Best Cot Mattress in Australia – Which Is Right for Your Baby?

Your baby will spend 16-20 hours sleeping on its mattress each day! This is more time than it will spend in your arms, bouncing in your favourite chair, or even eating. Your choice of cot mattress isn't just about comfort and support; it's your baby's growing space, breathing zone, and safe haven during its most crucial developmental period.

During these extended hours of sleep, your little one's immune system strengthens, bones develop, and respiratory system matures. That's why selecting the best cot mattress is one of the most important decisions when preparing your nursery.

Unfortunately, the Australian market is flooded with confusing options, technical jargon, and misleading marketing claims that complicate this decision. This guide cuts through the noise to focus on what truly matters: safety, quality materials, proper support, and breathability.

Top 6 Best cot mattress in Australia

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Quokka Beds

Best Overall
4.9/5

Organic Cot Mattress

$690$585

This ingenious cot mattress features a dual-sided design crafted from premium organic cotton, wool, natural latex, and coconut fibre. Its tailored support adapts perfectly to each stage of your baby's development while ensuring an utterly non-toxic sleep environment. With exceptional durability and safety, it’s an ideal choice for growing families.

  • Cover:Organic Cotton
  • Internal Layer:Organic Wool, Organic Latex, Organic Coconut Coir
  • Size:Standard Cot
  • Certification:GOLS, GOTS, OEKO-TEX, eco-INSTITUT, AS/NZS Standard
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Organic Cot Mattress

Quokka Beds

4.9/5

Organic Cot Mattress

$690$585

This is undoubtedly the best cot mattress on the Australian market. Quokka Beds has clearly put immense thought into its design, construction, and material selection—leveraging 36 years of expertise to truly meet newborns' needs. Built to last up to 10 years, making it perfect for growing families with two or even three children. Though priced at a premium, its exceptional durability, unmatched baby safety, and strong commitment to environmental responsibility make it a worthwhile investment that delivers superior long-term value.

Natural safety options we love

  • Meets AS/NZS standards and tested for SIDS prevention
  • 100% certified organic materials (from cover to construction)
  • Unique, clever two-sided design, firm for babies, softer for toddlers
  • Excellent natural temperature regulation for comfortable sleep

What to avoid in a baby mattress

  • It is a significant investment, but priced fairly for the quality materials

Firmness & Comfort: This mattress features an intelligently designed dual-sided structure tailored to your baby's growth stages. The firm side (8.5/10 firmness) consists of 5 cm rubber-coated coconut fibre (density 80), expertly engineered for infants up to 8–12 months to ensure safe spinal alignment and proper development. The reverse side offers medium-firm natural latex (7.5/10 firmness) that measures 3 cm thick. It provides balanced comfort and support, ideal for toddlers transitioning beyond 12 months.

Materials & Durability: Constructed entirely from organic materials, the cot mattress incorporates only the best material for your baby. It features a coconut fibre core for a firm, breathable base, 100% organic latex (GOLS certified) for elasticity and support, an organic cotton outer cover (GOTS certified) for comfort and airflow regulation, and an organic wool filling (500 gsm, GOTS certified) for natural padding and effective temperature control. Combining these natural materials ensures the mattress maintains its shape without sagging It can comfortably support multiple children over several years with exceptional durability and resilience, offering excellent long-term value.

Safety & Sustainability: The Quokka Beds Cot Mattress is completely free from harmful substances, with GOLS, GOTS, OEKO-TEX, and eco-INSTITUT certifications guaranteeing the absence of chemicals or toxins. It is 100% biodegradable and recyclable, minimising environmental impact. The natural materials create an effective barrier against allergens, as they are naturally antibacterial, dust mite-resistant, bedbug-resistant, and mold-resistant. The organic cotton fibres and latex provide excellent temperature regulation, ensuring your baby sleeps comfortably in all seasons.

Value for Money: Priced at 690 AUD for a standard cot mattress (69 cm x 130 cm), the Quokka Beds cot mattress has a 10-year warranty, ensuring long-term durability. While it may represent a significant investment, the quality materials and construction are totally worth it, not to mention it's an extremely healthy product for your baby. The organic benefits make it a worthwhile choice for those who prioritize a chemical-free sleep environment. If you can get it for less than $600$, it's an excellent deal, considering the superior material quality and design.

The Natural Bedding Company

4.7/5

Prenium Natural Cot Mattress

$899

Handcrafted in Sydney, This Cot Mattress combines premium Australian wool, coconut coir core, and organic cotton/hemp layers (GOTS & OCS certified). It offers exceptional firmness, airflow, and a toxin-free sleep environment. Despite high pricing, this artisanal masterpiece promises enduring quality, ideal for eco-conscious families.

  • Cover:Organic Cotton, Organic Hemp
  • Internal Layer:Organic Wool, Organic Coconut Coir
  • Size:Standard Cot
  • Certification:GOLS, GOTS, OEKO-TEX, OCS, AS/NZS Standard
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Prenium Natural Cot Mattress

The Natural Bedding Company

4.7/5

Prenium Natural Cot Mattress

$899

This Natural Cot Mattress represents exceptional quality craftsmanship—a luxury product designed to last. Its artisanal, hand-sewn construction ensures attention to detail that mass-produced mattresses simply cannot match. Without exaggeration, this is possibly the finest construction quality we've observed in any cot mattress on the market. This cot mattress could efficiently serve at least 2-3 babies throughout their development, making the higher investment more reasonable. Our only reservation is that the single-sided, consistently firm design might feel too firm for toddlers older than 2 years when some children prefer a slightly softer sleeping surface. Nevertheless, for families committed to natural materials, local production, and the highest quality standards, this mattress stands in a class of its own.

Natural safety options we love

  • 100% natural & organic with no plastic or chemicals
  • Handmade in Australia with exceptional craftsmanship
  • Highly breathable with excellent temperature regulation
  • Hemp inclusion in the organic cotton cover—a unique design conception

What to avoid in a baby mattress

  • Extremely high cost (899 AUD)
  • No evolving firmness, unlike reversible competitors

Firmness & Comfort: The mattress offers a consistently firm surface (8.5/10 firmness) engineered explicitly for baby safety. It features a dense coconut coir core that provides excellent support. It complies with baby safety standards, ensuring sufficient firmness to prevent SIDS risks. A light layer of wool adds minimal cushioning while maintaining necessary firmness and helps regulate temperature to prevent overheating.

Materials & Durability: The coconut coir core, bound with GOLS-certified organic latex (a natural, non-toxic adhesive that adds elasticity), creates a firm foundation with excellent breathability—crucial for SIDS prevention. The Australian down wool layer provides natural fire resistance, moisture-wicking, and temperature regulation while deterring dust mites. The hemp-enhanced organic cotton cover offers superior strength (three times stronger than cotton alone), natural mould resistance, and improved durability with age. Hemp's exceptional durability complements the organic cotton, creating a thoughtful combination that ensures structural integrity capable of serving multiple children despite the relatively modest 5-year warranty.

Safety & Sustainability: It has a completely toxin-free construction with no foam, chemical adhesives, or synthetic flame retardants. It is backed by recognised ecological certifications, including GOLS (organic latex glue) and GOTS & OCS (organic cotton and hemp). Low VOC emissions make it an excellent choice for a healthy, pollutant-free indoor environment for babies. Unlike synthetic mattresses containing TPEE, polyester or foam, this cot mattress is biodegradable and compostable at the end of its lifecycle, representing a sustainable choice.

Value for Money: The high price (899 AUD) makes this one of the most expensive cot mattresses on the Australian market, even compared to other organic alternatives (about $200 more). This premium reflects the mattress's handcrafted construction in Sydney using exceptional organic materials. Rather than cutting costs through overseas manufacturing, the price supports local artisans and fair labour practices. While the 5-year warranty is standard, the superior Sydney craftsmanship and durable materials would justify a longer 10-year guarantee typically offered by competitors.

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Tasmaneco

4.3/5

Bamboo Pocket Spring Cot Mattress

$229.99$199.99

This Cot Mattress offers a rare, affordable hybrid design, combining individually wrapped springs with natural latex and gel memory foam. The breathable, removable bamboo cover enhances comfort while maintaining airflow. It is perfect for budget-conscious parents seeking natural materials without organic pricing.

  • Cover:Bamboo
  • Internal Layer:Memory Foam, Natural Latex, Pocket Spring
  • Size:4 Cot size options
  • Certification:AS/NZS Standard
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Bamboo Pocket Spring Cot Mattress

Tasmaneco

4.3/5

Bamboo Pocket Spring Cot Mattress

$229.99$199.99

The Tasman Eco Cot Mattress strikes a solid balance between quality and affordability. It blends natural materials with a supportive pocket spring design, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious parents who want to minimise synthetic components without paying for a fully organic mattress. However, there are a few trade-offs. While minimal, the 10mm memory foam layer isn’t ideal for newborns, and the limited 2-year warranty raises concerns about long-term durability—making it best suited for a single child. Additionally, its non-reversible design reduces longevity compared to dual-sided alternatives. That said, for the price, this mattress delivers an impressive mix of pocket springs, natural latex, and a bamboo cover—features often found in models twice the cost. Despite some compromises, it remains a strong contender for parents seeking a well-balanced, budget-friendly option.

Natural safety options we love

  • Exceptional value for money—hard to beat at this price point
  • The natural latex layer provides breathability and comfort
  • Bamboo cover (340g) is removable, washable, and naturally antibacterial
  • Excellent temperature regulation through combined materials

What to avoid in a baby mattress

  • Uncertified synthetic gel memory foam layer raises potential health concerns
  • Average manufacturing quality suggests limited longevity
  • Short 2-year warranty indicates questionable durability compared to premium alternatives

Firmness & Comfort: Designed to meet AS/NZS safety standards, this cot mattress offers a firmness level of 8/10, making it suitable for babies from birth. While it features a single firmness level, it provides the necessary support to accompany your little one throughout their growth. The combination of latex and gel memory foam ensures excellent support while delivering a gentle cradling effect—less rigid than traditional foam yet maintaining optimal firmness. Pocket springs further enhance support distribution and airflow.

Materials & Durability: The mattress features a carefully layered design: a breathable bamboo cover (340g), a 20mm natural latex layer for resilience, 10mm of gel-infused memory foam for contouring, and a durable pocket spring core for long-term support. The bamboo cover stands out for its antimicrobial properties and moisture regulation, while its removable, machine-washable design ensures hygiene maintenance. However, while the pocket springs offer better long-term structure than all-foam designs, the thin comfort layers and modest 2-year warranty suggest durability concerns. Unlike premium brands offering 5- to 10-year guarantees, this mattress is more comparable to entry-level hybrid models, where compression and wear may occur sooner. Its non-reversible design further limits its lifespan, as it cannot be flipped to distribute wear evenly.

Safety & Sustainability: This mattress incorporates some natural and safe materials, with its bamboo cover and latex layer providing antimicrobial benefits ideal for babies with allergies or sensitive skin. However, the lack of comprehensive third-party certifications beyond basic Australian standards compliance raises legitimate questions about its overall safety profile. The gel-infused memory foam component also introduces synthetic elements that may release VOCs (volatile organic compounds) over time and potentially contain endocrine disruptors—a significant consideration for health-conscious parents seeking to minimize chemical exposure during their child's crucial developmental years.

Value for Money: At under $220 (often below $200), this mattress offers excellent value for the materials used, featuring components usually found in higher-priced options. While premium organic cot mattresses typically range from $500+, this provides a budget-friendly alternative without completely sacrificing natural materials. However, the shorter warranty period and non-reversible design may limit its longevity, making it less suitable for use across multiple children.

Organature

3.9/5

Innerspring Organic Baby Mattress

$526

A refreshing traditional approach with certified organic cotton over supportive springs. This allergy-friendly design completely avoids latex and memory foam. With excellent breathability and medium-firm support, this Australian-made, family-crafted mattress provides a non-toxic sleep experience ideal for babies beyond their newborn stage.

  • Cover:Organic Cotton
  • Internal Layer:Innerspring
  • Size:Standard Cot
  • Certification:GOTS
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Innerspring Organic Baby Mattress

Organature

3.9/5

Innerspring Organic Baby Mattress

$526

This Hybrid Organic Cot Mattress is a simple natural option that stands out for its local manufacturing and zero-toxic commitment. Ideal for infants beyond the initial stage, it offers good comfort and optimal ventilation thanks to its design, which combines organic cotton and pocket springs. An official certification would further strengthen its credibility. We believe that adding a 3 cm layer of coconut coir or natural latex would have significantly improved the support and guaranteed optimal firmness, especially for newborns. Still, it remains a solid alternative to all-foam or all-coir mattresses, particularly for families seeking an Australian-made product with natural materials free from synthetic components.

Natural safety options we love

  • Pocket springs allow superior airflow compared to foam mattresses.
  • Handcrafted in Australia with ethical & transparent local production
  • Free from synthetic materials and common allergens, it is ideal for sensitive babies

What to avoid in a baby mattress

  • Slightly too soft for some newborns, missing a proper support layer
  • Lacks official AS/NZS 8811.1:2013 firmness certification
  • Requires absolute protection with a mattress cover due to cotton-only layers

Firmness & Comfort: With a medium-firm feel, this cot mattress diverges from the foam options by incorporating pocket springs, providing good overall support and maintaining a relatively consistent feel. While you can slightly feel the springs when pressing firmly with an adult's weight, a baby won't notice them as they're too light to create enough pressure. The overall firmness is adequate for a baby—not the best on the market, but certainly sufficient. However, newborns might find it slightly too soft for optimal safety during their first months.

Materials & Durability: Featuring 119 encased pocket springs surrounded by certified organic cotton padding. We like the concept of creating a cloud of cotton over coils, but we believe it could benefit from the additional supportive layer. While adequate, the cotton alone isn't enough to provide perfect pressure support compared to latex or coconut fibre cot mattresses. The mattress contains absolutely no polyurethane, polyester, or chemical treatments—an excellent feature at this price point! It offers superior airflow, providing excellent ventilation for your baby. However, longevity will depend mainly on care. Because it uses only cotton layering, you'll need to protect this mattress with a good organic mattress protector to fully enjoy the product and maintain its condition over time.

Safety & Sustainability: This cot mattress is safe, which is reassuring. The company maintains excellent transparency about its materials and processes. It is committed to chemical-free construction with zero flame retardants, synthetic foams, or toxic adhesives. The mattress is latex-free, which could benefit babies sensitive to this potential allergen—though it's worth noting that latex allergies are actually quite rare. The cotton carries GOTS certification, and the product is 99% compostable and recyclable. The mattress lacks official certification proving compliance with AS/NZS firmness standards, but our internal testing confirms this isn't a significant concern given its construction, which respects standard support requirements.

Value for Money: At $526, this cot mattress delivers artisan quality at a fair price, especially for an Aussie locally made, handcrafted product. You’re getting real value here. With the right care and protection, the sturdy spring design ensures it stays supportive through two little tackers, making it a smart, long-term investment.

Ecosa

3.6/5

Ecosa Cot Mattress

$540$432

The Ecosa Cot Mattress is designed for modern parents seeking a low-maintenance and durable sleep solution. Available in various sizes, its construction ensures hassle-free cleaning and long-lasting performance. This is the safest synthetic alternative—perfect for those who value practicality without compromising safety.

  • Cover:33% Tencel, 67% polyester
  • Internal Layer:100% recycled TPEE (Thermoplastic)
  • Size:7 Cot size options
  • Certification:OEKO-TEX, AS/NZS Standard, Red Nose
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Ecosa Cot Mattress

Ecosa

3.6/5

Ecosa Cot Mattress

$540$432

Let's be honest: the concept behind this baby cot mattress is brilliant. It has been thoughtfully designed for parents to help them with their babies. However, it hasn't been designed with baby health as the top priority, and we cannot recommend this product when in our articles, we exclusively recommend natural products, particularly for babies who are like sponges during their first years—their developing bodies absorb everything in their environment, from chemicals in the air to substances that touch their skin. That said, we must admit it's probably the safest and most controlled synthetic baby cot mattress on the Australian market. Its structure effectively minimizes off-gassing and VOCs. For time-poor families seeking a practical balance of safety, durability, and maintenance-friendly design, the Ecosa represents Australian innovation at its practical best.

Natural safety options we love

  • Revolutionary washable core technology - simply rinse under the shower and zip cover!
  • Multiple size options - unique in the Australian cot mattress market
  • Strong eco-credentials with recycled materials, even if the polyester

What to avoid in a baby mattress

  • TPEE core remains synthetic despite recycled content claims
  • The cover is predominantly synthetic (67% polyester) and only 33% Tencel

Firmness & Comfort: The Ecosa cot offers a consistently firm surface (8/10 firmness) that delivers essential rigidity for optimal newborn safety. This cot maintains a uniform firmness throughout, focusing on exceptional structural integrity rather than variable comfort zones. What truly sets this mattress apart is the innovative Nestflow™ Core technology, which maximizes airflow to prevent overheating—an impressive ventilation performance for a synthetic material. Approved by Red Nose Australia, the firmness level is well-suited to support your child's growth for up to 3 years.

Materials & Durability: At its core, the Ecosa uses recycled TPEE (Thermoplastic Polyether Ester Elastomer), a petrochemical synthetic material. While it emits fewer VOCs than standard foams and is certified "safe", we still would have preferred natural materials. The outer cover disappoints—Tencel™ seems included primarily for marketing, while the majority is recycled polyester. Though soft and moisture-wicking, it remains fundamentally synthetic. However, we question if this mattress will truly serve second babies. Despite the 5-year warranty, repeatedly washing the core could potentially impact firmness and structural integrity over time, potentially compromising safety as it supports the cot mattress.

Safety & Sustainability: We respect the recycled polyester initiative and the OceanCycle program for the cover and zipper—we even applaud them. This reflects a clear environmental commitment that goes beyond mere marketing claims. However, we are categorical when it comes to babies: natural products are essential. The only natural element here is the 37% Tencel in the cover; everything else is synthetic. Despite the OEKO-TEX certification, this product contains endocrine disruptors that could impact your baby and potentially cause allergies or respiratory problems. Certainly, effort has been put into the core structure and ventilation—we notice the product doesn't emit off-gassing odors and breathes well. But ethically, as indicated in our articles, we cannot recommend it when healthier products exist.

Value for Money: Priced at approximately 540 AUD without promotion, the Ecosa cot mattress is a little bit too expensive. For just $100 more, you can have a fully organic mattress without synthetic materials and dual firmness levels. We appreciate the 100-night trial period, but it's not relevant as a selling point for baby products. If you can get this mattress for less than 400 AUD during sales, it can be an appropriate price point—anything above that is excessive. However, you're paying for the Ecosa brand and their quality customer service, which is responsive and helpful when you experience issues with their products.

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Airnest

3.4/5

Breathable Cot Mattress

$499$399.2

Designed for ultimate hygiene and breathability, this cot mattress features a washable 'Airnest-Lite' polymer cell construction. Lightweight and highly breathable, it prevents overheating. Made from polypropylene rather than natural materials, it prioritises convenience—ideal for parents seeking easy maintenance over organic composition.

  • Cover:Polymer
  • Internal Layer:Polypropylene (Thermoplastic)
  • Size:5 Cot size options
  • Certification:OEKO-TEX, AS/NZS Standard
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Breathable Cot Mattress

Airnest

3.4/5

Breathable Cot Mattress

$499$399.2

The Airnest Cot Mattress is likely Australia’s most hygienic option, with its fully washable, ultra-breathable, and lightweight design. But do you want your baby sleeping on plastic? Despite non-toxic claims, synthetic materials still pose allergy and endocrine risks. While some call it the best, we remain skeptical. For SIDS-conscious parents, it may seem reassuring—but a quality natural mattress already minimizes that risk. Durability is also uncertain, with only a 2-year cover warranty. If you choose it, wash it with water only to avoid weakening the structure. Great for parents prioritizing convenience, but not for those seeking an organic sleep environment.

Natural safety options we love

  • 100% washable design (both core and cover)
  • Significantly lighter than traditional cot mattresses—easy to manipulate

What to avoid in a baby mattress

  • 100% synthetic materials from cover to core—entirely synthetic polypropylene (food-grade, but still plastic)
  • Too pricey for a fully synthetic material

Firmness & Comfort: the Airnest strikes an excellent balance between the firmness necessary for infant safety and the comfort needed for growing toddlers. Despite its synthetic material, the structure supports up to 100kg, ensuring it's firm enough to meet SIDS prevention standards. The unique textured cover may initially feel different to babies, but it offers an exceptional safety feature—this is likely the only mattress where if a baby rolls onto their stomach, they can still breathe through the material. Its consistent firm feel (8/10) throughout its single-firmness design makes it suitable for babies from birth through toddlerhood.

Materials & Durability: this cot mattress uses a unique material concept that resembles Ecosa's approach but takes it further with a polypropylene cover. This design offers truly exceptional airflow while making the entire mattress completely washable—imagine rinsing a sponge under water, that's how simple cleaning becomes and the same applies for the cover with Oeko-Tex Class 1 certified fabric. In terms of durability, we must acknowledge that we don't have a sufficient long-term perspective yet. However, the limited 2-year warranty for the cover raises some concerns. Based on the construction, the mattress should maintain its firmness even with regular cleaning of both the cover and core. That said, certain harsh cleaning products could degrade the material over time and create sagging. We recommend using only manufacturer-approved cleaning methods to maintain the mattress's structural integrity throughout your child's use.

Safety & Sustainability: As you've likely spotted, the issue is non-natural material. While there are no adhesives or chemical glues, it's still polyethylene—literally plastic—which has potential consequences for your baby's health and environment due to endocrine disruptors. Though the brand claims it's non-toxic, the unique structure may prevent off-gassing but doesn't eliminate the fundamental concern: babies are particularly vulnerable to environmental influences during their developmental years, absorbing everything in their environment.

Value for Money: Priced at approximately 499 AUD, the Airnest is too expensive for the materials used. While I understand the value of the ingenious design, it's still a fully plastic cot mattress at five hundred bucks without even a bit of fabric. Certainly, the excellent breathing technology does represent genuine value for particularly practical-minded parents. The warranty structure is somewhat unusual: 2 years for the cover and 5 years for the core. Despite this limited warranty period, we're not entirely confident about this mattress's long-term durability.

Cot Mattress Materials: What’s Best for Your Baby?

Feeling lost in the jungle of cot mattresses? That's completely normal - the market has become incredibly complex with marketing jargon designed to confuse rather than clarify. But here's one simple truth every parent should understand: natural is always best, especially for a baby.

Your baby's mattress should provide more than firm support – it should offer a safe and chemical-free environment for their sleep. Not all cot mattress materials are created equal—here are the most common options you'll find in Australian cot mattresses:

Recommended Cot Materials

  • Natural Latex: Highly breathable, durable, hypoallergenic, and provides excellent firm support, especially with organic certification. Perfect for temperature regulation and long-term use.
  • Coconut Coir: Firm and breathable, provides natural ventilation and exceptional support. Commonly paired with latex or wool for the ideal balance of comfort and firmness.
  • Pocket Springs: Offers consistent support and superior airflow (when combined with natural layers), particularly beneficial when combined with natural materials like latex or wool for temperature regulation.
  • Cotton, Wool, Hemp: Excellent as comfort layers combined with a supportive core. Naturally breathable, hypoallergenic, and effective at temperature regulation throughout all seasons.

Not Recommendeds

  • Polyurethane Foam: While budget-friendly, it often lacks breathability and can emit VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). If choosing poly, always ensure it's CertiPUR-certified to minimise risks.
  • Polyester: Soft and resistant to stains and spills, commonly used as mattress covers for practical reasons, but significantly less breathable than natural fibres and can emit VOCs.
  • New-generation rigid plastics: New-generation rigid plastics (Polyurethane): Firm and waterproof synthetic material, offering easy cleaning and effective moisture resistance. However, it is plastic and can contain endocrine disruptors that may interfere with your baby's hormonal development.

Whether marketed as "premium sleep-tech foam," "next-gen comfort layer," polyurethane, or those trendy rigid plastic foam surfaces that are "easy to clean" - they're all petroleum-based products.

Companies love highlighting how quickly you can clean these surfaces after accidents. Still, they rarely mention what your baby's delicate skin and developing lungs are absorbing during those thousands of hours of sleep. Sure, they'll claim their products are certified and optimised for airflow, but these remain fundamentally synthetic materials.

When searching for the best cot mattress, ask yourself this simple question: if these materials started as crude oil before being processed with numerous chemicals, do they really belong in your baby's cot?

A beautifully designed wooden baby cot set against a starry night-themed nursery wall.
A wooden cot and a natural mattress, a dream match

Firmness and support - what your baby needs

Forget what you know about comfortable mattresses—baby mattresses need to be firm. Really firm. If you think a mattress feels too hard, it’s probably just right for your little one. Pediatricians and safety organisations like Red Nose are crystal clear on this: a firm cot mattress isn't just a recommendation; it's essential for preventing suffocation risks and ensuring proper support.

Why babies need a firm mattress:

A good test? Press your hand into the center of the cot mattress. It should bounce back immediately and not mould to your hand shape. The ideal density should be between 20-30 kg/m³ – think of it like pressing on a dense sponge rather than a fluffy pillow.

You'll find dual-sided baby mattresses on the market, and for good reason. From birth until approximately 12-18 months, an 'extra' firm surface is recommended to ensure safe support for your baby. Around 18-24 months, this firmness may become uncomfortable. That's why some manufacturers offer reversible mattresses with a slightly softer side that better accommodates your growing child's physique while maintaining appropriate firm support for their development.

Hand pressing and measuring a white cot mattress to check firmness and support for safe baby sleep.
Measuring cot mattress firmness

Cot mattress certifications explained

Most parents don't realise your infant's first three years are crucial for developing their immune and respiratory systems. During this time, they're like tiny sponges - absorbing everything from their environment, including things we can't see.

Your newborn spends most of its time sleeping, breathing just inches away from its mattress. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and endocrine disruptors, invisible chemicals released from synthetic materials, can irritate tiny lungs, trigger allergic reactions, and interfere with hormonal development.

The certifications that guarantee peace of mind:

“As someone who developed asthma early in life, I've learned firsthand how early exposure to synthetic materials can affect long-term health. “

This is why it's better to choose a natural or organic cot mattress, like those made from latex, coconut Coir, or natural fibre foam. These mattresses are free from harmful chemicals and provide a healthier sleep environment.

Natural materials matter beyond the mattress—pyjamas, bedding, and toys also contribute to your child’s environment. Just like you wouldn’t feed your baby processed food full of additives, you shouldn’t let them sleep on synthetic materials full of chemicals.

Think of it this way: you wouldn't feed your baby processed food full of chemicals, so why let them sleep on synthetic materials full of them?

The truth about "Antibacterial", “Hypoallergenic” treatments

Some companies push hypoallergenic, antibacterial treatments as a safety feature, but here's the reality: they're adding unnecessary chemicals like triclosan and formaldehyde to your baby's mattress. These treatments not only expose your little one to endocrine disruptors but also need regular renewal - meaning more chemical exposure over time.

Nature does it better: materials like wool, coconut fibre, and natural latex have inherent anti-bacterial properties without chemical treatments. These materials naturally resist bacteria and dust mites while keeping your baby safe from harmful additives. If you're concerned about bacteria, choose these natural alternatives: baby mattresses instead of chemically treated surfaces.

So forget the fancy marketing jargon - if you see words like "revolutionary sleep-tech foam" or "advanced bacterial shield cover" instead of simple, natural materials you can pronounce, just walk away. Your baby doesn't need a mattress that sounds like it belongs in a sci-fi movie.

Temperature Regulation - beyond just "Keeping Cool"

Temperature regulation in a baby mattress isn't just about the surface - it's about layers. Most budget mattresses use a single layer of synthetic foam that traps heat and moisture, like wrapping your baby in plastic. This creates a problematic sleep environment where your baby can quickly overheat, especially during Australian summers.

Unlike adults, who can kick off blankets when hot, babies depend entirely on their sleep surface to maintain a comfortable body temperature. That’s why the best cot mattress is made from natural materials, which excel at airflow and temperature regulation, ensuring your baby stays comfortable and safe throughout the night.

Best cover materials:

For covers, avoid polyester, which traps heat and releases microplastics; chemically treated "cooling" fabrics full of synthetic additives; and PVC-coated waterproof layers that can off-gas harmful chemicals.

Best core materials:

Avoid memory foam and polyurethane foam for the mattress's core. They trap heat, don’t breathe well, and often contain chemical cooling agents like gel beads.

As mentioned in our preview reviews in the recommendation, Ecosa and Airnest use a new technology featuring rigid polyethylene with a highly breathable design composition, particularly Airnest, which extends this concept all the way to the cover. It's true that in terms of airflow and temperature regulation, they perform equivalently or even better than some natural materials, but the fact remains - they're still plastic. While their temperature regulation properties may be impressive, parents should consider whether having their baby sleep on a synthetic surface, regardless of how well it manages airflow.

Remember: Babies can't regulate their temperature as well as adults. A cot mattress that combines poor temperature regulation with synthetic materials creates a double risk: uncomfortable sleep and unnecessary chemical exposure during these crucial developmental years.

organic and natural cot mattress inside a wooden crib, crafted by The Natural Bedding Company.
Natural cot mattress by The Natural Bedding Company

Why you need to protect your cot mattress with a mattress protector

Let's be honest: When it comes to hygiene, a removable cover for your baby's mattress isn't just a luxury; it's essential. Yet many natural mattresses don't include a removable zippered cover, and this choice is typically motivated by a simple reason: incorporating a zipper often requires adding synthetic materials or chemical treatments to ensure its durability and resistance.

This doesn't mean natural cot mattresses are difficult to maintain. Instead of relying on potentially zippered covers, experts recommend a layered approach: a fitted organic cotton protector (or any natural protector) plus a high-quality natural fibre sheet. This creates a complete protection system that prioritises both hygiene and environmental responsibility.

The beauty of this layered approach (cot mattress + protector + sheet) is its practicality for real-life parenting. You can wash individual layers more frequently and always have clean backups ready - a game-changer for those inevitable nighttime accidents. Any parent who's dealt with 3 AM diaper leaks will appreciate having spare, clean layers on hand rather than waiting for a single zippered cover to wash and dry.

Ensure the perfect fit for comfort & safety

Most Australian cots use the standard mattress size of 130 cm x 69 cm. This size works perfectly for typical rectangular cots and will serve your child well for up to 2-3 years. However, not every family has the exact needs or space requirements.

Other Common Options:

Before you buy, consider how long you plan to use the cot. A standard size might be perfect if you're considering transitioning to a toddler bed or single kid's mattress around age 2 or 3. But if you want something that'll last longer, you might want to look at larger options.

When it comes to mattress fit, there's zero wiggle room. Red Nose experts put it plainly: You should never see more than a 20mm gap between your mattress and cot frame. This precise measurement isn't just a suggestion—it's a vital safety requirement for your infant's sleep space.

Hand checking the gap between a cot mattress and frame
Red Nose safety recommendation

How much does a cot mattress cost in Australia?

You'll find baby mattresses at every price point in Australia - from $80 budget options at Kmart and Big W to premium choices over $800. While those sub-$100 mattresses might tempt your wallet, they often use the cheapest synthetic materials and minimal safety testing. The sweet spot for a quality cot mattress typically sits around $500, where you'll find better materials and safety certifications.

Why you should never buy a second-hand mattress

Here at True Dream, we strongly advocate for sustainability and second-hand purchases - but cot mattresses are an absolute exception. Here's why:

Are IKEA cot mattresses safe?

Oh, IKEA - we love your meatballs and maze-like stores, but when it comes to cot mattresses? Let's have a heart-to-heart. While their prices might make your wallet smile (looking at you, PELLEPLUTT at $75 or JÄTTETRÖTT at $149), there's a catch bigger than trying to pronounce these Swedish names correctly.

IKEA JÄTTETRÖTT cot mattress – stacked white cot mattresses with a crib
JÄTTETRÖTT, IKEA cot mattress

Here's the not-so-cozy truth: these baby mattresses are polyurethane foam wrapped in polyester. That's like dressing your Infant in plastic pyjamas and expecting them to sleep comfortably! Sure, you might save $200/300 upfront, but at what cost?

Instead of playing mattress roulette at IKEA, Big W, or Kmart, consider this: for just around $500, you can get a mattress that isn't trying to win a chemical cocktail contest. Trust us, your baby's future lungs will thank you for skipping the budget synthetic options. Sometimes, the best deals are the ones you don't take, especially regarding your little one's sleep sanctuary.

Beyond price - thinking long term

Yes, we know what you're thinking: "Why invest in an expensive mattress that will only be used for 2 or 3 years max?" It's a fair question. Investing in a quality cot mattress can feel overwhelming, especially when those first three years require specific safety standards. But here's the bigger picture: these early years set the foundation for your child's lifelong sleep health and safety.

During this critical period, choosing the best cot mattress isn't merely a matter of comfort—it’s crucial for your baby's safety. Experts emphasise the importance of breathable, natural materials and strict safety standards to significantly reduce risks associated with infant sleep, such as suffocation or overheating.

Rather than viewing it as a short-term expense, think of it as a foundational investment in your child’s development, health, and future. For approximately $1,000, you can ensure a completely non-toxic sleep environment—including a high-quality mattress, organic protectors, and breathable natural fibre sheets—that safely supports your baby throughout the entire cot phase.

Moreover, unlike lower-quality cot mattresses, a premium natural mattress can remain in excellent condition well beyond these early years, making it reusable for siblings or family members (don't forget you should only reuse it if you've protected the mattress correctly), thus extending its practical lifespan and value.

If budget constraints force you to prioritise, invest where it truly matters: your child's safety, health, and sleep quality. After all, what better gift could you offer your child than the healthiest possible start in life?

A final note on SIDS

We've chosen to place this section at the end of our article because, while it's not pleasant to discuss, it's crucial information that could save lives.

Red Nose reports that 106 babies died from SUDI across Australia in 2022. While many of these cases were classified as unknown causes, research shows that most could have been prevented through safe sleep practices. This reinforces why proper sleep safety is so crucial for our little ones.

The Non-Negotiable Sleep Safety Guidelines

After their first birthday, babies typically develop the strength and mobility to adjust their position safely if needed. However, maintaining a safe sleep environment remains important throughout early childhood.

"While these guidelines might seem overly cautious, they've helped save thousands of lives. When in doubt, remember: bare is best - just your little one, their sleep bag, and a firm mattress in a properly fitted cot."

Photo de Cici M.

By Cici M.

Sleep Expert & Editorial Director

With a decade in the bedding industry, Cici brings real warmth and expertise to mattress evaluation through True Dream, the review platform she co-founded to cut through marketing hype with genuine testing. Her struggles with insomnia give her a personal connection to the search for better sleep solutions, making her recommendations both knowledgeable and deeply empathetic. When she's not testing sleep products, Cici recharges with peaceful evening walks through Melbourne's quiet streets, discovering hidden café gems away from the city bustle.