Best Pack n Play Mattresses

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Are you looking for the best mattress for Graco Pack n Play playard to have your little one play comfortably? With the many compatible brands and products out there, it can be quite challenging to select one! That's why I help you out and show you my top five choices so read on to learn all about it.

Brands Comparison Table

Runner Up
Preview
NapYou Amazon Exclusive Pack n Play Mattress, Convenient Fold with Bonus Easy Handle Carry Bag*
Material
Organic Cotton and Polyester
Our Rating
-
Prime
-
Budget Pick
Preview
Pack N Play Mattress Protector Pad - Waterproof & Noiseless, Ultra-Soft Breathable Mattress Cover...*
Material
4 layers with different materials
Our Rating
-
Prime
Amazon Prime
High-End Pick
Preview
MamaDooKids Smart Play Yard Mattress, Patented and Made in California, 4 National Awards, Safe,...*
Material
High density foam and fabric
Our Rating
-
Prime
-

Why Invest In a Pack n Play?

best pack and play mattress

A Graco Pack n Play is a play area where your baby stays, usually playing or sleeping. They provide a safe and secure place for your toddler to stay in as you work or run errands at home.

But what exactly makes Graco worth the investment? Here are the benefits it has to offer:

Work Without Worry

Your little one can stay and enjoy playtime inside a secure area while you're busy tending to other things. The pack n play keeps them in one area without the risk of injury.

Allows Babies to Learn

As you continue keeping your little one in a pack n play, they can learn independence. They won't always look for you and know how to be alone without crying. Plus, placing educational toys inside the pack n play improves their brain development!

Mobility and Travel-Friendly

This is probably my favorite benefit. They have the mobility so you can fold and store, or even bring it while traveling! Plus, they're easy to set up as well, so bring the pack n play during your next trip without any problems.

Many Uses

Another excellent benefit is that they are versatile, using it for other purposes! Not only are they great for playing and nap time at home, but you can bring them for traveling as well. These mattresses can also be used for other outdoor activities or an extra bed in the guest room in case you have younger visitors.

Just take note that the portable crib must have the quality mattress to reap the benefits completely! You have to focus on getting only the best for your little one to ensure that they are safe and happy. That way, you can work with the assurance that your baby plays without feeling any discomfort.

Top 5 Best Graco Pack n Play Mattresses

Out of all the different mattresses tried and tested, these are my top five best mattress for Graco Pack n Play reviews:

Dream On Me Mattress - Firm and Supportive

What makes the Dream On Me Foam Pack n Play the best on my list is its excellent construction! I highly appreciate the firm feel made of the supportive foam. It doesn't sink in too much but keeps my little one sitting or lying down perfectly.

The mattress fits most Pack n Play products, fitting like a glove (depending on the model). Besides that, this mattress is made of the durable materials. It's made of the quality craftsmanship that makes it safe and long-lasting.

My little one rests well with it, having no complaints and enjoying the pack n play with the help of the mattress. His sleep also improved as he uses it to nap, which is great because he was so accustomed to co-sleeping!

All in all, I'm thrilled with the buy, and I believe Dream On Me Portable Crib to be worth the investment.

Pros
  • It’s made of the strong and durable material to last long
  • Helps improve sleep and comfort of babies in the pack n play
  • Includes a hypoallergenic and breathable mattress cover.
Cons
  • It may leave a bit of space on the sides of a Graco pack n play
  • Has a bit of an odor at first.

NapYou Mattress - Easy-to-Travel and Convenient

Are you focusing on something that's more convenient and easy to travel with? Then you'll like the NapYou Pack n Play Mattress, which offers the excellent quality and is still convenient to use. It's made of the high-quality foam and cover to ensure a safe and comfortable space for your toddler.

The mattress is made of the organic cotton and feels so soft to the touch. But, it still stays firm and supportive, which is great for my little one whether they're sleeping or playing. My baby has no problem and enjoys playing in the pack n play without issue.

As for its foldability, I commend how convenient it is to fold and take around. It even comes with a travel bag and can be used with or without the pack n play itself! It's great to use for them to sleep on when needed.

For those who want something easy to bring around and always travel, then this is for you.

Pros
  • It’s easy to fold and comes with a travel bag for going out
  • Feels very soft but stays supportive.
  • It can be used with or without the pack n play for sleeping.
Cons
  • Some babies might fold it up while moving around
  • There’s a strong scent lasting for a few days.

Little One's Pad - Universal Fit and Easy-to-Clean

I recommend the Little One's Pad for its affordability. I like that it's very versatile and fits all types of Pack n play products, which is what makes it worth the investment. Furthermore, it has the long-lasting quality and properties that make it safe and easy to use for both baby and parent.

For starters, this is made of the waterproof lining and with the ease of cleaning. Regardless of washing and usage, it still stays soft and does its job in keeping my little one comfortable.

As a sensitive baby, he doesn't have any more allergies thanks to this mattress, not sneezing or sniffling as much anymore.

It makes NO noise and has no smell when you receive it, also made of the absorbent properties for better maintenance. Overall, a long-lasting mattress that will keep your baby protected in the long run. It's great for those on a budget!

Pros
  • It’s more affordable compared to other mattresses.
  • Antibacterial and hypoallergenic prevent allergies.
  • It’s very soft and long-lasting, never shrinks and has no smell.
Cons
  • Might be too thick
  • There are some complaints of it being too soft.

MamaDoo Kids Play Yard - Premium and Portable

While the MamaDoo Kids Play Yard Mattress may be pricier than usual, it's worth the price! It offers terrific plushness and versatility, which is why I love using this for my little one! This is a foldable play mat which is compatible for a Graco pack 'n play while still being useful as independent bedding.

It's made of the modern design, with it being tri-fold and fitting most Graco pack n play products.

The mat has the cotton fabric and soft materials, which feel very comfortable for your little one. When placing it on the pack n play, it doesn't have any gaps nor a strong scent, having everything I need in a mattress.

Everything about it is almost excellent, from the exact fit and the safe, high-quality materials made to last. From the foldability to the versatile purposes, it's definitely a worthy purchase! I recommend it for anyone who has the extra bucks to spend.

Pros
  • Perfect fit for any Pack n play and can also be used on its own
  • One of the top qualities with a soft yet supportive feel
  • Easy to take around with good foldability
Cons
  • It comes at a high price
  • Some complaints of receiving dirty foam pieces

Milliard Pack N Play - High Quality and Easy-to-Travel

Coming to my last choice, it's the Milliard Tri-Fold Mattress.

It isn't the ideal mattress with some things to improve on, though I commend it for the top quality. It conforms right without sinking in too much, made of the high-quality foam and a breathable, waterproof cover.

The mattress has improved my baby's sleep, and he feels comfortable on it when on the pack 'n play. I've assured security without worrying about allergies and the like. Besides that, it's very portable because of its foldable feature so you can use it with or without a playard.

BUT like mentioned, it does have its downfalls. While the mattress comes with a carrying bag, it has a slight smell to it. I recommend that you air it out or place it in another bag.

These are just minor issues I've noticed, but the mattress' quality still stands out. For its portability and comfortable, I can say it's a worthy investment for many traveling or space-saving families.

Pros
  • Can be used for both pack n play or independently, easy to travel with
  • High-quality mattress cover that’s waterproof and easy to clean
  • Has no gaps when placed on the pack n play
Cons
  • Sometimes bows up on the edges for the first few days
  • Carry bag has a strong odor

Differences Between a Playard Mattress vs Other Options

So, what's the difference between the playard mattress from the others available? I've had many parents ask me if crib mattresses or other smaller paddings can replace it. But, a crib and pack n play mattress have their own purposes.

1

Crib Mattress

play and pack mattress

A crib mattress has a different size and thickness compared to the Pack n Play mattress. It may be thicker and firmer to match the crib's foundation.


These may be used for a pack n play, though it depends on the size you get. But, I highly recommend that you get the best pack and play mattress. It ensures better fit without the need for adjustments.

2

Playard Mattress

mattress for pack n play

These mattresses are made exclusively for pack n play products, usually coming at similar sizes for universal use. Take note that these types can't be used for cribs. They have different sizes suitable only for Pack n Plays, not for cribs of different dimensions.


Furthermore, they aren't as thick to help keep your toddler supported as they sleep in a crib. This is because of the harder foundation a crib has compared to a Graco Pack 'n Play.

How to Choose the Best Mattress For Graco Pack n Play?

buying mattresses

It's essential that you select the best pack n play mattress. To find the one suitable for both you and your little one, here are the different factors to consider:

Firmness and Support

You'll want to make sure that the mattress you select keeps your little one free from pain. With that being said, it's best to find something on the firmer side, mainly if they use it for sleeping. That way, they sleep well without any pain in the long run!

Comfort and Breathability

Besides the support to keep your baby free from pain, it should also have the plushness to prevent discomfort.


I appreciate mattresses with the perfect balance of firmness and softness for improved comfort. Furthermore, your option should be breathable to keep him fresh.

Safe and Hypoallergenic Materials

I highly suggest that you get an organic cotton mattress for your baby to keep him safe. They are made of the all-natural materials, making it useful for your baby to stay in.


Focus on anti-bacterial and hypoallergenic materials for the security your little one deserves.

Durable Construction

Of course, you'll want to have a mattress that lasts for the long run. With that being said, choose a mattress made of the high-quality materials built to last. That way, your baby can continue to use it as he grows and develops.

Extra Tips on How to Use a Graco Pack n Play

Caring Your Pillows

Now that you know everything about the Graco Pack n Play, how can you use it properly? Here are some tips you can follow:

  • When assembling your Graco Pack n Play, you have to make sure that you follow instructions carefully. It's best to double check that everything is set up correctly and that it's tightened to prevent damage and accidents.
  • Sometimes, your little one won't want to stay in their Graco Pack and Play, mainly if she's used to co-sleeping with you! If that's the case, I highly recommend that you ease into it and give them a LOT of time to play inside the Pack n Play. They'll get used to the play yard and feel comfortable in it.
  • Your baby will most likely want to see you during naps or bedtime, so keep it close to you for comfort. Also, keep toys inside for more support and encouragement to stay.

For more information, here's helpful video on setting it up:

Wrapping it Up

A mattress compatible with your child's Graco Pack 'n Play is a significant investment. Your baby won't only have a comfortable mattress to play on, but they'll be safe and supported, too. This ensures that your child will have a fun time without worry of discomfort as they enjoy.

Of all the different mattresses tried and tested, the best one goes to Dream On Me Foam Mattress. It's made of the high-quality and safe materials, with the sturdy construction that makes it suitable for babies to be on. Plus, it's easy to clean, with the waterproof cover and hypoallergenic for a healthy environment!

This firm padding still offers them enough support and is compatible with most Graco Pack 'n Plays. Firm yet comfortable, this offers the excellent feel and durability to last. It's definitely worth the investment for babies to toddlers alike!

Hopefully, this article on the best mattress for Graco Pack n Play reviews helped you out. So don't wait any longer and look into getting any of these products today. 

Do you have questions or want to share your own experiences with these brands? Then comment below! I would love to hear what you have to think.

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