You've already bought the best cot or crib for your baby to safely sleep in, so now it’s time to find the very best cot mattress for your baby. We know how important sleep is for babies, and the best way to encourage sleep is by creating a sleep environment that's cosy and safe for your baby. The right toddler mattress can do just that.
Safety is paramount when you're a parent, and with evidence finding that second-hand mattresses can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), it's safer to buy a brand-new cot mattress if you can. This is because older mattresses may not be firm or flat enough to provide the right support and could result in suffocation.
The best cot mattress at a glance:
• Best overall cot mattress: CuddleCo Lullaby Hypo-Allergenic Bamboo Cot Bed Mattress
• Best cot mattress for adaptive comfort: CuddleCo Signature Hypo-Allergenic Bamboo Pocket Sprung Cot Bed Mattress
• Best budget cot mattress: Tutti Bambini Sprung Cot Bed Mattress
• Best long-lasting cot mattress: The Little Green Sheep Natural Twist Cot Bed Mattress
Along with safety, there are a few other features you'll want to consider. The size of the cot mattress you buy will depend on the size of your baby's bed, as there is a slight difference in size between cots and cot beds. You may also be looking for your child's cot mattress to be made of a certain material, especially if they suffer from allergies. It's also likely that you'll be after a cot mattress that can be either washed or comes with a removable, washable cover. While this can all feel like a lot to consider, we've done the hard work for you and rounded up our top 11 choices.
Selecting a mattress for your baby is a hugely important task and actually very personal. Whether you're selecting a mattress for a bedside crib or you're moving your toddler into their own room for the first time, you want to find the best mattress to suit your little one's needs.
Remember, if you are planning to use a bedside crib for your newborn to sleep in, you would need a different-size mattress for this. Similarly, if you plan to use a travel cot in the future, this will usually come with its own mattress.
The best cot mattress 2024
Best overall cot mattress
www.very.co.uk
Description
The CuddleCo Lullaby Hypo-Allergenic Bamboo Cot Bed Mattress was awarded Gold for Best Sleep Product at the Mother&Baby Awards 2024 and 2023.
The CuddleCo Lullaby hypo-allergenic bamboo cot bed mattress is a baby and toddler mattress designed to grow with your little one. It has two sides, one typical soft mattress side and the other a waterproof training layer. The Lullaby mattress is made with natural hypo-allergenic and anti-microbial properties to help promote a germ-free, clean sleep environment.
Mum tester Steph said: "My son has really taken to this mattress and it's given him plenty of good nights' sleep! I feel I can put him down easier and feel more at ease knowing he's on a comfortable mattress for the night. I'm also looking forward to testing out the waterproof side as this is really ingenuous for the potty training days!"
Read our full CuddleCo Lullaby Hypo-Allergenic Bamboo Cot Bed Mattress review.
Pros
- Breathable airflow fibres
- Anti-allergy
- Removable cover
Cons
- Spare cover not included
simbasleep.com
Description
The Simba Baby Cot Bed Mattress was awarded Bronze for Best Sleep Product at the Mother&Baby Awards 2024.
Sleep is even more important for children than it is for adults, so Simba have packed all their award-winning tech into this double-sided, 8–layered Simba Baby Cot Bed Mattress. It’s designed to last through babyhood and beyond - keeping your newborn safe from bacteria, allergens and chemicals, on the firm, flat sleep surface they need. Then at 12 months+ turn it over for the cushioned, edge-to-edge support that toddlers need. Includes water-resistant inner and washable cover. Birth to 3yrs.+
Our mum tester said: "I would highly recommend this mattress to anyone. The design is fantastic in that it can be used for young babies with the firm side and then turned over and the softer side used for when the child gets older. Another fab feature is the fact the cover is removable for cleaning. With it being a child’s mattress there are often times they need a thorough clean and the fact you can easily remove the cover to machine wash it is fab."
Read our full Simba Baby Cot Bed Mattress review.
Pros
- Free delivery
- 2-year guarantee
- Designed to last
- Soft
- Eight layers
Cons
- Cons
- Expensive
Best long-lasting cot mattress
Description
Won Gold at the Mother&Baby Awards 2021 for Baby Sleep Product
This Little Green Sheep Natural Twist Cot Bed Mattress is dual-sided and is designed according to industry experts to adapt to your little one as they develop. One side is firm, making it perfect for youngsters up to 12 months. Once your baby grows, simply turn over to the soft, supple side, which will support them for years to come. The material is breathable, comfy and made from 100 per cent unbleached and undyed natural cotton, making it perfect for babies with sensitive skin.
Mum tester Georgina said: "The two major selling points for this mattress are its organic components reducing exposure to harmful chemicals and toxins and its twist feature allowing a safe and comfortable sleep. The mattress has been designed to be breathable and hypoallergenic which are reassuring features when picking a mattress."
Read our full The Little Green Sheep Natural Twist Cot Bed Mattress review.
Pros
- Dual-sided
- Breathable materials
Cons
- No waterproof covers included
Best budget cot mattress
www.boots.com
Description
An affordable foam option that is super breathable, hypoallergenic and supportive of your baby's natural posture. The Tutti Bambini Sprung Cot Bed Mattress comes with a cover that is easy to clean in case of any accidents, and the coil springs create the perfect sleeping position for your baby.
One review said: "Perfect mattress for our babies cot! Looks expensive buy highly recommend as the company producing this item has a great reputation."
Pros
- Affordable
- Hypoallergenic
- Supportive coil springs
Cons
- Some parents mentioned that it felt firm
Best cot mattress with Clevafoam technology
Description
Won Silver at the Mother&Baby Awards 2022 for Best Bedding
Designed to support your baby's developing head and joints, the ClevaMama Clevafoam Support Cot Mattress is just what you need for those early months. Not only is the cover removable, lightweight, and breathable, but the airflow fabric draws away moisture and increases airflow.
Mother&Baby writer, Hannah James said: "My youngest son needed a new mattress. I was delighted to try Clevamama. He already loves the ClevaMama ClevaFoam Toddler Pillow so, I was confident he would like the mattress too. My initial concern was that it was a little firm. I worried how he would get on with it but that night, he slept so soundly. The covers are easy to wash. Absolutely brilliant. I wish I had brought this mattress from the start."
Read our full Clevamama Clevafoam Support Cot Bed Mattress review here.
Pros
- Hypo-allergenic
- Made with ClevaFoam technology
- Prevents flathead syndrome
Cons
- Selling fast
Best cot mattress for support
Description
Featuring a natural lambs wool support system, making it supportive for your baby's head and body. The mesh cover is washable and allows air to flow freely, and the Silentnight Safe Nights mattress comes with Purotex, a 100 per cent natural treatment that combats moisture, mites and allergens for a more hygienic sleeping environment.
Our mum tester Natalie said: "My little boy was previously in a 'next to me' crib and seemed to love it so I was a little concerned that the mattress wouldn’t be as comfortable for him. But since moving him into his cot using this mattress, he has slept even better and settles down to sleep fabulously. I know I can pop him into his cot and be confident that he will happily chill out and pop himself off to sleep."
Read our full Silentnight Safe Nights Superior Pocket Cot Bed Mattress review.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Double-sided
- Mini-pocket core for responsive support
Cons
- Only suitable for up to 4-years
Best dual-sided cot mattress
www.samueljohnston.com
Description
Designed for the comfort of your baby, this dual-sided Snüz Surface Duo Cot Mattress features a pocket-sprung core, providing support as they transition into toddlerhood. Simply flip over to the firmer side so that they can grow with their mattress. As for leaks, accidents and spills, this mattress has a waterproof surface meaning it's easier to wipe up.
One review said: "My son sleeps through the night and doesn't keep getting up now. This mattress was worth every penny. He says it feels like sleeping on a cushion."
Pros
- Dual-sided
- Waterproof
Cons
- Takes up to a week to decompress
Best fully washable cot mattress
Description
With a hollow core and fully breathable mesh to allow free air circulation, Purflo promises this mattress will comfortably support your baby or child better than a conventional mattress. Hypoallergenic with specialist fibre padding, both the mattress and the cover can be washed, helping maintain optimum hygiene.
Mum Jen said: "I love this cot mattress! So simple in design to look at but functionally great. Fully breathable so if little one decides to roll over I know they will be safe. Washable! Oh my days, a washable mattress, so very very handy for those little accidents! Easy to put together the frame, although recommend 2 people as would be tricky on your own I feel. A great idea, and highly recommended by us."
Pros
- Fully washable
- Thermo-neutral
- Conforms to the baby’s body
Cons
- Mesh may get frayed over time
Best bamboo pocket-sprung cot mattress
www.cuddleco.co.uk
Description
CuddleCo's Comfi-Love signature children's mattress has a luxurious feel and quality and responds to your child's position as they have a restful night's sleep. This bamboo, hypoallergenic mattress has been designed to last your little one as they grow. It also has a waterproof layer, which is handy for when you're potty training!
Mum tester Phillipa said: "I love that this mattress is double-sided - meaning that I can use the one side (bamboo fabric) whilst my little one is young, then swap to the reverse (the easy-clean waterproof training layer) when my little one gets a bit older. The waterproof layer is still comfortable and my little one is more than happy sleeping on this! It’s also very easy to clean, which makes a difference! The bamboo fabric on the other side is beautifully soft and so comfortable."
Read our full CuddleCo Comfi-Love Signature Mattress review.
Pros
- Waterproof training side
- Breathable
- Pocket sprung
Cons
- Cheaper alternatives
Best cot mattress for adaptive comfort
www.boots.com
Description
Won Bronze at the Mother&Baby Awards 2023 for Baby Sleep Product
The CuddleCo Signature hypo-allergenic bamboo pocket sprung cot bed mattress contours with your little one's body position to give them a better night's sleep. As it is an ever-changing mattress, it is designed to be the only mattress your baby will need. This two-sided mattress incorporates a signature bamboo fabric, that has natural hypoallergenic and anti-microbial properties, which help to maintain a germ-free, cleaner environment.
Mum tester April said: "This mattress seems really comfy, it’s really soft and springy and easy to clean. My daughter really liked it, it felt like it contoured to her shape and she looked so cosy when she was sleeping. She moves a lot in her sleep and the mattress supported her well as she was sleeping. She slept just as well if not better than usual from the first night using it."
Read our full CuddleCo Signature hypo-allergenic bamboo pocket sprung cot bed mattress review.
Pros
- Anti-microbial properties
- Double-sided
- Suitable from birth
Cons
- Doesn't come with a spare cover
Best made to measure cot mattress
www.naturalmat.co.uk
Description
The Naturalmat Quilted mattress is made from organic materials that boast breathability and softness, and it is a hypoallergenic and anti-dust mite option. You're in safe hands as there's a five-year guarantee, you can feel rest assured this cot mattress will stand the test of time and will last until your little one grows out of it.
Our mum tester Emma said: "My son Olly had a great night’s sleep on this. It’s a moderately soft children's mattress which is really comfortable. It has layers of organic coir, organic lambswool and a cotton cover that’s removable and machine washable at 60C. The latex foam core means it has good breathability."
Read our full Naturalmat Quilted Latex Matreview.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Designed to grow with baby
Cons
- Additional charge for mattress cover
Best cot mattress with 100 per cent allergy protection
www.argos.co.uk
Description
The Mother&Baby Gold Collection baby and toddler mattresses offer a cleaner, fresher, healthier sleep environment. The Anti-Allergy Coir Pocket Sprung Mattress uses the perfect combination of nature’s finest TENCEL™ fibres and Purotex® anti-allergy protection to guarantee a fresher, cleaner and healthier sleep environment for your baby.
Mum Louise tried out this mattress and said: “I was excited to try the Mother&Baby Gold Collection mattress. Without a doubt, my favourite feature is the probiotic 100% natural anti-allergy protection. We have a cat in our house so I love the idea that this mattress can clean cat allergens! With the usual new baby anxieties, I’m so keen on making sure my little one’s environment is as natural and clean as possible.”
Pros
- Natural coconut coir for firmer sleep
- Eliminates allergens
- Enhanced moisture management
Cons
- Not many colours to choose from
Best cot mattress for four sleeping options
www.obaby.co.uk
Description
Bringing little bubba home soon and need the perfect baby mattress? Then this is for you. Perfect from birth, this hypoallergenic product is strong enough to help support your baby’s muscle development and bone growth. It also comes with coconut coir, attached with natural latex, which gives a naturally long-lasting, bouncy, and soft feel. And, when baby gets older, you’ll be able to flip this mattress, giving separate pocket springs covered with high-grade. dent-resistant nursery foam, how relaxing.
Pros
- Absorbent and supportive for babies
- Water-resistant
- Mattress cover unzips in order to flip core from baby side to toddler side
Cons
- One colour to choose from
Cot mattress – All you need to know
Types of cot mattress
When it comes to choosing a mattress for your baby's cot, you have three main choices:
Foam cot mattresses: They are designed to provide the right support and maintain your baby's natural posture.
Spring or pocket-spring cot mattress: With coiled spring interior with layers of felt and foam padding. A spring inner core will support your baby and hold its shape well.
Coir or natural fibre cot mattress: With a core of coconut fibre, they tend to be more breathable and naturally hypoallergenic.
Hollow frame (PurFlo) cot mattress: Made only by brand PurFlo, this mattress is supposedly the only fully breathable and fully washable mattress.
Choosing the right cot mattress for you and your child
Safety
According to the Lullaby Trust, it’s best to choose a firm and flat mattress. It'll need to fit your baby's cot snugly and there should be no gaps for fingers or toes to get trapped. Keep an eye out for the British Standards with the prefix BSI number BSEN716 on swing tickets and product specifications, as this is the standard for cots, prams and mattresses.
It's important to avoid adding any extra bedding in the cot, such as duvets, as they can increase the risk of SIDS. If it’s cold, it's recommended you opt for a baby sleeping bag instead of extra blankets or covers. You can introduce a duvet when your little one gets older.
Cleaning
You'll want a cot mattress that is protected by a waterproof cover. This will help keep the mattress clean and dry, as the cover can be wiped down.
Can I use a second-hand mattress?
Generally, it is advised that babies should sleep on a new mattress as there is some evidence to suggest that bringing in a mattress from another home might increase the risk of sudden infant death (SIDS) very slightly, however, this link has not been proven.
If you do want to use a second-hand cot mattress - perhaps given to you by a friend or family, or from your older child, The Lullaby Trust say "to make sure the mattress you choose was previously completely protected by a waterproof cover, with no rips or tears and is in good condition. The mattress should also still be firm and flat to keep your baby sleeping safely."
What size mattress do I need for a cot or cot bed?
Baby mattresses come in a variety of sizes, depending on what sort of bed your baby is sleeping in.
Moses basket mattress: normally 28cm x 75cm, but it depends on the brand of Moses basket
Travel cot mattress: 65cm x 95cm
Small cot mattress: 54cm x 90cm
Cot mattress: 60cm x 120cm
Cot bed mattress: 70cm x 140cm
Although it can differ depending on the type of mattress you buy, typically, a cot mattress will last between 3-5 years.
Stephanie Anthony is the Deputy Digital Editor at Mother&Baby and auntie to four aged 7 to 2 months old. With a particular interest in health, she loves discovering products that make parent’s lives easier.