Cot mattresses

IKEA cot mattresses: forget counting sheep

Nothing is as restorative as a child in deep sleep. Especially for the parents. We can't make any promises, of course, but IKEA cot mattresses are packed with smart ideas to give deep, restful sleep the best possible chance. It starts with the type of mattress you choose. At IKEA you’ll find reversible, pressure-relieving foam mattresses, pocket-spring mattresses that support precisely where needed, and 3D mattresses that offer excellent air circulation and can be washed under lukewarm water. Every IKEA mattress for a cot has been tested to the strictest standards and is guaranteed free from substances that could harm your baby’s skin or health. Whatever you need – 70x140 or 60x120 cm, for a cot, bassinet or cradle – your new mattress is breathable, stable and made for little ones, so they sleep soundly. Particularly important: our mattresses are designed to fit IKEA cots exactly, so you avoid gaps or slipping mattresses that could be dangerous for your baby. Tip: for even more comfort and hygiene, you can team your IKEA cot mattress with a matching mattress protector.

Key features and benefits of our cot mattresses (depending on the mattress):

• Perfect fit: our mattresses are made to fit IKEA cots and bassinets exactly. No gaps, no slipping.
• Made to measure: from 60x120 to 70x140 cm, at IKEA you’ll find fitted sheets and more that match your cot mattress size.
• Different cores: firm foam, pressure-relieving pocket springs or well-ventilated 3D – which will you choose?
• Safe: IKEA cot mattresses and cots meet all legal requirements, so you can be sure your baby’s sleep space is as safe as possible.
• Easy to care for: cot mattresses sometimes have to cope with a bit more – some can be rinsed directly under lukewarm water, others can be turned when needed, and all of them can be protected from little and not-so-little mishaps with breathable mattress protectors and fitted sheets.

We want to help babies and parents enjoy many quiet, restful nights. That's why at IKEA you'll find not only good, affordable cot mattresses, cots and bassinets, but also everything else that can make for good nights. Night lights and mobiles, for example, as well as soft fitted sheets, blackout curtains, dimmable lamps and, of course, comfy armchairs you can place beside the cot.

What cot mattresses does IKEA offer?

Whether foam, pocket springs or 3D, at IKEA you’ll find different types of cot mattresses, each with its own strengths. Foam mattresses stand out with their firm inner cover, which stops your child reaching the mattress core, and they're reversible too: a quilted, wavy side for medium-firm comfort, and a smooth side that feels a little firmer. That way, a single mattress lets you find the level of firmness that best suits your child’s sleep.

Pocket-spring mattresses, on the other hand, offer an especially soft, springy feel where the core adapts to the small body and gently supports it. The natural air circulation through the springs helps create a pleasant sleep climate, even on warmer nights. For maximum hygiene and easy care, our 3D mattresses are a great choice: their open-structured 3D mesh allows exceptional air circulation, absorbs moisture and releases it again – and you can simply rinse the mattress core under lukewarm water and let it air dry when needed.

What should I look for when buying a cot mattress?

When buying a cot mattress, safety and health come first – because in the first months of life your baby can spend up to 16 hours a day asleep. The mattress must fit the cot exactly: no gap between mattress and cot frame, so your baby can't get trapped or caught. Breathability is just as important – only a well-ventilated mattress regulates temperature and moisture, prevents heat build-up and ensures safe, undisturbed breathing. Look for materials that have been tested for harmful substances and choose a removable cover that can be machine-washed at up to 60°C (please follow the relevant care instructions) – invaluable for little accidents and against dust mites and the like. The firm inner cover stops your child reaching the mattress material, while a breathable mattress protector gives the mattress extra protection against moisture and extends its life. All IKEA cot mattresses are free from harmful chemicals and tested to strict safety standards – so you can feel reassured right from the start.

How long should I use a cot mattress?

A cot mattress sees your child through a very intensive period of growth – and should therefore be checked regularly for its condition. As a rule of thumb: once the mattress shows visible deformation, its support starts to give way, or cleaning reaches its limits despite a washable cover, it's time for a change. In a cot, a mattress is usually used until the transition to a toddler bed, which typically happens between the ages of two and three. For hygiene reasons too, it's worth starting fresh for a new sibling: a used mattress can contain dust mites, skin flakes and residual moisture that can't be fully removed. Moving from a cot mattress to a toddler mattress is also a good opportunity to upgrade the bed and set your child up for the next exciting stage with a new, bigger toddler bed.

How firm should a cot mattress be?

For babies, the guidance is clear: firm is better than soft. A firm mattress prevents your baby's head from sinking in too deeply – this isn't just a matter of comfort, but an important safety measure that reduces the risk of a dangerous sleeping position. The firmness level should be "firm" or "medium firm" for babies. Many cot mattresses at IKEA are reversible: one side is slightly firmer, the other offers medium-firm comfort – so you can adapt the mattress as your child grows, without having to buy a new one.

How thick should a cot mattress be?

The thickness of a cot mattress is closely linked to safety: if it's too thin, the mattress won't provide enough cushioning. If it's too thick, the distance between the mattress surface and the top of the cot frame becomes too small, which can be a safety risk. As a guideline, a thickness of between 6 and 12 centimetres is recommended – this range offers the right balance of support and comfort for the weight of a baby or young child. It's also important that, according to standard guidelines, at least 50 cm should always remain between the mattress surface and the top of the cot frame when the base is in its lowest position. As soon as your child can sit up independently, you should lower the base to its lowest position – this too affects which mattress thickness makes sense. Our cot mattresses are available in various thicknesses and matched to the right IKEA cots and bassinets, so you don't have to worry about finding the right size.

Why does my baby need a specialist cot mattress?

A specialist cot mattress is designed to meet the unique needs of an infant in terms of safety, breathability and support. Adult mattresses or overly soft surfaces are not suitable for babies, as they let little ones sink in too deeply and can create safety risks. A specially developed cot mattress, on the other hand, keeps the head safely in the correct position. Add the precise fit and the firm inner cover, which stops little hands or mouths reaching the mattress material. The sleep climate also plays a big role: specialist cot mattresses are designed to draw away heat and moisture – protecting against overheating, which can be particularly dangerous for babies. Everything your baby sleeps on, from the mattress to the fitted sheet and the breathable protector, should work together, so your child sleeps safely and securely. If you're still not sure, we're happy to give you personal advice at your local IKEA store.

Should I use a slatted base with a cot mattress?

Our cots generally have their own firmly integrated slatted base or solid base panel – so a separate slatted base is neither standard nor necessary. What matters is that the base is flat and stable, so the mattress doesn't sag and can deliver its full support. When you move your child to a bigger toddler or junior bed, a slatted base becomes more important: it promotes ventilation of the mattress from below and reinforces its support. In general, any non-adjustable mattress can be used with a slatted base – just make sure the slats and their spacing can withstand the weight and movements of your child. Compared to a mattress, a slatted base has a much longer lifespan of up to 20 years, so it can comfortably see your child through several mattresses.