Looking to buy a new crib for your baby? Well, you might want to add a mattress pad with that. This article will go over what it is, why you should buy one, and where to find organic and waterproof options.
What is a Mattress Pad?
The first thing to ask is, what is a mattress pad?
A mattress pad is a pad that goes on top of the mattress. Its main feature is that it does not retain liquids, preventing the mattress from being soaked or stained.
Why it is necessary
So now that you know what a mattress pad is, here are some reasons why they are a useful part of your baby’s crib.
Protection
As mentioned, a mattress pad serves as a barrier of sorts between your baby and the crib. But why would you need to go to such lengths?
Well, it’s nothing really drastic. It’s more of a sanitation protection. Chances are, your baby will wet the bed when asleep, which happens all the time.
Apart from accidents happening at night, other leaky messes like sweat can also seep out and stain the mattress.
This is where the pad’s ability to not retain liquids comes in. Mattress pads are waterproof barriers made with quilted tops that are stain-repellent.
Not only do you not have to wash the mattress more times than you should, but you also guarantee that your baby has a comfortable sleep on a dry mattress.
Comfort
Dry mattresses and zero leakage aren’t the only things you’re getting with a mattress pad.
Your baby will even be getting added comfort with sleep.
Since mattress pads have cushions in them, they’ll provide another layer of cushioning in the mattress, making for an even more comfortable sleep.
Convenience
So we have checked off safety and comfort. What about convenience? Luckily, mattress pads also got you covered there.
You no longer have to wait for days or even weeks for mattresses to dry up and reuse mattresses because of a stain. One quick trip to the washing machine and the mattress is as good as new.
Not to mention the whole water-resistant properties make it less likely to get soiled, making for more convenience in your cleaning schedule.
What to Find in a Mattress Pad?
The next step is to start looking for a mattress pad for your baby’s crib. Here are some things that will help you find the right mattress pad.
Materials
Materials used in the production of the pad are the first thing to consider.
Remember to always buy products that are safe for babies. They will be spending most of the day in their crib. From sleeping to naps to resting when they are sick, the crib is a safe haven of sorts.
This area should always be safe for babies. Pads that are made with more chemicals than natural ingredients aren’t considered baby-friendly and can give off toxins that lurk around the house and affect babies in the long run.
Organic materials used for mattress pads include wool, cotton, and natural latex. If a mattress pad has any of the three, then they are marked as safe to use.
Hypoallergenic
Apart from chemicals and toxins, there is also the presence of allergens.
A baby’s immune system is still developing and needs to be in a proper and safe environment for it to flourish. They are still unable to protect themselves from either the chemicals and potential allergens that exist within their environment
Mattress pads also have allergy protection features which can minimize the chance of allergens settling in the crib. This makes it so that allergens don’t stick or enter your baby’s immune system during their sleep.
Temperature Control
Another important quality to find in any sleeping product is temperature control. Some mattresses and mattress pads come with a temperature control feature.
The feature lies in the fabric as it can adapt to the baby’s body temperature. By absorbing moisture and sweat, it is able to keep the baby feeling cool and dry throughout the duration of their sleep.
Keeping them cool will get them to sleep longer and more comfortably.
Waterproof
This should be included in many mattress pads. But if there are those that do not have this feature, be on the lookout for one.
Being waterproof means any form of liquid should not linger for more than it should on the mattress. That is one of the many reasons why people buy mattress pads.
Be extra sure that the mattress pad can hold on its own with liquids like spilled water, formula, sweat, among many others.
Reputable brands and tests should suffice to verify the validity of the waterproof claim.
Fitted Skirt
A fitted skirt usually is included in the creation of a mattress pad. The ones that you should go for are deep-pocketed and stretchy.
This is so that the skirt fits smoothly with the mattress regardless of its size and can wrap it completely all the way down.
The added layer also minimizes the gap between the mattress, making it fit well and not causing it to slide and bunch up.
Flat Surface
A mattress pad should have a flat design.
There shouldn’t be any bumps, lumps, or anything that doesn’t make the pad flat.
A flat surface doesn’t just only fit well with the mattress, it also makes the mattress safe since a flat surface makes for a more protected sleeping area.
Bumpy or jagged surfaces, due to the design, can make it hazardous for babies and make them uncomfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do mattress covers last?
Mattress covers typically last for a year or two until the time comes to replace them.
By that time, your baby should be at the age where they can sleep on a”regular” bed and not a crib.
Is one mattress pad enough?
One mattress pad should do the job for all ages.
It is not recommended to place more than one mattress pad.
How often should I clean the crib mattress pad?
A good time frame to clean your baby’s crib mattress pad is at least once a month.
Conclusion
Mattress pads are a great addition to your baby’s crib mattress.
Everyone values a good night’s sleep and a durable sleeping area that stays clean and keeps you safe, and your baby will be getting all that and more with a mattress pad.
