When To Lower Crib Mattresses: 3 Important Signs
Are you worried about your baby’s growing age and often see the risk of accidents/injuries during sleep? I experienced it when Aiden accidentally bumped his head on the crib at 15 months old (even though hitting the head on cribs is pretty normal for babies).
After that, I wanted to create a safer sleep environment for him as he became more active and mobile. So, here I’ll be sharing a few tips that helped me better manage sleep safety for my child.
I’ll guide you on when to choose different crib heights for your baby as per their needs and when to lower crib mattresses too. I will also go into further detail on the safety precautions you should follow when you lower crib mattresses, so, stick with me for some parent-to-parent insight! Also, don’t forget to check out my previous article on when to raise a crib mattress?
Table of Contents
Understanding Crib Mattress Height Settings
Cribs often come with different height adjustments. It’s you who decides which one is most suitable for your baby’s age. I’ve already written a complete guide on how to choose a perfect crib for your baby.
From my experience, these are 3 main height settings available in all the major cribs.
1. Highest Crib Mattress Height
This is when the mattress comes up to the top of the crib. Highest heights mean a higher risk of fall or injury, especially for an active child.
- Parents often stick to this height to easily bend over and take care of their baby.
- But prominently, the highest mattress height is safe only until the baby is 3-month old, and it must be lowered if your baby starts rolling, standing, or crawling!
2. Middle Crib Mattress Height
Here, the mattress is placed right between the crib, below the level of 26–30 inches from the top of the crib.
- This height is more suited for children between 4–6 months, especially when your baby starts to roll over.
- As soon as you see your little one make movements during the day or night, choose a middle height for the best experience.
3. Lowest Crib Mattress Height
So, if you are wondering when to lower crib mattresses, here is your answer. I know it must be difficult to bend down, feed your baby, and have a great play time at such a low height.
- But when you notice that your baby is moving around more regularly, and they’ve grown up to 35 inches, that’s where your mattress needs to be at its lowest.
- The lowest crib mattress height protects an active baby from falling over and hurting themselves, especially if they are standing or sitting too close to the crib’s railing. So, it’s highly recommended!
Highest Height | Middle Height | Lowest Height | |
---|---|---|---|
Mattress Position | Almost at the top of the crib. | Between the crib, below 26–30 inches. | Closer to the base of the crib. |
Safety | Highly risky for a child who is mobile and active. | Safe height for a baby who is just starting to move around. | Safe for children who are highly active and mobile. |
Usage Guidance | From newborn to 3 months | From 4 to 6 months | 7–8 months and older |
When To Lower Crib Mattresses: The Signs
Your baby will definitely show you some signs of when to lower crib mattresses. As parents, we need to look for these signs to make a decision.
1. Age and Developmental Milestones
Babies get so curious about their surroundings as they grow up. Your child goes through significant physical and mental development, even in those early months. So, it helps to pay attention to the age and developmental milestones.
- At around 5 months, babies tend to roll over a lot more, and by the time they reach 7–8 months, you’re going to deal with an energetic and lively baby who is eager to explore everything!
- These behaviors tell you that it’s time to lower the crib mattress to make sure they don’t tip over and fall, injuring themselves.
2. Baby’s Height And Mobility
Your baby’s height and mobility also matter when you decide to lower crib mattresses.
- It’s time to lower the mattress when your baby stands and their head is close to the top rails of the crib.
- Similarly, lower the mattress if your baby can easily grab or touch the objects from the crib’s edges, even while sitting. It’s a safety risk otherwise!
3. Observing Your Baby’s Behavior
My day always gets a little bit brighter when I see my baby going off on their cute and simple little adventure, discovering the shape of their toys, exploring movements, and more. And it helps to keep an eye on them for safety as well.
- Make it a habit to check on them in the crib during sleep and playtime. If you notice your baby attempting to stand, climb out of the crib, or become even more adventurous, take it as a warning sign to lower your crib mattress.
How to Lower Crib Mattresses Safely?
- Clear the crib of any objects and ensure it’s stable on a flat surface.
- Locate the L-shaped hook or other mechanisms that control the mattress height.
- Refer to the user manual for recommended heights based on your baby’s age.
- Use a screwdriver to loosen all L-shaped hooks carefully, ensuring they’re separated from the mattress support platform.
- Move the mattress support platform to the desired height, aligning it with the corresponding slots or hooks.
- Make sure the mattress is securely positioned at the new height with tightened screws and pins to prevent accidents or injuries.
- Verify all of it! Make sure the mattress is securely fastened before introducing your baby to the crib.
Crib Safety Guidelines
Once you’re done adjusting and lowering your baby’s favorite mattress, don’t forget to make the crib area safe and snug, just like before.
- Ensure the mattress fits snugly into the crib. Check twice for any gaps and loosen the sheets.
- Never use additional bedding (pillows, bumpers, or blankets), keep it simple yet safe.
- Use a mattress height that is best for your baby, and remember that they should sleep only on their back.
Kelleigh’s Quick Tip: For as long as your baby sleeps in a crib, you can share a room with them. This way, you’ll observe if the crib’s settings are working as they should, ensuring a peaceful sleep time for you and your baby!
Conclusion: When To Lower Crib Mattresses?
I would say your baby’s age, behavior, and height matter a lot to decide when to lower crib mattresses! These growing developments make adjusting the mattress height necessary to prevent accidents and ensure a secure sleep environment.
Please keep in mind the signs like the baby’s age, developmental milestones, height, and mobility. These factors will help you determine the right time to lower the crib mattress.
Also, pay attention to safety guidelines and make informed decisions about adjusting the mattress height. Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to lower the crib mattress safely.