What Size is a Bassinet Mattress?

Are you considering purchasing a new bassinet mattress? You've got a lot to consider, but few things are as important as its size. Safety is always the top priority when it comes to bassinets, and making sure you have the right mattress size is a big part of that. Want to know more? You're in the right place. In this article, we'll share how to find the right bassinet mattress size, and a host of other helpful information you can’t afford to miss. Let’s get right into it! 

Bassinet Mattress Dimensions

Standard bassinets are typically around 33" x 18" - 33 inches long and 18 inches wide. But they come in a wide variety of sizes based on the manufacturer. It’s for this reason that there's no universal bassinet mattress size. We realize that this answer may be frustrating, but understanding this is important. 

So, how do you find the right bassinet mattress size? It’s not difficult - trust us.

Start by referencing the bassinet manufacturer's compatibility instructions before making a purchase. You'll find these instructions on the bassinet's product page, and they'll list which bassinet mattress sizes will fit their bassinets. If you don't have those instructions available, you can take measurements of the inside of your bassinet to determine the best size (we’ll get into that in the next section).

In addition, bassinets come in various shapes, with some being oval and others being rectangular. The dimensions of these bassinets will vary. So, if you have an oval bassinet, make sure to purchase an oval mattress versus a rectangular one, and vice versa.

How to Measure for a Bassinet Mattress

The thought of measuring things can send some into a frenzy, but keep reading - the measuring process for a bassinet mattress is pretty straightforward. Here, we’ll tell you how to do it step by step. 

First, you'll want to measure the length and width of the bassinet's interior. You won't measure the exterior - going with that measurement will result in a mattress that's too large for the interior of the bassinet.

To measure the bassinet's interior, you'll need a flexible tape measure. You'll start by measuring the bassinet's interior length from end to end. Then, you'll measure its interior width from side to side. 

Once you have those numbers, write them down. With your measurements in hand, you're ready to choose a bassinet mattress.

Note: Infant mattresses should be no more than 1.5 inches thick for safety reasons.

Do You Need to Buy a Bassinet Mattress?

Now that you know bassinet mattress sizes and how to measure for one, you may be wondering whether you need to purchase one at all. In case you weren't aware, some bassinets come with a mattress included. If that's the case, you don't need to buy an additional bassinet mattress. Just make sure that the one included is the right size for your bassinet (with no gaps between the bassinet wall and the mattress edge) and that it's in good condition with no rips or tears.

Of course, not all bassinets come with a mattress included. In that case, you'll need to purchase one separately. If you're not sure whether your bassinet includes a mattress, check the bassinet's product description or contact the manufacturer to find out.

When purchasing a bassinet mattress, always go with a reputable brand that specializes in bassinet and crib mattresses. This will help to ensure (though, it won't guarantee) that you're getting a high-quality, safe product for your little one.

How to Choose the Right Bassinet Mattress

There are numerous things to consider before choosing your bassinet mattress, including firmness, materials, and cost (to name a few). In this section, we'll give you some tips that will help you select the perfect bassinet mattress for your little one.

Opt for a Firm Mattress

You might be tempted to purchase a bassinet mattress that's on the softer side to make your baby comfy, but we recommend going with a firm one instead. A firm mattress is much safer for your baby, as there's less of a chance they'll sink into it and suffocate. Not to mention, a firm bassinet mattress will provide your baby with the support they need for their back and neck.

Choose the Right Mattress Material

When it comes to choosing a mattress for your bundle, few things are as crucial as the material it's made of. Bassinet mattresses may be made of a variety of materials, but most are made of some type of foam. Foam bassinet mattresses are lightweight and easy to clean, making them a good choice for parents.

It's also important to consider the material that the mattress cover is made of. Most bassinet mattress covers are made of cotton or polyester, both of which are machine-washable. Though, if you're concerned about your baby being exposed to harmful chemicals, you might want to look for a bassinet mattress cover that's made of organic, hypoallergenic, waterproof materials.

We advise against using a bassinet mattress that has a noisy plastic cover, as the sound can disturb your baby's sleep, and yours as well. 

Prioritize Durability

Purchasing a bassinet mattress that wears out soon after purchase is not only a waste of money, but a source of frustration that you just don't need. We urge you to choose a mattress that is durable enough to last several months to a year or more. Once your bassinet begins to show signs of wear, such as sagging or ripped seams, it's time to replace it.

Keep the Cost in Mind

Do you have to pay an arm and a leg for your bassinet? Definitely not. Bassinet mattresses range in price from around $30 to $100. And the price you'll pay for your it will depend on factors like size, thickness, and materials.

Keep in mind that you don't have to break the bank to get a good bassinet mattress. In most cases, a basic to mid-range one will do the trick.

Ensure It's Up to Code: Fire and Chemicals

It's incredibly important to choose a mattress that's made of materials that are up to code. In the United States, bassinet mattresses must meet flammability standards set by the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) and the Federal Register. These standards are in place to help prevent bassinet fires. For this reason, many bassinet mattresses are made of fire-resistant materials that could be toxic to your baby.

Other potentially hazardous chemicals that may be found in bassinet mattresses include:

- PVC

- Phthalates

- Lead

- Mercury

If you can find a mattress that is made of non-toxic, natural materials, that would be ideal. But keep in mind that these mattresses are often more expensive than bassinet mattresses made of synthetic materials.

Check the product labels to see if any potentially harmful chemicals are listed. Safety certifications may also be listed on the label. If you have questions about a bassinet mattress’s safety, don't hesitate to ask the manufacturer. They should be forthcoming and detailed in their answers to questions of this type, and if they’re not, consider a mattress from a different manufacturer. 

What Size is a Crib Mattress vs. a Bassinet Mattress?

Crib mattresses are slightly larger than bassinet mattresses, as they are designed to accommodate a growing child. The standard size for a crib mattress is approximately 52 x 27 inches, though some brands offer slightly larger or smaller sizes. Just like with bassinets, your best bet is to follow the crib manufacturer's instructions when it comes to choosing a compatible crib mattress. You can also measure the interior of your crib to be sure you're choosing the right size. Follow the same instructions as we gave earlier for the best results. 

Where to Find a Bassinet Mattress

You can find bassinet mattresses at a variety of stores, including big-box retailers, baby stores, and online retailers like Amazon and eBay. Many bassinet manufacturers also sell mattresses on their websites.

If you're planning to purchase your bassinet mattress online, be sure to read the reviews before making your purchase. This will give you a good idea of the quality of the mattress and whether it's right for you and your baby.

You should also compare the prices of bassinet mattresses at different stores before making your purchase. In most cases, you'll find that the prices are fairly similar. But it's always a good idea to shop around to be sure you're getting the best deal.

So, there you have it - how large bassinet mattresses are, how to measure a bassinet to find the best mattress size, and much more. In addition to selecting a mattress that’s the right size, remember to pay attention to the aspects we mentioned earlier in this article, including materials and firmness. With a little bit of research and effort, you should be able to find the perfect mattress for your baby. We hope that you found this article to be helpful, making your bassinet mattress search a little easier. We wish you the best of luck!