Crib safety is paramount in the fight against SIDS, and one of the most important factors in a safe crib is a proper baby mattress. Luckily, finding the right baby mattress is more about the characteristics of the baby mattress than it is about the brand name and how much you pay for the baby mattress.

Unlike adult mattresses, which boast pillowtop comfort, a baby mattress should be very firm.The baby mattress should not depress when the baby is on it. Look for a baby mattress with tempered steel springs and a good coil count (higher numbers like 150-count are better in a baby mattress). The flange material that binds the springs to the fabric of the baby mattress should be secure.

Size is another critical factor in choosing the best baby mattress. Measure your crib, and make sure the baby mattress is only a bit smaller; in fact, just small enough for the baby mattress to be inserted snugly into the crib. Baby mattress sizes tend to be fairly consistent, but if you have a custom crib, or if the baby mattress you've selected does not fit tightly into your standard crib, find a baby mattress that does fit correctly before letting your baby use the crib. Otherwise, the child might become wedged dangerously between the baby mattress and the sides of the crib.

Baby mattress coverings are a matter of personal preference.You may want a vinyl-covered baby mattress for wetness protection, or you may prefer a soft, flannel-covered baby mattress. For a mid-range price of about $200,  you could purchase a handmade, organic baby mattress. You can purchase a basic water-resistant baby mattress at discount department stores for about $55 (or less if you buy the baby mattress during special baby product sales that many department stores hold regularly). Baby mattress prices go up from there, with designer pieces being at the high end of the baby mattress pricing spectrum.

Ensure your baby mattress meets federal flame resistance/retardation regulations regardless of the material from which the baby mattress is made. It is also advisable to use a new baby mattress with each child, to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination that happens naturally over time.

Finally, if you're looking for a bargain baby mattress, consider spending a little more to get a quality  baby mattress that serve in a convertible crib/toddler bed, for a couple years of additional use.