Buying second-hand nursery items safely
Short answer: Second-hand furniture can be fine if it is complete and meets British Standards, but the Lullaby Trust recommends a new mattress for each baby where possible.
Step by step
- Check for a full set of parts and the instructions.
- Look up the relevant standard.
- Use a new mattress if you can.
What the guidance says
- The Lullaby Trust recommends a new mattress for each baby where possible. A second-hand one should have a 100% waterproof cover, no rips, tears or water damage, no sagging, a good fit and a fire-resistant label.
- Cots and travel cots: look for BS EN 716-1:2017.
- Bedside cribs: look for BS EN 1130:2019.
- No safety standard covers SIDS, so a product that meets a British Standard is not automatically safer for sleep.
Shop at Baby Kingdom
- Tutti Bambini Eco Fibre Deluxe Cot Bed Mattress (70 x 140 cm)
- Tutti Bambini Natural Coir Fibre Cot Bed Mattress (70 x 140 cm)
- Kidsaw Freshtec Starter Foam Toddler Cot Bed Mattress
- Obaby 100 x 50cm Foam Cot Mattress with Washable Cover
Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
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Sources
- The Lullaby Trust: Baby mattresses and bedding (accessed 2026-10-21)
General information only, not medical advice. Always follow your product's instructions. If you are worried about your baby, contact your GP, health visitor or 111. In an emergency, call 999.