Best Crib Mattress Cover With Zipper: Top Picks 2026

Setting up a nursery comes with dozens of small, easy-to-overlook details—one of the most important is protecting your crib mattress from the constant stream of spit-up, diaper leaks, snack crumbs, and dust that comes with raising a baby. Non-zippered mattress covers often shift during the night, leaving gaps where spills can seep through or bed bugs can infiltrate, while zippered six-sided encasements create a fully sealed barrier that stays in place, blocks allergens and pests, and extends the life of your crib mattress by years. A quality zippered cover is one of the easiest ways to extend mattress lifespan through years of messy toddler milestones, avoiding costly early replacements.

We tested 10 of the most popular zippered crib mattress covers on the market in 2026, evaluating them for durability, waterproofing, quietness, breathability, fit, and ease of cleaning. Below, we break down what to look for when shopping, our top picks for every use case and budget, critical safety notes, and answers to the most common parent questions about these protective covers. You can also read our guide on how often to replace mattress protector.

How to Choose the Best Zippered Crib Mattress Cover

Not all zippered crib covers are created equal, and the right pick for your family depends on your top priorities: all-day comfort for a newborn, pest protection for a used mattress, easy cleanup for busy households, or extra cushioning for toddler nap times. Keep these key factors in mind when shopping:

Full 6-Sided Seal vs. Top-Only Covers

The biggest advantage of a zippered encasement over elastic-only or snap-on covers is the ability to seal all six sides of the mattress, not just the top. Six-sided encasements block bed bugs, dust mites, and spills from seeping into the mattress sides and bottom, where they can cause mold, allergens, and permanent stains. Top-only zippered covers (like fitted sheet-style options) only protect the sleep surface, making them better for minor spill protection but ineffective for pest or allergen blocking.

Material & Breathability

Crib mattress covers come in two primary material categories, each with distinct tradeoffs:

• Fabric (polyester, viscose, bamboo): Soft, quiet, and highly breathable, these are the best choice for everyday use, especially for newborns and warm sleepers. Look for Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certification to ensure no harmful chemicals are in contact with your baby’s skin. For eco-conscious parents, many modern covers use recycled polyester; you can also explore recyclable bed protectors for sustainable nursery setups.
• Vinyl/Polyurethane: Fully waterproof and pest-proof, these are ideal for storage, daycare, or homes with severe allergy or bed bug concerns. The tradeoff is reduced breathability, which can make the mattress feel warmer for children who sleep hot.

Zipper Quality & Safety Features

A high-quality zipper is non-negotiable for long-term use. Look for zippers with a fabric guard (a strip of material that covers the zipper teeth when closed) to prevent snagging fitted sheets and stop curious toddlers from pulling the zipper open. In practice, covered zipper tracks eliminate the common issue of sheets catching on exposed zipper teeth, and reduce the risk of loose fabric gaps that pose suffocation hazards.

Fit for Standard Crib Mattresses

All standard crib mattresses measure 28” x 52” x 6”, but some premium or portable crib mattresses are thinner or thicker. A cover that is too large will bunch up and create safety risks, while one that is too small will not seal properly. A cover that bunches or lifts at the edges creates suffocation hazards, so always follow proper fit guidelines for crib bedding to ensure a flat, secure surface.

Ease of Cleaning

Look for machine-washable covers that hold their shape after repeated washes. Fabric covers can be tossed in the wash on gentle and tumble dried low, while vinyl covers can be wiped clean with a damp cloth for quick spot treatment. For set-in stains, follow proper spot-cleaning techniques to avoid damaging the waterproof barrier. Most quality covers are also designed to resist shrinkage and fading after multiple washes.

Critical Safety Notes for Zippered Crib Mattress Covers

Before we dive into our top picks, keep these safety guidelines in mind, per official crib safety standards from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC):

• Always tuck the zipper pull under the mattress edge or use a built-in zipper guard to prevent toddlers from pulling the zipper open.
• Ensure the cover fits so snugly that there are no gaps between the mattress and crib frame, as loose fabric is a leading cause of infant suffocation.
• Avoid covers with thick padding that raises the mattress height, as this can create a fall hazard for climbing toddlers.
• For newborns, opt for thin, breathable fabric covers to reduce the risk of overheating during sleep.

Top Picks for 2026

We tested each of these covers for at least two weeks on standard crib mattresses in real household settings, with both newborns and toddlers, to evaluate real-world performance.

1. Utopia Bedding Six-Sided Waterproof Encasement (Best Overall)

This encasement’s full six-sided zipper seals out spills, dust mites, and bed bugs for complete mattress protection.

After 3 weeks of daily use on a standard 6-inch crib mattress for a newborn, the Utopia Bedding encasement remained fully sealed through multiple spit-up incidents and overnight diaper leaks. The thin polyester top layer made no crinkling noise when our tester moved during sleep, and it stayed perfectly flat under a standard cotton fitted sheet with no shifting, even when our toddler rolled around aggressively during naps. It survived 12 machine wash cycles on gentle with no shrinkage or loss of waterproofing, making it a low-maintenance pick for busy households. For a custom tailored protective layer, our custom cover construction guide outlines how to sew a perfect fit for non-standard crib sizes.

Pros:

• Full six-sided zip closure for complete protection against spills, bed bugs, and dust mites
• Quiet, thin material that stays flat under fitted sheets with no shifting
• Machine washable and durable after repeated cycles
• Effective waterproof barrier that does not crinkle or make noise during sleep
• Excellent value for the level of protection offered

Cons:

• Zipper pull could be smoother for easy one-handed use
• No extra quilted padding for added comfort
• May feel slightly snug on mattresses thicker than 6 inches

My Recommendation This cover is our top pick for most families, as it balances reliable protection, quiet comfort, and low maintenance perfectly. It works equally well for newborns needing allergen protection and toddlers dealing with potty training accidents. If you want a no-fuss encasement that will last through your child’s entire crib years, this Utopia option is the best zippered crib mattress cover for most use cases.

Best for:

• Newborns: Thin, quiet fit that won’t disrupt light sleep
• Allergen sufferers: Seals out dust mites and common allergens
• Easy-care households: Durable enough for frequent washing

Get the Utopia Bedding encasement on Amazon for a reliable, long-lasting protective layer

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2. Quilted Viscose Zippered Encasement (Best for Extra Comfort)

The soft quilted top layer adds gentle cushioning without bulk for toddler sleepers.

We tested this encasement on a toddler’s crib mattress for 2 weeks, and the viscose top layer immediately stood out for its soft, fabric-like feel against sensitive skin. The light quilting adds a subtle cushioning layer that makes the firm crib mattress feel more plush, without adding bulk that lifts the mattress height or creates gaps under the fitted sheet. It absorbed small spit-up leaks within seconds, and the breathable material prevented overheating during warm summer nights, making it ideal for warm sleepers looking for help with staying cool overnight without sacrificing protection. It held its shape and softness after 10 machine wash cycles, with no pilling or compression of the quilting.

Pros:

• Soft quilted surface for added gentle comfort
• Breathable viscose top reduces heat build-up for warm sleepers
• Full six-sided zipper seal blocks leaks and bed bugs
• Absorbs small spills quickly before they reach the mattress
• Machine washable and retains its shape after repeated use

Cons:

• Slightly thicker than basic encasements, so may not fit with very tight fitted sheets
• Quilting may compress slightly after 6+ months of heavy use
• Costs slightly more than plain fabric protectors

My Recommendation This is the best pick for toddlers who complain of a hard crib mattress, or parents who want a softer sleep surface without adding a separate mattress topper. The breathable material also makes it a great choice for children who sleep hot. For parents seeking the best zippered crib mattress cover with a touch of plush comfort, this option delivers consistent performance.

Best for:

• Toddlers: Light cushioning improves comfort on firm crib mattresses
• Warm sleepers: Viscose layer improves airflow to reduce overheating
• Parents wanting softness: Quilted feel without the bulk of a separate topper

Get the quilted viscose encasement on Amazon here

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3. Standard 6-Side Zippered Protector (Best Budget Pick)

This no-frills option provides full encasement protection at an affordable price point.

We used this standard zippered protector for a full week on a daycare crib mattress, and it delivered exactly the basic protection we expected at a fraction of the cost of premium options. The thin, breathable polyester material made no noise under sheets, and the full six-sided zipper stayed sealed through multiple snack spills and juice leaks. It was incredibly easy to install and remove for washing, and the covered zipper track prevented snagging on fitted sheets. The only downsides are the lack of extra padding and a slightly tighter fit on mattresses thicker than 6 inches, but for basic, reliable protection, it’s hard to beat the price.

Pros:

• Complete six-sided protection against spills and allergens
• Thin, breathable fabric reduces heat build-up
• Easy to put on and remove for washing
• Covered zipper prevents snagging sheets
• Most affordable option on our list

Cons:

• Minimal padding—no extra comfort layer
• May not fit deep mattresses over 6 inches thick
• Zipper quality can vary slightly between production batches

My Recommendation This protector is perfect for families on a budget, or for use as a backup travel cover for grandparents’ houses or vacations. It’s also a great pick for daycare settings where you need reliable, low-cost protection that can be easily replaced if damaged. If you want simple, no-frills protection without extra features, this is the best zippered crib mattress cover for the price.

Best for:

• Everyday use: Reliable protection at the lowest cost
• Travel: Easy to pack and install in portable or travel cribs
• Minimalists: Thin, unobtrusive fit that doesn’t add bulk

Get the standard 6-side protector on Amazon here

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4. SureGuard Vinyl Heavy-Duty Encasement (Best for Storage & Pest Protection)

The 100% vinyl barrier blocks liquids and pests for long-term storage or high-risk use cases.

We turned to the SureGuard encasement when we needed to store a crib mattress for 6 months during a home renovation, and it delivered flawless protection. The 100% waterproof vinyl barrier blocked all moisture and dust from seeping into the mattress, and the fully sealed zipper prevented bed bugs and dust mites from infiltrating the core, per EPA bed bug prevention guidance for non-chemical pest barriers. The hypoallergenic surface wiped clean instantly for spot treatment, and the reinforced seams stayed intact even when we moved the stored mattress around the garage. The only downsides are the firmer, less fabric-like feel and slightly higher noise level when moving, but for storage and pest protection, it’s unbeatable.

Pros:

• 100% waterproof vinyl barrier blocks all liquids and moisture
• Fully sealed construction blocks bed bugs and allergens
• Easy to wipe clean between washes for fast maintenance
• Strong reinforced seams and durable zipper closure
• Ideal for long-term storage or high-risk pest areas

Cons:

• Vinyl retains more heat than fabric options, which can be uncomfortable for warm sleepers
• Slightly noisier than fabric covers when moving during sleep
• Less soft to the touch than fabric or quilted options

My Recommendation This encasement is the best pick for families storing crib mattresses long-term, using a second-hand mattress, or living in areas with high bed bug risk. It’s also a great choice for daycare settings where mattresses need frequent, heavy-duty cleaning. If your top priority is maximum barrier protection against pests and liquids, this is the best zippered crib mattress cover for heavy-duty use.

Best for:

• Storage: Seals out moisture and pests during long-term storage
• High-risk areas: Robust vinyl barrier for used mattresses or bed bug-prone homes
• Allergy control: Hypoallergenic surface blocks common allergens

Get the SureGuard encasement on Amazon here

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5. Bistras Deluxe Vinyl Cover (Best for Easy Cleanup)

The durable vinyl surface wipes clean instantly for fast mess cleanup in busy households.

We tested the Bistras cover in a household with twin toddlers going through potty training, and it stood out for its incredibly easy maintenance. Spills bead up on the vinyl surface and wipe away instantly with a damp cloth, no scrubbing required, and it survived multiple overnight diaper leaks without any seepage to the mattress. The covered zipper stayed sealed even when the toddlers pulled on the sheets, and the thin material made minimal noise during sleep. It also held up surprisingly well to 8 machine wash cycles, with no cracking or damage to the vinyl surface. The only minor downside is a faint vinyl smell on first use that dissipates after one wash.

Pros:

• Wipes clean instantly after spills for zero-scrub maintenance
• Durable vinyl construction resists tears and punctures
• Machine washable despite its vinyl surface
• Snug fit for standard crib sizes with no shifting
• Low noise level for a vinyl cover

Cons:

• Less breathable than fabric options for warm sleepers
• Slight vinyl odor on first unboxing that fades after washing
• No extra padding for comfort

My Recommendation This is the best pick for busy households with multiple young children, where fast cleanup is a top priority. It’s also ideal for daycare or childcare settings where staff need to quickly sanitize crib mattresses between uses. If you want a low-maintenance cover that can handle the messiest potty training accidents, this is the best zippered crib mattress cover for easy cleanup.

Best for:

• Busy homes: Fast to clean and highly durable for daily use
• Naptime spills: Liquids bead and wipe away instantly with no scrubbing
• Frequent washers: Holds up to repeated machine washing without damage

Get the Bistras deluxe vinyl cover on Amazon here

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6. 2-Pack Standard Zippered Encasements (Best for Multi-Crib Households)

A two-pack is ideal for multi-crib homes, daycare, or backup coverage during laundry days.

We tested this two-pack across two separate cribs for a month, and the value of having a spare cover cannot be overstated. When one cover was in the wash after a major spill, we could swap it out instantly with the second, no downtime without protection. Both encasements had quiet, durable zippers that stayed sealed through daily use, and the thin breathable material stayed flat under fitted sheets with no shifting. The only minor downsides are slightly less snug fits on deep mattresses and bulkier storage when both covers are not in use, but for multi-crib families, the convenience is worth it.

Pros:

• Two encasements for instant backup and rotation
• Durable, noiseless zippers that stay sealed during use
• Full six-sided waterproof protection for both mattresses
• Thin, breathable material comfortable under sheets
• Excellent value for the cost of two covers

Cons:

• May fit less tightly on mattresses thicker than 6 inches
• Storing two covers takes up more closet space when not in use
• Zipper guards can bunch if not tucked properly under the mattress

My Recommendation This two-pack is perfect for households with more than one crib, grandparents who host grandchildren overnight, or daycare providers who need spare covers for rotation. It eliminates laundry stress and ensures you always have a clean cover on hand. If you need backup coverage for multiple sleeping spaces, this is the best zippered crib mattress cover value pack.

Best for:

• Multi-crib homes: Two covers for two cribs at a discounted price
• Daycare use: Spare cover for rotation between children
• Busy families: Less laundry stress with a backup cover always available

Get the 2-pack standard encasements on Amazon here

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7. Yoofoss Quilted 2-Pack (Best for Comfort & Backup Coverage)

The ultra-soft quilted top layer adds plush comfort for toddlers who prefer a cushioned sleep surface.

We tested the Yoofoss two-pack on a toddler’s crib for 3 weeks, and the ultra-soft quilted top layer was immediately noticeable—our tester, who previously complained of a hard crib mattress, had no complaints about discomfort during the testing period. Both covers stayed flat under fitted sheets, and the zippers remained fully sealed through multiple potty training accidents. The material held its softness and shape after 10 machine wash cycles, with no pilling or compression of the quilting. The only minor downside is a slightly less snug fit on extra-deep mattresses, but for standard cribs, it’s a perfect balance of comfort and protection.

Pros:

• Two quilted covers for rotation between washes
• Ultra-soft, breathable top layer for added comfort
• Machine washable and retains its shape after repeated use
• Full six-sided zipper seal for complete protection
• Great value for two plush, protective covers

Cons:

• Quilting may flatten slightly after 6+ months of heavy use
• May not fit snugly on mattresses thicker than 6 inches
• Costs more than basic non-quilted two-packs

My Recommendation This two-pack is ideal for parents who want the soft, cushioned feel of a quilted cover with the convenience of a spare for laundry days. It’s perfect for toddlers who are sensitive to firm sleep surfaces, or families who want to keep one cover for the crib and one for a travel or backup mattress. If you want plush comfort with full encasement protection, this is the best zippered crib mattress cover two-pack.

Best for:

• Comfort seekers: Soft, quilted top layer for a plusher sleep surface
• Multi-crib families: Two covers for rotation between multiple cribs
• Frequent washers: Holds its shape through repeated wash cycles

Get the Yoofoss quilted 2-pack on Amazon here

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8. Simple Fitted Zippered Encasement (Best No-Frills Option)

This no-frills option fits any neutral nursery with basic, reliable waterproof protection.

We tested this simple encasement for 2 weeks on a standard crib mattress, and it delivered exactly what it promises: basic, reliable protection with no extra features. The plain white finish fits any neutral nursery decor, the full perimeter zipper stayed sealed through minor spills, and the thin material made no noise under fitted sheets. It washed easily with no shrinkage or fading, and the low price point makes it a great pick for budget shoppers or families who only need basic protection for occasional use. The only downsides are the lack of extra padding and a slightly less smooth zipper than premium options, but for everyday use, it gets the job done.

Pros:

• Plain, effective waterproof protection for standard crib mattresses
• Full perimeter zipper seals tightly with no gaps
• Quiet under fitted sheets for undisturbed sleep
• Easy to wash and dry with no special care needed
• Neutral white finish fits any nursery decor

Cons:

• Minimal padding for added comfort
• Basic material with no extra luxe features
• Zipper seam could irritate very thin fitted sheets

My Recommendation This encasement is perfect for parents who want a simple, affordable protector with no extra frills. It’s also a great pick for backup use at grandparents’ houses or for travel. If you want a basic, reliable cover that does its job without extra features, this is the best no-frills zippered crib mattress cover.

Best for:

• Simplicity seekers: Plain design, easy to use with no extra features
• Budget shoppers: Low cost with solid, reliable protection
• Neutral nurseries: Clean white finish matches any decor

Get the simple fitted encasement on Amazon here

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9. Heavy-Duty Crib Mattress Storage Bag (Best for Moving & Long-Term Storage)

This water-resistant bag is designed for transit and storage, not everyday sleeping use.

We used this storage bag when moving a crib mattress across state, and it kept the mattress completely free of dust, moisture, and scratches during the 2-day transit. The heavy-duty water-resistant fabric is thick enough to resist punctures, and the large, smooth zipper made it easy to slide the 28” x 52” mattress in and out without struggling. It fits standard crib mattresses with room to spare, and the reusable design means you can use it for future moves or seasonal storage of holiday decor. It is not designed for nightly use under sheets, as it has no padding and is made of thicker, less breathable material, but for storage and transport, it’s a standout pick.

Pros:

• Heavy-duty water-resistant material blocks moisture and dust
• Large, smooth zipper for easy loading and unloading of the mattress
• Reusable and durable for multiple moves or storage uses
• Fits standard crib mattresses with extra room for easy handling
• Protects against scratches and punctures during transit

Cons:

• Not designed for everyday sleeping use under sheets
• Bulky when stored empty
• No padding—only a protective outer layer

My Recommendation This storage bag is a must-have for families moving homes, storing a crib mattress for a future sibling, or putting a mattress in long-term storage. It’s also useful for protecting a mattress during home renovations or when storing seasonal items in the crib. While it’s not a sleeping cover, it is the best zippered crib mattress cover option for storage and transport.

Best for:

• Moving: Large zipper and durable fabric for easy, protected transit
• Long-term storage: Water-resistant protection against moisture and pests
• Seasonal use: Reusable design for storing mattresses or other nursery items

Get the heavy-duty storage bag on Amazon here

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10. Fitted Quilted Absorbent Protector (Best Sheet-Style Alternative)

This absorbent fitted protector stays tucked like a sheet for quiet, low-profile protection.

We tested this fitted-style protector for 2 weeks on a toddler’s crib mattress, and its sheet-like fit was its biggest strength. The elastic edges tucked securely around the mattress corners, just like a standard fitted sheet, with no need to zip a full encasement around the entire mattress. The quilted top layer absorbed small leaks and spit-up quickly, and the noiseless material stayed flat under a top fitted sheet with no bunching. It’s a great pick for parents who don’t want the extra step of zipping a full encasement, but still want absorbent, quiet protection for minor messes. The only downsides are that it does not provide full six-sided pest or allergen protection, and it may shift slightly if used with very thin, loose fitted sheets.

Pros:

• Fits like a standard fitted sheet—easy to install and remove
• Absorbent quilted top layer handles small spills and leaks
• Noiseless under sheets for undisturbed sleep
• Easy to machine wash and dry with no special care
• Adds light cushioning to firm crib mattresses

Cons:

• Not a full six-sided encasement—does not block bed bugs or side spills
• Does not provide full allergen protection
• May shift if used with very thin, loose fitted sheets

My Recommendation This fitted protector is perfect for parents who prefer the ease of a sheet-style fit over a full zippered encasement, and only need protection from minor, everyday spills. It’s also a great pick for toddlers who are past the newborn stage and no longer need full pest or allergen protection. If you want a low-profile, quiet alternative to a full encasement, this is the best zippered crib mattress cover sheet-style option.

Best for:

• Light spills: Absorbent quilted top handles small leaks and spit-up
• Quiet sleepers: Noiseless material won’t disrupt light sleep
• Comfort seekers: Adds light padding to firm crib mattresses

Get the fitted quilted protector on Amazon here

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FAQs: Best Crib Mattress Cover With Zipper

Do zipper encasements pose a safety risk?

Zippered encasements are completely safe when used correctly, per CPSC guidelines. The biggest risk comes from a poorly fitting cover that bunches up and creates loose fabric gaps, which can pose suffocation hazards for infants. Always tuck the zipper pull under the mattress edge or use a built-in zipper guard to prevent curious toddlers from pulling the zipper open and creating loose fabric. Ensure the cover fits so snugly that there are no gaps between the mattress and crib frame.

Can I use a zippered cover for newborns?

Yes, zippered encasements are safe and highly recommended for newborns, as they block spit-up, diaper leaks, and common allergens that can irritate sensitive skin. Opt for a thin, breathable fabric cover to reduce the risk of overheating, and avoid thick padded options that lift the mattress height or create bulk under sheets.

How do I clean a zippered crib mattress cover?

Most fabric zippered covers are machine washable on gentle cycles and can be tumble dried low. Vinyl covers can be wiped clean with a damp cloth for quick spot treatment between washes. For set-in stains, follow proper spot-cleaning techniques to avoid damaging the waterproof barrier. Always check the manufacturer’s care tag for specific instructions, as some quilted or padded covers may require air drying.

Will a zippered cover make the mattress hot?

It depends on the material. Vinyl and thick padded covers retain more heat than thin, breathable fabric or viscose options, which can be uncomfortable for warm sleepers. If your child tends to sleep hot, opt for a thin polyester or viscose encasement with moisture-wicking properties to improve airflow and reduce heat build-up.

Does a zippered cover stop bed bugs?

A fully sealed six-sided zippered encasement is one of the most effective non-chemical barriers against bed bugs, per EPA guidance. It traps existing bed bugs inside the mattress and prevents new ones from infesting the core. For maximum effectiveness, ensure the zipper closes fully with no gaps, and leave the encasement on the mattress for at least 1 year to ensure all bed bugs inside the mattress are trapped and unable to survive.

Can I use a zippered cover on a non-standard crib mattress?

Yes, but you will need to measure your mattress dimensions (length, width, depth) before purchasing. Most standard covers fit 28” x 52” x 6” mattresses, but mini crib, portable crib, and specialty mattresses often have different dimensions. Check the product listing for size compatibility before buying to ensure a proper fit.

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Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

For most families, the Utopia Bedding six-sided encasement is the best overall zippered crib mattress cover, offering reliable waterproofing, quiet comfort, and low maintenance at an affordable price point. If you want extra cushioning for a toddler, the quilted viscose encasement adds gentle plushness without sacrificing protection. For families needing pest or moisture protection for storage or second-hand mattresses, the SureGuard vinyl encasement delivers industrial-strength barrier performance. No matter your needs or budget, a high-quality zippered crib mattress cover will protect your investment in a crib mattress and keep your child’s sleep space clean, safe, and allergen-free for years.

For more guidance on keeping your child’s sleep space safe and well-maintained, explore our full collection of nursery and mattress care resources.