Travel cot mattresses buying guide for UK parents
Short answer: A travel cot mattress is a mattress made for a specific travel cot base. Choose one that fits your space and your baby's stage, and use it as the instructions say.
What is a travel cot mattress?
A mattress made for a specific travel cot base. It is used whenever the travel cot is used for sleep.
How to choose
- Buy only one sized for your travel cot.
- Never stack a second mattress or folded blankets in the travel cot.
- Check it is firm and flat with a waterproof cover.
Safety standards
- Mattresses: look for BS 7177:2008+A1:2011, and BS EN 16890:2017+A1:2021 for cot, travel cot and crib mattresses.
Common questions
- Can I put a mattress in a travel cot?
- How do I choose a travel cot mattress?
- How long can you use a travel cot mattress?
- When should I buy a travel cot mattress?
- Can I buy a second-hand travel cot mattress?
- Travel cot mattress buying checklist
- What safety standard should a travel cot mattress have?
- Travel cot mattress vs cot mattress: which is better?
What the guidance says
- Travel cots need the same safer-sleep set-up as a cot: a rigid frame and base and a firm, flat mattress. Do not add folded blankets or a quilt under the baby.
- Use a firm, flat, waterproof mattress in good condition, with no raised or cushioned edges, that fits the cot or Moses basket with no gaps.
- Mattresses: look for BS 7177:2008+A1:2011, and BS EN 16890:2017+A1:2021 for cot, travel cot and crib mattresses.
Shop at Baby Kingdom
- Ickle Bubba Scout Travel Crib, Cot and Playpen Complete Mattress
- Obaby Foam Travel Cot Mattress 95 x 65 cm
Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
Can a 7 month old sleep on a raised or tilted mattress for reflux?How long can you use a cot mattress?Can a 10 month old sleep on a raised or tilted mattress for reflux?Can I use a second-hand cot mattress?Is a cot bed mattress right for you? Quick quizWhat cot mattresses 120 x 60 does Baby Kingdom sell?All cot and baby mattresses advice →
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.