Baby Mattress Pads

The arrival of a newborn baby is a joyous occasion for any family. However shopping for one’s new bundle of joy can be a tedious task especially with a whole load of products flooding the market. While most parents put in a lot of consideration into the purchase of baby mattresses not much thought is paid to buying baby mattress pads.

Baby mattress pads are used over a baby’s mattress for many reasons. Firstly baby mattress pads provide warmth for the extra layer over the mattress traps air and is a form of insulation. Secondly the use of baby mattress pads protects the mattress from dust. And thirdly baby mattress pads give one’s baby a softer sleeping surface. Baby mattress pads can also be used on the family bed to provide extra protection for your child. Unconventional uses of baby mattress pads include as a play mat, as a changing pad or under a baby during breast feeding. Baby mattress pads may also be used by older children who bed wet or by adults who require waterproof protection. Hence, opting for baby mattress pads that are light is also useful for one can use the mattress pads for a multitude of purposes.

When purchasing baby mattress pads, it is important to buy one that is not too puffy and one that fits snugly around a baby’s mattress. Also opt for one that comes with straps or a wraparound skirt so as to ensure that the baby mattress pad does not move around.

Most baby mattress pads are machine washable and it is advisable to wash it at least once a month. And it’s important to opt for baby mattress pads that retain their original shape even after being washed several times. Most importantly baby mattress pads are durable and can be used during a child’s entire infant and toddler period. When choosing baby mattress pads one can opt for a 100% cotton cover, which provides more comfort and is more durable than cotton/polyester covers. Also cotton baby mattress pads are not as bulky as the foam ones. An important aspect to take in to account when buying baby mattress pads is the thread count.

A higher thread count allows for a softer and more durable mattress pad. Baby mattress pads are usually stuffed with lamb wool or sheep wool. However some may come stuffed with feathers. A disadvantage of feather filled baby mattress pads is the lack of firmness. This lack of firmness maybe harmful to babies. Another kind of baby mattress pads that is not appropriate for babies is electric mattress pads. Also it is advisable to opt for those that are hypoallergenic and dust mite repellant so as to ensure minimum discomfort for one’s child.