Do you need a mattress for a pack n play?

Pack-n-plays are genuinely a blessing in disguise for parents (check the top-rated pack n play mattresses). However, in some cases, you cannot use them entirely, so there are some issues with them that you might not be familiar with.

This post will share some of the crucial issues many parents encounter when using these pack-n-plays. Carry reading and learn everything you need about these pack-n-plays and their mattresses.

What is a Pack-n-Play & How Does it Help?

Pack-n-play is also a travel crib or a playard that you can place around your baby. It can come in handy as it provides a comfortable bed and a secure play area in your home. Moreover, you can comfortably take it with you on the go.

Your baby’s pack and play need to have four things. It should have play mattress safety, user-friendly, comfortable, and portable. But the standard base that comes with it is often hard, uncomfortable, and cold.

So most parents add a special mattress to increase the overall coziness of this pack-n-play. As a result, the sleeping surface for the baby becomes much more comfortable, and so does the play area.

But which type of mattress should you consider?

You might not need an additional mattress for the playpen for toddlers. But some playpens don’t feature a cushion located underneath. Hence, you need an additional floor mat to provide more comfort for your little one.

As your child grows and becomes heavy, this thin cushioning might need to be upgraded. You can use a memory foam mattress or an innerspring mattress as a portable crib mattress.

Does A Pack-n-Play Come with A Mattress?

No, they don’t come with a mattress and only feature a firm play mattress pad. However, if you want to provide your baby with a bed to sleep in, you can go for an additional mattress.

The pad that comes with the pack-n-play is safe, but it is not a comfortable option. You can feel those support bars even if you press the pad just a little.

Should I Add a Mattress to The Pack-n-Play?

These pack-n-plays feature a mattress pad, and if you press this pad, you can feel the wooden slats underneath. This will make you think that you need to make it more comfortable for your little one. We highly recommend using the hard mattress of the playard as it doesn’t leave any gaps or edges that can cause suffocation or entrapment.

Therefore, if you want a mattress to make it more comfortable for your little one, consider going for the one that fits well and should not allow any gas on the sides.

This mattress has to be firm, but of course, it will be much better than wood. Just make sure that everything is flat and fits properly.

Should I Go for a Pack-n-Play Mattress, Separately?

If you are a busy parent, these pack-n-plays can really come in handy. A separate mattress can provide your baby with a safe place where they can play during the day, and you can still keep an eye on them. And if you add a mattress, it becomes a comfortable place to sleep for your little one. You easily take it out on your holiday.

Most pack-n-play does come with pads and mats, but they are simply too hard and have that plasticky feel. So they are not very comfortable enough to sleep. So yes, it is a good decision to add a separate pack-n-play mattress to make it more comfortable for your little one.

You have the option of going for a mattress topper or padded sheets. Consider Dream On Me mattress. It can fit well into a pack-n-play.

You can also consider going for some organic mattresses like Sprotwise Kids organic folding mattresses. This is a firm mattress, but it remains comfortable for your little one.

Features to Consider When Choosing a Mattress for Pack-n-Play

Here are some key features you must remember before choosing a mattress for your pack-n-play.

Pack-n-play style

You have to go for a mattress that fits well into your pack-n-play and should suit its design too. For example, some packs have an attachable bassinet at the top. Other models have an open design. Just ensure that the mattress you will consider fits properly.

Size

Most pack-n-plays roughly have a size of 37-inch x 27-inch, but there is a difference of around half an inch between each, so you need to double-check and comfy the size. If you get the opportunity to get out a mattress before you buy it, that would be great.

Otherwise, you have to be extremely careful when taking those measurements. The mattress must fit in the playard, and you shouldn’t be able to fit just one finger between the edges.

Breathability

Pick a highly breathable mattress. The purpose here is to create a hygienic play place and sleep environment for your little one.

So it is important that you choose a mattress with good ventilation too. Some beds come with naturally high breathability, while other features have inbuilt vents. If you are going for mattress protectors, ensure that you keep that breathable too.

Foam vs. innerspring

You have to choose between these two options here. Innerspring mattresses are not great because they tend to tear up.

But good quality innerspring is always a better option than a low-quality foam mattress. However, we would recommend going for a quality foam mattress. It will be lightweight, breathable, and hypoallergenic.

Can I use a crib mattress in a pack n play?

You can use a crib mattress in a pack n play as long as it is less than 6 inches thick and fits snugly with no gaps. The crib mattress should be firm and flat. Test it out in the pack n play before use to ensure proper fit and safety. Make sure there are no gaps larger than two fingers width between the mattress and sides of the pack n play.

Conclusion

Adding a play mattress to your baby’s pack-n-play will make the surface much more comfortable and safer for your little one. Make sure you also use a waterproof cover protector with the mattress, and the mattress should fit well into the pack-n-play.