The Market Surveillance Directorate within the Technical Regulations Division of the MCCAA would like to pass on some useful information regarding travel cots.

The same safety rules which apply to traditional cots apply to travel cots, that is, the cot must have a firm, flat mattress covered in waterproof material. Travel cots are designed to be used with the original mattress, as this helps stability so this should not be changed. Most often, the mattresses in travel cots are thinner and harder than those in normal cots. The mattress which comes with the travel cot is the key component in helping to keep it stable and hence, using a different mattress may alter the balance of the travel cot making it easier to tip over.

Research has shown that in most cases, changing the travel cot mattress led to a shortening of the distance between the mattress and the top of the cot. The distance between the top of mattress and the cot should be at least 50cms, otherwise it would make it easier for toddlers to escape. Additionally, adding a second mattress or changing it, would also increase the chance of the child getting entrapped between the mattress and the sides of the cot posing a suffocation risk.

Zips on a travel cot should not detach easily and when possible should be avoided completely as these pose a choking hazard. Preferably travel cots with wheels should have two wheels and two legs so the cot does not roll inadvertently or else the wheels must lock effectively.

One may contact the MCCAA for further information or for any queries on this issue at email [email protected].