Tegan
Hello, I work at a childcare centre. I was wondering if there is a recommendation of how often cot mattresses are replaced in order to reduce the risk of SIDS. Our mattresses are never in storage and are always elevated. Many thanks
Red Nose Education
Red Nose recommends that all mattresses need to be firm, clean, well-fitting & flat.
Once a mattress shows signs of wear & tear, is no longer firm or clean then it should no longer be used.
It’s not a matter of replacing a mattress after a specific period of time, as mattresses are of different quality & the amount of time they are used will vary.
Red Nose has this information about used (second hand) mattresses.
Red Nose has reviewed the research to date and found there is no evidence to show an increased risk of SUDI for babies who sleep on their back on a firm, clean, well-fitting mattress that is in good condition.
Any previously used mattress should have been well stored, firm and clean. If the mattress is damp, torn or mouldy or there is any doubt about its safety, including fit, it should not be used.