What Baby Mattress Should You Buy? A First-Time Parent’s Guide
Babies grow quickly — and so do their sleep needs. A well-made mattress supports not just better sleep but also better physical development. Here’s why investing in a quality baby mattress makes sense:
Support & Safety: A firmer surface helps support your baby’s growing spine and is recommended to reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
Better Sleep: A more supportive, breathable mattress helps regulate temperature and reduces sleep disruptions.
Longevity: Quality materials mean the mattress will last as your baby grows into a toddler, which saves you money in the long run.
Foam & Fibre Mattresses (Under £60)
Budget baby mattresses are usually made from basic foam or fibre fillings. These mattresses can be a good short-term option if you're setting up the nursery on a tight budget — especially when there are so many things to buy early on.
Pros:
1) Affordable upfront cost.
2) Lightweight and easy to handle.
3) Available in most standard cot and cot bed sizes.
Cons:
1) Tend to compress over time, especially as your child gets older and heavier.
2) Can lead to a less comfortable and more disturbed sleep as the support weakens.
3) May lack breathability and moisture-wicking layers, leading to overheating.
🛏️ Best for: Short-term use, younger babies, and families watching their initial spend.
Pocket Sprung, Coir & Bamboo Mattresses (Typically £120+)
Higher-end mattresses use materials like pocket springs, coir (natural coconut fibre), and bamboo covers to deliver better support and breathability.
Pros:
1) Springs offer long-term support and bounce back better under your child’s weight.
2) Coir layers provide excellent moisture management and airflow.
3) Bamboo covers are naturally hypoallergenic and breathable.
4) Built to last through the full lifespan of a cot bed (4–5 years).
Cons:
1) Higher upfront cost.
2) Slightly heavier to move or rotate.
🛏️ Best for: Parents looking for a long-term solution that will keep their toddler comfortable as they grow.
Firmness: Why Baby Mattresses Aren’t Soft
If you’ve ever felt a baby mattress and thought, “Wow, that’s firm,” — you’re not alone. But there’s a reason behind the firmness:
Babies need a firm, flat surface to sleep safely. Soft mattresses can create a suffocation risk and may interfere with healthy bone and muscle development. Even the most luxurious baby mattresses prioritise firmness over plushness — and that’s a good thing.
Final Thoughts: Budget vs. Longevity
If you're trying to balance the cost of setting up your nursery, a cheaper foam mattress may seem like a sensible place to save. And in some cases, it is — especially during the early months when your baby is light and not yet rolling around much.
However, consider this: most cot beds are designed to last until your child is 4 or even 5 years old. A budget mattress may need replacing after just a couple of years due to sagging or lack of support. In the long run, buying a higher-quality mattress now could save you money — and ensure your child sleeps soundly through those precious toddler years.
Tip: If you're unsure, look for a mattress that combines a firm foam core with a layer of springs or coir — these hybrids can offer a great balance of comfort, support, and value.
At My First Nursery, we stock a range of high-quality baby mattresses to suit every budget and sleep style. Whether you’re keeping it simple or looking to invest in your child’s comfort for the long term, we’re here to help you choose confidently.