Children are a wonderful addition to our families. To ensure these bundles of joy grow up to be healthy, fit and strong, it is important to provide them with ample and refreshing rest at all times. That is why we bring you the best cot mattresses in the market.
All of these products are made from superior quality material. They are durable, healthy-easy to clean and maintain, and comfortable for the baby. All the products have excellent moisture management structures that allow in air while keeping wetness away. Since they are all hypo-allergenic, you don’t have to worry about your child contracting asthma, eczema or such other diseases that come from allergic reaction. The mattresses are made in standard cot dimensions.
Best cot mattress reviews in the UK
1. Cosatto Springi Cot Mattress – OUR TOP PICK
The Cosatto Springi has all the features you want in a cot mattress. It is firm, making it SIDS-safe. It’s also comfortable. A bonnell spring interior gives the mattress a nice bounce and ensures it lasts for long, perhaps even through a couple or so more kids.
The water-resistant cover and water-proof liner ensure no fluids get inside the mattress, thus keeping away mould and mildew. The cover is also hypoallergenic and breathable.
If you are looking for a supportive and comfortable cot mattress that is safe for your little one and will last for years, the Cosatto Springi mattress is one of the best. Read our full review of Cosatto Springi Cot Mattress.
2. KATY Superior Deluxe Spring Cot Bed-Junior Bed Sprung Mattress
This is a superior quality mattress made in Britain and manufactured without using Phosphorus, Antimony or Arsenic fire retardants. KATY® Superior Mattress has a high-density foam encasing a high graded Bennelli Spring unit and covered with a waterproof membrane.
The washable quilt membrane can be fitted in both head foot positions. The mattress is supportive and yet comfortable and is ideal for baby’s ergonomics.
The dimensions 140x70cm makes the mattress able to fit all junior and cot beds. Read our full review of KATY Cot Bed Mattress.
3. Mother Nurture Luxury Spring Cot Bed Mattress with Tape Edges
Mother Nurture Luxury Spring Cot Mattress is a lovely hypoallergenic mattress that features an edge bound cover. The mattress, which is manufactured in Britain at high and professional standards.
Care has been put in its development to ensure superior comfort level. It is entirely breathable and waterproof. Its cover is machine washable at 60 degrees.
Mother Nurture has ensured that only high-quality spring unit to support baby shape and position. The dimensions are the standard 140x70cm to fit any cot or junior bed. Read our full review of Mother Nurture Cot Bed Mattress.
4. Mamas & Papas Sprung Cot Bed Mattress
Extra allergy protection and temperature regulation make this superior quality product one of a kind. The spring support uses individualised spring units to ensure that each spring acts independently.
The cot bed mattress has awesome internal airflow that lets bouts of air into the core. The mattress is also anti-allergenic and is treated with Purotex which keeps germs and allergens at bay. The quilt is water resistant but is machine washable at 40 degrees.
The cot mattress has dimensions of 120x60x10. The manufacturer gives a generous warranty of 3 months for parts only. Read our full review of Mamas & Papas Cot Bed Mattress.
5. Clevamama Support Mattress
Ensure that your child has a restful time sleeping with the comfort and support found in the Clevamama ClevaFoam Support Mattress. The mattress is manufactured using fine quality Hypo-allergenic foam which is also PH balanced and toxin free which makes it suitable for babies that suffer asthma and other allergies.
The cover is removable and suitable for machine washing. The mattress has also been tested and proven to prevent and correct the Plagiocephaly syndrome (Flat head syndrome) common among young babies. This works by reducing pressure on the head by 50% and increasing support by 82% not only on the head but also through the entire body.
Clevamama has also been endorsed and certified by a German institute for its breathability, thermal and comfort qualities. The exclusive AirFlow fabric expels moisture and increases the uptake of fresh air. Read our full review of Clevamama Support Mattress.
Cot mattress buying guide
Knowing which cot mattress to buy is very important if you are keen on ensuring that you baby is safe and comfortable while sleeping. There are many types of cot mattresses in the market today but it is very important to know that not all cot mattresses are created equal. This cot mattress buying guide highlights some of the very important things you should look out for when choosing the best cot mattress.
How safe is the cot mattress?
Safety comes high on the priority list when choosing a cot mattress. Here are some tips to help you go about this:
- Be sure that you choose a size that will complement your cot. This means that the mattress should either snuggle the cot or leave gaps that are no wider than 4cm.
- Ensure that your choice mattress is firm and flat.
- Ensure that the mattress is covered with waterproofing material.
- Check whether the mattress conforms to safety standards and other such regulations. The more the certifications on a mattress the better it is.
- Ensure the mattress has the BS 1877-10:2011+A1:2012. number.
New or old?
While it is recommended that one goes for new mattresses; a new mattress may be a financial stretch to some. More to that, there are some second hand mattresses that will give you value for money than your average new one. Here are some of the things to check for when buying a second hand mattress.
- Ensure that the cot mattress is still in good condition; that is; it is firm, flat and fits the cot properly without sagging or leaving gaps.
- Check that it doesn’t have tears, cracks, holes or loose threads.
- Ensure that it has been thoroughly cleaned and dried.
- Ensure that the mattress was previously used with a waterproof covering.
The qualities you should be keen on
There are some qualities that you should put a keen eye on. Having these right will ensure that you get value for money.
a. The mattress cot size
Here, you are checking for both thickness, length and the width of the mattress. Basically, your cot dictates whether you will go for the standard 56x118cm dimensions or the 60x120cm continental dimensions. The wrong size of mattress poses a very great danger to your baby. It is possible to have a mattress custom made to fit the requirements of your cot.
Any mattress that is around 8-10cm deep is enough to comfortably support your child.
b. Easy to clean material
It is important to keep the mattress hygienic and therefore a material that is easy to clean in preferable. A mattress with PVC-covering is advisable. You can also go for one with a removable top panel that you can machine wash at warm or high temperatures.
c. Firmness and thickness
Put some pressure on the mattress when choosing to ensure it is firm rather than soft. Remember to compare the firmness at the center and that of the edges. Thin mattresses dent easily and lose their form.
Types of cot mattresses
There are basically five types of cot mattresses that you can choose from. Let us look at each one of them in detail.
1. Foam mattresses
Foam mattresses are usually the most pocket friendly. The most basic version is made of a single layer of foam and then covered entirely with a waterproof PVC cover that is wipe-cleanable. Some versions of PVC mattresses have ventilation holes.
Pros:
- Easy to clean.
- Doesn’t dent easily.
- Friendly prices for good quality.
Cons:
- Clamminess may be a concern due to the PVC covering.
- Mattresses with ventilation holes are quite a challenge to keep clean since dirt can get trapped in the holes and mesh.
2. Natural fibre cot mattress
These have a come made from coconut fibre then layered with different materials. The fibres may be reinforced with latex rubber for added strength and protection. The natural fibre helps air to circulate in and through the cot mattress.
Pros:
- It is a firm mattress; one of the firmest.
- More durable since they hold their shape well. A good choice if you plan to use for more than one kid.
- Most have a wipe-clean covering.
Cons:
- Scarcely available compared to spring interior or foam mattresses and therefore they tend to be pricey.
3. Spring interior cot mattress
Spring interior cot mattresses have an interior made of coiled spring then padded with multiple layers of foam and felt. They usually have cotton covering on one side and a wipe-clean material on the other. These mattresses tend to last longer as they hold their shape properly. The space made by the springs allow for a proper air flow which not only keeps the mattress fresh but also regulates the child’s temperature.
Pros:
- Widely available since they are popular with many parents.
- The cotton covered side is ideal for use during hot weather as it is not clammy.
Cons:
- A bit pricier than foam mattress.
- The cotton side is quite comfortable but also quite challenging to keep clean.
4. Dual core mattresses
A Dual Core mattress is actually a patented design that has two cores in one. They are ideal for a new born baby and pre-school child. Your new born baby gets to enjoy an orthopedic foam interior that provides a pleasant firm and flat surface to sleep on. As the baby becomes a toddler, they get to enjoy the second core that has micro-pocketed springs that adjust to the baby’s changing size and weight.
Pros:
- Superior support for the baby as it grows.
- Durable.
Cons:
- It’s a pricey mattress
5. Pocketed spring mattress
These are more or less like coil spring mattresses only that each spring is individually pocketed to achieve improved support and comfort.
Pros:
- Excellent superior support.
- Very hard wearing.
Cons:
- Quite expensive.
- Most likely to be non-cost-effective if it won’t be used by more than one child or by one child for several years.
These are the basic tips you need to know while shopping for cot mattresses.Then of course there are other minor factors like prices that one has to consider to make sure they buy products that are within their budget. Remember to have the cot measurements at hand when ordering or shopping for your cot mattress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How to choose a cot mattress?
First, measure the size of the cot to make sure you buy the right mattress size. Ideally, a cot mattress should fit perfectly right against the sides of the crib.
The maximum recommended gap between the cot sides and the mattress is 2.5cm.
Next, look for a firm mattress. A firm mattress not only reduces the risk of SIDS, it also provides good support for your baby.
Innerspring mattresses are generally the best. They are firm and supportive. Additionally, they keep your baby cool since the springs provide good ventilation. They also last longer than cheaper foam cot mattresses.
Make sure the cot mattress is covered with a waterproof material that is easy to wipe.
Also check that the cot mattress has the right safety standard: BS EN 16890:2017 or the older BS 1877-10:2011 + A1:2012.
Q: How to measure cot mattress size?
Strip the cot bare of all bedding. Then take a tape measure and measure the inside length and width of the cot. If you are alone, you’ll need a retractable tape measure.
Note down the measurements and look for a cot mattress that matches. You may not find a cot mattress that’s exactly the same size. But try to find one that leaves no more than 2.5cm between the mattress and the sides of the cot.
Q: What to do with an old cot mattress?
Before you think about disposing an old cot mattress, consider whether you can reuse it around the house.
As long as it’s clean and in relatively good condition, an old cot mattress makes for a wonderful addition to a kids’ play area. They can sit on it while reading and playing. It’s even more fun if it is an innerspring mattress.
Another idea is to upcycle the crib mattress into a doggie bed. The firm, waterproof and easy to clean design of cot mattresses makes them perfect for pets.
If you cannot reuse the mattress at home, consider giving it away. But make sure it is clean and still in a usable condition.
Check if any of your neighbours or family members would like a used cot mattress. Alternatively, list it on Gumtree under Freebies.
If the cot mattress is worn out and no longer fit for use, the best option is to dispose or recycle it.
Check if your local council offers an old mattress disposal service. You can also take the mattress to the tip or take it to a nearby recycling centre.
