Best Cot Mattress For Your Baby

Buying the best cot mattress for your baby can seem overwhelming. After all, all you want is the best for your baby. This parent's guide will help you find the best mattress for your baby cot bed so you can rest easy knowing your baby is comfortable and safe.

best cot mattress

Welcoming a new life into the world is an exhilarating time, from buying cute clothes to decorating their new room. Though it's understandable that purchasing a mattress may not be the most exciting task that you need to do before your new child is born, however, it is hugely important.

Average newborns spend an average of 16 hours a day sleeping and even when they reach the age of 5 they will still be sleeping for an average of 12-14 hours each day. Newborns spend so much time sleeping that their safety and comfort is an essential factor

The best baby cot mattress not only provides exceptional comfort and support but also aids to promote healthy development and growth. Most of all it keeps them safe throughout the night so you can rest worry-free.

There is a lot of misleading information combined with a vast amount of different brands and products which can leave you completely overwhelmed when the time comes to purchase.

Let's be honest; you don't want to spend days and days searching for the best cot mattress to buy. So we have developed this guide to make it easy for you, which will remove additional stress from your life and allow you to get on with other things.

Best Cot Mattress Comparison

Product
Most Popular
Mother Nurture Spring Mattress
Tutti Bambini Spring Cot Mattress
Katy Spring Foam Baby Mattress
Obaby Foam Cot Mattress
Mother Nurture Classic Spring Cot Bed Mattress,...
Tutti Bambini Sprung Cot Mattress (60 cm X 120 cm)...
KATY® Superior Deluxe Spring Cot Bed-Junior Bed...
Obaby Foam Cot Mattress (120 cm x 60 cm)
Hypoallergenic
Yes
Yes
-
Yes
Removable Cover
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Most Popular
Product
Mother Nurture Spring Mattress
Mother Nurture Classic Spring Cot Bed Mattress,...
Hypoallergenic
Yes
Removable Cover
Yes
More Info
Product
Tutti Bambini Spring Cot Mattress
Tutti Bambini Sprung Cot Mattress (60 cm X 120 cm)...
Hypoallergenic
Yes
Removable Cover
Yes
More Info
Product
Katy Spring Foam Baby Mattress
KATY® Superior Deluxe Spring Cot Bed-Junior Bed...
Hypoallergenic
-
Removable Cover
Yes
More Info
Product
Obaby Foam Cot Mattress
Obaby Foam Cot Mattress (120 cm x 60 cm)
Hypoallergenic
Yes
Removable Cover
Yes
More Info


1. Mother Nurture Spring Cot Bed Mattress Review

mother-nurture-baby-mattress

Mother Nurture has designed and manufactured an affordable, yet quality baby cot mattress, which so far has had nothing but positive feedback from users around the country.

This British manufactured hypoallergenic mattress is bound by a quilted cover to ensure that it is water resistant and can be removed and washed at the optimal 60 degrees to kill all bacteria and germs.

The edges of the mattress are bound to provide extra durability and strength which ensures the mattress is long lasting. The main part of the mattress contains a Bonnell spring unit which is built into high-grade nursery foam covered in a stockinette.

The inside of the mattress has a water-resistant material lining which stops liquids from seeping into the inside of the mattress.

While this mattress is much more affordable in comparison to our top rate mattress, it can still bring a huge amount of benefit to your baby's sleep. From the breathable surface to its firm interior to provide support to the spine while releasing pressure.

Benefits

  • Firm, yet breathable mattress gives your baby a great sleep.
  • Professionally manufactured in the UK to meet the latest British Standards
  • Hypo-allergenic 
  • No nasty chemicals used in the manufacturing process
  • Fits all regular sized cots such as Mothercare & Mamas & Papas.

2. Tutti Bambini Spring Cot Mattress

tutti-baby-mattress

The Tutti Bambini cot mattress is a cosy mattress which allows your baby to sleep in the utmost comfort. It promotes natural posture and also has a 100% polyester quilted cover to limit perspiration and fully breathable Just-Tec fabric to promote airflow.

The mattress has an open coil spring construction that supports your babies bodyweight. It’s also fully hypoallergenic, making it safe as it uses British Safety Standards compliant materials to guard against allergies.

The mattress cover is removable and machine washable so you can keep your baby's sleeping space as clean as possible. The cover is also waterproof so it will protect the mattress from any accidents that may happen throughout the night.

Babies should ideally sleep on their backs; a sprung cot mattress is firmer, which makes this possible without them sinking into the surface.

Benefits

  • Firm, yet breathable mattress gives your baby a great sleep.
  • Professionally manufactured in the UK to meet the latest British Standards
  • Hypo-allergenic 
  • No nasty chemicals used in the manufacturing process
  • Fits all regular sized cots such as Mothercare & Mamas & Papas.

3. Katy Deluxe Spring Cot Baby Mattress Review

katy-baby-mattress

Katy manufactures this high-quality British made mattress without the use of harmful chemicals such as Antimony, Phosphorus Or Arsenic Based Fire Retardants.

It is built using a high-grade Bennelli spring mattress unit which covered in a highly resilient foam stockinette which is then fitted with a waterproof adjustable membrane. It is made using high-grade density foam.

The mattress is also fitted with a removable quilted cover which makes it easy to wash. The mattress is extremely comfortable and breathable while also providing comfort, so it's ideal for keeping your baby's spine in a strong position when sleeping.

This mattress is our budget pick due to the exceptional level of comfort and technology that's built into the mattress to keep your baby cool throughout the night.

Benefits

  • No nasty chemicals used in the manufacturing process
  • Uses a high grade Bennelli spring mattress unit
  • Contains a combination of a spring system and a high impact foam 
  • Manufactured with cool & comfortable "Just-Tec" material, 
  • Fits all regular sized cots such as Mothercare & Mamas & Papas.



4. Rainbow Foam Baby Mattress Review

Rainbow-Baby-Mattress

Katy manufactures this high-quality British made mattress without the use of harmful chemicals such as Antimony, Phosphorus Or Arsenic Based Fire Retardants.

It is built using a high-grade Bennelli spring mattress unit which covered in a highly resilient foam stockinette which is then fitted with a waterproof adjustable membrane. It is made using high-grade density foam.

The mattress is also fitted with a removable quilted cover which makes it easy to wash. The mattress is extremely comfortable and breathable while also providing comfort, so it's ideal for keeping your baby's spine in a strong position when sleeping.

This mattress is our budget pick due to the exceptional level of comfort and technology that's built into the mattress to keep your baby cool throughout the night.

Benefits

  • No nasty chemicals used in the manufacturing process
  • Uses a high grade Bennelli spring mattress unit
  • Contains a combination of a spring system and a high impact foam 
  • Manufactured with cool & comfortable "Just-Tec" material, 
  • Fits all regular sized cots such as Mothercare & Mamas & Papas.



5. Obaby Foam Cot Bed Mattress Review

obaby-baby-mattress

Obaby has created an extremely affordable yet effective baby cot mattress. The mattress is available in two variations: Spring or Foam.

The mattress features a hypo-allergenic, breathable cover so your baby can breathe with ease. The cover is also water resistant and removable so it is easy to clean and can be washed at 60 degrees to remove germs and bacteria.

The inner core is made from a highly resilient dent proof foam. The foam is also vented to allow for air circulation. All these features combine to provide a comfortable and safe sleep for your baby.

Obaby has made a product that resonates with customers which have been reflected in a large number of positive reviews throughout the industry.

Of the two options, we would recommend the spring version because this has been proven to give a more comfortable sleep than just foam as the springs independently contour and shape to your baby's position as they change throughout their rest.

Benefits

  • Every Mattress purchase includes a 5 year Uk & Ireland guarantee
  • Offers the choice of a foam or spring mattress
  • Hypoallergenic, breathable, water resistant and removable cover.
  • Provides both a comfortable and safe sleep for your baby.
  • Fits all regular cots such as Mothercare & Mamas & Papas.





What Is A Cot Mattress?

A baby mattress is a sleeping surface that is made specifically for babies and infants that can integrate into their existing cots to provide much-needed comfort and support

When you purchase your cot, there may be a mattress included but don't feel forced to use it just because its included in the price. The most important thing is that when you buy the mattress that you're happy with it because your baby is going to spend most of the next few years lying on it.

best baby cot mattress

Why is a Good Quality Baby Mattress so Important

On a serious note, despite a cot mattress providing a comfy sleep for your baby, more importantly, it adds extra safety and protection while they sleep through the night.

In America, the National Institute of Child Health & Human Development concluded in a report using a firmer baby mattress instead of a softer mattress is one of the major factors in helping to reduce SIDS or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

This makes it even more important to use a mattress that has been specifically made for babies because adult mattresses are likely not firm enough for a baby to sleep on long term.

Types of Baby Cot Mattress

There are many different types of mattress that you can purchase; however, the most important thing to remember is that no matter which one you decide to buy, it needs to be firm.

To explain why; imagine if your baby turns over while sleeping if the mattress is soft your baby will find it challenging to move themselves because their face is more likely to sink into the surface of the mattress, so they need a more solid surface.

Foam Mattress

One of the most popular types of baby cot mattress is manufactured from polyurethane which is made into a foam material. It is generally a popular choice by parents due to being cheaper than models made with alternative materials.

This is no longer the soft, brittle foam that was available decades ago, huge advancements have been made to now manufacture top quality foam.

The most commonly have a PVC cover which makes it easy to wipe clean. The covers are removable and breathable and on occasion have additional ventilation holes to help keep your baby cool.

In general the denser the mattress, the better. Heavier mattresses are often denser. As previously stated, the more firm a cot mattress is, the better for the baby. The best manufacturers list the weight in the product information. An alternative way to test a mattresses firmness is by squeezing it with your hands. A top quality thick mattress will not allow you to push far into the surface.

Although generally speaking, a heavier mattress is better than a lightweight mattress; you have to take into account that you'll have to lift the mattress to change the sheets continually. A mattress that is too bulky and heavy can cause issues, so its best to make a compromise between ease of use and weight.

Pro's

  • Easy to keep clean
  • Affordable and good value for money
  • Long lasting
  • Lightweight

Con's

  • PVC cover may be an issue for some parents.
  • The models that have ventilation holes can be a little harder to clean

Pocket Sprung Baby Cot Mattress

Pocket springs have been the natural development away from coil spring mattresses to provide an even more comfortable sleep. They are made up of individual springs that are sewn into small fabric pockets.

Each spring works independently to respond to the baby's movement and then adjusts its shape to contour and support your baby's body.

These mattresses are routinely more expensive than foam mattresses due to the more complex manufacturing process that it needs to produce.

While you do need to take note of the number coils that the mattress has before purchasing, you must understand that more coils don't necessarily mean the mattress is better than another will less coils.

The number of coils does slightly reflect the level of density of a mattress, though many other factors contribute to the quality of a mattress.

The recommended amount of coils should be around 130-150.. However, you can use your judgement here to make a decision based on your individual baby's needs.

Pro's

  • High quality support
  • Extremely long lasting
  • Tend to be more heavier and denser
  • Lightweight

Con's

  • Can be more expensive than alternatives
  • The models that have ventilation holes can be a little harder to clean

Coil Spring Cot Mattress

Coil spring mattresses are the traditional type and structure that you're already used to. The mattress is made up of a coiled spring interior assisted by layers of foam and felt padding to provide comfort and support to the baby.

One side is normally covered in cotton or similar material, with the other side having a more durable PVC type material cover that is easy to wipe clean when dirty.

These mattresses tend to retain their shape well for many years, and built into its structure is a spring lattice. This ensures that a good level of airflow is maintained, so the baby's body temperature stays regulated throughout their sleep.

Pro's

  • The majority of parents like the familiarity of a traditional spring mattress
  • Easy wipe clean surface to remove dirt and bacteria.
  • Long lasting

Con's

  • Generally more expensive than a foam mattress
  • The cotton side can be harder to keep clean, but does provide comfort.



Natural Fibre Baby Mattress

Natural fibre baby cot mattresses are made slightly differently to the traditional baby mattresses in the market. The core is made up of different materials such as coconut fibre combined with additional natural layers like lambswool, cashmere, latex or silk.

The coconut fibres are then reinforced with latex to provide protection, strength and support. The natural filling is so powerful because it helps more air to circulate through the mattress so not only does your baby get a comfortable sleep but their temperature is regulated to a higher quality.

Like most baby mattresses, they are manufactured to have an easy wipe cover to make removing bacteria and dirt easy.

This mattress is a suitable choice if you are worried about your baby sleeping on synthetic material or you are trying to avoid introducing additional synthetics and unnecessary chemicals into your home.

Pro's

  • One of the most firmest mattresses, great for support.
  • This firmness means they retain their shape and last longer
  • Strong air circulation properties.

Con's

  • Less availability than other types of baby cot mattress
  • Noticeably more expensive than alternatives.



Hypoallergenic Baby Cot Mattress

If your family currently suffers from allergens or asthma, then there's a chance that your baby will often suffer from the same issues. If this is a concern, then you may want to consider purchasing a hypoallergenic mattress for your baby.

Hypoallergenic baby mattresses are usually manufactured to have a quilted top layer which also it to be quickly and easily detached and washed. They can be washed at 60 degrees which is the optimal temperature to kill dust mites and bacteria that may cause or worsen allergies.

Pro's

  • Great choice if you baby has allergens or asthma
  • Easy to maintain and keep clean

Con's

  • Often more expensive than other types of mattress
  • For the majority of babies, this is a luxury purchase.

The New Type of Hybrid Baby Cot Mattress

In recent times baby cot mattresses are often no longer separated by material, and now you will find that you can purchase mattresses made from a range of materials. For example, it may have a pocket spring foundation with a layer of foam.


This is even more effective because you get the benefits of two different types of structures and materials. So when you are purchasing a mattress be sure to check whether there is more than one key material.

best mattress for baby cot bed

Does My Baby Mattress Need to Be Brand New?

Preparing for a newborn can end up being reasonably costly once you account for all the items you need to purchase, and it is entirely reasonable for you to look for ways to save money that can be spent on other things.

We recommend that you always buy a brand new mattress for your baby, even if you have an old one that was used by your previous baby. Your new baby needs a fresh, clean start on a brand new supportive mattress.

The big issues with second-hand baby mattresses are that they can lose shape, so they are uncomfortable to sleep on. They can also be infested with hidden bacteria, germs or dust mites. Unfortunately, there is also strong evidence that implies that cot death cases can be linked to the use of secondhand mattresses.

Think about it this way, a previous baby has already slept on in for many of years, and part of that is spent peeing and pooing on the mattress. Regardless of how well it was maintained it's not a great idea to hand this down to another baby.

It has been stated by FSID's Sleep Simple Sleep Safe publication that: "In an ideal scenario you should purchase a new mattress for every new baby. If you are not able to do this, continue to use the one you have, as long as it was made with a completely waterproof cover and has no holes, tears or cracks. Clean and dry it thoroughly.” 

Best Cot Mattress Buying Guide

Cot Safety

There are several important steps you should take to ensure that your baby is as safe as possible before buying a new cot mattress for your baby.

  • Make sure that the mattress is firm and flat to provide support
  • Avoid Secondhand mattreses
  • Check product information to ensure that it meets the latest safety requirements
  • All baby mattresses should carry BSI number BS 1877-10:2011+A1:2012.
  • The mattress should fit in the cot snugly with no gaps around the edges.

READ NOW: Cot Safety Guide - Must Read For All Parents

Cot Mattress Size

This may seem like common sense, but ensure that the mattress you purchase fits your cot. The majority of cots and mattresses come in standard sizes, but you should be sure to double check to ensure that it will fit.

A mattress that fits perfectly will be snug against all four sides of the cot with no breathing space or gaps present. If there's a gap, this presents a danger as your baby's limb could get caught.

Warranty

Several manufacturers supply their mattresses with 10-20 year warranties which often play a significant factor in customers buying the product over an alternative.

You shouldn't let this alter your choice because the length of warranty doesn't always ensure quality. Plus realistically you'll only need your cot and mattress for a max of five years per child.

Cover

All baby cot mattresses are manufactured and covered with a durable outer layer of waterproof fabric. However, not all these covers are suitable for machine or hand washing. If your cover is not removable, then you must be sure to frequently wipe it clean with either a damp sponge or antibacterial wipe.

We recommend you either purchase a mattress with a removable cover or buy one separately to go with your mattress. This cover should be able to be washed at 60 degrees which is the optimal temperature to kill dust mites and germs.

Cost

You may be surprised to find out through this article that baby cot mattresses are reasonably affordable especially in comparison to how much use you get out of it and how many years it will last.

Usually, the thinner foam mattresses will be cheaper and affordable while the thicker, denser higher quality mattresses will cost a little more. You do get what you pay for.

Verdict - Finding the Best Cot Mattress

It's a difficult decision to narrow it down to a single mattress. Although we recommend a spring, natural or hybrid system over a mattress that solely uses foam, people have been using foam mattresses for many years because not only do they provide quality orthopaedic support, but they also are extremely affordable giving you the best cot mattress for your little one. 

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