Crib Mattress Pad Safety

Definition

• A crib mattress pad is a thin, flat mat that is filled with plastic or cushioned material for use on top of a mattress. The U.S. Consumer Safety Commission states that a mattress pad ̶0;excludes sleeping bags, pillows, mattress foundations, water and air beds with no padding material̷0;juvenile pads for carriages, strollers, baskets, infant carriers, dressing tables, crib bumpers, and play pens.̶1;

Types

• Crib mattress pads are available in a variety of styles and fabrics, including fleece, wool, terry cloth, quilted and cotton. Baby stores carry mattress pads in both the flat style, which lie loosely in the crib, and fitted style, which fit tightly to the corners of the crib. The crib mattress pad is placed under the sheet for safety.

Function

• Most pads are waterproof, absorbing moisture and protecting the crib mattress from urine and feces. The absorbency qualities of a mattress pad also provide added comfort to a baby whose bedding becomes wet. The washable crib mattress pad also prevents dust from collecting in the mattress and dust mites from infesting the mattress, allowing the infant to sleep more soundly.

Warnings

• Avoid crib mattress pads that are too plush. The infant is in danger of suffocating with any bedding that could cover the nose and mouth. Also, beware of fraying and loose threads or corner elastics unraveling after washing the mattress pad. These hanging pieces of fabric could wrap around the baby̵7;s fingers or neck.

  When choosing a crib pad, measure the crib mattress first and then select a pad that fits the mattress snugly. A loose pad can bunch up causing the baby to suffocate or become entangled.

  The label on the crib mattress pad should clearly state that it is made with flame retardant materials.

Recalls

• The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has recalled and stopped the manufacturing of the following crib mattress pads because of false advertising claims that their products prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

  The following crib mattress pads are banned from store distribution and sales: Kid Safe Baby Air Mattress, U.S. Family Products Breathe Easy Vented Infant Sleeping Surface, Sleep Guardian Sleeping Pad, and Juniper Industries Sleep Safe Mattress Cover.