Using old household cots

Myth: If an old cot has been used safely by a family for many years, then it must be safe to use with a new baby.

Fact: Old cots may not meet modern mandatory safety standards that prevent hazardous gaps that can strangle or suffocate children. This is because:

• Wear and tear over many years and potential missing parts can make moving parts on the cot unreliable. When an old drop side fails, a child can roll out and fall to the floor.
• Often people like to buy a new mattress for an old cot. If the mattress they choose is the wrong size, a sleeping child can become trapped and suffocate.

Carefully check the features on old cots. Just because many infants have used a cot without suffering injury does not mean it is safe—you don't want your child to be the first.