When you’re shopping for baby products there’ll be a lot mulling through your mind: safety, comfort, durability. Everything matters as you only want the best for your baby, right? That’s the case for all parents shopping for the best mattress for Graco Pack n’ Play cribs or Playards. Getting the baby room ready or wanting to make your parenting lifestyle a little easier can be daunting. There are so many products to pick from. Which one will really work?
Let’s make your life a little easier with our mattress reviews. We did research on the materials that brands use, the designs they pick, and practical considerations such as dimensions & covers. In our concise yet detailed product reviews, you can quickly gauge which item is most appropriate for your baby based on age, preferences, and what you’ll use this mattress for.
After interviewing multiple parents and discussing safety aspects with pediatricians, we finalized our list of the best mattresses on the market with the best overall pick MOONSEA Pack n Play Trifold Mattress. To make it easier for you to pick the best one for your needs, we have complied in-depth reviews of the mattresses, and we’ve also included a buyer’s guide. If you need to make a quick decision, use the comparison table below that shows the winners in various categories.
Everything you need is here so you can have a little more peace of mind about one aspect of parenting. So keep reading.
Extra features: universal fit, waterproof cover with anti-slip bottom included, storage bag included, tri-fold design
Starting off the list of Graco pack n’ play compatible options for your newborn is the MOONSEA Pack n Play Trifold Mattress. The mattress makes it into our top choices since it caters to almost everything your baby might need. One example of how it does this is with its waterproof cover. Therefore, even if the baby wets the bed without diapers, you’re not worried about the mattress getting wet.
Stains and spills are just a wipe away from leaving the mattress spotless. The cover is also machine-washable for when you need to do deep cleaning, although using a dryer is not recommended. That said, you will need to use cold water, delicate cycle settings, and steer away from bleach. Alternatively, you could just opt for gentle hand washing.
The cover is anti-slip, so the mattress is secure on a pack n’ play bed. Speaking of the bed, the MOONSEA purchase features rounded corners and a universal fit, so you won’t have any trouble fitting it to the bed you own. Additionally, by picking this brand, you get a versatile mattress. It can be used on the playpen, crib, or as a changing surface when necessary.
When not in use, it can fold thanks to its trifold design, and it even comes with a storage bag included. With that, you can carry it easily whenever you know you’ll be out of the house for an extended period, e.g., when you’re on holiday. Lastly, the mattress features high-density foam construction that should last your infant through to their toddler years.
Extra features: CertiPUR-US certified; features a removable, washable and waterproof cover; rounded corners; comes with a carry tote
You’ll like how this mattress was designed to create a perfect balance between firm support and comfort. Your little one is guaranteed a comfortable good night’s rest if you opt for this brand.
This Milliards mattress was constructed using top quality material and a high density foam.
Like the NapYou mattress, the manufacturer also included a bonus carry bag for your traveling convenience. The mattress features a trifold design that allows you to easily fold it up for easier storage.
You can also decide to use this mattress with or without a playard as a sleeping mat.
The mattress comes with a cover that’s both washable and waterproof. Keeping it clean is as easy as wiping it with a cloth which makes it a low maintenance unit.
What sets this mattress apart from the rest is that it features a full fireproof lining to take care of your safety concerns. And you’ll be happy to know that this cover is certified in accordance with the US regulations. Also, the lining was designed using an inverted laminating process which makes it less susceptible to stains.
Note however that this mattress is best suited for toddlers and not ideal for babies because it’s too soft. The extra softness may pose as a suffocation hazard if your baby happens to lie face down. You need to consult with your baby’s pediatrician before allowing your little one to lie in it. Alternatively, simply supervise any kids less than one year old lying on the mattress.
Extra features: CertiPUR-US certified foam; roll-n-carry feature; removable, washable & waterproof cover; ventilated design
We appreciate the memory foam topper found on this mattress and we’re certain your little one will too. This foam mattress is similar to the one found on adult mattresses and is designed to provide your baby with that much needed soft contouring comfort. As a result your baby’s body is relieved of tension and there won’t be constant turning and tossing. This ensures a restful night’s sleep.
You’ll also get a complementary cover with this mattress that’s removable and easy to wash. The cover is hypoallergenic so it won’t spark any allergic reactions if your baby suffers from any allergies.
Since the cover is easy to clean, this means your baby can be kept dry for as long as they are on the mattress; simply wipe off spills.
One thing you can expect if you pick this mattress is durability. This is because the mattress is made of high quality foam which is 2 ½ inches thick with a premium 2.5lb density. Your little one will be using the same mattress well into his or her toddler years so you don’t have to worry about repeat purchases.
For your baby’s safety, you’ll be happy to know that the mattress is also certified according to US safety standards. Also, it’s well ventilated for optimal cooling relief.
Though it doesn’t come with a carry bag like other brands, this mattress has a unique Roll and Carry feature for your traveling convenience.
Unfortunately it doesn’t fit as seamlessly into the Graco playard, but nonetheless you still have the option of using it without a playard.
Extra features: hypoallergenic; waterproof and washable cover; manufactured in the USA
We particularly love this mattress for its versatility. You can use it with most standard playpens and playards and this is why we’ve voted it the best versatile mattress on our list.
Like most mattresses reviewed on our list, the foam is waterproof so your baby can enjoy a dry and comfortable sleep. If you’re looking for a thick mattress, you can consider this brand which comes with a thick and comfortable mattress. This is because the mattress is made up of a combination of 10% vinyl and 90% foam.
But note that the mattress is compressed for shipping purposes so upon un-boxing you must give it between 24 to 36 hours to expand to its original size.
The product also comes with a waterproof cover which you’ll find very quick and easy to clean. You can simply wipe it clean with a wet cloth. And you’ll appreciate how the cover also features hypoallergenic properties.
You’ll appreciate that this mattress comes highly recommended by most pediatricians as being safe for babies. Apart from being anti flammable, it’s free from chemicals that may harm your baby including lead and phthalate.
Plus, this is one of the few mattresses that can fit all Graco Pack n’ Plays, which most moms will appreciate.
We’re only concerned about the stitching, particularly on the edges of the mattress, as they don’t appear firm. This in turn makes the durability of the product questionable.
Extra features: made in the USA; antibacterial, waterproof, washable cover; hypoallergenic; phthalate and lead-free; passes all flammability tests
We all love a bargain. And that’s exactly what you’ll get if you pick this Dream On Me playard mattress that we’ve voted our budget pick. It’s made up of 10% vinyl and 90 % foam; pretty much like the Bid Oshi mattress reviewed above.
But note that it can only be used for babies who are at least six months and older.
For a reasonable price, you’ll appreciate how this mattress has antibacterial properties. In addition, it features waterproof lock stitched binding which is designed to minimize the formation of mold and mildew. The same feature also eliminates any unpleasant odors so your little one will lie in a clean and fresh environment at all times.
With regards to safety, this foam is anti-inflammable and all Dream On Me mattresses are made in accordance with the CPSC safety standards.
The mattress is 3 inches thick and can fit a square Graco Pack n’ Play with ease. It comes with a waterproof cover which is also easy to clean. You can wipe it clean using mild soap & water and it’ll be as good as new.
Note that this mattress can accommodate babies who weigh up to 3.45lb.
We’re not impressed that it’s not as soft as the other brands so it may be a little uncomfortable for your baby. And the durability of the plastic lining is questionable. The plastic tends to crack, thereby exposing the pieces of fuzz found inside the mattress. Not only does it make it a choking hazard, but the chemicals found in the fuzz may be harmful.
Overall it’s a good buy and you’ll appreciate how it’ll fit with most playards.
Extra features: rounded corners; comes with a removable waterproof cover and a carry bag
One of the main reasons we’ve voted this NapYou mattress as our Editor’s choice is because it’s made of high quality material. The memory foam mattress is made up of a combination of 40% organic cotton and 60% polyester. This blend of fabric means by picking this brand, you’ll not only have a durable mattress, but a soft one too. As a result, your baby will enjoy playing—or sleeping— on this soft and comfortable mattress.
The rounded corners will ensure that this mattress fits easily into any Pack n’ Play. But note that you have the option to use the mattress with or without the Pack n’ Play. This also means you can use it as a traditional sleeping mat making it a versatile unit.
You’ll be happy to know that the manufacturer included a convenient carry bag with an ergonomic handle for easy transportation. You can easily fold up the mattress and place it in the bag along with a blanket. This means it’s both easy to store and travel with.
The mattress is very easy to clean thanks to the removable cover. Simply put the cover in the washer and dryer. And you’ll appreciate how this same cover is waterproof so your baby will be kept dry at all times and spills can be wiped off without the liquid reaching the interior of the mattress.
Unfortunately, you’ll find it much thinner compared to the other brands. Also, the mattress is so light that most older babies can rumple it up with ease to create an uneven surface. But you can easily resolve the issue by placing heavy duty stick on Velcro.
You’re making a very important decision when you’re shopping for your baby’s sleep and play areas. You need safety as much as comfort. And user friendliness is vital to make your life as a parent a little easier. Is it possible to get all those features in one product? With our buyer’s guide you’ll know exactly what to pick from our best mattress Graco Pack n’ Play reviews.
If you’re still wondering whether it’s necessary to invest in one of these mattresses, let’s remind you of all the advantages:
Now, let’s talk about that checklist of features you need when you go shopping. The items listed below are important to consider if you want to create a safe and user friendly environment. We discuss each aspect in depth so you know how to gauge which type of Graco Pack n’ Play mattress suits your (and your baby’s) lifestyle.
Firstly, turn your attention to the details about the materials used in manufacturing the mattress. You want to create a safe space for your child no matter what happens. That means you need hypoallergenic materials without any toxins or chemicals. This doesn’t only relate to the mattress itself, also research the manufacturing process. You don’t want harmful substances to cling to your baby’s items. Another safety feature to consider is whether it’s easily flammable. A CertiPUR-US certification is a bonus, as it’ll ensure your mattress has passed all safety checks and does not have any harmful substances that could adversely affect your baby’s health.
You can also consider comfort when you look at the materials. You’ll probably have to pick between a foam mattress and a coiled version. A foam type is lighter, but a coil mattress is usually more durable. You determine which you value most. If you often travel, you’ll probably need a light version. You can also opt for memory foam for the ultimate in comfort for your baby.
It’s not only the interior that matters—when it comes to a baby’s environment all exterior surfaces must be practical: for you and the little one.
For your own benefit, invest in one with low maintenance requirements. If it’s washable—such as a vinyl type cover—you can simply wipe off spills and messes. Since babies often make messes with food, bottles or diapers, a waterproof cover is almost non-negotiable. Many parents settle on cotton because of its softness, but before you buy, consider the effort of keeping it clean all the time.
For your baby’s sake, make sure this cover is anti-bacterial and won’t spark any allergic reactions.
When it comes to design, you need to consider where you’ll use your mattress. If you’re only buying to use it in your baby’s room a classic mattress will suffice. If you know this will serve as your baby’s bed when you travel—and if you travel often—a foldable mattress is more practical, such as the NapYou model shown above.
The folding design allows you a compact mattress that can easily fit into a car or be carried to where you need it. These are often a bit lighter too, but just know that they’re thinner overall, providing less support.
It’s vital you make sure your new mattress fits snugly into the Graco Pack n’ Play. You need a smooth surface, without bumps or gaps on the sides to ensure it’s a safe space for babies to play, sleep and roll around. You don’t want your little one to roll into a gap without the ability to get out.
Know that you can’t use a regular cot’s mattress in a Graco Pack n’ Play as they’re usually too big. A Graco Pack n’ Play requires dimensions of +/- 37 by 25.5-inches. Thickness can differ from design to design.
You’ll also find mattresses with square or rounded corners. The latter makes it a little easier to fit in more styles of playpens. The small gaps in the corners don’t carry too much risk of your baby getting stuck there.
What exactly can your little one do at the moment? If you’re looking after a very young baby that can’t yet keep his or her head up, you must provide a firm surface for sleep and play. This prevent them suffocating if they should turn onto their stomachs. But make sure it’s still comfortable so they can fall asleep easily. For older babies and toddlers, it’s safe to use softer models as they will be able to push their faces away from the mattress if they roll over onto their stomachs, or they can simply lift their heads.
Before you purchase a mattress, it’s important to consider the kind of Pack n’ Play that you have. Only then can you purchase the correct mattress that fits. There are different kinds of Pack n’ Plays including playpens, bassinets and convertible playpens.
Not all mattresses will fit into certain Playpens. A good example is the Milliard Memory Foam Pack N ‘ Play mattress which is best suited for bassinets, and isn’t compatible with any Graco playpen. Alternatively, you can opt for the Big Oshi Pack N Play mattress which can fit with most playpens regardless of size.
To clean your baby’s mattress, you can follow these seven easy steps
For our top three picks we’ll start with the NapYou mattress which we gave a 9.8 rating. We’re impressed with the materials used in its construction: the organic cotton and polyester blend make it both soft & comfortable for your baby.
Following close behind is the Milliard Tri-Fold mattress. We particularly like the unique trifold design which makes the mattress easy to fold and carry. And since it comes with a carry bag, it’s both easy to store and travel with. Not only is it easy to clean, but also stain resistant which makes it easy to maintain.
Next up, we’re impressed with the Milliard Memory Foam mattress which we gave a 9.4 rating. It features a hypoallergenic cover which you’ll appreciate if your baby suffers from allergies. Also, it’s the most durable mattress on our list.
For your baby you want nothing but the best mattress for Graco Pack n’ Play. So which one from our recommendations will you pick for your little one?
