Sleep Health
Published March 8, 2022
9 minA Guide to Crib Mattress Size
As new parents, you will be thrown into a world of nursery building, toy selection, baby clothes, and everything your newborn can ever need. But if you want to ensure that the baby sleeps a healthy am
Table of contents
Types of CribsStandard CribsHow to Choose the Right Crib Mattress Size?How to Choose a Crib Mattress?ConclusionFrequently Asked Questions
As new parents, you will be thrown into a world of nursery building, toy selection, baby clothes, and everything your newborn can ever need. But if you want to ensure that the baby sleeps a healthy amount without disrupting your rejuvenating nap, you need to invest in a proper crib mattress. Unsurprisingly, the market offers an array of crib types and sizes of crib mattresses. The ultimate decision of picking out your favorite type and crib mattress size rests upon you. So, before making the purchase, familiarize yourself with the options and buy the best for your little one.
With the perfect crib size goes the ideal crib mattress. But before choosing the right crib mattress size, you need to understand the difference between mattress sizes. Since it is a matter of your little one's safety, you have to ensure that the mattress fits snugly inside the crib with as little space as possible. A bigger gap can be hazardous. Just try to insert two of your fingers inside the gap, and if you can do so easily, then you might need a new one.
Types of Cribs
The different types of cribs, varied in terms of shape and size, are – standard cribs, mini cribs, and shaped cribs.| Standard Cribs | Mini Cribs | Shaped Cribs | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (in inches) | 28 in x 52 in | 24 in x 38 in | Varies based on shape |
| Dimensions (in cm) | 71.12 cm x 132.08 cm | 60.96 cm x 96.52 cm | Varies based on shape |
Standard Cribs
Standard cribs are the most preferred choice amongst parents, with a dimension of 28 inches by 52 inches. While it is bigger and more expensive than the mini crib, it has its own advantages. Since it is large, the crib can be used for a longer time. Many manufacturers also produce them so that they can be later converted into toddler beds. So, once your child learns how to escape the crib, you can immediately switch it up. However, if you want to do something different, then buy a toddler-sized bed and bed frame with the same standard crib mattress.Mini Cribs
As the name suggests, Mini cribs are smaller than standard cribs, with the dimensions of 24 inches wide and 38 inches long. Its small size is its most significant advantage as it fits in the nursery of the smallest size. They're ideal for parents who want their toddlers to share the room with their siblings or they're twins. You can install it in the grandparents' house for an easier and more convenient overnight stay. For more accessibility, mini cribs with wheels would be an excellent option. It would enable you to roll it around the nursery and change rooms. Just be sure to lock the wheels to avoid any accidents. Finally, mini cribs are inexpensive and less draining on your wallet due to their size and material. But before deciding based on the price, remember that your baby will soon outgrow the crib – maybe in a year or two. So, you would have to invest in another bed again.Shaped Cribs
Now, you can go for something cute and adorable instead of going with boring and regular crib shapes. The baby market certainly does not have a shortage of them! You can get oval or circle-shaped ones with similar-shaped mattresses to match. They are a good option if you wish to do something unique and out of the box for the nursery. They are bigger than mini cribs but smaller than the standard size.How to Choose the Right Crib Mattress Size?
With the perfect crib size goes the ideal crib mattress. But before choosing the right crib mattress size, you need to understand the difference between mattress sizes. Since it is a matter of your little one's safety, you have to ensure that the mattress fits snugly inside the crib with as little space as possible. A bigger gap can be hazardous. Just try to insert two of your fingers inside the gap, and if you can do so easily, then you might need a new one. 
