🍼 Sleep & Nursery
Next to Me Crib Mattress Protectors UK
A waterproof mattress protector is one of the first things you buy for a Next to Me crib - and one of the most important. We compared six options that fit the standard 51x85cm Next to Me mattress, looking at waterproofing, noise level, fit, and how well they hold up after repeated washes.
Key Takeaways
- Bamboo Waterproof Protector (51x85cm) is our top pick - soft bamboo surface, noiseless waterproof layer, and over 5,000 Amazon reviews averaging 4.4 stars.
- Yoofoss Waterproof Protector offers the best value with a 360-degree elastic band and 15cm depth that fits snugly on most Next to Me mattresses.
- Little Green Sheep Organic Protector is the premium choice - organic cotton, no crinkle, and designed specifically for the Chicco Next to Me.
- All six protectors we compared are machine washable at 40 degrees and fit the standard 51x85cm Next to Me mattress dimensions.
- Prices range from around £6.99 for basic terry cotton to £20+ for organic options - all qualify for Amazon free delivery.
Suggested reading: How to Make Your Next to Me Crib More Comfortable | Best Baby Sleeping Bags UK
Quick Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Price | Rating | Material | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bamboo Waterproof | ~£9.99 | 4.4/5 (5,248) | Bamboo + TPU | All-round best |
| Yoofoss Waterproof | ~£7.99 | 4.5/5 (1,676) | Microfibre + TPU | Budget pick |
| Terry Towelling | ~£8.99 | 4.3/5 (800+) | 150 GSM Terry | Extra absorbency |
| 2-Pack Bamboo | ~£14.99 | 4.4/5 (5,248) | Bamboo + TPU | Value pack |
| Lakhmaali 2-Pack | ~£9.99 | 4.1/5 (13) | Terry Cotton | Budget 2-pack |
| Little Green Sheep | ~£19.99 | 4.6/5 (350+) | Organic Cotton | Premium / organic |
In-Depth Reviews
1. Next to Me Crib Mattress Protector - Waterproof Bamboo (51x85cm)
Price: ~£9.99 | Bamboo surface + TPU backing | Fits 51x85cm | Machine washable 40°C
This protector uses a bamboo viscose surface with a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) backing - the same waterproof layer technology found in premium adult mattress protectors. The bamboo naturally wicks moisture and feels noticeably softer than standard cotton options. Amazon reviewers consistently mention the noiseless waterproof layer, which matters when your baby is a light sleeper. One reviewer noted: "Fit my Chicco next to me mattress perfectly, lovely and soft, good quality."
The 51x85cm sizing is specifically designed for the Chicco Next to Me and similar bedside cribs. It fits snugly with an elasticated edge that doesn't ride up during the night. The hypoallergenic bamboo surface is a good choice for babies with sensitive skin.
Pros
- Extremely soft bamboo surface
- No noiseless waterproof layer
- 5,200+ reviews, well-proven
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- Slightly pricier than basic terry options
- Can feel warm in summer
2. Yoofoss Next to Me Crib Mattress Protector (51x85cm)
Price: ~£7.99 | Microfibre + TPU | 15cm depth | 360-degree elastic | Machine washable
The Yoofoss has been a consistent bestseller for Next to Me crib protectors for a reason. The 360-degree elastic band grips the mattress from all sides, and the 15cm depth accommodates most Next to Me mattress thicknesses without riding up. It's a straightforward, no-frills protector that does its job well.
The microfibre surface is slightly less luxurious than bamboo but still comfortable, and it dries faster after washing - handy when you're on your second load of the day. Amazon reviewers praise the secure fit: "Doesn't move around at night even with a wriggly baby."
Pros
- Cheapest single protector
- Secure 360-degree elastic
- Dries quickly after wash
- Compatible with Chicco Next2Me
Cons
- Microfibre less soft than bamboo
- Single layer only
3. Next To Me Compatible Waterproof Crib Mattress Protector (Terry Towelling)
Price: ~£8.99 | 150 GSM Terry Cotton | Non-noisy | Fits 83-85 x 50-51cm | Machine washable
This protector uses a 150 GSM terry towelling surface, which absorbs more liquid than standard microfibre before the waterproof backing kicks in. That makes it a solid choice if your baby tends to leak through before you notice. The terry cotton is soft but not as silky as bamboo - think of it as more absorbent, less luxurious.
The non-noisy waterproof layer is a key feature at this price point. Some budget protectors use a stiff plastic backing that crinkles when baby moves. This one stays quiet. The sizing (83-85 x 50-51cm) matches the standard Next to Me mattress dimensions.
Pros
- High absorbency terry cotton
- Non-noisy waterproof layer
- Good mid-range price
Cons
- Takes longer to dry than bamboo
- Thicker fabric can feel warm
4. 2 x Next To Me Crib Waterproof Mattress Protectors (Bamboo)
Price: ~£14.99 | 2-pack | Bamboo + TPU | Hypoallergenic | Machine washable
Two protectors for the price of one and a bit. The bamboo surface is the same as our top pick, so you're getting the soft, breathable feel with reliable waterproof protection - just with a spare in the wash. This is the practical choice for parents who know one protector isn't enough.
At around £7.50 per protector, it works out cheaper than buying singles. The hypoallergenic bamboo is a good match for babies with eczema or sensitive skin. Both protectors fit the standard 51x85cm Next to Me mattress.
Pros
- Two protectors, better value per unit
- Same bamboo quality as top pick
- Always have a spare ready
Cons
- Higher upfront cost
- Not useful if you only need one
5. Lakhmaali 2-Pack Next to Me Crib Mattress Protector (Terry Cotton)
Price: ~£9.99 | 2-pack | Terry Cotton | 360-degree elastic fit | Machine washable
The Lakhmaali is the cheapest two-pack you'll find for Next to Me cribs. At under £10 for two, it's hard to argue with the value. The terry cotton surface is soft and breathable, and the 360-degree elastic keeps it in place. Amazon shows 50+ bought in the past month, suggesting it's gaining traction.
The 50x85cm sizing matches the standard Next to Me mattress. With only 13 reviews so far, it's newer to the market, but early feedback is positive. One reviewer noted: "Soft, breathable, and noiseless - exactly what I needed for the Next to Me."
Pros
- Cheapest 2-pack available
- Soft terry cotton surface
- 360-degree elastic fit
Cons
- Fewer reviews than established brands
- Unknown long-term durability
6. The Little Green Sheep Waterproof Mattress Protector - Next to Me
Price: ~£19.99 | Organic Cotton | Designed for Chicco Next2Me | Machine washable
The Little Green Sheep is the premium option. It uses organic cotton that's genuinely soft - not just soft-feeling synthetic. The key difference reviewers highlight is the lack of crinkle. As one Amazon reviewer put it: "It doesn't crinkle or have a plastic feel to it, and the super soft, organic cotton feels gentle against delicate skin."
At around £20, it costs twice as much as most alternatives. But if you want the best material quality and your baby has sensitive skin, the organic cotton is worth considering. The fit is designed specifically for the Chicco Next to Me mattress, so you won't get the bunching or riding up that generic protectors sometimes cause.
Pros
- Organic cotton, gentle on skin
- No crinkle noise
- Purpose-built for Next to Me
- Highest rated (4.6/5)
Cons
- Most expensive option
- Only one in the pack
How to Choose a Next to Me Crib Mattress Protector
Size: 51x85cm Is Standard
Most Chicco Next to Me cribs use a mattress measuring 51 x 85 cm. When shopping, look for protectors labelled 51x85cm or the equivalent 50x85cm - both fit the standard mattress. The depth matters too: a 15cm depth works for most Next to Me mattresses, while thicker aftermarket mattresses may need a deeper option. Always measure your mattress before buying if you're using a non-standard one.
Waterproof Material: TPU vs PVC
Modern protectors use thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) for waterproofing, which is quieter and more breathable than old-school PVC. All six protectors we compared use TPU backing. If you see a protector listing PVC or plastic backing, it'll likely crinkle when your baby moves - not ideal for light sleepers. TPU is also more durable through repeated washes.
Surface Material: Bamboo vs Terry Cotton vs Microfibre
Bamboo viscose is the softest option and naturally temperature-regulating. It wicks moisture away from baby's skin and is a good choice for sensitive skin or eczema. It's slightly more expensive.
Terry cotton is more absorbent and typically cheaper. It handles heavy leaks well but takes longer to dry. Good for overnight use where you want maximum absorption before the waterproof layer kicks in.
Microfibre dries fastest and is the cheapest. It's less soft than bamboo but still comfortable, and it's a practical choice if you're buying multiple protectors.
Noise Level
A noisy protector defeats the purpose. The whole point is protecting the mattress without disturbing sleep. TPU-backed protectors are generally quiet, but check reviews for mentions of crinkling. All six protectors we compared scored well on noise - the Bamboo and Little Green Sheep options are the quietest according to Amazon reviewers.
How Many Do You Need?
At minimum, two. One on the mattress, one in the wash. If your baby is a heavy leaker or going through a sleep regression phase, three gives you a buffer. The 2-pack options (Bamboo 2-Pack and Lakhmaali 2-Pack) are the most cost-effective way to stock up.
Safe Sleep Reminder
The NHS and Lullaby Trust recommend a firm, flat sleeping surface with no loose bedding. A fitted mattress protector that sits tight against the mattress is fine - it's the loose blankets and soft bedding that pose a risk. Always fit the protector smoothly with no bunching, and follow current safe sleep guidance from the Lullaby Trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Verdict
For most parents, the Bamboo Waterproof Protector hits the sweet spot. It's soft, quiet, fits perfectly, and has thousands of positive reviews backing it up. At around £10, it's not the cheapest option but it's the one most parents end up buying extras of once they've used it for a week.
If budget is the priority, the Yoofoss does the same job for less - the 360-degree elastic means it stays put, and the microfibre dries fast between washes. For parents who want organic materials and are happy to pay more, the Little Green Sheep is the premium pick with the highest ratings of the lot.
Whichever you choose, buy at least two. You'll thank yourself at 3am when one's in the wash and you've got a clean one ready to go.
Last reviewed: August 30, 2026 · Evidence-based review · Contains affiliate links