Cot mattresses

Mattresses are usually bought separately from a Moses basket, crib, cot or cot bed.

Mattresses are a wise investment, so buy the best you can afford.

Check the mattress is the right size. Cot mattresses are available in standard and continental sizes and a cot bed needs a bigger mattress.

Mattresses usually come with a wipe-clean cover. Choose a mattress which can be easily cleaned. The cheapest mattresses are made from foam, fine for very young babies in a Moses basket or crib.

Natural fillings such as coconut coir and wool are available for mattresses and are particularly useful if you have a history of allergies in the family.

A sprung mattress will give the best support, these are often the most expensive, but are a good investment.

Ensure the mattress is a good fit, there should be a gap of less than 4cm between the edge of the mattress and the sides and ends of the cot or cot bed.