The Best Guide for Choosing a Cot Mattress

Isn’t nursery shopping so exciting? It’s the perfect way to make the fact that you’re having a baby feel more real than it already is. Filled with excitement and expectation, there are a number of things on the nursery checklist that you need to tick off to consider yourself well-prepared, one of which is a cot and its mattress.

Now, choosing a cot has its own factors to consider, but it doesn’t matter what cot you choose if the mattress you buy doesn’t suit it. So, to help you make the right choice, here’s a guide on how to choose a cot mattress for your baby.

A perfect fit

The number one rule to follow when buying a cot mattress is to make sure that it fits into the cot perfectly. This means that the mattress shouldn’t have any gaps on the side that your child can slip into or roll over in. A tight-fitting mattress will reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome significantly, so check the measurements of the cot before and by a mattress that fits it perfectly.

Choosing the size

In Australia, the standard mattress size for a cot is 130x69cm and is usually rectangular. However, you can get smaller or larger cots depending on your preference. A smaller cot mattress will be around 108x53cm. Regardless of these sizes, some cots require you to find mattresses that have a custom size. Again, we can’t stress enough that the mattress needs to fit the cot perfectly. So, check the cot measurements thoroughly and buy a mattress that fits it well.

It needs to be easy to clean

Babies can be pretty messy. Whether it’s a spit-up or a nappy accident, you don’t want it to seep into their mattress, staining it and making it a breeding ground for bacteria. To avoid this, try to find a baby mattress that’s easy to clean or even partially waterproof.  Having one that’s machine washable is also a bonus. If you can’t find one, then adding a waterproof cover to it is the next best thing.

It needs to be firm

Baby mattresses also need to be reasonably firm but also comfortable. While you baby sleeps, the mattresses shouldn’t be so soft that they sink into it. If this is the case, they’ll struggle to regulate their heat and might find it easier to roll. Likewise, a firm mattress provides better support for the developing bodies.

Mattress materials

Most baby mattresses are made from latex foams, some of which have coil springs. The material is also designed to be breathable to help your baby regulate their heat so they don’t get too hot or cold in the evenings. Ideally, you’d want to find a hypoallergenic mattress so your baby isn’t exposed to excess germs or irritations.

How to find the right mattress for your baby

It helps to have an idea of what mattress you want for your little one before you hit the shops, so here are four types of mattresses that you can choose from. The features and extras are left to your discretion:

Hypoallergenic

We’re always pro hypoallergenic mattresses because they significantly reduce the potential for your child’s skin to act up from an allergic reaction to the mattress’s materials. However, there is a downside to these mattresses; they can be considered quite expensive.

Memory foam

We all love memory foam in our beds, so why not get it for your baby, too? Memory foam mattresses are a popular option. They offer comfort and support, but they might not provide the firmness a newborn needs to sleep.

Coil Sprung

Coil mattresses have been around for decades and have come a long way since they were invented. By buying a coil-sprung mattress, you’re making a safe choice. They’re made with durable foam and are reasonably firm and comfortable for your baby. However, over time, the fabric begins to perish, allowing the springs to poke through the fabric, which definitely doesn’t bode well for your baby.

Pocket Innerspring

Our final choice is the pocket innerspring mattress. These mattresses are very similar to coil-sprung mattresses. However, they aren’t connected; rather, they’re all capsulated in their own pocket, which solves the problem of them pushing through the fabric. Plus, this design also offers your baby a firm, comfortable, and supportive mattress while reducing the risk of being too soft or posing a SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) risk. That said, the importance of choosing the right size still stands.

Final Thoughts

It’s every parent’s desire to give their child the most out of life. From when they are born, you can start by giving them a comfortable and safe place to sleep.  Follow these tips above and they’ll help you choose a cot mattress for your little one. Happy shopping!