Chicago Baby - Fall 2008 - (Page 19) PREGNANCY Don’t forget the mattress An equally important, if less exciting purchase is the crib mattress. There are two major types to choose from— one made from lightweight (and less expensive) polyester foam and the other from innerspring coils. Both will keep baby well supported, so when buying, consider cost, comfort and longevity. Choosing a mattress is really a matter of personal preference, but these are good rules of thumb to follow: Be firm. Push down to determine how much pressure it takes to sink into the mattress. The more resistance you get, the firmer the mattress. In an innerspring, a firmer mattress will have a higher number of coils along with border rods that provide better weight distribution over the surface, reducing saggy or soft spots. Keep in mind that baby won’t have the ability to lift his head from a soft bed, so a firm mattress is best. Look for layers. Multi-layer covers— some of which are anti-microbial—can add durability and germ-repellent power against diaper blowouts or spit-up. Money matters. A higher price tag doesn’t necessarily mean better quality. Exceptions include allergy-reducing or 100 percent-certified organic specialty mattresses that can be worth the money if they suit a medical need. Members only. Check to see if the manufacturer is a member of the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association. ■ For multiples: Some cribs offer a twin feature with two attached cribs in one for co-sleeping. Other space-saving cribs for twins are stacked vertically or attached in an L-shape to fit into corners. ■ For the neatnik: a built-in shelf or drawer to hold diapers, creams, extra pajamas and a toy or two can be a convenient organizer. Maria Pilar Clark is a writer living in Lisle with her son, William, and husband. Check out her CosmoTot blog at ChicagoParent.com. ChicagoParent.com | Fall 2008 | 19 http://www.bysterstudios.com http://www.ChicagoParent.com http://www.ChicagoParent.com
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