Crib 5 mattresses: Everything you need to know
- Jennifer Connelly
- Jun 4
- 2 min read
If you run a hotel, guest house, Airbnb, or any other hospitality business in the UK, choosing the right mattress is about more than just comfort. It's also about compliance. A key term you may have come across is Crib 5, especially when sourcing mattresses for commercial use. But what exactly does Crib 5 mean and why does it matter?
What is a Crib 5 mattress?
A Crib 5 mattress is one that has passed specific fire safety regulations required for use in commercial environments. The name refers to the BS 7177 standard, which tests the resistance of upholstery materials to ignition. Crib 5 (also known as Source 5) is a higher standard than what’s legally required for domestic settings and is essential for hospitality providers.
The test itself involves exposing the mattress to a small wooden “crib” (constructed like a miniature pallet), which is set alight with a controlled flame. To pass, the mattress must resist ignition and limit the spread of fire for a certain period. The aim is to reduce the risk of fires spreading quickly in shared or public spaces.
Who needs a Crib 5 mattress?
Crib 5 compliance is legally required for:
Hotels and guest houses
Bed and breakfasts
Holiday lets and Airbnbs
Hostels and student accommodation
Care homes and hospitals
Any commercial or contract setting where the public sleeps
If you're offering short-term accommodation, even in your own home through a platform like Airbnb, you’re considered a business in the eyes of the law and must meet these fire safety standards.
How to check if a mattress is Crib 5
When buying a mattress for your hospitality business, always check that it is specifically labelled as Crib 5 or BS 7177: Medium Hazard.
At The Yorkshire Mattress Company, all our hotel mattresses are certified Crib 5 and suitable for commercial use.
You can confirm Crib 5 status by:
Looking at the product label: It should clearly state Crib 5 or BS 7177 Medium Hazard.
Asking the supplier: A reputable manufacturer will provide certification or documentation if requested.
Buying from a trusted supplier: Work with companies who specialise in hospitality-grade products and understand UK compliance standards.
Why Crib 5 is about more than compliance
While Crib 5 is a legal requirement, it’s also a mark of quality and safety. Mattresses that meet this standard are made with flame-retardant materials that provide peace of mind for both business owners and guests. They tend to be more durable, with robust fabrics and fillings designed to withstand frequent use.
At The Yorkshire Mattress Company, our Crib 5 mattresses are handmade in Yorkshire, with quality construction and comfort in mind. We supply a range of trusted hospitality venues, including Grantley Hall, The Crab & Lobster, and Black Hill Barns, with premium-grade mattresses that meet both guest expectations and legal regulations.
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