Crib mattresses may not sound like the most glamorous of choice when shopping for your new baby but an infant can sleep for around two thirds of the day and a lot of their growth and development occurs during this time. As such, it's vital that your son or daughter be provided with the most comfortable and relaxing environment in which to get a peaceful night's sleep. Choosing the right crib mattress will go a long way towards helping you achieve this for your baby.

 

The Need For A Mattress

 

Cradles, cribs, and beds all have one thing in common at least ' they need a mattress to accompany them before baby can use them. As baby will be spending so much time in their and while asleep it is also imperative that you choose a safe crib mattress to prevent baby from coming to any harm while they're asleep. You should even consider the impact of allergens like wool or even dust.

 

Choosing The Right Shape

 

Gone are the days of only being able to choose rectangular shaped cribs or bassinettes. Parents can choose from a variety of shapes including oval and finding the same shape mattress can prove to be a difficult and time consuming experience. However, it is important that the mattress matches the shape of your chosen baby bed or crib. A rectangular shaped crib requires a rectangular shaped mattress while an oval bassinette needs an oval shaped mattress.

 

Mattress Size

 

Size is also important. With crib mattresses there are standard sizes but you should measure the size of your crib before venturing forth and attempting to find a mattress to fit because you don't want to be surprised when you receive it and it won't squeeze in. By the same token, you don't want a mattress that is too small otherwise baby may find himself sliding between the mattress and the side of the crib which can prove dangerous indeed. Portable or travel cribs are typically slightly smaller than the standard size crib designed for use in the home. As such, these will require a different mattress too.

 

Mattress Materials

 

Look at the materials that the mattress is made from. There is some worry over the longer term effects of PVC mattresses and those that use materials like wool and Latex could potentially be highly allergenic for your child, causing them difficulties in breathing when they go to bed. Even a mild allergy can prove problematic because it will prevent baby from sleeping soundly. Avoiding these materials where possible is a good idea to prevent the associated problems.

 

Dust Covers

 

A dust cover is comfortable and prevents dust from collecting on the mattress. It is easy to remove and quick to clean but ensures that your baby is not subjected to dust and dust mites which are two of the most common allergens. They can adversely affect breathing, ruin sleeping patterns, and cause breathing problems. In the most severe cases, there are much more serious side effects that should always be avoided.

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<a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.myurbanchild.com/mattresses-crib-&-bed/">Crib mattresses</a> from My Urban Child include Naturepedic mattresses and Ouef organic crib mattresses. Give your baby a sound night's sleep and enjoy one yourself with our high quality crib mattresses.