How important is it to have new mattress with SIDs in mind?

[dan39]

Just that really - I know people who have second/third etc children and use mattress again - I have bought a cot off someone I know, do we need to replace mattress or not? It has been washed and she used it for three kids...its a Stokke cot so the new mattress will be pricey. But I want my dd to be safe too - so I am not being tight, honest - just curious re the reasons/necessity for using a brand new mattress every time.

Hi, I used the same mattress for both my dc in 2003 & again in 2007, & stored it in the loft covered in plastic when it was not being used. However I wasn't aware of the advice that you should change the mattress then. Im now pregnant with dc3 & have bought a new moses basket mattress & will buy a new cot/pram mattress.

I think its down to personal choice, but I feel better doing it this way!

I used the same mattress for DS2 than for DS1 and I will be buying a new mattress for DC3 bc I have noticed it has become mouldy on one side (why? How?)
Actually im wondering whether I should change it now or only for DC3 (due end of may and then if he/she stays 2-3 months in the mose basket, that?s almost in a year time?)
Presumably as DS2 is 18 months now, he is unlikely to die through SIDs? or is he?
sudden guilt