The Little Green Sheep BD001A Waterproof Mattress Protector for Moses Baskets, 30 x 70cm, Natural

Product Information

Cot bumpers can post the risk of an accident to your baby once they begin to roll and move about the cot. There have been a number of cases in the UK and abroad where infants have become entangled in the ties and material, or fallen from pulling themselves up on the bumpers. Generally we would advise it is safest to have a new mattress for each baby. However, we know this is not always possible. Your baby will spend many hours in a cot, so make sure it's safe. If you're buying a new cot, look for one that meets British safety standard BS EN 716. The BS number should be in the instructions or marked on the cot itself.

sheets to cover the mattress – you need at least 4 because they need to be changed often; fitted sheets make life easier but can be quite expensive, so you could use pieces of old sheet Moses basket mattress protectors for small moses basket mattresses tend to be 67cm x 30cm or 68 x 30cm in size although some can be slightly smaller measuring 66cm x 28cm. Many of the protectors will fit slightly smaller mattresses but if the mattress is too large the fitted mattress protectors may be too tight. If you cannot do this, use the cot mattress you have, as long as it's firm (not soft), flat, fits the cot with no gaps, is clean, dry, waterproof and not ripped or torn. Travel cot mattresses are often thinner and feel harder than those in a permanent cot, but don’t be tempted to place folded blankets or a quilt under the baby to make them ‘more comfortable’. They will be fine (and safer) without. Do not use a sheepskin in a cot or Moses basket or other sleep space. It is important that baby’s sleep space is firm, flat and has a waterproof cover. Adding a sheepskin can reduce firmness and risk overheating. Avoid using soft or bulky bedding

The base of a good night’s sleep

Look for the United Nations ECE Regulation number R44.03 or R44.04, or the new i-size regulation R129, when you buy a car seat. Look for the E mark label on the car seat.

Wait until your baby can sit by themselves before using another type of pushchair. Choose a light pushchair if you'll be lifting it on to trains or buses. PramsFor more information on safe sleeping, see Reducing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Spend some time looking at what's available for getting around with your baby. Think about what will suit you best before you make a choice, and ask other mums what they have found useful.