Baby vomit which soaks into foam mattresses might help explain some cases of cot death, research suggests. Bacteria linked to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) seem to thrive in vomit-soaked polyurethane foam, especially if the babies drink formula, rather than breast milk, it is revealed. The situation is worse if the mattress is old or has been used previously by another baby. Experiments at De Montfort University in Leicester also found that if mattresses are disturbed to mimic a baby's movements, enough bacteria can rise into the air to cause life-threatening throat infections. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Once in the throat, the bacteria colonise the respiratory tract where they warm up and produce "supertoxins" that trigger the immune system into abnormally severe assaults. When a baby's developing immune system overreacts, the infant can die of anaphylactic shock, according to an article in New Scientist. Dr Richard Sherburn, who carried out the study, found the problem occurred in mattresses which were two-thirds covered by PVC, but the top section, supporting the baby's head, was covered by a plastic mesh, making it porous.
After use, these mattresses can be heavily contaminated with bugs, the dominant species of which is Staphylococcus aureus, a bug often found in the throats of SIDS babies. The bacterial levels were 100-fold higher if the baby had vomited formula, rather than breast milk. The abundance of S. aureus rose with the number of babies that had used the mattress. He said: "My gut instinct is that these bacteria last longer than other bacteria and have a head start when a second child comes along and uses the mattress. "I would say it's safer to get a new mattress for each child, but if you had one that's completely covered with PVC and it can be cleaned, I would assume it could be used again." Mimicking a baby's movement also created clouds of bugs in the air above a mattress. Dr Sherburn said: "Four hours after throwing up, there could be 10,000 bacteria in the air, enough to cause infection." Ironically, the "breathable" part-PVC covered mattresses were introduced in the 1990s to overcome perceived dangers of mattresses fully covered with PVC.
The theory, now largely rejected, was that fungi inside the PVC covering broke down flame retardant chemicals in the plastic and released toxic vapours that poisoned babies. However, Dr Sherburn's work is adding weight to other studies suggesting breathable mattresses actually pose the highest risks. The Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths (FSID), has welcomed the study findings. An FSID spokeswoman said: "This research supports our advice to keep cot mattresses well-aired and clean "A mattress with a PVC cover or a removable, washable cover is easiest to keep clean." However she stressed there is no single established cause of cot death and more research needs to be carried out. Seven babies die every week in the UK from cot death. Dr Sherburn's study was funded by the Scottish Cot Death Trust. Get this portable baby nest/bed for your child. Very comfortable and an added advantage when traveling your baby will always have his/her bed. If you’re tight on space or just want to be close to your new baby, here’s how to maximize your space and make cohabiting comfy for everyone.
Updated Feb 21, 2017 Photo: Bluebird Vintage via Pinterest If you’re tight on space, try using a neutral palate to maximize space and make the room appear larger. The photo above shows a room without clutter, making it easier to live in cramped quarters. Read more: Controlling the chaos: Tips to a clutter-free home> Use curtains for privacy Sheer curtains, like the ones shown above, may not seem that private. But what they lack in opaqueness, they offer in light billowy affects causing the room to seem airy. They’re easy to install and a minimum investment, perfect for temporarily dividing space between sleepy new parents and the sweet babe’s digs. Read more: IKEA hacks: 10 budget-friendly furniture DIYs> Lay down a rug A rug can divide the room—allowing parents to keep their tranquil setting while acting as a divider from baby. Plus, a rug can absorb sounds, making it safe for tiptoeing (literally) around baby’s sleep schedule. If you wish to make an investment, purchase a high-end rug in a neutral shade that will work with varying colour schemes and patterns and will last for years to come.
Read more: Co-sleeping: Three in the bed> Use nooks and alcoves Provided your closet is safe and sturdy, try creating a little nook for baby in an emptied alcove. This works well for cribs or change tables alike. Easily convert your closet back when baby has graduated to their own room. Read more: Nursery decor: Forest-themed baby’s room> Take advantage of large sturdy furniture Of course you love your little one, but who doesn’t crave a bit of privacy once in awhile? If space permits, try turning the foot of your bed to face a window or a wall and place a sturdy piece of furniture, such as an armoire, at the head of the bed. Bookshelves can work, too. Ensure they are safely secured, though. If you’re really tight on space, get rid of or store away unnecessary furniture. A dresser can double as a bedside table in a pinch. If you have a low, sturdy dresser, try setting up a change table on top to eliminate the need for extra furniture. A portable change station that can be used on the floor or bed works, too.
Read more: 15 of our favourite baby mobiles> Turn an old armoire into a changing station. The drawers below can house clothes and supplies, and the unit can easily be converted into something else as your little one grows. Take advantage of wall space Take some of the pressure off your closet by setting up shop on a wall. We love this rustic branch idea, but play around with what suits your style best, be it an industrial pipe or classic closet rod. Alternatively, you could try adding a second bar in your existing closet to help bear the load.At Angelcare, experts located throughout Canada, US, UK, Europe and Asia unite around one key passion: helping babies thrive. Since 1997, our internationally award-winning lines of movement monitors, diaper disposal systems, and baby care products have come to lead the market in nearly 60 countries worldwide. United States of Americain bikes & ride-ons Action FiguresVideo GamesBikes & Ride-onsElectronicsBuilding SetsLearningGames & PuzzlesOutdoor PlayVehicles, Hobby & R/CPretend PlayArts & CraftsPreschoolMusical InstrumentsStuffed AnimalsCooking for Kids