Pregnant mothers often find themselves in a difficult position when deciding on the best baby supplies. Especially for first-time moms, balancing modern scientific advice with traditional beliefs can be challenging. The clash between “science†and “tradition†often leads to disagreements between the expectant mother and her mother-in-law. Recently, Ms. Li found herself in such a situation. She believed that a soft baby mattress would be more comfortable for her newborn, while her mother-in-law insisted that babies should sleep on a firm bed.
“My generation used to have some kind of mattress, not all covered with cotton,†Ms. Li’s mother said with a hint of disapproval. “Soft mattresses are just too soft for a baby.â€
A recent study published in the *American Journal of Pediatrics* warns parents that overly soft bedding may increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Dr. Rachel Munn from the National Children’s Medical Center at George Washington University surveyed 83 new families and found that over half of the mothers admitted using soft bedding, pillows, and mats to make their babies more comfortable and prevent bruising on their heads and limbs. However, Dr. Munn explained that too-soft items can increase the risk of suffocation. Some parents even added cushions to the edge of the crib to prevent head injuries, but the study found that the risks of accidental injury or death from these cushions far outweigh any benefits.
That said, a mattress that is too hard isn’t necessarily better either. If the mattress is too rigid, it could lead to poor bone development and even increase the risk of spinal curvature. Choosing a mattress specifically designed for newborns can help ensure the baby sleeps comfortably and reduces the chances of spitting up.
Many parents struggle with how to choose the right baby mattress. “I went to check out a baby mattress and couldn’t sleep or feel it properly. When I pressed it with my hand, it collapsed immediately,†Ms. Li’s mother said, clearly concerned about its softness.
According to a seller, the correct way to test a baby mattress is not by pressing it with your hand. The small area of the palm applies more pressure, making the mattress appear softer than it actually is. A natural mattress might look soft, but what matters is the structure. Newborns don’t have much weight, so the ideal mattress should have a softer top and bottom layer, with a strong middle layer for support. This helps distribute pressure evenly and prevents spinal issues.
To test the firmness, let a 3kg baby lie on the mattress. If the indentation is about 1 cm deep, it's just right. Some manufacturers also offer toddler mattresses made from the same materials, which can be used as a trial before purchasing a full-sized one.
Newborn mattresses are typically made from natural coir and latex, offering breathability, resistance to insects, mildew, and sputum. They provide just the right amount of elasticity and support. It's important to choose a size that fits the crib to avoid accidents like pinching or falling.
By Guo Jingjing, Chengdu Business Daily
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