Although death from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is a relatively uncommon event, it is the leading cause of post-neonatal infant death (ages over one month and under one year). The aim of this is to provide accurate and current information about SIDS to the community to reduce the risks. Doing this really does help, in 1986 there were 563 deaths this was the highest ever number of SIDS deaths recorded. In 2000 the rate had dropped 76% to 134 (statistics provided by sids&kids). We can help by following the guidelines. What is a safe cot? What is a safe cot mattress? How should i place my child to sleep? etc.
What is a safe cot mattress?
Quoted directly from -
SUDDEN UNEXPECTED DEATH IN INFANCY (SUDI)
“A safe mattress is one that is the right size for the cot, is firm, clean and in good condition. A soft mattress can increase the risk of sudden unexpected infant death if baby rolls over onto the tummy.”
“A baby or toddler can get stuck in gaps between a poor fitting mattress and the cots sides. This is especially dangerous if their face is trapped and covered, or their neck is restricted in any way. Make sure there is no more than 25mm (1 inch) gap between the mattress and the cot sides.”
At The Natural Bedding Company we have used this information to make our SIDS-Aware Wool and Coir Cot mattress. This mattress is “firm and clean“. The coir offers excellent support while the wool adds a small comfort layer. The coir is also aerated and allows excellent airflow. Reducing the chances of your baby getting too hot. We custom make the cot mattress, therefore it is “right size for the cot” as “babies or toddlers can get stuck in gaps between poor fitting mattresses”. We also offer Cotton & Coir (2) and Cotton 4″ mattresses for cots & bassinets. These can be covered in either Cotton, or Organic Cotton. Prices are available from the Cot Mattresses icon.
Frequently Asked Questions:
http://www.sidsandkids.org/documents/FAQOctober2006_001.pdf
How you could prevent SIDS:
1. Place your baby on their back to sleep, from birth.
2. Make sure your babies face is uncovered whilst sleeping.
3. Avoid exposing your baby to tobacco smoke before and after birth.
4. Make sure your baby is in a safe cot, with a safe mattress and in a safe environment.
Much more information is available on this topic at http://www.sidsandkids.org
or for a direct link to the Frequently Asked Questions -http://www.sidsandkids.org/documents/FAQOctober2006_001.pdf
see our SID – Aware Cot & Bassinet Mattresses
