No doubt you’ve bought mattresses before so buying one for your new baby can’t be too difficult, right? But babies have concerns adults don’t: SIDS prevention, leaky diapers, constantly changing sheets. What’s a parent to do? Read on for our primer on buying a crib mattress: Types of crib mattresses There are basically three types of crib mattresses: foam, coil and combination coil/foam. Foam mattresses are lighter than those with coils, making it easier to change the sheets in the middle of the night when Junior reenacts the Great Flood in his crib. Foam mattresses typically weigh less than eight pounds, while coil mattresses can top 20 or 30 pounds! Another plus: foam mattresses are less expensive, usually $100 to $160. Coil mattresses can be pricey, with some models running $200+. Two-in-one mattresses (foam on one side, coil on the other or firm foam on one side, softer foam on the other) are also expensive at $200 or more. Most adults sleep on coil, so new parents often think that’s the best mattress for baby.
Plus many baby stores (and even chains like Babies R Us) only sell coil mattresses, claiming that coil is superior to foam. One salesperson even told a parent that foam mattresses aren’t safe for babies older than six months! Another salesperson actually told a parent they should expect to replace a foam mattress two to three times during the two years a baby uses a crib. Neither of these claims are true. Bottom line: either foam or coil mattresses are fine . . . but we prefer foam because they are lighter in weight. And hence it is easier to change sheets in the middle of the night. What about “natural” mattresses? These are mattresses that claim to use a variety of natural ingredients like coconut fiber, horse-hair and organic cotton filling in their mattresses. They also tout organic cotton covers or food grade polyethylene covers. And still others may be “all natural, organic” but use non-toxic food grade foam filling. Most of the time, you’re paying a lot more for the all natural and organic mattresses.
We have found no credible scientific evidence that natural or organic crib mattresses are any safer for your child to sleep on than conventional mattresses. That said, we realize many parents are trying to reduce their baby’s exposure to environmental toxins—and considering how much time a baby spends sleeping, going organic for a mattress may make sense. There are a few reasonably priced options we’ll mention in our review of recommended mattresses. Which one is right for you? The key goal you want for any mattress is a firm surface. Babies who sleep on a too soft mattress (think futon) can be at risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Some stores pitch 2-in-1 mattresses, with a firm foam side for babies and a softer coil side for toddlers (the risk of SIDS drops after one year of age for various reasons).Our take: these aren’t necessary. A toddler can sleep on a foam mattress just as easily as a newborn. Once they transition out of a crib into a twin bed, then you can switch to a coil mattress.
The take home message: we recommend foam crib mattresses in most instances. They make midnight sheet changes easier since they are lighter. With today’s new foams, appropriate firmness doesn’t require the use of spring coils. If you are determined to have a coil mattress, or can’t find a foam mattress at a local store, don’t buy based on the number of coils. Have a strong guy (significant other or friend) come to the store with you and try to compress the center of the coil mattress samples on the floor. The harder it is to compress, the better. The same really goes for foam mattresses as well.Having a peaceful sleep is important to stay rested, alert and relaxed, but getting enough shut-eye can be challenging beyond the walls of your home. Investing in a quality cot, mattress or sleeping pad is one of the best things you can do to get your 40 winks when outdoors. There are plenty of options to choose from and you'll need to make some important decisions to determine the best piece of gear to suit your needs and budget.
Cots can help you keep cool in the summer and warm in the winter by keeping you off the ground. Cots are comfortable but they're also bulky and heavy. Many campers are willing to accept these characteristics, though, for the assurance of a good night's sleep. Most cots are constructed using an aluminum frame with fabric stretching across that becomes taut once assembled. An advantage of cots is they raise you off the ground. Elevation helps with air circulation to keep you cool in hot conditions; it also separates you from its chill in cool weather, which helps combats heat loss. The generous width and length of cots also offers space for moving while sleeping. Another benefit of the cot is that you can store gear underneath you. The bulk and assembly size of cots makes them impractical for minimalist camping, but they're a great choice for a hunt camp, cottage or even as a back-up spare bed for guests at home. Cots are available in a wide price range, and high-end models are on par with similarly sized air mattresses.
Air Mattresses and Sleeping Pads The difference between the terms air mattress and sleeping pad is a grey area. Generally, mattresses represent a larger, cushier inflatable option. They are also called air beds. Sleeping pads are smaller, delivering comfort in a compact size. Sleeping pads come in inflatable and foam models. Here's a quick overview of some important considerations for mattresses and sleeping pads. Size — The length, width and thickness of a mattress or pad are the main factors that influence comfort and insulation. The majority of sleeping pads sold are for one person. Mattresses mimic traditional beds and are available in single to king sizes, so there are plenty of options to suit a range of slumbering scenarios. Air mattresses either need to be aired up using a portable air pump or some come with the pump installed. Sleeping pads come in a range of sizes from small to extra large, letting you pick a model to match your body size and sleeping requirements.
If unconcerned about bulk, invest in a larger model to give yourself room to move during sleep. Some pads are 3/4 length, which helps save on space. Consider this option if you're under gear constraints for weight and bulk (such as canoe camping or hiking). The trade off is some of your body will be exposed to the floor, which isn't a major issue in the heat of summer but it can ruin a night's rest when in cool climates. Thicker mattresses and pads will offer lots of cushioning and be more comfortable than thin ones. Pad thickness also provides insulation. This might not be an issue if you're sleeping indoors, but when outside in cool temperatures, a thicker sleeping pad makes a big difference in insulating you from the cold ground. Closed-Cell Foam vs. Inflatable Models — Another big decision is whether to buy closed-cell foam model or an inflatable model sleeping pad. Both types have pros and cons. Larger air mattresses (or air beds) are great if you have ample space to transport and set up gear.
Some models, like Truck Bedz, are designed to fit inside the bed of a truck. Certain air mattresses need to be inflated with a pump. Models, like the Coleman Double High Quickbed, feature a built-in battery operated pump to inflate the bed. Self-inflating mattresses and sleeping pads are mainly designed for individual use. To self-inflate, simply unravel the mat and it expands. Close the valve and you're ready to snooze. Of course, you pay for this timesaving technology. If tent camping, consider buying a mattress with a gripping material on its side. This keeps the mattress from sliding on the tent floor and shifting from underneath you during sleep. A common combination is using a foam pad in addition to a self inflating one for increased insulation (and cushioning). Bring both models for cool weather camping and secure them together with straps. During warm conditions just leave one at home. When choosing an inflatable model, pay close attention to the quality of the valve.
I can recall awaking from more than one slumber while camping because the air mattress valve came unplugged during the night. Today's models have improved significantly, but be sure to review this feature on a mattress. If you have the option of a better value, buy it. Pumps like the Coleman CPX 6 Quick Pump are handy and are available in AC 120 volts, DC 12 volts, or rechargeable configurations. Given the characteristics of self-inflating mattresses, you'll need to keep them constrained during travel. Store the mattress by rolling them to release air, and then secure the mattress using straps or a stuff sack. The latter protects the mat from dirt and water. Another inexpensive but handy item is a mattress repair kit. Most mattresses feature fairly robust exteriors, but it's not armor. Carrying a repair kit ensures you can fix a tear before it worsens and inflate again in the field. Air pumps are handy to inflate air mattresses. You can purchase powered models for AC 120 volts, DC 12 volts or rechargeable models.