Important information when buying a baby mattress
Differences between these mattresses
PELLEPLUTT and SKÖNAST are separate mattresses with covers that can be washed at 60 degrees. SKÖNAST has cold foam and an inner cover; PELLEPLUTT has a polyether foam core. Those material names do not tell you which mattress your baby will prefer or how long it will last.
With AeroSleep Essential, the protector is a separate part placed on top of the mattress. Wash the mattress cover at 40 degrees and the protector at 60 degrees. A fitted sheet is not included. So also compare the bed linen that fits the complete set.
Another version is IKEA PLUTTIG, product 506.077.70. This polyether foam mattress measures 60 by 120 by 5 cm. You can clean the cover with a damp cloth, but cannot wash it. That is the difference in care compared with PELLEPLUTT.
Which size fits the bed?
This comparison covers 60 by 120 cm mattresses. A 70 by 140 cm mattress belongs in a bed made for that size. The dimensions and shape may differ for a cradle or bedside cot. Use the mattress size and combination stated in the instructions for that bed.
Also check the maximum thickness and height marking in the bed. The instructions for the IKEA SNIGLAR, SMÅGÖRA and ÄLSKVÄRD models shown state a maximum of 12 cm. Different requirements may apply to other beds. Do not add a second mattress to make a thinner one thicker. The mattress must lie flat and fit against the sides of the bed.
A fitted sheet must fit the length, width and thickness. A sheet that is too tight can distort the mattress. For the AeroSleep protector, the manufacturer specifies a matching perforated fitted sheet. Check the combination in the instructions.
View the baby beds and their dimensions
Cleaning after an accident
The mattress cover is also known as a ticking. Check the care label to see which part can be washed. A removable cover does not mean that the foam core can also go in the washing machine. With a set, distinguish between the cover, protector and fitted sheet.
Allow washed parts to dry completely and check that everything still fits properly when you put them back. Do not use a shrunken cover that bends the mattress. Follow the drying instructions on the care label.
Using the mattress and protector
Place your baby on their back on a firm, flat mattress that lies horizontally. Their face should not sink deeply into it. Do not use a mattress with hollows, granules or a plastic cover.
The AeroSleep protector has an open honeycomb layer with an absorbent, waterproof layer underneath. A ventilated layer like this does not make sleeping on the stomach safe. According to VeiligheidNL, it has not been shown that this allows a baby to continue breathing while lying on their stomach.
VeiligheidNL advises against this type of protector during the first postnatal period for babies who have difficulty staying warm. After the first postnatal week, it can be used if your baby can maintain their own temperature and is placed on their back. Discuss any uncertainty with your kraamzorg professional.
Use a hot-water bottle to preheat the bed and remove it before putting your baby in. Keeping a hot-water bottle in bed with your baby is only appropriate after consultation with a knowledgeable professional. Combining a hot-water bottle with a waterproof mattress protector may create additional risks. Follow the advice from the kraamzorg service and the product instructions.
About the comparison
We compare the stated dimensions, materials, care and package contents. The three main options have a removable, washable cover; PLUTTIG shows an alternative whose cover is cleaned with a damp cloth. We have not tested these mattresses ourselves. A higher price, thicker core or the word breathable is not in itself evidence of greater safety.
The public test method used by the Dutch Consumers' Association (Consumentenbond) helps distinguish product features from measured results. We do not reuse a test result or endorsement from an older version with the same name. Before buying, check the product number and any safety warnings from NVWA. Those sources are listed below.
Best baby mattresses: which suits your family?
PELLEPLUTT has a polyether foam core with a washable cover. SKÖNAST has cold foam and a separate inner cover. AeroSleep Essential includes a separate protector with its own usage instructions. Choose the right size and thickness for the crib first, then compare care requirements.