There’s no doubt about it; raising a baby is expensive. With all of the different things you need to buy for both your nursery, being out and about, and simply supplies, you might be tempted to buy or borrow some second-hand stuff. However, this isn’t always a safe idea. Baby gear is recalled all the time, and sometimes there are specific risks to different items that you might not even be aware of. This is especially true when it comes to crib mattresses, and the short answer is: no, it’s not a good idea to reuse a crib mattress. One of the more obvious reasons not to reuse a crib mattress is because of sanity concerns. Crib mattresses get peed on, repeatedly. You can never be 100% sure that it was cleaned and treated properly, and even spilling milk or other things can lead to mold growth and worse if not cleaned properly. You can also never be sure of what’s going on inside the mattress; if it was stored improperly or in a damp area, the interior could be a host to fungal and bacterial growth.
Bed bugs are also a concern with any used furniture, and that includes crib mattresses, and they’re not always visibly noticeable. This is an obvious concern if you’re thinking of buying one online from someone you don’t know. Mattresses don’t last forever, and one that’s been used for a while might simply not be safe to use anymore. Crib mattresses should be as firm as possible, and if it’s been used over time, this might not longer be the case. They do lose firmness over time, especially if used for years. The condition of the mattress is also very important. If it has any kind of tears or holes, it should not be used, period. In 2002, a study by the British Medical Journal concluded that there was a significant link to having a used crib mattress and SIDS, especially if it was from another home. The reasoning why was not known, but it was thought that it could be the baby’s bodily fluids being trapped in the mattress, leading to bacteria that the next baby is exposed to, in turn leading to an increased risk of SIDS.
Because of all the risks associated with used crib mattresses, it’s not recommended. However, there are low-cost alternatives and buying a budget crib mattress doesn’t necessarily mean it’s going to be a low quality one. Consider reading our guide on buying crib mattresses; it will be a big help!In fact, for most families with more than one child, they are a way of life. But even with the terrific cost savings and convenience of just passing things down from one pregnancy and newborn to the next, you’ll want to stock up on a few new items during your pregnancy to prepare for that second baby. – If you’ve kept your old bottles to wash, boil and prepare for this next baby, be aware that the nipples on the bottles have an expiration date. The nipples on a bottle should be replaced every few months, which means the nipples you used for your older child should have been replaced then and most certainly should be replaced now. Fortunately, baby bottle manufactures produce separate nipples that are far less expensive to buy than the full bottle set-up.
– For the same reasons as above, any latex or silicone pacifiers used with your first baby should be throw out after just a few months. If you still have some hanging around, throw them out and buy a pack or two of new pacifiers for your new little one. Don’t go overboard on replacing the pacifiers, however. If your first loved them, your second might decide to hate them. Have one handy and ready to go when you need it, but don’t be a bit surprised if the baby you’re cooking now is nothing like your first. - It is recommended that you replace your crib mattress for each baby. The crib itself is fine to use as many times as you like so long as it is in good repair, but the allergens and other material that seep into the mattress can be agitating to the newborn. If you’re not going to spring for a brand new mattress, a zip-on mattress cover that locks all the yucky inside a special material will make it almost as good as new. - If your car seat has ever been in any sort of accident, it should be replaced.
If it’s broken or in poor repair it should be replaced as well. New advancements are always being made in carseat technology and it’s recommended that you get a new carseat with every baby to take advantage of the latest technology updates and to be sure your newborn is in the safest car environment possible. – During your pregnancy, you’ll start to unpack the early baby items to prepare the nursery for the second round of infancy. When you do this, you can expect your first-born to reclaim any of her old lovies. Blankets, dolls, animals and the odd toy will suddenly be absolutely off-limits for the new baby and you should honor the wishes of your child, within reason. Buy new lovies that are fresh and ready for your next little one to chew and drool on. In fact, you can probably wait and receive some new dolls and blankets at a baby shower or as a gift. Don't forget to record the memories of your pregnancy using TotSites!.Use without explicit permission is prohibited.
Solid foods and weaning See all baby groups There are many types of cot mattress available. You can choose between foam spring interiors, natural fibres, special anti-allergy fillings, or a combination of any of the above. You may find it difficult to decide which is the best and safest mattress for your baby. But The Lullaby Trust states that it doesn't matter what kind of mattress you use, as long as it: is firm not softfits the cot snugly without any gapsdoesn't sag doesn't have signs of wear and tear Any mattress you choose should conform to BS 1877-10: 1997. It should also be at least 8cm to 10cm deep to support your baby while she sleeps. If the mattress you choose has a fabric cover, vacuum it regularly to keep dust mites at bay. Unless you know the history of a second-hand mattress, buy a new one. This will give you peace of mind.Foam mattressesFoam mattresses are generally the cheapest. They are designed to provide the right support and maintain your baby's natural posture.
They often have a wipe-clean PVC cover or removable, breathable covers on one or both sides. They may also have ventilation holes to help keep your baby cool, but these aren't necessary. lightweight provide good supportgood value for moneygenerally easy to keep clean ConsA PVC cover may make your baby feel a bit clammy in hot weather. May start to lose shape after several years. This may be something to consider if you want to use the mattress for subsequent children.Dirt or grime can be difficult to remove from ventilation holes. Coil spring mattressesThese traditional mattresses have a coiled spring interior with layers of felt and foam padding. They often have a cotton cover on one side and PVC, or other wipe-clean material, on the other side. A spring inner core will support your baby. These mattresses also tend to hold their shape well. If you choose a cot bed, you may prefer a coil spring mattress as they tend to be longer lasting than foam. The space within the spring lattice allows for increased airflow through the mattress.
This helps to regulate a child’s body temperature and to keep the mattress fresh. They are a traditional, popular choice with many parents.In hot weather, you can lay your baby on the cotton cover side to prevent her becoming clammy. More expensive than a foam mattress.The cotton side may be preferred for comfort, but can be more difficult to keep clean, unless your mattress has a removable panel.Pocketed spring mattressesThese mattresses are very similar to coil spring mattresses, but each spring is in its own pocket to provide improved support for longer. Expensive.Probably not cost-effective, unless you have a cot bed that your baby will sleep in for several years, or the mattress will be used for more than one child. Dual Core™ mattressesThe Dual Core™ cot mattress is a patented design that incorporates two cores in one. It aims to meet the needs of your child from when they are first born to when they start school. For your newborn baby, it has a coir and orthopedic foam interior, which provides a flat and firm sleeping surface.
As your baby grows into a toddler and preschooler, the second core incorporates micro-pocketed springs to conform to your child's changing weight and shape. excellent support throughout your baby's early yearsextremely hard-wearingholds its shape well expensiveNatural fibre mattressesNatural fibre mattresses have a core of coconut fibre with other layers of different materials. The fibres are coated in latex for strength and protection, and the natural fibre filling helps air to circulate through the mattress. These mattresses are available with a soft cotton or wipe-clean covering. Good choice if you are concerned about your baby sleeping on synthetic material, or you are concerned about introducing unnecessary chemicals or synthetics into your home. One of the firmest types, so the mattress is long-lasting, and holds its shape well. This could be a sensible choice if you want a mattress that will last for more than one child. More expensive than foam or most spring interior mattresses.
Less widely available than other types of mattress.Hypoallergenic mattressesIf allergies or asthma are a concern in your family, you may want to consider a hypoallergenic mattress for your baby. These come with a quilted top layer that can be easily detached and washed at 60 degrees C to kill the dust mites that may cause allergies. Allergy UK has a list of approved mattress covers and bedding. Good choice if your baby has allergies or asthma. Easy to keep clean. May be more expensive than other kinds of mattress.For most babies, this may be a luxury buy. Track your baby’s development Join now to receive free weekly newsletters tracking your baby’s development and yours throughout your pregnancy. Enter your due date or child's birthday Enter your email address Privacy policy & terms Support for your parenting journey. Delivered to your inbox. My Baby This Week Newsletter Keep up with your baby’s development with personalised weekly newsletters.