After spending so much time choosing a crib mattress (not to mention the money!), you definitely don’t want it to get ruined. Mattress pads—especially waterproof ones—protect the crib mattress so you can use it through toddlerhood and for subsequent children too. Even if you bought a waterproof mattress for the crib, a pad is a safe way to make your baby’s bed clean and comfortable. Take a look at our [top crib mattress pad picks](https://www.babylist.com/hello-baby/best-crib-mattress-pads).