How do I choose a cot bed mattress?

• Confirm the cot bed's mattress size before buying, as frames vary.
• Firm, flat, waterproof, with a snug fit.
• Choose foam, spring or fibre for your budget and how much you need to wipe or wash it.

What the guidance says

• 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.
• The Lullaby Trust says your baby's head should sink no more than a few millimetres into the mattress.
• 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.
• Mattresses: look for BS 7177:2008+A1:2011, and BS EN 16890:2017+A1:2021 for cot, travel cot and crib mattresses.

Related questions

What is a cot bed mattress?

A firm, flat mattress for a cot bed, usually 140 x 70cm, which carries on into the toddler-bed stage.

Shop at Baby Kingdom

Browse cot bed mattresses

• Tutti Bambini Natural Coir Fibre Cot Bed Mattress (70 x 140 cm)
• Ickle Bubba Premium Sprung Cot Mattress 140 x 70cm
• Kidsaw Freshtec Starter Foam Toddler Cot Bed Mattress
• Tutti Bambini Eco Fibre Deluxe Cot Bed Mattress (70 x 140 cm)

Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.

More 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.