crib's bars. Return your crib mattress immediately if it does not fit snugly inside the crib's frame.

Mattress Firmness

• Consumer Reports recommends that you purchase the firmest possible crib mattress in order to help prevent sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), as mattresses that are too soft have been linked to SIDS. While SIDS is not completely understood by the medical community, it is believed that too-soft mattresses may cause babies to either suffocate or "rebreath" carbon dioxide they have just exhaled.

Bacteria and Mold Growth

• Purchase a new crib mattress for your first baby, rather than relying on a hand-me-down one, because you can be certain that a new mattress is sanitary. You have no idea how a used mattress has been cleaned or stored, and it may harbor mold or harmful bacteria. Take good care of your baby's new mattress, cleaning it carefully and completely after each diaper accident. When your baby outgrows the mattress, cover it completely and store it in a clean, dry closet until your next baby can use it.

Flammability Standards vs. Toxic Chemicals

• While the U.S. Federal Government aims to protect the public with its strict standards for ensuring that mattresses are flame resistant, some feel that the chemicals that help keep mattresses from catching fire actually do more harm than good. For example, the Healthy Child Healthy World organization advocates using special organic crib mattresses and made with wool, which is naturally flame resistant. Talk to your pediatrician about this issue, as the debate has not been definitively settled.