Are Cot Bumpers Safe? What You Need to Know About Plaited Cot Bumpers

Cream baby cot bumper plait braid
Are Cot Bumpers Safe? What You Need to Know About Plaited Cot Bumpers

When designing a safe and comfortable sleep space for your baby, many parents consider using a cot bumper. These soft barriers can help prevent little arms and legs from getting caught between cot bars and can add a stylish touch to your nursery. However, there has been growing concern about the safety of traditional cot bumpers, particularly regarding suffocation and injury risks. In this article, we'll explore the safety of cot bumpers, with a focus on plaited cot bumpers as a more modern, breathable alternative.

Cream cot bumper

1. What Are Cot Bumpers?

A cot bumper is a padded cushion that lines the inside of a baby's cot. They are typically used to prevent babies from bumping their heads or getting their limbs caught between the bars. Traditional cot bumpers usually cover the entire cot perimeter, but newer styles like plaited cot bumpers are more compact and flexible, offering a safer alternative.

2. Cot Bumper Safety: What Do the Experts Say?

There has been a lot of discussion about the safety of traditional cot bumpers. Organisations like the NHS and The Lullaby Trust recommend avoiding padded cot bumpers due to the potential risk of suffocation and accidents. Babies may roll into the bumpers and be unable to move away, leading to restricted airflow.

Plaited cot bumpers, however, offer a safer alternative for older babies and toddlers, especially when transitioning from a cot to a toddler bed. These bumpers are softer, more flexible, and often made from breathable materials, allowing better airflow around the sleep space. They can also help create a cosy environment for toddlers as they adjust to their new bed. Plaited bumpers are easier to adjust and secure properly, helping reduce the risk of loose bedding. When used appropriately, they provide a gentle barrier to prevent bumps during sleep, offering both comfort and safety for older children.

Neutral cot bumper

3. Benefits of Plaited Cot Bumpers

  • Breathable: plaited bumpers are designed to allow air to circulate freely around the cot, reducing the risk of overheating.
  • Protection from Bumps and Bashes: While they may not prevent all bumps, plaited cot bumpers provide a soft barrier that helps reduce the impact of your baby rolling into the cot sides.
  • Multi-Functional Use: Plaited bumpers can also be repurposed as toddler bed guards, play mats, or nursery decor, making them a practical investment.
  • Stylish Addition to the Nursery: Available in various colours and materials, they add a soft, cosy look to the nursery, complementing different decor styles.

4. How to Use Cot Bumpers Safely

If you choose to use a plaited cot bumper, it’s important to follow some key safety guidelines to ensure your baby’s sleeping environment remains safe:

  • Ensure Proper Fit: Make sure the bumper fits snugly around the cot, leaving no gaps between the mattress and the bumper. Loose or ill-fitting bumpers can pose a risk if your baby becomes trapped.
  • Keep the Cot Clear: The cot should be free from loose bedding, pillows, or toys. Always use a fitted sheet on the mattress and avoid placing additional soft items in the cot.
  • Secure the Bumper Well: Plaited bumpers should be securely tied to the cot, but avoid using strings or ties that could become a hazard. 
  • Regularly Check for Wear and Tear: As with any baby product, regularly check your cot bumper for signs of wear or damage, ensuring it remains safe for use.

5. Choosing the Right Cot Bumper

When selecting a cot bumper, it’s essential to consider the material and design. We offer a wide range of sizes, all made from soft, breathable cotton and hypoallergenic fillings. This helps keep your baby comfortable while reducing the risk of irritation.

Our plaited bumpers are designed with both safety and style in mind, offering a versatile solution that works with a range of cot sizes and layouts.

Grey plaited cot bumper

Final Thoughts

By following proper safety guidelines and choosing a high-quality, well-fitting product, you can create a safe and cosy sleep environment for your little one.

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