Bassinet And Cot Mattresses

[Emmaplustwo]

Hi there

I am due in January 2006 and also have a three year old. I was wondering what was the current advice about mattresses. Is it recommended that new ones are purchased or can I use the mattresses from baby number 1?

Cheers

Emma :confused:

[veve]

hey :)

the other day on the new I saw a report that linked SIDS with older mattresses...

I haven't investigated the story myself... but when I was given a cot - I just went down to Clark Rubber and bought a new mattress to fit (the biggest mattress was $50)

How has the mattress been stored???

I guess it is your call... but I personally think it is better to be safe than sorry..

xxxxx

[Ky]

The same good innersprung cot mattress has been used for 4 babies in my family now (my sisters two and my two).

The only thing that I have done is have it professionally cleaned between babies and it comes up as good as new. I have worked within the carpet and upholstery cleaning industry and cleaning gives really good results.

Saying this, I wouldn't put my baby on a second hand mattress if it hasn't been stored in a dry place and if it is showing any sign of rust or mildew. If you do decide to have one cleaned, make sure that your cleaner is going to use an anti-micrbial solution on it and to use air movers to get it dry again.

[blessed]

My DP is a nurse, and we discussed the risks of SIDS for our baby. The latest research indicates that the risk of SIDS is higher among second children/babies who use second hand mattresses. The reason for this is that the dreaded MRSA (golden staph bug) is everywhere and tends to live in mattress type conditions. WHile adults can quite happily live among the bug and not be affected, little babies don't quite have the same immunity that we adults have.

Not sure if it this relates to having baby sleep in bed with mum and dad as well, but it may be something we need to consider.

I guess it is always best to err in the side of caution - keep the cot but replace the mattress

:)