Are Foam Mattresses Bad For Babies

Crib mattresses are typically composed of polyurethane foam a petroleum derived synthetic material.

Are foam mattresses bad for babies.

In the end it seems that memory foam mattresses should be avoided for babies and small children unless their doctors have specifically recommended otherwise. Our final answer is no memory foam mattresses are not safe for babies and children at this time. Babies need a cool sleep surface because they can t regulate their own body temperature and memory foam is warm to sleep on. Typical mattresses contain chemicals that are not healthy for anyone but particularly not safe for babies and children.

Polyurethane foam contains chemicals that may adversely affect a baby s health. However spring beds are the most popular choice due to their firmness and there is less worry if regaring the amount of chemicals. As more research is done consumers are starting to wonder. Babies spend a large part of their days sleeping and thus spend much time exposed to what might be in a mattress pad.

These chemicals can off gas to expose your family to dangerous levels of toxins while they sleep. Baby crib mattresses should be firm to prevent suffocation and memory foam is soft. Of the four types of baby mattress foam mattresses are the most economical buy. According to the experts there have been no registered cases of babies with allergies or any other problems from sleeping on a memory foam mattress.

The foam core is usually enveloped with a waterproof cover. A baby that s over 3 to 6 months old shouldn t have any problems with sleeping on this type of mattress or pad. Parents must choose wisely to pick a pad made from a safe material. They re usually made of a single layer of foam which should be 8 10cm thick for comfort with a waterproof fabric cover that can often be unzipped and machine washed so it s easy to keep clean.

These mattress components can release harmful vocs some of which can cause respiratory and nervous system damage. Foam mattresses are made of polyurethane and consequently weighs less. Unfortunately research suggests that s not the case. This may be important when you lift it while changing your baby s diapers.

As far as the price is concerned they are almost the same. There are no current studies that sway for or against using memory foam on the parents bed while baby is in its own cot moses basket. As the old saying goes better safe than sorry. Most mattresses contain petroleum based chemicals toxic foams synthetic fabrics and fire retardant barriers or chemicals.

They also contain adhesives and other chemical additives.