Tests have also found that mattresses can lose their firmness after a few years and may not be suitable for a newborn (Which, 2021b). Whatever sort of mattress you choose, it should conform to safety standards BS 1877-10:1997 (Which, 2021b). You might find attending one of NCT's Early Days groups helpful as they give you the opportunity to explore different approaches to important parenting issues with a qualified group leader and other new parents in your area. If you are short on space or cash the thought of two cots may be alarming. So long as you follow other safer sleep guidance you can decide to have your twins in separate sleeping areas from birth, or have them sleeping together (The Lullaby Trust, no date).

The safest place for your baby to sleep for the first six months, day or night, is in a cot in the same room as you (NHS, 2021). However, the main reason for that is because of a possible small increased risk of SIDS in mattresses brought in from another home (Lullaby Trust, 2018). Lullaby Trust (no date). The best mattresses and bedding for your baby. Available from: https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk/safer-sleep-advice/mattresses-and-bedding/ [Accessed 12.11.2021] Make sure your baby doesn't overheat. The ideal room temperature is between 16°C and 20°C. Use minimal layers and never use hot water bottles or similar products.

Cot bars should be vertical and the distance between them no less than 2.5cm and no more than 6.5cm (Which, 2021a). Your baby should sleep in the same room as you, day and night, for the first six months. This is where a portable crib or Moses basket can come in handy. Make sure the cot – even if old – conforms to current British or European safety standards. You will probably be able to find the manufacturers instructions online.

Keep your baby smoke-free during pregnancy and after birth. According to The Lullaby Trust, Around 6 in 10 of sudden infant deaths could be avoided if no baby was exposed to smoke during pregnancy or around the home. NHS (2021) Reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/caring-for-a-newborn/reduce-the-risk-of-sudden-infant-death-syndrome/ [Accessed 12.11.2021] Keep your baby’s cot clear of toys and loose bedding. All they need is a flat surface and simple bedding.Mattresses come in either standard or continental size and go in their equivalent sized cot. Choose one that feels firm because your baby needs support while sleeping.

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What mattress should I choose for my baby?

However, if sleeping together avoid a Moses basket or small cot as they could overheat (Lullaby Trust, no date). Second hand cots: are they safe? A car seat is fine when they are in the car, but move them onto a firm, flat surface when you get home.

If the cot has a drop-down side mechanism, it's important to make sure it works properly. You should be confident it's secure and won't drop accidentally. If in doubt, it's safer not to use the cot. You should also give the waterproof layer a clean before you use it and put a fresh sheet on the mattress. What mattress should I choose for my baby? If you're using a baby sleeping bag, it should fit well around the shoulders so that they can't wriggle down inside it. Are cot bumpers really unsafe? Don't co-sleep with your baby if you or your partner has been drinking, is a smoker, has been taking drugs (including medication which makes them sleepy) or is extremely tired. As your baby is less able to control their temperature than you are, don’t put them to sleep near a radiator or sunny window, for starters. Nearby blind cords should be secured safely away from your baby, and curtains and baby monitor cables need to be out of reach too (Lullaby Trust, no date). Do I need to get a new mattress for my baby?ROSPA. (2019) Bedtime: a safe cot. Available from: https://www.rospa.com/Resources/Hubs/Keeping-Kids-Safe-(1)/Bedtime.aspx [Accessed 12.11.2021].