If it’s your first go-around on the parenting train, you may not be familiar with a mini crib mattress.
While some people have room for a full-size crib, others have to conserve space wherever they can. Whether you have one baby or twins, a mini crib could be a game-changer when it comes to maximizing space in your nursery.
In this article, we’re going to take a look at what you need to know about a mini crib mattress and show you some of the best mini crib mattresses on the market.
Jump straight to our reviews of the best baby crib mattresses for mini cribs:
Mini Crib Mattresses: The Basics
What size is a mini crib mattress?
The big difference between a mini crib mattress and a standard mattress is the size. The size of a mini crib is typically 24 inches wide by 38 inches long.
Keep in mind that the government doesn’t regulate the size of a mini crib mattress as it does for a standard-size crib. A standard-size crib measures 28 inches wide by 52 inches long. By those dimensions, you can see that the mini crib can save you a lot of space.
While some parents choose a mini crib for their home, there’s also the option of leaving a mini crib at grandma’s house if your baby is going to spend a lot of time there. It won’t take up as much space and will give your baby a comfortable place to sleep. Many mini cribs also come with wheels, making it easier to move from room to room.
How thick should a mini crib mattress be?
Mini crib mattress size can vary from one to six inches in depth. Since they are not regulated by the government, you have many more options and can customize your mini crib to your needs.
Are all mini crib mattresses the same size?
No. Since there are no government regulations, crib mattress size will vary by brand and model, but many are typically around the same size. You’ll have to check out what each brand has to offer to see which one best suits your space and your needs.
Is a mini crib smaller than a pack n play?
The short answer is yes. The average size of a Pack N’ Play is about 40 inches long by 28 inches wide.
Think of it like this. The crib would be your size large, the pack n’ play would be a medium, and a mini crib would be a size small.
Things to Consider When Buying a Mini Crib Mattress
When you’re buying a mini crib mattress, there are a few things you’ll want to consider before making your decision.
Firmness
Mattress firmness is number one whether you’re buying a mini crib mattress or a standard mattress. You want a firm mattress because a soft mattress can conform to your baby’s head, increasing the risk of suffocation.
As you’re shopping, you’ll notice there are two basic types of baby crib mattresses, foam and innerspring. The foam tends to be lighter, weighing anywhere from 5 to 13 pounds, while innerspring mattresses can weigh up to 30 pounds.
Whether you choose an innerspring or foam mattress be sure to check out the coverings. Some of the least expensive mattresses will have vinyl coverings that can tear and crack easily. The mini crib mattresses that cost a little more will have coverings that are thicker and less easy to tear.
Buy New
If you’re looking to save a few bucks, you don’t want to skimp out and buy a used mattress. You want to make sure the mattress is clean and safe. Buying new is the only way to do this.
Get the Right Sized Sheets
You can’t use the sheets made for a standard crib mattress on a mini crib mattress. The sheets need to fit tightly to reduce the risk of your child getting smothered by the extra material. Check the measurements of the sheets to make sure they’re going to fit the crib mattress snuggly.
Weight Limit
Since there is no standard for mini cribs, you’ll want to check the weight limits when buying your crib and mattress. Remember, only one baby can be in the crib safely at once. To put it in perspective, full-sized cribs are made to typically hold 50 pounds.
When you’re talking about weight, you also want to look at how much the mattress weighs itself. You don’t want to get one that’s too heavy because it will be a pain to handle when it’s time to change the sheets.
A Round-Up of the Best Mini Crib Mattresses
Newton Mini Crib Mattress
This mini crib mattress checks the boxes of so many things parents look for when they’re shopping. This one fits the typical measurements as it comes in at 38” L by 24” W. It’s also 5.5. inches thick which will provide plenty of cushioning.
One of the best things about the Newton Mini Crib Mattress is its Breathe-Thru Technology. This allows air to flow freely which helps to reduce the risk of suffocation. It also addresses the issue of CO2 rebreathing, even when your baby starts to roll over. This mattress is pediatrician-approved for development and for firmness.
This mini crib mattress also has temperature regulation to prevent your baby from overheating at night. If your baby is too hot at night, they’re going to wake up. It’s also free of any foam, latex, springs, or glue.
One thing to keep in mind is the price, but it is a high-quality mattress with a lot going for it.
What We Love:
- Typical mini crib mattress size
- Breathe-Thru Technology to help air flow freely
- Pediatrician-approved firmness
- Temperature regulation
Keep in Mind:
- It is a little pricey.
- Weighs 9 pounds (heaviest mattress on the list)
View the Newton Mini Crib Mattress on Amazon
Dream on Me Portable Mattress
If you’re looking for an inexpensive mini crib mattress for a portable crib, this one certainly checks that box. This mattress from Dream on Me also fits the typical measurement of 38” by 24”. It is on the thinner side with a depth of just 3 inches. So, there may not be much cushioning there for your baby.
You can feel good about the materials inside the mattress since it’s lead and phthalate-free. It comes with a hypoallergenic antibacterial cover that’s also waterproof. That means it’s easy to wipe off and clean.
What We Love:
- Very inexpensive
- Easy to clean
- Lightweight and good for travel
- Lead & phthalate-free
Keep in Mind:
- It’s only 3 inches thick, so there may not be much padding.
Serta Sleeptrue Mini Crib Mattress
There are a couple of features to this mini crib mattress that makes it stand out among some of the others. It features a hypoallergenic fiber core that’s made from recycled bottles. This means it’s not only free of any harmful materials, but it also has firm comfort and support.
It’s also Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it’s been recognized for low chemical emissions.
It comes with a durable waterproof cover. This makes it easy to clean which is a bonus. You can also flip it over because it’s two-sided. making it good for the long haul.
This mini crib mattress is the typical size, measuring 38” L by 24” W. Its depth is right in the middle at 4 inches. Some parents look for a thicker mattress, but this should be enough padding for a comfy rest for your baby.
What We Love:
- Moderately priced
- Hypoallergenic fiber core that’s made from recycled bottles
- Durable, waterproof cover
- Dual-sided
- Lightweight (3.9 pounds)
- Greenguard Gold certified
Keep in Mind:
- Four-inch thickness may not be enough for some parents and babies, but it’s still pretty comfy!
Wonder Dream Mini Crib Mattress
You’ll want to check this mattress out if breathability is most important to you. The Wonder Dream Mini Crib Mattress is 100% breathable with Breathe Fiber technology. Air passes through the entire mattress, regulating temperature.
The cover around the mini mattress is water repellent on the top and sides and allows air and heat to ventilate on the bottom. There are also non-toxic materials inside, so you can feel good about this product when your baby is sleeping.
You’ll find that the mini crib mattress size is in line with others at 38” L X 24” W. It has a depth of 5” which should provide the right amount of padding to make for a comfy night’s sleep.
What We Love:
- Removable cover to wash
- 100% Breathable with Breathe Fiber technology
- Water repellent
- Temperature regulation
Things to Consider:
- On the pricey side
Babyletto Mini Crib Mattress
This mini crib mattress from Babyletto checks several of the boxes of things you should be considering while you shop.
Let’s start with size. It’s a bit smaller than some other options, with measurements of 37.625” L x 23.5” W. This model only has a thickness of 3 inches, so you’ll want to keep that in mind as you weigh all of the other features. But, it is a firm mattress, which is a plus.
The mattress is also hypoallergenic and is made of a lightweight fully recyclable polyester core.
The cover is made from soft quilted, organic cotton and has a vinyl-free waterproof backing. This helps to protect the mattress against accidents. You can also take the cover off to wash it.
What We Love:
- Firm mattress
- Vinyl-free waterproof backing
- The cover comes off for easy cleaning
- Organic cotton mini crib mattress
Things to Consider:
- Only 3 inches thick
- On the expensive side when compared to other options
- A smidge smaller than other options
DaVinci Complete Slumber Waterproof Mini Crib Mattress
If mattress firmness is high on your list of priorities, this one comes with a high-density fiberfill that results in an extra firm sleeping surface. It is also Greenguard Gold certified, 100% non-toxic, and hypoallergenic.
There’s a waterproof tear-resistant cover, making it a good investment for the long haul. Plus, it’s easier to clean. The side air vents are a bonus because they help to create fresh airflow.
When it comes to size, this one is similar to others a 37” L X 24” W. It has a thickness of 4.5”. Pricewise, it’s in the middle of many of the ones that are on this list.
What We Love:
- Lightweight mattress (under 4 pounds)
- Tear-resistant cover
- Hypoallergenic
- 100% non-toxic
- Greenguard Gold certified
Things to Consider:
- Make sure the mattress isn’t too firm for your baby. It’s listed as extra firm.
View the DaVinci Complete Slumber Waterproof Mini Crib Mattress on Amazon
So, Which is the Best Mini Crib Mattress?
As you search for the best mini crib mattress, you have to remember which features are most important to you. You also want to consider the price. Some mini crib mattresses will cost you a lot of money for not much use time. Remember, your baby isn’t going to be in a crib forever.
While there are many great ones to choose from, if we had to pick our favorite, it would be the Serta Sleeptrue Mini Crib Mattress. It has many of the features that parents look for.
Firmness? Check.
Lightweight? Check.
Easy to Clean? Check.
Durable Cover? Check.
Greenguard Gold Certified? Check.
It’s also hypoallergenic and has a price-point that won’t break the bank. Plus, with a depth of four inches, it should be just right to provide enough comfort for your baby to get a good night’s rest.
Helping your baby have a good night’s sleep on a safe quality mattress is what it’s all about. If they’re sleeping well, so are you and we all know how good that is!
