Do I need a new mattress cover for a new baby and other silly questions...

[babybouncer]

I'm expecting my second child imminently, but seem to have entirely forgotten everything about babies that I learnt first time round! I'm sure I've been told I need new mattresses for the crib and cot, but our old crib mattress (from mothercare) came with a zip-off 'cool-max' cover - can I reuse this to put on to a new mattress?

Also, I seem to remember that I shouldn't use fabric softner/conditioner when washing bedding - or is it all baby stuff - or have I made that up?

[belgo]

I used the same mattress for all of my children. I often think these 'rules' are simply to get you spending more money rather then based on evidence.

[Flisspaps]

Generally, I think the feeling is that using mattresses for more than one of your own children is fine, but if you're getting a second hand cot from elsewhere then you're better off getting a new mattress to go in it (much like car seats are fine if you know the history)

DC2 will be lucky if I even bother washing the mattress cover that DD had on the cot mattress.

[DilysPrice]

If it has gone through the washing machine then you're fine to reuse it.

[igggi]

I'm getting new cot/pram mattresses for dc2, but that's because I like to follow the FSIDs guidelines to the letter. No one can force you to, but the recommendation is new baby, new mattress.

[Anchorwoman]

I am due next week with dc 2 and will get new mattress for cot mainly because ds has v sweaty head and it has a dip in it now at both ends. Otherwise I'd prob just have washed cover. I am reusing baby clothes, washing in non bio powder.

[cakes82]

What about moses basket mattresses? Do they need replacing?

[igggi]

A mattress is a mattress. If you would replace a cot one, you should replace a moses basket one.

[Emsgale]

I think if the matress is in good condition there is no problem using it again for another child same for all bedding I use matress protectors,from birth encase of any leaks etc.
I was all baby cloyhing and bedding in non bio and softner xxxx

[aimskidooo]

Oh gawld - what's best to buy a new mattress or not?!

[melliebobs]

Course you can use fabric softener on clothes (but not cloth nappies) But definitely use non bio detergent.

[Anchorwoman]

I would say it depends where your mattress has been stored and for how long.

[MrSweet]

I'd get a new mattress. There is research to suggest that reusing mattresses could contribute to SIDS. Not worth it for the sake of a few quid.

[igggi]

fsid.org.uk/page.aspx?pid=426#mattress FSID advice
I would save money elsewhere, imho.

[HorseyGirl1]

RE washing powder. I actually just read about this last night. My pregnancy book said no fabric conditioner and non-bio washing powder etc. xx

[HorseyGirl1]

RE washing powder. I actually just read about this last night. My pregnancy book said no fabric conditioner and non-bio washing powder etc. xx