How To Raise Crib Mattresses: A Simple 5-Step Guide
Do you struggle to put your baby into the crib? I’m asking this because I definitely did.
When I had my first two kids, I always felt that the cribs were definitely not designed for people of my height and often wondered if I should raise them, or how do I put my kids into it without actually tipping into it? (Always made me think of this video of not-so-short grandma falling in, ouch!)
However, due to safety guidelines, we parents should be calm and careful before adjusting or raising the crib’s height.
I’ve also learned that my baby’s age group is key to adjusting a crib mattress the right way. I raised my little’s mattress in the first two months, but it caused trouble because I was unaware of a safe procedure. Now, I’ve learned from those mistakes.
So, I can help you understand how to raise crib mattresses properly! Find out why raising mattresses can help you, the safety checkpoints you can follow, and step-by-step guides to set the height you want for your baby.
Table of Contents
Why It’s Important To Raise a Newborn’s Mattress
As a mother, I love seeing my newborn take little steps toward growth. Through this sensitive stage, I want to keep checking my baby’s position, feeding routines, and play times.
But, constantly bending down to reach the crib strains my back. I also know that my baby needs to feel my presence to comfort and cheer them on. That’s why raising the height of a crib mattress can allow you to have a bit more convenient baby time, and your little one can adventure safely.
What‘s The Right Time To Raise a Crib Mattress
Safety comes first in every move towards baby care. I’ve done all the homework and talked to my pediatrician regarding the same. She told me that the American Academy of Pediatricians recommends raising a mattress according to the baby’s age.
Let’s understand why and when you need to change the crib mattress height from the below table:
Height Adjustment | When? | Why? |
Top-level (near crib railing) | 0–3 months | During these months, babies stay still and cannot roll or twist. |
Middle level | 4–7 months | Your baby starts to roll over or even sit at this stage. Therefore, they need a safer height to avoid cuts or falls. |
Lower level | 8 months and above | Your baby comes close to the toddler stage. They try to sit, stand, and often crawl during this period. |
I had an adjustable crib that offered height adjustment to 3 levels.
Below is the graphic to illustrate what I followed.
As you can see, initially for my newborns, I kept the cribs at the highest levels (18 inches from top), and then gradually upon their growth moved them to middle and the lower levels (at 22″ and 26″ depth).
Safety Tips
- Ensure the crib is at a safe location and stable to protect your mattress from wear and tear and the crib from moving or making moving noises.
- Remember, the mattress height must be lower than the crib railing to avoid falling out.
- Always inspect the mattress after fastening the screws to check stability and comfort.
How To Raise an Adjustable Crib Mattress (Step-by-Step Guide)
When I started this article, I mentioned that I faced some troubles while raising a crib mattress. I used the tools wrong, and my mattress got cuts at the edges. But you can save yourself from that problem through my step-by-step guide and learn how to raise crib mattresses more easily.
1. Preparing For The Crib
Start by clearing some space!
Remove any blankets, toys, or other objects from the crib to ensure a clear workspace. Make sure the crib is on a flat surface and is not wobbly or unstable.
2. Identifying The Adjustable Tool
Be familiar with your crib to know all the adjustments and structure. You’ll find an L-shaped hook attached to the mattress platform (a wooden or metal base to hold the mattress). Look for screws, levers, or pins that control the height of the mattress support platform. Check if these are placed on four sides or two.
Note: These adjustment tools may vary according to crib models. Be sure to read a manual/instruction guide.
3. Selecting The Desired Height
Now for the actual task! Choose a height that is suitable for your baby’s age. You can read the user manual to locate a perfect height.
As per safety guidelines, middle height is recommended for infants and lower height for toddlers. Why so?
Infants are less likely to move or push their bodies to get up. So, middle height prevents them from falling out or suffering injuries. Toddlers move around more, so a lower height is preferable there.
4. Loosening The Mechanism
After you finalize your desired mattress height, loosen all L-shaped hooks using screwdrivers.
All the hooks should be separated so it leaves the mattress support platform free.
Do this step with utmost care, preventing cuts and damaging the platform.
5. Adjusting The Mattress Height And Secure Mechanism
Keep everything in place! Move the mattress support platform up or down to achieve the desired height. Align the support platform with the corresponding slots or hooks, ensuring proper alignment with slots.
Check that the mattress is securely positioned at the new height. Tighten screws and pins and double-check that it’s fastened securely.
This step is essential to prevent your baby from accidents or injuries.
Ta-da, that’s it! You’re good to enjoy every little moment with your baby!
Recommended Reading: How to Make Crib Mattress More Comfortable
What If You Don’t Have An Adjustable Crib?
Most cribs come with adjustable hooks and support. But if you don’t own one, that’s okay. I have a small hack for that.
I wasn’t aware of adjustable cribs during my first pregnancy and bought non-adjustable ones. Within two weeks, I happened to have pain in my back and every time I went down to pick up my baby, the pain became severe. So, how did I adjust it?
I used a pediatrician-approved technique (life-hack) that changed my life.
Simply put another thick mattress underneath your baby’s mattress. It raises the height to the medium level and is the safest option.
A word of warning! Don’t put anything except a mattress underneath like books, bedding, cardboard, or uneven stuff. The mattress would not be stable and can cause accidents/injuries.
Final Thoughts on Raising A Crib Mattress
Finally, you can give new heights to your baby’s crib mattress, providing both comfort and safety for you and your baby.
Prioritizing safety by ensuring the crib is stable, using the right tools, and following manufacturer guidelines is vital. You can also follow my step-by-step guide if you are stuck anywhere!
Also, keep in mind your baby’s age and mobility when selecting the height, aiming for a level that keeps them safe and secure. Happy parenting.