When putting our babies down to sleep, we want to make sure they’re perfectly safe and comfortable. As a result, you might be tempted to wrap them up in cosy blankets whilst surrounding them with their favourite toys, nightlights, and more; we go above and beyond and often assume there are countless boxes to be ticked. It turns out, however, that there is a longer list of things you definitely shouldn’t put in your baby’s cot.
Suze Patel - Co-Founder of ‘Nini Baby’ - shares five things your baby shouldn’t sleep with in their cot.
Cot bumpers
Cot bumpers are fabric linings that are fitted to the inside edges of cots to stop babies from banging their heads or getting their limbs caught in the crib’s bars; they’re unsafe and should be avoided. Instead, cots should be kept clear and clutter-free. Thankfully, the design of modern cots compliments this; our NiniPod for example doesn’t have bars, it has soft, fabric and mesh sides which are entirely safe in their own right – no additions needed. Cots like this are a much safer option.
Unsafe mattresses
When it comes to the things in your baby’s cot, their mattress is one of the most important components to get right. All mattresses should comply with necessary safety standards (as our built-in mattress does) and they should feel firm to support babies’ sleep. Your baby’s mattress should also always be kept clean, with a mattress protector not having any loose edges they could get caught up in.
Blankets and pillows
Blankets and pillows might be cosy for us to sleep with but they’re not safe in a cot. Pillows, duvets and blankets are a dangerous hazard; instead, make sure your baby’s sleeping space is clear of anything they could get tangled in. If you’re worried about your tot getting cold, opt for a light blanket that’s securely tucked in just below their shoulders. Their feet can then wriggle but they won’t have too much mobility.
Soft toys
Similarly, soft toys should not be kept in your baby’s cot. A safer option would be to place them around your baby’s lovingly created nursery – well away from them whilst they sleep.
Soft toys in a baby’s crib can cause discomfort and prove to be suffocation risks. Keep this cuteness out of the cot!
Family members
For lots of parents, co-sleeping is a hugely appealing sleeping option. However, sleeping with your baby does accompany its own risks and many experts recommend avoiding this.
If you are considering co-sleeping, do your research and seek advice from a professional who can evaluate your unique circumstances and give you informed guidance
To find out more about ‘Nini Baby’ visit: www.ninibaby.co.uk