A higher crib mattress can benefit your baby in several ways. First, it helps them to transition comfortably from their infant bed to a regular-sized bed. It also makes the crib more comfortable and safer by providing additional support while they sleep. The easiest way to make a crib mattress higher is to use bed risers or furniture legs that can be attached to the corners of the crib.
The advantage of raising the crib mattress is that it helps reduce the risk of suffocation for infants. It also reduces the potential for airway obstruction and provides additional support for your baby’s head, neck, and spine. With a higher mattress, babies are less likely to slip into positions that increase their chances of suffering from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome or SIDS. You can find step-by-step instructions on how to make crib mattress higher in this blog article.
Step-by-step Instructions for How to Make Crib Mattress Higher
Step 1: Inspect the Mattress
Before making any modifications to the mattress, check it out to make sure that it is in good condition. Look for rips or tears in the cover and inspect its firmness. If the mattress shows signs of wear and tear, then replacing it might be better than trying to raise it up.
Step 2: Add a Mattress Topper
A mattress topper can help to add an extra layer of cushioning and support that will also raise the mattress up by a few inches. There are several types available, such as foam or feather-filled, so pick one that fits your budget and comfort needs.
Mattress risers come in various heights and widths, so find one that will fit your crib properly. Once the riser is in place, you can add the mattress on top of it to give the baby an extra few inches of space. Make sure the riser is securely fastened to the frame before doing this.
Step 3: Place a Sleep Wedge on the Mattress
If you want to add even more height, then use a sleep wedge underneath the mattress. These are adjustable and can be raised up or down, depending on your preference. Make sure any wedges used are secure and not in danger of shifting during the night.
If you want a more permanent solution, then look into getting an adjustable crib mattress. These are designed to be raised or lowered as needed and can provide the perfect amount of height for your baby’s needs. It may be more expensive than other solutions, but it could save you a lot of trouble in the long run.
Step 4: Place an Incline Wedge Underneath
An incline wedge can help to provide just the right amount of elevation for your baby’s head and neck while sleeping. This will make sure that they are not slumped over while they sleep, which can cause breathing difficulties. Make sure the wedge is securely fastened to the frame before adding the mattress on top of it.
Adding a layer of foam underneath your mattress can give you some extra height and support for your baby’s back and neck. You can pick up a sheet of foam at any local craft store, but make sure it’s thick enough to provide adequate support.
Step 5: Invest in a Crib Wedge
If you’re looking for an easier solution, then consider investing in a crib wedge. These are designed specifically to prop up the mattress and create more of a lift without the need for extra layers or risers. They’re easy to install and can be adjusted as your baby grows.
If you don’t want to purchase a mattress riser or wedge, then consider using a foam pad instead. Cut the pad into strips or blocks and place them underneath the mattress to raise it up. Make sure that the foam is firmly secured before placing your baby in the crib so it doesn’t shift during the night.
Step 6: Consider an Adjustable Base
If you are looking for a more permanent solution, then consider investing in an adjustable base for your crib mattress. This will allow you to raise or lower the mattress as needed, giving your baby plenty of space to grow. It may be a bit more expensive, but it could save you money in the long run by not having to buy additional mattresses down the line.
Safety Tips for How to Make Crib Mattress Higher
- Be sure to select a mattress that fits snugly within the crib’s frame and is specifically designed for the size of your crib. Check the manufacturer’s instructions on measuring and correctly fitting a mattress in your crib.
- Never use household items such as pillows, blankets, bolsters, quilts or mattress toppers as substitute mattress supports. They create an unsafe sleeping environment for your baby and can lead to suffocation.
- Though it is not recommended, you may use a mattress riser if you want to make the crib mattress higher. Ensure it is securely attached in all four corners to ensure your baby’s safety.
- Remember always to place your baby on his/her back when sleeping, as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends. Also, remember that a higher mattress should not interfere with the AAP guidelines for safe sleep practices.
- Always check and adjust the mattress support system regularly to ensure it is working properly and securely.
- Follow all instructions from the crib manufacturer on correctly adjusting the mattress height.
- Ensure all of your crib parts are securely fastened, per the manufacturer’s instructions, before using the crib with a higher mattress.
Following these safety tips will help ensure the crib mattress is securely in place and that your baby is safe when sleeping.
What Are the Benefits of Making a Crib Mattress Higher?
Making a crib mattress higher is beneficial for both you and your baby. It can reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) by allowing better air circulation in the crib, as well as helping to keep blankets and other bedding away from your baby’s face. In addition, it allows for easier access and more room for your baby to move around while making it easier to reach in and lift them out.
Making a crib mattress higher also allows you to place additional bedding items, such as stuffed animals or pillows, under the mattress without creating any additional risk of suffocation. And finally, raising the mattress can benefit parents who suffer from back pain, as it reduces the strain of bending over to reach into the crib.
You can make a crib mattress higher in several ways, from using foam mattress wedges or foam risers to adding extra layers of padding on top of the mattress. All methods will provide your baby with a more comfortable and safer sleep environment.
Are There Any Risks Associated With Making a Crib Mattress Higher?
Making a crib mattress higher can be dangerous if not done correctly and carefully. It’s important to consult with your pediatrician before making any changes to the mattress height to ensure your baby’s safety. Additionally, it is important to make sure that you are using approved methods for increasing the height of your crib mattress, such as using crib mattress risers or adjustable bed frames for cribs.
When increasing the height of your baby’s crib mattress, it is important to take into consideration any potential hazards that could occur from making changes. For instance, if you use an adjustable bed frame, ensure that all locks and screws are tightened securely so that the bed does not wobble or become unstable.
Additionally, be sure to check the mattress and bed frame regularly for any tears or loose parts that could cause your baby to fall out of the crib. Finally, it is important to remember that your baby’s crib should never exceed a height of three feet—anything higher could present a significant danger to your child.
Are There Any Other Safety Issues to Consider When Making a Crib Mattress Higher?
Yes, there are other safety issues to consider when making a crib mattress higher. It is important to ensure that the new height does not create uneven surfaces or large gaps between the crib and mattress, as this can pose a risk for infants. Additionally, it is important to make sure the bedding materials, such as blankets, bumpers, and pillows, are not placed too close to the baby’s face, as this can increase the risk of suffocation.
Finally, it is important to make sure the mattress is properly fitted into the crib frame with no gaps or extra materials that could create a safety hazard. By following these guidelines, parents can ensure their baby’s safety while also creating a more comfortable sleeping space.
In addition, parents can also invest in special mattresses that are designed to fit higher than standard crib mattresses. These specialized mattresses provide additional comfort and safety measures for babies and peace of mind for their parents.
Conclusion
One of the main disadvantages of making a crib mattress higher is that it can be difficult to fit standard bedding and sheets over a thicker mattress. As such, specialty sheets and blankets may need to be purchased or handmade in order to fit the thicker mattress size properly.
In conclusion, making a crib mattress higher and more comfortable for your baby is possible. Several options are available, such as using foam layers, adjustable rails, wedges, and extra firm mattresses.
By taking into consideration factors such as the type of mattress, size of the crib, and safety precautions when choosing the right method to make your crib mattress higher, you can ensure your baby gets the best sleep possible. I hope this article has been beneficial for learning how to make crib mattress higher. Make Sure the precautionary measures are followed chronologically.
