My baby has a cold and is chocking on mucus. Is it safe to elevate the mattress and if so what's the best way to do it

Dear Michelle,

Many thanks for your wonderful question and I do hope that your baby recovers quickly from their nasty cold.

First and foremost we would recommend that you seek medical advice regarding your baby’s illness for guidance with regard to symptom management if you haven’t already done so.

Red Nose does not recommend cot tiling in any way for otherwise healthy babies because this has been shown to increase the risk of a SUDI occurring. Elevating the cot can result in the baby sliding underneath the bedding and is not recommended. In addition, pillows or positional devices that position the baby with an elevation, often marketed for babies with reflux, are not recommended due to the risks of suffocation and lack of evidence supporting efficacy.

Red Nose recommends placing babies on their back for sleep on a firm flat surface that is not tilted or elevated to significantly reduce the risk of SUDI.

Best wishes,

Jane x