What safety standard should a cot bed mattress have?
Short answer: Mattresses: look for BS 7177:2008+A1:2011, and BS EN 16890:2017+A1:2021 for cot, travel cot and crib mattresses.
- 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
- Mattresses: look for BS 7177:2008+A1:2011, and BS EN 16890:2017+A1:2021 for cot, travel cot and crib mattresses.
- No safety standard covers SIDS, so a product that meets a British Standard is not automatically safer for sleep.
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
- Tutti Bambini Pocket Sprung Cot Bed Mattress (70 x 140 cm)
- Obaby Sprung Mattress - 140 x 70cm
- Tutti Bambini Eco Fibre Deluxe Cot Bed Mattress (70 x 140 cm)
- Obaby Fibre Mattress - 140 x 70cm
Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
Moses basket mattress vs cot mattress: which is better?Travel cot mattresses buying guide for UK parentsGuide to space saver cot mattresses 100 x 50: what to look forCan my baby sleep on a bean bag?Is a cot bed mattress right for you? Quick quizCrib and Moses basket mattresses buying guide for UK parentsAll 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.