Crib Mattress
Crib mattresses come in all foam, innerspring and double-sided (foam on one side, innerspring on the other). For newborns, firm support is key, which makes sturdy foam with little "give" a solid choice. An all-foam mattress is lightweight -- less than 10 lbs compared to more than 20 lbs for an innerspring mattress -- which makes for easier sheet changes. (For safety reasons, a crib mattress fits snugly into the crib and can be difficult to maneuver.) If you plan to convert your crib to a toddler bed, consider a double-sided mattress. Crib mattresses made of natural or organic materials are available for a premium.
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$180
The original two-sided mattress from Colgate will last through the toddler years, though maybe with some sagging on the spring-side. The Deluxe version is worth the higher price tag if you plan to use through more than one toddler. The practical trade off compared to a foam mattress is the weight: 25 lbs v. 7 lbs for the all-foam Colgate Classica.
$100
The Classica is a no-frills foam mattress that receives consistently high ratings. Excellent quality and support for a newborn and lightweight (7 lbs) for easy sheet changes. Best in class for around $100.
$220
The Vicso Classica is a unique two-sided all-foam mattress with a softer toddler side. If you plan to convert your crib to a toddler bed and prefer an all-foam option, this is your mattress. At 7 lbs, it's much lighter than the two-in-one innerspring mattresses at 20+ lbs.
$250
In this set, Stokke has packaged two firm oval foam mattresses (for crib and bassinet) to accompany its Sleepi "System I." Some merchants prefer to package the mattresses with the Sleepi System, so check the contents of the set before purchasing the mattresses.
$340
This two-sided mattress is built to last through multiple toddlers, with Colgate's best materials and features in one mattress. The practical trade off compared to a foam mattress is the weight: 25 lbs v. 7 lbs for all foam.
$540
This latex mattress, without any metals, is a simple "natural" choice.
$400
This organic mattress features a waterproof cover, no wool or latex, and innerspring coils -- all at a reasonable price point for an organic innerspring mattress.