Between sweat, dead skin cells, dust mites, and more adult mattresses can get gross enough. With spit up, diaper leaks, and more, crib mattresses can get even grosser. A crib mattress pad is essential to protect your baby’s crib mattress from these types of things.
We reviewed dozens of crib mattress pads to identify the best of the best. We looked at mattress pads with different degrees of coverage, made from different materials, of different sizes and thickness, and with different features like waterproofing and temperature regulation. We also looked at reviews from real customers to help us inform our decisions.
Our top pick and the crib mattress pad that stood out as a clear winner is the Yoofoss Waterproof Fitted Crib Mattress Pad. This durable, waterproof crib mattress pad is soft and breathable without being too thick. It also has deep pockets to ensure a secure fit on pretty much any standard size crib mattress.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Crib Mattress Pads
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Crib Mattress Pad Overall | Yoofoss Waterproof Fitted Crib Mattress Pad | 4.8 |
| Best Noiseless Crib Mattress Pad | Margaux & May Crib Mattress Protector Pad | 4.8 |
| Best Budget Crib Mattress Pad | Carters Waterproof Fitted Quilted Crib Mattress Pad | 4.7 |
| Best Bamboo Crib Mattress Pad | iLuvBamboo Crib Mattress Pad Protector | 4.8 |
| Best Mattress Pad for Mini Cribs and Playards | Little One's Pad Pack N Play Crib Mattress Cover | 4.7 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Crib Mattress Pad Overall: Yoofoss Waterproof Fitted Crib Mattress Pad
Our overall top pick for the best crib mattress pad is the Yoofoss Waterproof Fitted Crib Mattress Pad. This mattress pad is made from polyester so it’s soft and breathable to help your baby sleep in comfort. It provides good airflow to help regulate your baby’s sleeping temperature so they stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter. The soft material is gentle on delicate baby skin. At the same time, it has a strong TPU waterproof liner to protect the crib mattress from leaks and spills. It also absorbs liquids to protect your baby’s skin from moisture.
This crib mattress pad is durably made with reinforced threads and high-quality fibers. It can be machine washed and dried hundreds of times and will not shrink. It’s 28 inches by 52 inches and has a 6-inch deep pocket so it should fit virtually all standard crib mattresses. The pocket is elasticized to make it easier to put the mattress pad on the crib mattress, then hold it securely in place once it’s on.
In addition, Yoofoss is a small, family-owned company, but they’re so confident in the quality of this crib mattress pad that they offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not happy with the mattress pad, you can contact Yoofoss to get a refund or replacement with no questions asked.
Yoofoss Waterproof Fitted Crib Mattress Pad Key Features:
- Soft and breathable
- Waterproof and absorbent
- Durably constructed
- Deep pocket
- Comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee
Best Noiseless Crib Mattress Pad: Margaux & May Crib Mattress Protector Pad
Many mattress pads, especially waterproof ones, tend to make a crinkly noise as your baby moves around. This noise can wake your baby up and make it hard for them to fall asleep. You don’t have to worry about that with the Margaux & May Crib Mattress Protector Pad, though. It won’t make a sound, even as your baby moves.
It’s a thin mattress protector to reduce suffocation risk, but it incorporates four layers, including a waterproof liner and a soft terry cloth top layer for comfort and padding without extra bulk. It’s breathable to help keep your baby warm when the weather is cold and cool when the weather is warm. This crib mattress pad is also highly durable. It’s made of deluxe bamboo rayon and can be machine-washed and dried. Margaux & May also offers a lifetime satisfaction guarantee.
The Margaux & May Crib Mattress Protector Pad measures 52 inches long and 28 inches wide, so it will fit most standard crib mattresses. It has an incredibly deep, 9-inch skirt so it easily stays secured to the crib mattress. The fabric of the skirt is elasticized to make it easy to put the mattress protector on and take it off.
Margaux & May Crib Mattress Protector Pad Key Features:
- Noiseless
- Waterproof liner
- Soft terry cloth to layer
- Durably constructed
- Deep pocket
- Lifetime satisfaction guarantee
Best Budget Crib Mattress Pad: Carters Waterproof Fitted Quilted Crib Mattress Pad
Babies can be expensive, but the Carters Waterproof Fitted Quilted Crib Mattress Pad is a high-quality crib mattress pad that helps you save money. And it’s made by Carter’s, a trusted name in baby gear for more than 150 years. This basic crib mattress pad is solid white and made from soft polyester fabric. The quilted top provides softness and durability. This crib mattress protector has three layers. The soft fabric top and bottom layers are made of cotton flannel and make the crib mattress protector more comfortable. The vinyl inner layer is completely waterproof.
This crib mattress pad fits standard size crib mattresses that are 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. The pocket is 9 inches deep to securely wrap around even deep crib mattresses. It goes on easily and won’t move out of place. When you’re ready to take it off, it removes easily as well. It can be machine washed with cold water on the gentle cycle and tumble dried on low heat and will last through many washes.
In addition to the full-sized version, there’s also one sized to fit mini cribs 24 inches wide and 38 inches long.
Carters Waterproof Fitted Quilted Crib Mattress Pad Key Features:
- Waterproof liner
- Deep pocket
- Trusted brand name
- Soft cotton flannel
- Secure fit
Best Bamboo Crib Mattress Pad: iLuvBamboo Crib Mattress Pad Protector
Bamboo bedding has been gaining popularity over the last few years because of its many benefits. You can get those benefits for your own baby with the iLuvBamboo Crib Mattress Pad Protector.
The bamboo jacquard material is soft, smooth, and doesn’t snag the way that the bamboo terry material used by other manufacturers can. It has a TPU waterproof backing that is completely silent, even when your baby moves. The bamboo fibers are moisture-wicking and absorb 40% more than cotton to keep your baby dry and comfortable. The fabric is also breathable to keep your baby cool during the summer and act as an insulator to keep your baby warm in the winter. Bamboo is naturally hypoallergenic and antibacterial, so this crib mattress protector is as well.
This bamboo crib mattress pad is sized to fit mattresses that are 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. It has a 9-inch pocket for a secure fit on crib mattresses of a variety of depths. The elastic band around the bottom of the crib mattress pad makes it easy to put on and take off of your baby’s crib mattress. This crib mattress pad can be machined wash and dried and will last through many, many washes.
iLuvBamboo Crib Mattress Pad Protector Key Features:
- Soft, smooth, snag-less bamboo jacquard
- Waterproof and moisture absorbant
- Breathable
- Hypoallergenic and antibacterial
Best Mattress Pad for Mini Cribs and Playards: Little One’s Pad Pack N Play Crib Mattress Cover
Finishing up our top five picks is the Little One’s Pad Pack N Play Crib Mattress Cover. This little mattress cover is perfect for the smaller sized mattresses used in mini cribs and playards. It’s 39 inches long, 27 inches wide, and 5 inches deep, so it fits most Pack ‘N Play, playard, and mini crib mattresses. For reference, it fits 25.5-inch by 37.5-inch mattresses in 2-inch, 3-inch, and 5-inch thicknesses, as well as 24-inch by 38-inch mattresses that are 3 inches thick. It fits securely and doesn’t bunch or move.
It utilizes high-quality materials and construction methods to make this mattress pad durable and longlasting. It’s made from soft fibers and has a 100% waterproof eco-friendly TPU backing. All threads are strong and reinforced for extra durability. It can be sent through the washer and dryer hundreds of times without shrinking, leaking, or ripping. It’s chemical-free for your baby’s safety. It never makes annoying crinkling sounds.
The mattress cover is quilted and lightly padded for your baby’s comfort and to give them support while they sleep. However, it’s not so plush as to pose a safety risk. This mattress pad can be put on or taken off the crib mattress in seconds and can be used with or without a fitted sheet on top.
Little One’s Pad Pack N Play Crib Mattress Cover Key Features:
- Fits most Pack ‘N Play, playard, and mini crib mattresses
- High-quality materials and construction
- Waterproof backing
- Noiseless
- Lightly padded
- Can be used with or without a fitted sheet
Who Should Buy a Crib Mattress Pad
A crib mattress pad is essential for any new parent. A crib mattress pad protects the mattress from sweat, diaper leaks, spit-up, shed skin cells, dust mites, and more, as well as accidents and spills as your kid gets older. It also makes it easier to clean up your child’s bedding since these types of things are much harder to get out once they’ve gotten into the mattress. Waterproof options are especially good for preventing fluids from soaking into the mattress. A crib mattress pad really helps lengthen the life of a crib mattress, which is great if you plan on using it for future children.
In addition, crib mattress pads protect your baby from allergens, irritants, and chemicals that can be in mattresses. Babies have sensitive skin and developing immune systems so they can be especially susceptible to problems caused by those kinds of things.
There are crib mattress pads available for both full-sized cribs and mini cribs or pack ‘n plays.
Important Features to Consider
A crib mattress pad should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting a mattress pad for your baby’s crib:
- Coverage. Some crib mattress pads only cover a portion of the mattress and are generally intended for handling toddler’s night time accidents. Others sit on top of the entire crib mattress and use elastic bands to attach around the corners without providing any protection to the sides of the mattress. The most common style sits across the top of the mattress than has what’s called a pocket that wraps around the side and under the mattress to hold the pad securely in place. The pocket area may provide some protection to the sides of the mattress, but not as much as the top. Finally, there are also some crib mattress pads that entirely enclose the mattress. Consider your crib’s style and how much protection you think the crib mattress will need to choose the coverage option that you think is best.
- Size and depth. Crib mattresses aren’t all the same size, so you’ll need to choose a crib mattress pad that’s the right fit for your crib mattress. This is important because a crib mattress pad should fit securely without any wrinkles or moving around. A crib mattress pad that’s too loose can be uncomfortable for your baby to sleep on and even pose a risk of suffocation. One that’s too tight will not stay properly secured to the mattress and will come loose.
- Waterproof. Not all crib mattress pads are waterproof, but choosing a waterproof one is a huge advantage since they keep liquids from soaking into the mattress. To go with that, it’s also great for the crib mattress pad to be moisture-wicking to help keep Baby dry.
- Material. Choosing a mattress pad made from a hypoallergenic material is a great way to protect your baby. Soft fabric is nice, but not essential since mattress pads are typically intended to be used under a fitted sheet. For babies, you want a firm, thin mattress pad as plush options pose a suffocation hazard. However, if you’re looking for a mattress pad for a toddler bed, a plush option can be a great option for helping give your child a cozy, comforting place to sleep. You’ll also want to choose an option that doesn’t make noise as your baby moves. Some, especially waterproof crib mattress pads, make crinkly noises that can wake up your baby.
- Ease of cleaning. Finally, crib mattress pads need to be cleaned regularly, so you’ll want to go with one that makes this easy. A crib mattress pad should at least be machine washable, but you’ll definitely appreciate having one that can also be put in the dryer. Be sure to mind the washing instructions, though. Many require you to use cold water in the washer and low heat in the dryer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a crib mattress pad?
A crib mattress pad is more or less the same as a mattress pad for any other bed, just sized for a crib. It primarily serves as a barrier between the crib mattress and leaks, spills, and other messes that can sink into the crib mattress. It also keeps any potential irritants that do get into the mattress away from your baby’s sensitive, delicate skin and immune system.
Are mattress pads safe for cribs?
When used properly and made of the correct materials, crib mattress pads are safe. A crib mattress pad should securely fit your crib mattress and doesn’t move around even if Baby moves around. Avoid mattress pads made of plastic, which can increase the suffocation risk. Like with many other extra bedding items, you may want to avoid a mattress pad entirely while your child is a newborn since they can accidentally roll over and suffocate. And as with any bedding, you’ll need to be sure to regularly check on your child while they use it, especially at first, to ensure that the mattress pad is staying in place and not posing any risks. If you do notice a problem, immediately remove the mattress pad.
How many crib mattress pads do you need?
It’s best to have at least two crib mattress pads so you can have one on the bed at all times, even while another is in the wash. Having one more spare, just in case something happens before the dirty one can be washed, is a good idea. Kids can be messy, after all, especially when sick.
Are all baby mattresses the same size?
In North America, crib mattresses are between 51.625 and 53 inches long and between 27.25 and 28 inches wide due to government regulation. They can be between 4 and 6 inches thick. Mini crib mattresses do not have the same degree of regulation, but they tend to be about 38 inches long and 24 inches wide. The Graco Pack n Play mattress is 37.5 inches long and 25.5 wide.
Other Crib Mattress Pads We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other crib mattress pads. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best crib mattress pads list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your baby’s crib. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Bamboo Crib Mattress Pads
- Mattress Pads for Mini Cribs and Playards
- Plush Crib Mattress Pads
- Noiseless Crib Mattress Pads
Bamboo Crib Mattress Pads
Baby&Brooke Organic Bamboo Fitted Crib Mattress Pad
This bamboo crib mattress pad is soft, waterproof, absorbent, and breathable.
Key Features:
- Organic bamboo terry sleep surface
- Air permeable and breathable
- Noiseless
Cost: $29
COHOME Crib 100% Waterproof Bamboo Mattress Protector
This bamboo mattress protector protects your baby’s crib mattress against fluids, dust mites, and bacteria.
Key Features:
- 35% bamboo sleep surface
- 100% waterproof membrane
- wrinkle-proof and non-iron
Cost: $20
Masirs Crib Mattress Protector Cover
This bamboo mattress protector blocks dust mites, prevents mold, and is stain resistant and machine washable.
Key Features:
- Waterproof
- Breathable
- Soft bamboo rayon terry fabric sleep surface
Cost: $12
PlushDeluxe Crib Mattress Protector
This bamboo crib mattress protector has a deep skirt and is guaranteed to fit all 28-inch by 52-inch crib and toddler mattresses.
Key Features:
- Waterproof and breathable
- Hypoallergenic
- Noiseless
Cost: $21
Ruili 2 Pack Quilted Fitted Waterproof Crib Mattress Protector
This two-pack of crib mattress protectors makes it easy to keep a spare around just in case.
Key Features:
- Noiseless
- Waterproof
- Fits mattresses up to 11 inches thick
Cost: $27
Swaddlez Pure Guard Bamboo Crib Mattress Protector
This crib mattress protector is made from environmentally sustainable bamboo.
Key Features:
- Waterproof and absorbent
- Breathable
- Sustainably sourced
Mattress Pads for Mini Cribs and Playards
Biloban Pack N Play Mattress Pad Cover
This soft, quilted mattress pad cover is a great choice that perfectly fits 27-inch by 39-inch portable crib mattresses up to 5 inches thick.
Key Features:
- 4 layers of protection for your baby and their mattress
- Hypoallergenic
- Durable enough to make it through 200+ washes
Cost: $14
Biloban Waterproof Crib Mattress Pad Cover for Pack N Play
This crib mattress pad has a soft but safe polyester fiber filling for both protection and comfort.
Key Features:
- Waterproof
- Fits mattress up to 5 inches deep
- Easy to care for
Cost: $13
CribCulture Portable Mattress Pad Cover Protector
This mattress pad features strong threads, sturdy stitching, and a heat protection layer to help it stand up to years of use and hundreds of washes.
Key Features:
- Soft and breathable
- Machine washable and dryer safe
- Fits all standard mini mattresses and portable cribs
Cost: $26
Swaddlez Pack n Play Mattress Pad
This bamboo Pack n Play mattress pad gives you the benefits of bamboo bedding, even on the go.
Key Features:
- Soft bamboo fabric
- Waterproof and absorbant
- Breathable
Cost: $19
TILLYOU Cloudy Soft Pack and Play Sheet Mattress Pad
This soft mattress pad comes in four different colors and acts as a mattress pad and fitted sheet in one.
Key Features:
- Soft yet breathable
- Anti-bacterial microfiber fabric
- Available in four different colors
Plush Crib Mattress Pads
American Baby Company Waterproof Fitted Crib Mattress Pad Cover
This crib mattress pad has an embossed quilt-style pattern on the 100% polyester fleece sleep surface
Key Features:
- Waterproof inner layer
- Quiet
- Fits standard crib mattresses up to 6 inches thick
Cost: $12
Biloban Toddler Waterproof Crib Mattress Pad Cover
This soft crib mattress pad insulates your child in the winter and cools them in the summer.
Key Features:
- Waterproof and absorbant
- Lifetime guarantee
- Easy to care for
Cost: $15
Milliard Quilted Waterproof Crib Mattress Topper Protector Pad
This crib mattress pad is hypoallergenic and protects against dust mites and liquids.
Key Features:
- Waterproof
- Quilted surface and down fill
- Ventilated for airflow
Cost: $16
PUREgrace Crib Mattress Protector
The cloud print on this crib mattress protector hints at the level of comfort your baby will feel while sleeping on it.
Key Features:
- Waterproof and absorbant
- Breathable
- Soft and safe
Cost: $40
Sealy Stain Protection Waterproof Fitted Crib Mattress Pad
Sealy is well known for its bedding items and you can bring that same quality and trustworthiness to your baby’s crib.
Key Features:
- 100% waterproof
- Soft, quilted cotton-blend top
- Hypoallergenic
Cost: $20
Utopia Bedding Waterproof Crib Fitted Mattress Protector (Pack of 2)
This pack of two ensures that you have a soft, comfortable spare mattress pad for your baby’s crib.
Key Features:
- Waterproof
- Breathable
- Also available sized for mini cribs
Noiseless Crib Mattress Pads
Jambini Zipper Crib Mattress Protector
This crib mattress protector fully encloses the mattress for the highest possible protection.
Key Features:
- Noise-free
- Hypoallergenic and eliminates allergens
- Soft padding
Cost: $18
Vesta Baby Crib Mattress Protector
This bamboo crib mattress pad is noiseless and comfortable to ensure that your baby gets the best possible sleep.
Key Features:
- Prevents bacteria, dust mites, and mold
- Protects from stains, leaks, and damage
- Machine washable and dryer safe
Cost: $21
ZAMAT Premium 100% Waterproof Mattress Protector
This mattress protector is completely waterproof without the use of vinyl to ensure that it’s noiseless.
Key Features:
- Hypoallergenic
- Breathable
- Soft cotton terry sleep surface
Cost: $17
