Things to consider when buying a cot mattress
Most cots come without a cot mattress, so you’ll need to buy one separately. Your baby’s spine and bones are growing super fast, so their mattress needs to be supportive, allowing them to rest and grow. And remember, a comfortable baby sleeps better so choose your mattress well and earn a few extra zzzs!
Which cot mattress is right for you?
Foam
Foam is lightweight and cheap, but it compresses over time so it’s best for short term use only – think moses basket, crib or cradle and travel cot. Look for good quality, high density and dent-resistant options.
Sprung or pocket-sprung
These foam or latex mattresses are super supportive and let air flow inside the mattress. The springs ensure it’s supportive for longer, so it’s ideal for cots or cot beds. Generally, the more you spend, the better the mattress.
Organic
If you want to keep it natural, some mattresses are made entirely from natural, organic substances, such as cotton, wool, coir and natural latex.
How much will a cot mattress cost?
Prices start around £20 and go up into the hundreds.
Top tips for buying a cot mattress
- Is the cover removable and machine washable at 60 degrees C?
- Avoid gaps more than 3cm between your mattress and cot –stop those wriggly limbs getting stuck!
- Look for good breathability or other heat regulating properties to keep your baby cool and safe
- Hypo-allergenic materials can keep dust mites at bay
- Ideally, buy a new mattress for each new baby, to minimise the risk of cot death. But if you do keep a mattress that’s been kindly passed on, just make sure it’s clean, dry, flat, firm and well-fitting.