If you’re here, you’ve likely been diving into baby crib mattresses, asking questions like “Are crib mattresses a standard size?” or “Are they universal?”. You’ve probably wondered about the length of crib mattresses or whether they are the same size. If so, you’re in the right place.
To create the safest, most comfortable haven for our little ones, it’s essential to understand what we’re choosing and why. One critical factor? The dimensions of your baby’s crib mattress.
This guide aims to demystify crib mattress dimensions. Whether standard, non-standard, or seemingly universal.
This article will cover the followings:
- Standard Crib Mattress Dimensions
- Non-Standard Crib Mattress Dimensions
- Understanding Size Variations
- Importance of Fit in Cribs
- Conclusion
Explore the standard and non-standard crib mattress sizes. Understand if crib mattresses are universal and have the same dimensions or if they vary.
Uncertain about which mattress to get? Take a look at this list of the best crib mattresses. I have put lots of hours into this guide, for you to find the ideal mattress for your baby!
Standard Crib Mattress Dimensions
The standard crib mattress dimensions are 27 1/4 inches wide by 51 5/8 inches long, 69.2 cm wide, and 131.1 cm long. And when it comes to thickness, it usually ranges from 4 to 6 inches, approximately 10 to 15 cm.
It’s as simple as that. I was relieved. Knowing the size made choosing the perfect mattress for my little one easier.
Here are some popular standard crib mattresses:
| Brand | Model | Width | Length | Height |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Newton | Wovenaire | 28 in. (71 cm) | 52 in. (132 cm) | 5.5 in. (14 cm) |
| Graco | Premium Foam | 28 in. (71 cm) | 52 in. (132 cm) | 5 in. (12.7 cm) |
| Moonlight | Little Dreamer | 27.5 in. (70 cm) | 52 in. (132 cm) | 5 in. (12.7 cm) |
| Colgate | Eco Classica III | 27.5 in. (70 cm) | 52 in. (132 cm) | 6 in. (15.2 cm) |
| Sealy | Soybean Foam-Core | 27.25 in. (69.2 cm) | 51.63 in. (131 cm) | 5 in. (12.7 cm) |
| Naturepedic | Organic Cotton Classic | 27.75 in. (70.5 cm) | 52 in. (132 cm) | 6 in. (15.2 cm) |
| Serta | Perfect Start | 27.5 in. (70 cm) | 52 in. (132 cm) | 5 in. (12.7 cm) |
| Beautyrest | Black Beginnings | 27.5 in. (70 cm) | 52 in. (132 cm) | 6 in. (15.2 cm) |
| Milliard | Crib & Toddler Bed Mattress | 27.5 in. (70 cm) | 52 in. (132 cm) | 5.5 in. (14 cm) |
| Dourxi | Baby Crib & Toddler Bed Mattress | 27.5 in. (70 cm) | 52 in. (132 cm) | 5.5 in. (14 cm) |
These mattresses are all designed to fit standard cribs and meet the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regulations to provide safe and comfortable sleep for your baby.
Are Crib Mattresses Universal
The standard dimensions of a crib mattress are universal. Standard crib mattress dimensions are set to ensure a snug fit in a standard crib, leaving no space for gaps. This is crucial for our baby’s safety, as gaps pose potential risks.
No matter where you go, the dimensions remain the same. It’s like going to a coffee shop and ordering a “large.” It just makes things simpler. And, for us parents, anything that simplifies life is a win.
Let’s detract from the usual and venture into the world of non-standard crib mattresses.
Non-Standard Crib Mattress Dimensions
As you probably guessed, not everything sticks to the standards. Some cribs come with unique dimensions. These unique puzzles take a little extra effort but bring much joy when solved. Non-standard crib mattresses don’t follow the conventional rectangular shape or dimensions.
- Mini Crib Mattress: They usually measure 24 x 38 inches (about 61 x 96.5 cm) and are commonly around 3-5 inches (7.6 – 12.7 cm) thick.
- Oval Crib Mattress: Then come the oval mattresses, like those for Stokke cribs, with dimensions around 33 x 26 inches (about 83.8 x 66 cm) and a typical thickness of 4-6 inches (10-15 cm).
- Round Crib Mattress: Those needed a mattress about 42 inches (approximately 106.7 cm) in diameter and about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) in height.
Non-standard cribs come in all shapes and sizes. Mini cribs are perfect for smaller spaces, while oval or round cribs make a modern statement.
There are even vintage cribs that might require a unique mattress size. However, I don’t recommend using old cribs because they might not meet current safety standards. For example, slats are too far apart, posing an entrapment risk.
Finding the Perfect Mattress for Your Non-Standard Crib
Selecting the right size for non-standard cribs might seem daunting, but here’s the good news: most manufacturers provide the mattress dimensions. This makes finding the perfect fit much simpler.
Here are some examples of popular non-standard crib mattresses dimensions:
| Brand | Model | Width | Length | Height |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Babyletto | Origami Mini | 24 in. (61 cm) | 38 in. (96.5 cm) | 5 in. (12.7 cm) |
| Delta | Mini Portable | 24 in. (61 cm) | 38 in. (96.5 cm) | 3 in. (7.6 cm) |
| Stokke | Sleepi | 26 in. (66 cm) | 33 in. (83.8 cm) | 5 in. (12.7 cm) |
| BabyBjorn | Cradle | 23 in. (58.4 cm) | 36 in. (91.4 cm) | 4 in. (10 cm) |
| DaVinci | Jenny Lind Mini | 24 in. (61 cm) | 38 in. (96.5 cm) | 5 in. (12.7 cm) |
| Babyletto | Hula Oval | 26 in. (66 cm) | 53 in. (134.6 cm) | 4 in. (10 cm) |
| Dream On Me | Round | 42 in. Diameter (106.7 cm Diameter) | N/A | 4 in. (10 cm) |
| Dream On Me | Casco Mini | 24 in. (61 cm) | 38 in. (96.5 cm) | 4 in. (10 cm) |
| Halo | Bassinest | 18 in. (45.7 cm) | 30 in. (76.2 cm) | 2 in. (5 cm) |
| Badger Basket | Empress Round Baby Bassinet | 32 in. Diameter (81.3 cm Diameter) | N/A | 3 in. (7.6 cm) |
Note: The diameter is given for round mattresses instead of separate width and length measurements.
Understanding Size Variations
As my better half and I prepared for the arrival of our second baby, we found ourselves tangled in the web of crib mattress sizes. Perhaps you’re also pondering the question, “Why do crib mattress sizes vary so much?” The answer lies in the specifics of brand designs and international regulations.
- Mattress Brand: They compete to offer unique features and benefits, leading to slight variations in mattress sizes. Even among ‘standard’ mattresses, you’ll find some wiggle room. For example, while the ‘Naturepedic Organic Cotton Classic’ comes in at 27.75 inches wide, the ‘Sealy Soybean Foam-Core’ is a tad narrower at 27.25 inches.
- Manufacturer Country: The country of manufacture can also impact size. Different regions have different safety norms, which can cause a shift in what is considered ‘standard.’ Standard size in the U.S., for instance, is typically around 27.5 by 52 inches (or 70 by 132 cm), while European standards lean towards 60 by 120 cm or 70 by 140 cm.
Size variations range from fractions of an inch in standard crib mattresses to more noticeable differences in mini or non-standard cribs, which can be as small as 24 by 38 inches. And keep in mind international standards may add another level of variation.
Remember, regardless of size, the most important factor is a tight fit of the mattress within the crib.
Importance of Mattress Fit in Cribs
An ill-fitting crib mattress is more than an annoyance; it’s a safety hazard. Gaps between the mattress and crib can lead to your baby getting stuck. Worse yet, it could be a suffocation risk if their face gets pressed against these spaces.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) agree – a snugly fitting mattress is crucial for your baby’s safety. Any gap between the crib and mattress can become a potential trap for your baby, posing risks such as suffocation and physical injury.
The CPSC reports that poorly fitted crib mattresses have contributed to incidents, including falls and entrapments. In extreme cases, these can lead to severe injuries. An unstable mattress may also disrupt your baby’s sleep, impacting their overall health and development.
When choosing a crib mattress, consider the size of your crib, the mattress’s material, and its firmness. A perfect fit for your crib is crucial – remember, no more than two fingers should fit between the crib and the mattress. Also, pediatricians recommend a firm mattress to reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
With this, I hope I’ve emphasized why a perfect crib mattress fit isn’t a luxury but a necessity.
Conclusion
Not all crib mattresses are the same size, but many adhere to a standard. A comforting fact that can simplify our choices as parents. The standard size is typically 52 in. (132 cm) long and 28 in. (71 cm) wide with a thickness range between 4 to 6 in. (10-15 cm).
A range of non-standard dimensions also caters to various types of cribs. These dimensions can vary, with mini mattresses around 38 in. (96.5 cm) by 24 in. (61 cm) and oval or round mattresses varying even more.
But whether you’re choosing a standard or a non-standard mattress, remember to consider the fit and the safety it provides for your little one.
Happy crib mattress hunting!
In general, cribs don’t come with a mattress, and you should consider ordering one simultaneously as the bed. Don’t worry; I have simplified the selection by creating this list of the best crib mattresses. Or perhaps you need help? Then you should visit this guide I made on choosing the ideal mattress for your baby crib.