Water proof cot mattress

I have not used one of these before. Are they good?
I want a spring mattress and was thinking of putting a protector on it, but maybe I could get the water proof type insted? I am concerned about the mattress breathing.

What are the pros and cons of water proof mattress when compared to a mattress with separate protector?

And would you use a 2nd hand one or do you think thats a bit yuck? I wouldnt have a problem with a 2nd matress that had been looked after with a removable cover, so not sure if its any different.

We had a second hand crib mattress and used a water proof cover over it. It looked very clean and we gave it a lysol spray and never had any probs with it. I would think it was a bit yuck if the mattress was all stained and such.

I never used the plastic side of a waterproof mattress I always turned it over and used the cloth side with a mattress protector. I just thought it was more comfortable for bub.. I think second hand is fine as long as you clean it..

Hello,
SIDS have an information statement about second hand mattresses - just do a web search and it should come up - as there has been media info saying not to use them. The conclusion is 'SIDS and Kids has reviewed the research to date and has found that there is no evidence to show that there is an increased risk of SIDS for babies who sleep on their back and on a firm, clean, well fitting mattress that is in good condition.'. So I guess that if the 2nd hand mattress is in good condition, it should be ok.

I personally got a fabric covered mattress for the reason that I wanted it to breath. I intend to air it out over summer every so often to kill pesky dust mites - I guess that a plastic covered mattress would prevent them totally, but am not convinced...

Good luck
FG

Ours has the plastic on only one side and seems to breath quite well, i let it air out every time i change the sheets and give it a spray with glen 20 etc.
I have found that DD is more than comfortable on it and it's sooo easy to clean.
Also i found it doesn't make the crumple noise that some of the plastic protectors make.

GL there is so much choice out there.