Best Mini Crib Mattress

Looking for the best mini crib mattress to go in your mini crib?

Then let us help with our guide to the best mini crib mattresses!

Compact and cozy, the mini crib is an excellent choice for parents with limited space, but without a standard sizing, finding a mattress can be tough.

When buying a mattress for a mini crib, there are two features to consider before all else: size, and safety.

With those sorted, you can focus on the other details, such as materials, waterproofing, and weight.

In this guide, we’ve chosen our favorite mini crib mattresses, from premium buys to bargains for parents on a budget.

We’ve also included a buyer’s guide, to help you make the right choice. Read on to discover the mini crib mattress of your dreams!

And if you love this guide on the best mattresses for mini cribs, then make sure to check out these guides on best mini cribs, mini crib vs crib, mini crib vs pack and play and best crib alternatives. Or even this guide on how many crib sheets do I need.

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List of The 5 Mini Crib Mattresses

Best Mini Crib Mattress

1. Newton Baby Mini Crib Mattress

Best Overall Mini Crib Mattress

The full size version of the Newton Baby Crib Mattress is highly rated by parents and experts, and the mini crib version packs all those excellent features into a slightly smaller package. 

Our favorite feature of the Newton Baby Mini Crib Mattress is its use of innovative Breathe-Thru Technology.

This combines a Breathe-Thru cover with a Wovenaire mattress, which is made from 90% air and 10% food-grade polymer. 

The Breathe-Thru technology allows air to pass through the mattress, removing CO2 and reducing suffocation risk.

It also helps provide a more comfortable night of sleep, as the consistent air circulation keeps your little one at the right temperature.

There’s even more good news for parents: the Newton Baby Mini Crib Mattress is fully washable.

That means everything from the cover to the core can be cleaned without causing damage to the material. 

Breathable, comfortable, and convenient, the Newton Baby Mini Crib Mattress is an all around excellent choice for parents and babies.

And with Greenguard Gold certification, you can feel happy at night knowing your little one is as safe as can be.

Pros

• Breathe-Thru Technology – Reduces the suffocation risk.
• 100% washable – Effectively clean all parts of the mattress.
• Improved air circulation – Your baby can enjoy a comfortable night with less sweat.

Cons

• Some parents have reported the mattress has a bad smell when first opened.

2. Babyletto Pure Core Mini Crib Mattress

Best Waterproof Mini Crib Mattress

All parents know what it’s like to wake up to a damp baby and a damp mattress!

We love the performance of the Babyletto Pure Core Mini Crib Mattress, which uses a 2-in-1 waterproof removable and washable cover to keep the mattress fresh and dry!

The waterproof cover uses a quilted cotton face that feels soft against sensitive skin, with a PVC-free waterproof backing to protect from leaks and accidents.

A zipper opening makes it easy to get the cover off when it needs to be washed, while also providing a tight fit.

Made using hypoallergenic materials, the only real downside to the cover is that it can take a while to dry.

Inside the mattress are breathable polyester layers, which keep air circulating to reduce suffocation risk, and improve comfort.

The mattress is also dual sided, with a quick flip providing you with freshness. At only 4lbs, the mattress is lightweight, so this flip is easier than ever.

But despite the lower weight, the clever construction ensures the mattress is firm, providing your baby with the support they need.

Pros

• Quilted cotton cover – Feels soft and cushioned against the skin.
• PVC-free waterproof backing – Protects the mattress core from leaks and accidents.
• 4lbs – Lightweight and easy to maneuver.

Cons

• The quilted cover can take a while to dry, and you must follow the instructions closely.

3. Moonlight Slumber Mini Crib Dual Firmness Mattress

Best Dual Firmness Mini Crib Mattress

The Moonlight Slumber Mini Crib Mattress provides longer support for your little one, thanks to the dual sided design.

One side has improved firmness, better for younger infants, while the other side provides a plush surface for toddlers.

The extra firm infant side of the Moonlight Slumber mattress uses a dense foam to provide a secure sleeping surface.

The toddler side uses an OxyFlo CoolGel layer, topped with a woven fire barrier, and finished with a plush knit, 100% cotton cover.

Flat seams provide smooth edges to the cover, so no scratches, while a zipper enclosure keeps the inner mattress secure.

As a dual firmness mattress, the Moonlight Slumber can’t simply be flipped.

But thanks to the under-flex-cover, your little one can still nap on the bare mattress, while the cover goes through the laundry cycle.

The soft cotton cover (made with 30% organic cotton) is also waterproof, better protecting the mattress beneath from odors and mildew. 

The Moonlight Slumber Dual Firmness mattress provides a comfortable sleeping surface that lasts for longer, with a hypoallergenic cover that resists stains and odors.

Pros

• Dual sided – A firmer infant surface can be flipped to a plush toddler surface, for longer usage.
• Lifetime warranty – Permanent protection against manufacturer’s defects.
• Premium cotton cover – Soft, breathable, and waterproof.

Cons

• 9.08lbs – Not particularly portable.

4. Simmons Kids SlumberTime Mini Crib Mattress

Best Budget-Friendly Mini Crib Mattress

Weighing less than 4lbs, but still measuring 4 inches thick, the Simmons Kids SlumberTime Mini Crib Mattress is a fantastic budget choice.

It’s also a lightweight option, which is good news if you need a mattress for the times you use a portable crib. 

The core of the mattress is made from recycled bottles, making this a great choice for eco-conscious moms, while all parents will love that it’s hypoallergenic.

The non-toxic material is safe for the baby, while providing a firm foundation for sleeping.

We also love that the waterproof cover is made from naturally blended cotton, which feels super soft while protecting the core from leaks.

A dual sided mattress, the SlumberTime can be flipped for freshness. The natural cotton cover does help reduce odor, mold, and mildew!

However, it isn’t dual firmness, so there is no softer side. This is firm all the way through.

Made in the USA, the Simmons Kids SlumberTime Mattress has Greenguard Gold certification, ASTM certification, and is certified non-toxic.

We love how this mattress is both budget- and eco-friendly, with a firm base to keep your little one happy and safe.

Pros

• Naturally blended cotton cover – Soft to touch, reduces build up of mold and mildew.
• Dual sided – A quick flip keeps the mattress fresh.
• 3.9lbs – Lightweight, and excellent for travel.

Cons

• Firm both sides.

5. Colgate Mattress Portable Crib/Mini Crib Mattress

Best Portable Mini Crib Mattress

The portable Colgate Mini Crib mattress proves that a good mattress for an infant doesn’t have to break the bank.

Firm, flippable, and breathable, this is an excellent choice for parents on a budget. And the lightweight build is great for on the go. 

The Colgate Mini Crib Mattress offers 3” thickness made with extra firm foam.

It isn’t the thickest mattress on the market, but it still provides a secure and comfortable base for your little one, and the mattress can be flipped when necessary. 

With a durable double laminated cover that’s tear-resistant and reinforced, this is a good choice for parents on the go, especially as it weighs less than 2.8lbs.

The cover is also waterproof, and the mattress can be spot cleaned with a damp cloth. 

Mini cribs are often used as travel options, and with the Colgate Mattress, you can ensure your little one continues to have a safe and secure sleep.

Although it is a budget choice, this is still a mattress with impressive quality.

Pros

• Double laminated cover – Durable and tear-resistant.
• Only 2.6lbs – East to flip, and easy to take on the go.
• Wipe down – When an accident occurs, it’s easy to clean. 

Cons

• The waterproof covering gives the mattress a slight plastic smell.

Buyer’s Guide on top mini crib mattress

Every parent wants their baby to have a good night, and the right mattress can play an important role in just how well they sleep.

But if you’re buying a mattress for a mini crib, then you have to consider a few key features when making your choice.

This will not only ensure the mattress is as comfortable as possible, but also as safe as possible.

In this buyer’s guide, we’ve covered all the crucial components you need to consider when choosing a mattress for a mini crib.

Size

While full size cribs come in a standard size, mini cribs don’t have the same rigorously defined dimensions.

What this means is that when you go to buy a mattress for a mini crib, you have to pay extra close attention to the sizing.

Not all mini crib mattresses are guaranteed to fit your mini crib!

Carefully measure the interior of your mini crib before buying a mattress, so you can see what fits.

The mattress should fit the crib snugly, leaving no gaps larger than two fingers on any side! However, the mattress also shouldn’t fit so tight that it bunches.

Some mattresses brands will provide a list of compatible cribs, so have a read through the product guide.

Take a look at the reviews as well — some will mention the crib they bought the mattress for.

Safety

We mentioned above that mini crib mattresses tend to have lax size requirements, but they should never have lax safety requirements!

The mini crib mattress must have been tested and approved for sale, and it must meet the FDA standard for flammability. 

Mattresses can be tested and rewarded for meeting safety requirements, so look out for certification. Certi-PUR US, Greenguard Gold, and MadeSafe are all common and trusted.

All mattresses for an infant should have a firm base (which we’ll cover below) and a snug fit (which we discussed above).

Firmness

It might feel hard to you, but a firm mattress is actually the safest surface for a baby to sleep on.

A firm mattress supports the spine and airways of your little one, allowing them to breathe freely throughout the night.

A dense mattress also provides support for their growing body.

A mattress that is too soft can cause your baby to sink and to roll. This isn’t safe, as it can cause the airways to become blocked.

Materials

We all want to wrap our little one up in the softest, snuggliest materials, to protect their delicate skin.

When you’re choosing a mattress for a mini crib, look for covers made from soft materials which will be gentle against the skin. Cotton is an excellent choice, as it’s naturally breathable. 

If your little one has particularly sensitive skin, look for hypoallergenic materials. 

Beyond this, it’s essential that the mattress is made using breathable materials. This will allow the air to circulate, removing CO2 and reducing the risk of suffocation.

Breathable materials also help to keep the mattress cool and prevent hot and sweaty nights. 

Waterproofing

Leaks and accidents are an unavoidable part of parenthood, and you will wake up occasionally to find a damp crib!

Waterproof mattresses use a cover to prevent moisture from seeping into the mattress core. While covers are easy to clean, the mattress core is a nightmare to wash!

Waterproofing can reduce odor and prevent mildew, as well as making clean up so much easier.

Dual Sided

Dual sided — not to be confused with dual firmness, which we’ll cover below — refers to a mattress that can be used on either side.

So, if one side is starting to look a little less than fresh, you can flip the mattress, rather than clean it.

Dual sided mattresses have equal thickness on both sides, and should feel the same no matter which way is up.

Dual Firmness

Dual firmness mattresses have two sides of different density. One side will be extra firm, designed for young infants.

The other side will be softer and plusher, and better for older babies and toddlers.

Dual firmness mattresses increase the durability of the mattress, but they do have some downsides. For example, dual firmness mattresses can’t be flipped instead of cleaned.

And while they do extend the life of the mattress, as a mini crib mattress, you’ll have to size up sooner rather than later anyway.

Portability And Weight

Mini cribs are popular choices for parents on the go, and for secondary caregivers.

If you plan on using the mini crib as a travel crib, then you will want a mini crib mattress that’s just as easy to transport.

No mini crib mattress will ever weigh that much, but there can be a surprising weight difference.

A mini crib mattress can weigh between 2lbs and 10lbs, with the thicker designs being significantly less portable. 

Budget

Premium crib mattresses, even those designed for a mini crib, can cost several hundred dollars, while budget designs are a fraction of the cost.

Premium mattresses tend to be thicker, and made with higher quality materials that are easier to clean, and typically feel softer. 

However, an expensive mattress isn’t always a better mattress. Make sure to read reviews and check for certification — don’t just look at the price!

FAQs on Mattress for Mini Crib

Final Thoughts on top rated mini crib mattresses

Mini cribs are fantastic for parents with limited space, but finding the right mattress can be tricky.

Make sure to measure, measure, and measure again, so you can find a mattress with a safe and comfortable fit. We hope this guide will help your little one (and you) sleep better!

And if you’re looking for more great sleeping guides, then check out these sleeping guides on when to lower crib mattress, best waterproof crib mattress pad, best pack and play mattresses, and when is a baby too big for a bassinet? Or even our guide on the best cribs for small spaces.