Can a 5 month old sleep on a raised or tilted mattress for reflux?
Short answer: No. Keep the sleep surface flat. The Lullaby Trust says not to incline, tilt or prop the mattress or cot, as it does not help reflux. Speak to your doctor instead. Safer-sleep advice applies until 12 months, about 7 months from 5 month.
Use the same advice for every sleep, day and night, until 12 months.
What the guidance says
- Keep the sleep surface flat. Do not incline, tilt or prop the mattress, cot or baby: it does not help reflux. Speak to your doctor about reflux.
- 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.
Shop at Baby Kingdom
- Ickle Bubba Fibre Cot Bed Mattress 140 x 70cm
- Kidsaw Pocket Sprung Toddler Mattress 70 x 140cm
- Obaby 100 x 50cm Foam Cot Mattress with Washable Cover
- Tutti Bambini Pocket Sprung Cot Mattress (60 x 120 cm)
Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
Should I buy a sprung or foam cot mattress?Travel cot mattress buying checklistCan my baby sleep on a waterproof mat in the cot?Can I buy a second-hand cot bed mattress?Is a travel cot mattress right for you? Quick quizIs a cot mattress right for you? Quick quizAll cot and baby mattresses advice →
Sources
- The Lullaby Trust: Sleeping position (accessed 2026-10-21)
- 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.