As a parent, I know how overwhelming choosing the right baby mattress can feel. Safety, comfort, and practicality are top priorities, and you want an option that suits newborn sleep needs while still being useful as your child grows. In this guide I tested a mix of natural, foam, sprung, and adaptable mattresses so you can find the best cot mattress, crib mattress, or travel cot mattress for your family. I include quick picks, detailed reviews, an NHS safe sleep guide, a buying checklist, and practical tips to make the choice simple and safe.
Comparison Table
| Mattress | Key Features | Price Range (UK) | Why I Recommend It |
| Snüz Surface Pro Adaptable Cot Bed Mattress | 3-in-1 firmness layers, waterproof, washable cover | £180–£250 | Grows with baby from newborn to toddler with strong safety credentials |
| CuddleCo Lullaby Bamboo Foam Mattress | Bamboo cover, hypoallergenic foam, washable cover | £45–£75 | Affordable and gentle surface for sensitive skin |
| The Little Green Sheep Twist Natural Mattress | Organic cotton and wool, dual sided | £170–£190 | Natural materials with a newborn and toddler side |
| Obaby Moisture Management Mattress | Tencel top, dual core, washable cover | £140–£160 | Excellent moisture control with dual core build |
| Kinder Valley Baby Cot Bed Mattress | Firm fibre support, removable washable cover, affordable price point | £60–£70 | A dependable, budget-friendly option that balances comfort, hygiene, and value |
| Silentnight Safe Nights Airflow Mattress | Mesh cover, airflow core, allergy treated | £90–£130 | Breathable design from a trusted UK brand |
| Ikea Krummeler | Foam, two surface design, removable cover | £25–£49 | Great low cost spare or travel mattress |
| Silver Cross TrueFit Reversible Pocket Spring Mattress | Pocket springs, reversible sides, washable cover | £125–£165 | Premium pocket spring comfort with reversible firmness |
How I picked these
My criteria were shaped by UK safe sleep advice and everyday parenting reality. I prioritised: safety and British standards, firm support for infants, breathability to avoid overheating, washable covers, and long term value.
Parent Tip: Measure your cot or travel cot before ordering. The NHS recommends snug fitting mattresses with no gaps to reduce risks.
Best Baby Mattresses of 2025 Reviews
Snüz Surface Pro Adaptable Cot Bed Mattress
Why I Love It: This mattress adapts as your child grows, offering three firmness levels to ensure optimal support up to age 7.
Pros:
- Adaptable Firmness: Triple core design allows adjustment of firmness levels.
- Breathable Mesh Cover: 3D breathable mesh with waterproof membrane.
- Long Term Use: Suitable from newborn to child up to 7 years.
Cons: Higher price point, but offers long term value.
Best For: Parents seeking a mattress that grows with their child.
CuddleCo Lullaby Bamboo Foam Mattress
Why I Love It: Offers a hypoallergenic surface with a bamboo cover, ideal for sensitive skin.
Pros:
- Hypoallergenic Bamboo Fabric: Naturally germ-free and breathable.
- Dual-Sided Design: One side for infants, the other for toddlers.
- Washable Cover: Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons: Foam may retain more warmth than natural fibre or sprung mattresses.
Best For: Budget conscious parents and spare use.
The Little Green Sheep Twist Natural Mattress
Why I Love It: Combines organic cotton and wool for a natural sleep environment.
Pros:
- Dual Sided Design: Firm side for newborns, softer side for toddlers.
- Natural Materials: Organic cotton and wool regulate temperature.
- Chemical-Free: No harmful chemicals used in manufacturing.
Cons: Higher price but considered a worthwhile eco investment.
Best For: Eco-conscious parents.
Obaby Moisture Management Mattress
Why I Love It: Features a dual-core design with moisture wicking properties.
Pros:
- Dual Core: Coir side for babies, pocket sprung side for toddlers.
- Moisture Management: Tencel top panel increases moisture and humidity control.
- Washable Cover: Removable and washable at 60ºC.
Cons: Not all sizes have the dual core feature so check before purchase.
Best For: Families dealing with frequent spills.
Kinder Valley Baby Cot Bed Mattress
Why I Love It: Offers reliable support and comfort at a reasonable price.
Pros:
- Even fibre support: Provides a consistent, firm sleep surface that avoids dips or sagging.
- Washable cover: The removable, machine-washable outer makes it easy to keep the mattress fresh and hygienic.
- Good value: Strikes a solid balance between affordability and quality for everyday use.
Con: Uses synthetic fibres instead of natural materials.
Best For: Families looking for mid-range affordability.
Silentnight Safe Nights Airflow Mattress
Why I Love It: Breathable design from a trusted UK brand.
Pros:
- Airflow Design: Mesh and open core improve circulation and reduce overheating.
- Supportive Surface: Provides firmness recommended for infant safe sleep.
- Allergy Protection: Treated cover helps reduce allergen build-up.
Cons: Single sided so it does not adapt as well for toddler years.
Best For: Parents worried about overheating.
Ikea Krummeler
Why I Love It: Simple and affordable, ideal as a spare or travel cot mattress.
Pros:
- Budget-Friendly: Very low cost for safe sleep basics.
- Two Surface Options: Corrugated and smooth sides allow small variation in feel.
- Removable Cover: Easy to wash and refresh between uses.
Cons: Simpler features make it better suited as an extra mattress rather than the main daily one.
Best For: Travel cots or occasional use.
Silver Cross TrueFit Reversible Pocket Spring Mattress
Why I Love It: Offers premium support with pocket springs and a reversible dual-stage design.
Pros:
- Pocket Springs: Independent springs support baby evenly and improve airflow.
- Reversible Sides: Firmer for infants and softer for toddlers.
- Washable Cover: Easy to maintain and keeps mattress fresh.
Cons: Heavier than foam mattresses so lifting can take more effort.
Best For: Parents wanting long lasting premium support.
Buyers Guide What to consider before buying
When choosing a cot mattress consider firmness, breathability, and ease of cleaning. The NHS recommends a firm flat waterproof mattress that fits snugly in the cot without gaps. A washable cover and waterproof protection save time and stress.
Pro Tip: If you want one mattress to last longer choose a dual sided or adaptable model that grows with your child.
Expert Tip: Replace a mattress if it becomes saggy or damaged rather than trying to extend its use. Regular inspection is safer than assuming older mattresses are still fine.
Safety and Extra Tips
For safe sleep always place your baby on their back in a cot free from pillows and toys. Follow The Lullaby Trust safer sleep advice to reduce risks.
Parent Tip: Keep the room temperature between 16 and 20°C and use a baby sleep bag or light blanket tucked in firmly.
FAQs
Are memory foam mattresses safe for babies?
No. According to the NHS safe sleep guidelines, babies need a firm flat surface and memory foam is too soft.
How often should I replace a baby mattress?
Replace if it sags, is damaged, or around every 3 to 4 years.
Can I use a travel cot mattress in a regular cot?
Only if it fits snugly without any gaps.
Do I need a waterproof cover?
Yes. A waterproof layer makes cleaning easier and keeps the mattress core protected.
Conclusion
Choosing the right baby mattress means balancing safety, comfort, and care. The Snüz Surface Pro is the best all rounder, while The Little Green Sheep Twist appeals to eco parents. Budget options like the Ikea Krummeler or CuddleCo Lullaby keep costs low while meeting safety needs. Always follow NHS safe sleep guidance and Lullaby Trust advice when setting up your baby’s cot.
