There seems to be quite a bit of hype over using a crib mattress as a dog bed. So, I decided to do a deep dive into this theory and research the pros and cons of using a crib mattress for your dog.
Can you truly save money by using a crib mattress instead of a dog bed? Well, the answer is both yes and no. Allow me to explain...The most commonly referred to crib mattresses people are using for dog beds right now are spring or coil. The Dream On Me Spring Crib And Toddler Bed Mattress is a perfect example and the approximate cost is $45.
In regard to size, you would likely save money. Larger dog beds can get pretty expensive. In regard to quality, your dog will probably tear the waterproof protective cover in no time at all. There are many reviews on Amazon stating the cover of this mattress rips and cracks very easily. So, if it won't stand up to a sleeping baby, it probably won't stand up to your dog. Additional reports claim their dogs are not fond of the crackling noise the plastic cover makes. Bottom line? You can save money based on size but you will lose money based on quality. Replacement waterproof mattress covers aren't cheap!
So, let's take a quick glance at a comparable dog bed...
This is the Extra Large AmazonBasics Ergonomic Foam Pet Bed. The approximate cost is $54.00 for the largest size. This is your basic foam pet bed that features a removable, washable cover. The foam interior nicely supports achy joints and offers soothing relief to hips, shoulders, and other pressure points (no coils or springs). So, here are the pros and cons for a coil / spring mattress...
Pros:
- Size: Great For Larger Dogs
- Price: Less expensive than comparable large dog beds
Cons:
- Quality: Coil mattress may cause discomfort
- Durability: Crib mattress covers tear easily
- Likeness: Dogs are uncomfortable with the noise
This is the Graco Premium Foam Crib And Toddler Mattress and the BarkBox Memory Foam Dog Bed. The Amazon reviews for this particular mattress and dog bed are pretty good.
As you can see, you won't find any coils or springs in this Graco Crib Mattress:
- Embossed quilted polyester cover with moisture barrier
- Separation barrier
- Fire barrier
- Polyurethane foam core with air flow technology
The Graco Premium Foam Crib and Toddler Mattress measures 27.6 x 52 x 5 inches. A comparable dog bed (The Bark Box Memory Foam Dog Bed) measures 42 x 31 x 4 inches. How do they compare in cost? Well, the Graco Crib Mattress runs around $60.00 and the BarkBox Memory Foam Dog Bed runs around $65.00. While it's not an immense difference in cost, you are getting more for your money with the Graco Crib Mattress.
Bark Box Memory Foam Dog Bed: Check Price
Graco Premium Foam Crib Mattress: Check Price
So, here are the pros and cons for a foam crib mattress...
Pros:
- Size: Larger than the comparable dog bed
- Durability: Quality Foam
- Quality: Trusted manufacturer
- Likeness: Plastic mattress pad may cause dogs to avoid the bed
- Price: Slightly more expensive than the comparable dog beds
In the case of a foam crib mattress, I would have to say that I prefer the crib mattress over the comparable dog bed.
So, I hope this little article cleared things up for you. Being aware of the many discussions taking place regarding using crib mattresses for dog beds, I thought it would be a good idea to provide this review on my blog. Make sure you sign up for my FREE Newsletter before you go!
Have a great day!
