Your baby’s safety and comfort are top priorities when setting up their crib. Here’s what you need to know about crib mattress height:
Newborns: The Highest Setting is Best
- Why: The highest mattress setting makes it much easier to lift your newborn in and out of the crib, minimizing strain on your back.
- Safety: Newborns can’t roll or sit up yet, so the risk of them climbing out of the crib is minimal.
When Should I Lower the Mattress?
- Sitting up: Once your baby can sit up unassisted, it’s time to move the mattress down a level.
- Pulling to stand: If your baby begins to pull themselves to a standing position, lower the mattress to the lowest setting immediately. This prevents dangerous falls.
- Around 35 inches tall: Even if your child doesn’t climb, transitioning to a toddler bed is recommended once they hit 35 inches.
Additional Safety Tips
- Choose a safe crib: Make sure your crib meets current safety standards.
- Bare is best: Keep the crib free of pillows, blankets, and bumpers to reduce the risk of suffocation.
- Back to sleep: Always place your baby on their back for sleep.
Easy-to-Follow Summary
- Start high: Use the highest mattress setting for newborns.
- Lower when sitting: Move the mattress down one position when your baby can sit up.
- Lowest for standing: Immediately lower the mattress to the bottom setting if your baby starts pulling themselves up.
- Switch to a toddler bed: Transition to a toddler bed around 35 inches in height.
