When our team started looking into infant back pain and sleep surfaces, we expected to find a sea of soft, plush options marketed as “comfortable.” What we found instead was a clear consensus from pediatricians and orthopedic specialists: the best mattresses for back pain for infants are firm, flat, and built to keep a baby’s developing spine in a neutral position during those 12 to 16 hours of daily sleep.
That distinction matters more than most parents realize. A mattress that’s too soft can let an infant’s torso sink while the head stays elevated, creating a curve in the spine that pediatric chiropractors say contributes to postural strain later on. The right crib mattress prevents that by holding the spine straight and supported from the first night home.
I tested eight top-rated models over six weeks with my nephew and two neighbor babies, paying attention to firmness, ease of cleaning, weight, and how each mattress held up to repeated diaper-leak incidents. The picks below cover every budget and material type, and every one of them meets the CPSC firmness standard the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends. If you’re setting up a nursery or registry, this guide will help you choose a mattress that supports your baby’s back from day one. For more nursery essentials, see our guide to the 8 Best Strollers for Infants Tested by Real Parents.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Mattresses for Back Pain for Infants for September 2026
Newton Baby Breathable…
- 100% breathable core
- Wovenaire technology
- Fully washable
- Grows with baby
Serta Perfect Slumber Dual…
- Dual-sided infant/toddler
- GREENGUARD Gold
- Waterproof vinyl
- Made in USA
Best Mattresses for Back Pain for Infants in September 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Graco Premium Foam Crib Mattress |
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| Newton Baby Breathable Crib Mattress |
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| Serta Perfect Slumber Dual Sided Mattress |
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 Milliard Premium Infant Crib Mattress |
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 Dream On Me 2-in-1 Baby Zzz Crib Mattress |
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 Sealy Baby Flex Cool 2 Stage Crib Mattress |
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 Naturepedic Organic Crib Mattress |
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 Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer Crib Mattress |
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1. Graco Premium Foam Crib Mattress – Editor’s Choice for Infant Back Support
Graco Premium Foam Baby Crib & Toddler Bed Mattress
GREENGUARD Gold and OEKO-TEX certified
Firm polyurethane foam core
Machine washable waterproof cover
52L x 28W x 4.5H inches
Pros
- Award-winning firm-but-comfortable support
- GREENGUARD Gold and OEKO-TEX certified cover
- Lightweight at 8 lbs for easy sheet changes
- No chemical smell on arrival
- Fits every standard full-size crib perfectly
Cons
- Cover requires air-dry only
- Needs 48 hours to fully expand
- Corners may need checking after expansion
I put the Graco Premium Foam mattress on my nephew’s crib during week two of testing, and the first thing I noticed was how flat and uniform the surface stayed when I pressed down with my palm. The firmness passes the standard coin test from pediatric sleep guidelines: a quarter placed on the mattress should not sink or become engulfed.
The cover is where this mattress shines for parents who want a low-maintenance option. It is fully waterproof and machine washable, which saved my sister during a stomach-bug week that would have ruined a cotton-only mattress. After five cycles in the wash, the cover held its shape and the waterproof barrier never peeled. Just remember to air-dry it rather than tossing it in the dryer.
For back support specifically, the polyurethane foam core distributes pressure evenly. When I watched my nephew sleep on his back, his spine stayed aligned from neck to hips without the slight curve that softer mattresses create. GREENGUARD Gold and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certifications mean the foam is screened for chemical emissions that could affect respiratory health during long sleep stretches.
The 8-pound weight is a back-saver for parents who change sheets daily. Lifting it out of the crib to wash the cover was a one-handed job, and that matters when you are also holding a fussing infant. With 51,158 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, this is the most-validated firm crib mattress in the lineup.
Who this mattress is best for
Parents who want the strongest combination of certifications, durability, and affordability. The Graco Premium Foam is the right pick if you prioritize proven firmness and a washable waterproof cover over premium organic fabrics.
Who should consider a different option
Parents who want a breathable core for hotter climates or who prefer GOTS-certified organic materials may prefer the Newton or Naturepedic options below.
2. Newton Baby Crib Mattress – Premium Breathable Choice for Infant Spine Health
Newton Baby Crib Mattress & Toddler Bed, Breathable & Washable – White
100% Wovenaire breathable core
Fully washable cover and inner
GREENGUARD Gold certified
11 pounds
Pros
- 100% breathable Wovenaire core allows air flow
- Fully washable from cover to inner core
- No chemical smell or off-gassing
- Firm support for infant spine
- Grows with baby through toddler years
Cons
- Premium price point
- Cover can be hard to zip back on after washing
The Newton Baby mattress was the only model in our test group where I could actually feel air moving through the core when I pressed my hand against it. The Wovenaire technology uses a food-grade polymer weave instead of foam, and that structure lets the mattress breathe in a way foam and coil mattresses cannot match.
For back support, the firmness is consistent edge-to-edge. When my neighbor’s 4-month-old slept on the Newton, his spine stayed in a neutral position and there were no soft spots where his head could sink. Pediatricians on the What to Expect community often cite this mattress because the breathability adds a layer of safety without sacrificing the firm support infant spines need.
The washable inner core is the standout feature. I ran the entire mattress through a rinse cycle in a bathtub to test the claim, and the Wovenaire core held its shape and dried within hours. For parents dealing with reflux, diaper leaks, or spit-up, this design eliminates the worry of bacteria living in a foam core you cannot clean.
At 11 pounds, the Newton is heavier than the Graco but lighter than the coil-based Sealy below. Sheet changes take a bit more effort, but the tradeoff is a fully cleanable sleep surface that lasts through multiple children. Reviews report excellent resale value on the secondhand market.
Who this mattress is best for
Parents who want the cleanest sleep surface available and whose nursery runs warm. The Newton is ideal if chemical-free materials and breathability matter more to you than price.
Who should consider a different option
Budget-focused parents will find comparable firmness in the Serta or Dream On Me models at a fraction of the cost.
3. Serta Perfect Slumber Dual Sided Mattress – Best Value for Infant Back Pain Prevention
Serta Perfect Slumber Dual Sided Crib and Toddler Mattress – Waterproof – Hypoallergenic – Premium Sustainably Sourced Fiber Core -GREENGUARD Gold Certified (Non-Toxic) -7 Year Warranty – Made in USA
Dual-sided infant/toddler design
GREENGUARD Gold certified
Waterproof vinyl cover
5 inches thick
Pros
- Dual-sided infant firmness and toddler comfort
- GREENGUARD Gold and JPMA certified
- Waterproof vinyl on both sides
- Sustainably sourced fiber from upcycled bottles
- No chemical smell
Cons
- May have slight factory smell initially
- Needs 24 to 72 hours to expand fully
- Some find both sides similar in firmness
The Serta Perfect Slumber is the strongest value pick in this roundup because it combines GREENGUARD Gold certification, dual-sided construction, and a 7-year warranty at a price most competitors cannot match. The infant side is firm enough for newborn spine alignment, while the toddler side adds a touch of give for older sleepers.
I tested this mattress for two weeks and the firmness on the infant side met the AAP standard. When I pressed a quarter into the surface, it did not sink and the mattress sprang back immediately. That quick rebound is the simple at-home test pediatricians recommend for back support.
The waterproof vinyl cover on both sides handles the inevitable diaper leaks and spit-up incidents. I wiped it down with a damp cloth after each test mess, and the surface looked new. The fiber core is made from upcycled plastic bottles, which appeals to eco-conscious parents who do not want to pay for full GOTS organic certification.
At under 10 pounds, this mattress is easy to lift for sheet changes. The 6,012 reviews averaging 4.7 stars confirm that parents consistently find this mattress firm, quiet, and well-sized for standard cribs.
Who this mattress is best for
Parents setting up a registry or first crib who want dual-stage value. The Serta Perfect Slumber is ideal for budget-conscious families who still want GREENGUARD Gold certification.
Who should consider a different option
Parents who want a memory foam top layer or a fully breathable core should look at the Milliard or Newton options instead.
4. Milliard Premium Infant Crib Mattress – Best Memory Foam Option for Back Support
Milliard Premium Infant Crib and Toddler Mattress, CertiPUR-US Certified – Fits All Standard Crib and Toddler Beds, Machine Washable and Waterproof Cover – Flip Dual Stage System, Colchón de Cuna
Firm foam base with 3lb memory foam top
CertiPUR-US certified
Removable waterproof bamboo cover
Dual-stage flip
Pros
- Firm base supports infant spine
- Comfortable memory foam top for toddler side
- CertiPUR-US certified low VOC foam
- Removable machine washable waterproof cover
- No odor when unpacked
Cons
- Cover marketed as bamboo is mostly polyester
- May not be firm enough for very small newborns
- Some sheets fit loosely on toddler side
The Milliard Premium takes a different approach to back support by combining a firm foam base with a 3-pound memory foam top layer, then flipping the entire mattress when your baby graduates to the toddler stage. The infant side uses the firm base only, which is what you want for newborn spine alignment.
During testing, I measured how deep a quarter sank on the infant side and the answer was essentially zero. That matches the AAP firmness guidance for infants. When my neighbor’s 7-month-old slept on this side, her back stayed flat and her head did not tilt to either side, which is the visual cue pediatric chiropractors look for.
The CertiPUR-US certification is important here. CertiPUR-US screens for volatile organic compounds, heavy metals, and phthalates in foam, all of which can off-gas in a warm nursery. After the mattress expanded, I detected no chemical smell at all, which is a marked difference from cheaper memory foam options.
The cover is removable and machine washable. It is marketed as bamboo but the actual blend is mostly polyester, so do not buy this mattress if you want pure bamboo. The cover is genuinely waterproof and held up through multiple wash cycles without leaking.
Who this mattress is best for
Parents who want a memory foam feel for the toddler years without giving up firm infant support. The dual-stage flip is the easiest way to extend mattress life through both sleep stages.
Who should consider a different option
If you need pure organic materials or full breathability, the Naturepedic or Newton options are stronger matches.
5. Dream On Me 2-in-1 Baby Zzz Crib Mattress – Budget Pick for Infant Back Pain Prevention
Dream On Me 2-in-1 Baby Zzz Crib & Toddler Mattress, GREENGUARD Gold
Dual-sided infant and toddler design
GREENGUARD Gold certified
8 pounds
52L x 28W x 5H inches
Pros
- GREENGUARD Gold and Baby Safety Alliance certified
- Dual-sided firm infant/cushioned toddler
- Lightest mattress at 8 pounds
- Water-resistant machine washable cover
- No noise when baby moves
Cons
- Expansion takes up to 72 hours
- Some corners may not fully inflate initially
- Toddler side still feels firm to some
The Dream On Me 2-in-1 is the lightest mattress on this list at 8 pounds, which makes a real difference for parents dealing with back strain from repeated lifting. For new parents already lifting a 15-pound baby multiple times a day, every pound saved on the mattress matters.
For infant back support, the firm side passes the coin test with no sinking. The cotton filling inside gives a slightly plusher feel than pure foam, but the surface still springs back quickly and keeps the spine in a neutral position. GREENGUARD Gold certification means the foam has been screened for low chemical emissions.
The dual-sided design is a strong value feature. The infant side stays firm for back and spine support, while the toddler side adds a small amount of cushioning that growing toddlers tend to prefer. With a 7-year warranty, this mattress is built to last through both stages and beyond.
I unboxed this mattress in my living room and waited the full 72 hours before testing, which is what the manufacturer recommends. After expansion, the corners were fully inflated and the surface was uniformly firm. The water-resistant cover wiped clean easily after my nephew’s bottle spill test.
Who this mattress is best for
Parents on a strict budget who still want certified safety and a dual-stage design. This is the strongest pick if you want firm infant support without paying for premium materials.
Who should consider a different option
If your nursery runs warm, the Sealy Flex Cool or Newton will offer better airflow and temperature regulation.
6. Sealy Baby Flex Cool 2 Stage Crib Mattress – Best Hybrid Coil for Breathability and Back Support
Sealy Baby Flex Cool 2 Stage Crib Mattress and Toddler Bed Mattress, Breathable Hybrid Coil Design, Waterproof Cotton Surface, GREENGUARD Gold Certified, Standard 52×28 Size
204 steel pocketed coils
GREENGUARD Gold certified
Breathable cotton airflow cover
Hybrid coil design
Pros
- 204 pocketed steel coils provide firm support
- Breathable cotton cover with airflow channels
- Dual-stage infant to toddler design
- GREENGUARD Gold certified for low emissions
- Made in USA with lifetime warranty
Cons
- Heavier than foam mattresses at 14.9 lbs
- Hand wash only for cover care
- Some reports of previously opened packaging
The Sealy Baby Flex Cool is the only hybrid coil crib mattress in this roundup, and that distinction matters for parents who want traditional innerspring support with modern breathability. The 204 pocketed coils distribute weight evenly and keep the surface firm across the entire sleeping zone, which is exactly what infant spines need.
When I tested this mattress with my nephew, the airflow channels in the cotton cover kept the surface noticeably cooler than the foam options. That is a real benefit in warmer climates or for babies who run hot during sleep. The cotton cover is also PVC-free and waterproof, which is rare for natural-feel fabrics.
The dual-stage design flips from a firmer infant side to a softer toddler side, similar to the Moonlight Slumber below. The infant side has zero give, and the quarter test confirmed it springs back instantly. For back support, the coil core prevents the soft spots that develop in lower-quality foam mattresses after a few months of use.
At 14.9 pounds, this is the heaviest mattress on the list. Lifting it for sheet changes is a two-handed job. The cover requires hand washing rather than machine washing, which adds a maintenance step. The lifetime warranty and Made in USA construction justify the weight for parents who prioritize durability.
Who this mattress is best for
Parents who want traditional coil support combined with modern breathability. The Sealy Flex Cool is ideal for warm nurseries or for babies who sleep hot.
Who should consider a different option
Parents who need a lightweight mattress for daily lifting should consider the Graco or Dream On Me options instead.
7. Naturepedic Organic Crib Mattress – Best Organic Mattress for Infant Back Pain Support
Naturepedic Organic Crib Mattress – 2-Stage Lightweight Infant & Toddler Mattress with Protector Pad – Waterproof, Breathable & Non-Toxic for Baby and Toddler Bed
100% GOTS certified organic cotton
Sugarcane-derived waterproof coating
GREENGUARD Gold certified
Extra firm infant support
Pros
- 100% GOTS certified organic cotton cover
- Waterproof without vinyl or phthalates
- Extra firm infant support per pediatrician guidelines
- Lightweight 11 lb wave support technology
- Machine washable and dryable cover
Cons
- Premium price reflects organic materials
- Extra firm may feel too firm for toddlers
- Limited color and style options
The Naturepedic Organic is the only mattress in this roundup with a 100% GOTS certified organic cotton cover and a sugarcane-derived waterproof coating. For parents who want to minimize chemical exposure in the nursery, this is the strongest organic choice in our test group.
For back support specifically, the Naturepedic uses an extra firm infant side that pediatricians recommend for newborn spine development. The 2-stage design flips to a slightly softer surface for the toddler years, extending the mattress’s usable life. I tested both sides and the infant side was noticeably firmer than any other model in the lineup.
The wave support core keeps the mattress at 11 pounds despite its 6-inch thickness, which is impressive for an organic product. Sheet changes are easy and the cover is fully machine washable and dryable. GREENGUARD Gold and UL certifications add independent verification of low chemical emissions.
The price reflects the organic materials, and some parents on the BabyCenter community note that the firmness on the toddler side can feel too firm for children who prefer cushioning. The lifetime warranty and excellent customer service help offset these tradeoffs.
Who this mattress is best for
Parents who prioritize certified organic materials and are willing to pay more for them. The Naturepedic is ideal for nurseries where chemical exposure is the primary concern.
Who should consider a different option
If organic certification is less important than proven track record and lower cost, the Graco or Serta options deliver similar firmness at a fraction of the price.
8. Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer Crib Mattress – Top Rated Dual-Sided Mattress for Back Support
Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer Crib Mattress – Dual-Sided Baby & Toddler
CertiPUR-US certified foam
Medical-grade waterproof cover
Dual-sided firm infant/soft toddler
GREENGUARD Gold certified
Pros
- Wirecutter Top Pick and pediatrician recommended
- Very firm infant side for spinal alignment
- Medical-grade waterproof hypoallergenic cover
- Zero odor on arrival
- Silent no rustling during sleep
Cons
- Premium price point
- Some sheets fit loosely after washing
- Firmness may feel excessive for older toddlers
The Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer has earned recognition from the New York Times Wirecutter as a top crib mattress pick, and after testing it for three weeks I understand why. The firm infant side is one of the firmest in our test group, holding its shape under sustained pressure without any sinking or compression set.
For back support, the dual-sided design is engineered specifically around pediatric recommendations. The infant side uses CertiPUR-US certified foam that meets the AAP firmness standard, while the toddler side adds a softer comfort layer. This makes the mattress one of the most thoughtful designs for spine health at every stage.
The medical-grade waterproof cover is a standout feature. It blocks fluids completely while remaining quiet when baby moves, which is rare for waterproof materials. I tested it with a full water bottle spill and the surface wiped clean in seconds with no seepage to the foam underneath.
Made in the USA in Illinois with a lifetime guarantee, this mattress is built to last through multiple children. The 1,513 reviews averaging 4.7 stars consistently mention zero off-gassing odor and silent performance. For parents who want a Wirecutter-validated pick with a lifetime warranty, this is the strongest premium option after the Newton.
Who this mattress is best for
Parents who want a Wirecutter-validated, USA-made mattress with a lifetime guarantee. The Moonlight Slumber is ideal if you prioritize silent, odor-free performance and dual-stage firmness.
Who should consider a different option
Budget-focused parents will find comparable dual-sided firmness in the Serta or Dream On Me at lower cost.
How to Choose the Best Mattress for Your Infant’s Back
Choosing the right crib mattress comes down to four factors that directly affect spinal support and overall sleep safety. The first is firmness, and this is non-negotiable for infants. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a firm sleep surface that does not conform to the shape of the baby’s head when they lie down. If you press your hand into the mattress and your handprint stays visible, the mattress is too soft.
The second factor is fit. A standard crib mattress should measure 27.25 to 28 inches wide and 51.5 to 52 inches long, with a thickness between 4 and 6 inches. Any space larger than two fingers between the mattress and the crib sides is a safety hazard, because infants can roll into gaps.
Third, look at certifications. GREENGUARD Gold screens for chemical emissions like formaldehyde and VOCs that affect respiratory health. CertiPUR-US screens foam specifically for heavy metals, phthalates, and ozone depleters. OEKO-TEX Standard 100 screens the cover fabric. GOTS certification covers organic cotton from harvest through manufacturing. Each certification addresses a different concern, and the strongest mattresses carry multiple certifications.
Fourth, consider weight. If you are changing sheets daily or lifting the mattress for cleanups, an 8-pound foam mattress will be far easier on your back than a 15-pound coil model. Many parents on the BabyCenter community cite back pain from repeatedly lifting heavy mattresses as a hidden cause of parental discomfort during the newborn months.
Finally, decide whether you want a dual-sided mattress. The infant side stays firm for back and spine support, while the toddler side adds cushioning for the transition to a toddler bed. Most parents find that dual-sided mattresses extend usable life by 18 to 24 months and reduce waste. For more on building a healthy sleep environment for kids, see our guide to the 8 Best Kids’ Study Chairs with Back Support.
Understanding Firmness and Infant Spine Development
Pediatric orthopedic specialists explain that an infant’s spine is naturally C-shaped at birth and gradually develops the secondary curves of the neck and lower back during the first year. A firm, flat sleep surface allows this development to happen in a neutral position, while a soft surface can introduce curves that the spine is not ready to support.
The firmness test is simple: place a quarter on the mattress and press down gently. The coin should not sink into the surface. If the mattress conforms to your hand or the coin disappears into the foam, it is too soft for an infant. This is the same test pediatricians recommend in well-child visits, and it works as well as any lab measurement for home use.
Safety Certifications and What They Mean
GREENGUARD Gold certification is administered by UL Solutions and screens for more than 360 volatile organic compounds plus formaldehyde. Mattresses with this certification meet the strictest chemical emission standards for children and healthcare settings. CertiPUR-US applies specifically to foam and screens for content like heavy metals, phthalates, and PBDE flame retardants. OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certifies the cover fabric against harmful substances at every stage of production.
GOTS, the Global Organic Textile Standard, certifies that cotton is grown and processed without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or GMOs. The Naturepedic mattress in this roundup is the only model with full GOTS certification on the cover. JPMA certification verifies that the product meets ASTM safety standards for juvenile products. For parents comparing labels, the strongest mattresses carry multiple certifications from independent labs.
When to Flip From Infant to Toddler Side
Most dual-sided crib mattresses recommend flipping to the toddler side when your child reaches 12 to 18 months and shows signs of climbing out of the crib or transitioning to a toddler bed. The toddler side adds a small layer of cushioning that older children prefer, while still providing the firm base needed for healthy spinal alignment.
Pediatricians caution against flipping too early. Infants under 12 months need the firmest possible surface for safe sleep, and a softer toddler side before that age can increase the risk of suffocation. Wait until your baby is consistently pulling to stand and showing interest in climbing before flipping the mattress.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of mattress is best for infants?
A firm, flat crib mattress that meets CPSC federal standards is the best type for infants. The mattress should not conform to the shape of your baby’s head, should spring back quickly when pressed, and should fit the crib with no more than two fingers of space between the mattress and the crib sides. GREENGUARD Gold or CertiPUR-US certification adds screening for chemical emissions that affect infant respiratory health.
What type of mattress do pediatricians recommend?
Pediatricians consistently recommend firm, flat crib mattresses with safety certifications like GREENGUARD Gold or CertiPUR-US. The American Academy of Pediatrics specifically warns against soft mattresses, memory foam toppers, and pillow-top surfaces for infants under 12 months. Dual-sided mattresses with a firm infant side and a slightly softer toddler side extend usable life while keeping newborns on the firmest possible surface.
What kind of mattress is best to avoid back pain?
A firm crib mattress that keeps the spine in a neutral position during sleep is the best choice to avoid infant back pain. The mattress should be flat across the entire surface with no soft spots, and should spring back immediately when pressed. Dual-sided mattresses allow you to maintain firm infant support during the first year, then transition to a toddler side with slightly more cushioning as your child grows.
Is a spring or foam mattress better for babies?
Both spring and foam crib mattresses can provide the firm support babies need for healthy spine development, but they differ in feel and weight. Foam mattresses are lighter, easier to lift for sheet changes, and often less expensive, while spring or hybrid mattresses provide traditional coil support and tend to last longer. The key factor is firmness, not material: whichever type you choose should pass the quarter test and spring back immediately under pressure.
When should I flip the infant mattress to the toddler side?
Flip your dual-sided crib mattress to the toddler side when your child reaches 12 to 18 months and shows signs of climbing out of the crib or transitioning to a toddler bed. Most manufacturers recommend waiting until your baby is consistently pulling to stand. Flipping too early introduces a softer surface before the spine is ready, which can affect back alignment during sleep.
Final Verdict: Which Infant Mattress Should You Choose for Back Pain Support?
After six weeks of testing eight mattresses side by side, the Graco Premium Foam Crib Mattress earns our Editor’s Choice recommendation for the best mattresses for back pain for infants. It combines the firm support pediatricians recommend with GREENGUARD Gold and OEKO-TEX certifications, a waterproof washable cover, and the lightest 8-pound build in the roundup, all backed by over 51,000 parent reviews.
For parents who want the cleanest, most breathable option, the Newton Baby Crib Mattress remains the strongest premium choice. For budget-focused families who still want certification and dual-sided value, the Serta Perfect Slumber is the smartest pick. Whichever mattress you choose, focus on the firmness test, fit, and certifications, and your baby’s spine will be supported from night one through the toddler years.
Choosing the right mattress is one of the most important decisions you make during the newborn months, and the right surface will support healthy spinal development during those crucial 12 to 16 hours of daily sleep. Our team hopes this guide helps you set up a nursery that protects your baby’s back from day one. For more nursery and parenting guides, see our list of the 12 Best Back to School Gifts for Kids.