How Long Does Crib Mattress Last

For us grownups, nothing is more important than our own bed. We put in extensive time analyzing softness, firmness, temperature regulation, and longevity. Of course, we’re also looking for the best possible value.

The care we take in selecting a mattress for our child, especially one for a crib, should be doubled. Remember that the safety of your infant or toddler is of paramount importance, alongside his or her comfort.

Questions about durability, reusability (should you choose to have more children), and the acceptability of hand-me-downs are all normal while shopping for a crib for your newborn.

All of these questions and more will be answered as we explore the lifespan of crib mattresses.

Baby Beds Lifespan Factors

Type

Your baby’s mattress, whether it’s made of memory foam or an innerspring, will play a major role in how long it lasts. Low-density memory foam is especially prone to wear and tear over time. Lower density foam quickly loses its shape and support, resulting in indentations. Infants are particularly vulnerable to the suffocating risk posed by indentation.

Whether you’re shopping for an adult bed or a crib, it’s important to pay close attention to the coils in any innerspring design. Every once in a while, they manage to break the surface. You should throw it away when this happens.

Are you curious? See the best baby mattress options here.

Durability

The material of the mattress cover is another factor to think about when selecting a crib mattress. The quality of the material and the workmanship greatly affect the bed’s longevity. A thin cover, especially one made of vinyl, can eventually become damaged. Try to choose a sturdy ticker made out of a material like nylon.

Waterproof Capacity

We can’t prevent every single accident. A lot. Any bodily fluids that make it to the mattress itself, such as urine, a blowout, blood, vomit spit up, or drool, would significantly reduce its longevity. When water penetrates a surface, it can foster the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria. Furthermore, stains will render your warranty null and void.

A mattress that is protected from moisture will last far longer than one that is not. If yours isn’t waterproof, you should invest in a protector or a separate pad to act as a barrier.

Stain Resistance

Having something that is stain-resistant is ideal because spills and smudges might cause your warranty to be voided. Some are pre-treated to fight stains. If yours isn’t, you’ll need to be extra diligent in using a cover that’s waterproof, and you may have to clean the mattress more frequently.

Care and Maintenance

We’ve already established that a stain can render your guarantee null and invalid, so it makes sense to protect your investment with a finish that can prevent discolouration. Certain ones have already been treated to resist spills. If yours isn’t, you’ll need to take extra care to protect it with a waterproof cover and clean the mattress more often.

1. As soon as an accident occurs, clean it up. Make sure they don’t sit and get wet on the bed.
2. Invest in a protective cover to prevent any liquids from spills or accidents for seeping through.
3. Invest in a protective cover to prevent any liquids from spills or mishaps for seeping through.

Invest in a waterproof cover to forestall leaks caused by accidental spills or other mishaps.

Storage

If you want to use it for a second child or you’re thinking of giving it away for someone else to use, proper storage is important. Keep the bed away from moist environments. Also avoid direct heat and sunlight, as they will degrade the structural integrity of the material. Ideally, store it in either a plastic wrap or its original box in a dry, temperature regulated environment.

Is it Still Safe to Use?

Firmness

If you want to use it for a second child or you’re thinking of giving it away for someone else to use, proper storage is important. Keep the bed away from moist environments. Also avoid direct heat and sunlight, as they will degrade the structural integrity of the material. Ideally, store it in either a plastic wrap or its original box in a dry, temperature regulated environment.

Keeping it in good condition is essential if you plan on using it for another child or intend to pass it on to someone else. Keep the bed away from moist environments. Also avoid direct heat and sunlight, as they will degrade the structural integrity of the material. Ideally, store it in either a plastic wrap or its original box in a dry, temperature regulated environment.

Indentation

Proper storage is essential if you intend to use it for a second kid or plan to give it to someone else. Don’t let the mattress become wet. Stay away from extreme temperatures and direct sunshine, as exposure to these might weaken the material. Keep it sealed in plastic or in the box it came in, away from light and moisture, and at the recommended temperature.

Loose Threads

Make sure there are no stragglers. Choking hazards exist if infant tries to chew on them or puts them in their mouth. They’ll keep unraveling, exposing filler or other components that could induce choking if swallowed. A mattress with loose threads is likely worn out and should be replaced.

Harmful Pathogens

There is a greater chance that hazardous microorganisms are hiding in a bed that is older or hasn’t been maintained properly. Pathogens like bacteria, mildew, mold, and fungi are among them. Babies and toddlers are more likely to develop respiratory issues like allergies and asthma if they are present. Because of the trouble breathing, the risk of sudden infant death syndrome may also increase.

General Guidelines to Store a Crib Mattress

A crib mattress should be cleaned and dried completely before being put away. Don’t crumple or fold the mattress if you value its quality and appearance. The key to preserving your mattress’s quality and life span is to store it correctly. Below, we’ll go over everything you need to know about putting away a crib mattress safely.

Our post on whether or not a crib mattress is necessary and how often it should be changed may also be of interest to you.

Step 1. Clean The Crib Mattress Well

The first and most important step to store a crib mattress is to clean it thoroughly. It’s important to keep in mind that mattresses aren’t designed to withstand being washed and dried, as this will severely degrade their quality. What you can do instead is to take off the fabric mattress cover and clean the mattress with a disinfectant wipe.

A clean crib mattress is the first and most vital step when putting it away for storage. Please keep in mind that mattresses are not designed to be washed and dried since doing so will severely degrade their quality. Instead of using soap and water to clean your mattress, you can remove the mattress cover and use a disinfectant wipe.

Step 2. Air Out The Crib Mattress

Keep your mattress in a room with a fan, or in a well-ventilated outside area. The goal is to maximize airflow throughout the mattress. This will help you make sure that the mattress is completely dry. The airing process will remove any moisture from the foam, if any liquid has soaked through.

Store your bed in a room with a fan, or preferably in the open air. This is done so that as much air as possible can flow through the mattress. That way, you can be sure the mattress is totally dry. Airing the foam will remove any moisture that may have seeped in during manufacture.

We recommend that you use a vacuum cleaner to clean and dry the mattress in addition to letting it air out.

Step 3. Use a Mattress Cover to Store a Crib Mattress Long Term

After a thorough cleaning and drying, the mattress is ready to be covered. There are a number of ways you may protect your baby’s mattress while they sleep, and each comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Crib mattresses can be protected from dust and debris for less money with a plastic mattress cover, but that cover also prevents air from circulating, which is crucial for the mattress’s health. But plastic covers do a great job of keeping the mattress safe from dust, moisture, and other environmental hazards.

One trick is to puncture the mattress cover with tiny holes to allow air to circulate. You can prevent dust from getting into the cover by poking holes in it with a fine needle.

The alternative is to use fabric to encase your mattress. You don’t have to worry about the air being stifled by fabric, but you do need to be mindful of environmental factors like humidity. You can’t rely on the fabric cover to keep the mattress dry if, say, someone spills water on the floor near where you’ve set it up.

Mattress storage boxes are the third and finest alternative. This option may be more expensive, but it’s worth it because it will keep your mattress in pristine condition for the long haul.

Step 4. Find The Right Storage Space to Store The Crib Mattress

Identifying a suitable location in which to stow the mattress is the next order of business. The best place to store a mattress is in a flat, vertical position, where it can be easily rolled up. If you fold and crumple up your mattress, you risk ruining its form and durability. It shouldn’t be hard to find a flat storage space for your baby’s crib mattress given its compact size. The best places to keep a mattress are in a storage room or garage, but if you don’t have either of those and your home is already cramped, you can always tuck it away under your bed.

Step 5. Clean The Storage Space

Now that you have a suitable place to store your things, you should clean it. A mop and some disinfectant or a vacuum cleaner will enough to clean the area. It is crucial that the area be spotless and completely devoid of moisture. It’s important to keep the mattress storage area dry and free of any fungal or mold growth.

Step 6. Store The Crib Mattress

Lay the mattress flat on the floor after you’ve finished cleaning the room. Check that the top of the bed is not being compressed in any way. This means that you shouldn’t put anything else on top of the mattress. Mattresses that have had extra weight placed on top of them for long periods of time have experienced a change in shape.

Benefits of Using Plastic Mattress Covers to Store a Crib Mattress

Putting a baby mattress in a plastic storage cover has several advantages. A plastic protector shields the mattress from dust, bugs, and liquids. The plastic mattress cover will prevent any spills from damaging the mattress even if something is dropped on it.

Plastic mattress covers are not only hygienic, but also prevent the mattress from being damaged by moisture. In addition to these advantages, plastic mattress coverings are also a cost-effective option.

Yet, there are a few problems. The primary issue with plastic mattress protectors is that they prevent air circulation. Plastic covers are bad for mattresses because they prevent the mattress from breathing. Especially if there is moisture trapped inside the mattress. In addition to obstructing airflow, a poorly made plastic mattress cover may rip, rendering the cover ineffective.

Benefits of Using Storage Boxes to Store a Crib Mattress

Boxes for storing crib mattresses are preferable than plastic mattress covers because they enable air to circulate and prevent moisture from building up. But these cardboard containers can’t match to the protection offered by a plastic mattress cover when it comes to the elements.

A mattress can be saved from getting wet if a liquid is spilled on a storage box, but the box will be destroyed by the water. Because the mattress will be lying flat inside the box, it won’t be damaged if the box is set down on a surface that isn’t perfectly level.

A mattress box is preferable to a plastic mattress cover if you need to keep the mattress on its side because of a lack of room for a flat mattress storage arrangement. Because the mattress won’t be able to sag thanks to the box.

Can a Crib Mattress be Stored Uncovered?

A crib mattress can be stored without protection, but you should know that it will be at danger of being damaged. Any of the following can happen to a crib mattress if you keep it in an unprotected environment:

• being swarmed by a bed bug infestation.
• Messing around
• sensitivity to fluctuations in the warehouse’s humidity
• Spillage (This can raise the risk of bacteria and mold) (This can increase the risk of bacteria and mold)
• Degradation from Use and Abuse

If you don’t have a mattress cover and need to store a mattress, give some thought to the cleanliness and humidity levels of the storage facility. Before ordering a good mattress cover, you can also try protecting the mattress by wrapping it in a bed sheet.

How Long Can a Crib Mattress be Stored?

A crib mattress can be kept for use for three to five years. The answer to this question is dependent on the length of time it was in use before being put into storage. A fresh bed can be kept for up to 5 years. Whether or not a mattress is wet and mold proof also affects how long you may safely store it.

If you’ve been holding off on using your mattress because you’re worried it could be too old, consider these factors.

An old mattress means:

• The manufacturer-specified expiration date has been reached. (If you can’t find the use-by date, you may always contact the manufacturer or check for other indicators.)
• There’s sagging all over it.
• Some bumps have appeared on it.
• This ground is not level.
• Smells like mold or something comparable
• Your infant seems to have trouble sleeping on it. (This could be an indicator of other conditions, but it also suggests a problem with the mattress.)

How Long Can a Crib Mattress Be Stored on Its Side?

A crib mattress can be temporarily stacked on its side for storage.

The type of mattress and length of time it will be stored in a crib will determine how long it can be placed on its side. If your mattress is spring-based, laying it on its side for an extended period of time will permanently distort the springs’ original orientation. Even if your mattress is merely made of foam, it should be stored on its level surface to prevent damage.

But even a foam mattress can droop and shatter if stored on its side for an extended period of time. However, here’s what you can do if you don’t have enough room to lay the mattress flat and must instead store it on its side:

• You should always make sure to switch sides of the bed every so often. As a result, the mattress will last longer.
• Check that the mattress is not sagging when you stand on the side of it.
• The mattress can be propped up on its side with the help of a support on either side. With this, the mattress won’t sag under your weight, and it’ll stay in good condition.
• Avoid using a plastic sheet over the mattress and instead make use of a dedicated mattress storage box.

Tips For Storing a Crib Mattress in a Garage

The garage serves as a storage and work space for most homeowners. The reason for this is because nobody likes having extra clutter in their homes. Garages are the most forgotten part of the home despite the fact that they are perfect for stowing away household items. Garages are often neglected, which poses a difficulty when keeping items like beds.

Therefore, if you want to store a crib mattress in a garage, you should think about the following:

• The garage needs enough ventilation.
• Maintain a clean garage at all times.
• Ensure the garage remains pest-free by implementing the necessary procedures.
• Avoid keeping any beverages within reach of your bedding.
• Put the mattress somewhere that you won’t be tempted to stack things on top of it.
• Be on the lookout for signs of wear and tear on the mattress cover, and get that fixed right away.
• If you plan on using the mattress again, give it a thorough cleaning first.

Tips to Make a Cot Bed Last Longer

Proactive upkeep and maintenance are your greatest allies when it comes to getting the most use out of your crib (second only to nap time).

To ensure that your bed serves you well for as long as possible, consider the following advice:

• Maintain cleanliness by washing the cover on a regular basis and immediately following any spills with a mild detergent (if removable)
• Disinfect with antibacterial spray; use it on PVC coverings.
• Each month, you should vacuum your mattress.
• When you see a stain, wipe it with a soapy sponge.
• It needs to be turned or flipped frequently so that wear is spread evenly.
• Always let it air dry before using it for anything, especially a newborn.

Frequently Asked Questions

Would you recommend buying a used mattress?

As a rule, you shouldn’t do it. It’s highly unlikely that you’ll find a secondhand bed that is completely stain-free, and if you do, you should definitely not use the mattress on your kid. There may be hidden damage or stains that you can’t see on the surface. Because you are not the bed’s first owner, you will never know the exciting journeys it took before coming to you.

Should you buy a new mattress for your second baby?

The length of time and degree of attention you gave it with your first child will determine the outcome. Providing it was well-maintained and the baby was moved to a new bed within the first three to five years, the crib should still have some useful life left in it.

However, if your first child had frequent accidents that weren’t cleaned right away, and if they spent a lot of time leaping and bouncing on the surface, it might be time for an upgrade.

Conclusion

The longevity of a baby mattress is, as you can see, affected by many different variables. Fortunately, as a parent, you have a great deal of influence over many of these factors. Although some claim a longer lifespan, most are constructed to function reliably for at least five years. Consider the five-year guideline; lower the price if the bed saw heavy use, and raise it if you’ve been proactive about maintaining it.