Crib Mattresses

Why, when you buy a new crib, is the mattress that comes with it often such a basic, low-cost item? The answer is simple: it's the price and design that sells the crib. The mattress is there to complete the product-not to provide exceptional safe, firm, comfortable support, breathability and hygiene, be fully waterproof and washable, and last for years.

For the crib manufacturer to supply a mattress with all these wonderful benefits, they would have to greatly increase the price-and it simply wouldn't be competitive. But here's the good news: a quality mattress will last as long as the crib, for many babies.

Our Mattress Options

We will not touch fibre or basic foam. We offer two mattress base options:

• High-Density Foam - Our foam mattresses use 41/150 density foam that provides firm, reliable support. The high-density construction resists sagging and maintains its shape over time.
• Coconut Coir with Wool - A completely natural option featuring coir and latex core with luxury wool. Naturally breathable, hypoallergenic, and incredibly durable.

Choosing Your Cover

Your next choice is either a natural waterproof cover (Outlux) or our luxury temperature control cover (Coolmax & Maxispace). There is a huge amount of information on the product pages to help you select the mattress that suits your needs.

A Note on 'New Baby, New Mattress'

Please see our article on the 1980s recommendation 'New Baby, New Mattress'-products have changed a lot since then! Our quality mattresses are designed to safely last for multiple children.

When Do You Need a Crib Mattress?

A crib is typically used from birth until your baby is around 4-6 months old. Cribs are popular because they're slightly larger than Moses baskets, giving your baby more room to grow while still being small enough to keep in your bedroom. The Lullaby Trust recommends room-sharing for the first six months, making a crib an excellent choice for those early weeks and months.

You'll know your baby has outgrown their crib when they can roll over, seem cramped, or are approaching the weight limit specified by the manufacturer. At this point, it's time to transition to a cot.

How to Measure for a Crib Mattress

Crib sizes vary more than you might expect, so measuring accurately is essential for a safe fit:

• Measure the internal base of your crib where the mattress will sit-not the external dimensions or the top frame.
• Check for oval or rectangular shapes. Many cribs have rounded ends. If yours is oval, measure the longest and widest points.
• Measure in centimetres and note both length and width precisely.
• Check depth requirements. Some cribs have shallow sides, so ensure the mattress doesn't sit too high. Our crib mattresses are appropriately sized for safe use.
• The two-finger rule: Once fitted, there should be no more than a two-finger gap between the mattress and the crib sides.

If you have an unusual crib size, do get in touch-we may be able to help with a custom size.

What to Look for When Buying a Crib Mattress

Don't be tempted to simply use whatever mattress came with your crib. Here's what genuinely matters:

• Firm support - This is non-negotiable for safe infant sleep. A quality mattress should feel firm and flat, not soft or squishy. Both our high-density foam and coconut coir with wool options provide the firm support recommended for newborns.
• Material quality - The mattress that comes with your crib is usually the cheapest option the manufacturer could source. Our high-density 41/150 foam resists sagging and maintains its structure, while our natural coir and wool option offers chemical-free, breathable comfort.
• Breathability - Newborns are particularly vulnerable to overheating. Look for mattresses with breathable covers and cores. Our Coolmax & Maxispace covers actively manage temperature, while natural wool and coir are inherently breathable.
• Waterproof and washable - Babies have frequent accidents. Genuine waterproof protection (not just water-resistant) protects the mattress core, while washable covers at 60°C ensure proper hygiene.
• Hypoallergenic properties - For babies with sensitivities, our coconut coir with lambswool mattress is naturally resistant to dust mites, mould and allergens.
• Durability - A quality crib mattress can safely be used for multiple children, making it a worthwhile investment despite the short period each baby uses it.