Are cot bumpers safe?
Short answer: The Lullaby Trust advises against cot bumpers. Babies can get tangled in the ties or fabric, or climb on them to fall out.
Here is the detail behind that answer, taken from current UK guidance from the NHS and the Lullaby Trust.
Things to check
- Check the mattress size listed for the frame. 140 x 70cm is common, but not universal.
- Keep every conversion panel, bolt and instruction sheet for the toddler-bed stage.
- Look at adjustable base heights, teething rails and any matching furniture.
What the guidance says
- The Lullaby Trust advises removing cot bumpers: babies can get tangled in ties and fabric, or fall after pulling themselves up on them.
- Keep the cot clear: no pillows, duvets, cot bumpers, loose blankets, soft toys, pods, nests, wedges or anything to keep your baby in place.
Related questions
What is a cot bed?
A cot with removable sides and ends that converts into a toddler bed, most often taking a 140 x 70cm mattress.
Shop at Baby Kingdom
- Ickle Bubba Snowdon 4 in 1 Mini Cot Bed
- Pembrey Cot Bed and Under Drawer
- Evie Mini Cot Bed - Cashmere
- Bantam Space Saver Cot - White
Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
Can a 3 month old sleep on their tummy?Bedside crib vs crib: which is better?Can a 3 year old sleep with a soft toy?What if my baby rolls onto their tummy in their sleep?Your 18 month's sleep space: a safe-sleep guideSummer sleep safety quizAll safe sleep and sleep spaces advice →
Sources
- The Lullaby Trust: Baby mattresses and bedding (accessed 2026-10-21)
- NHS: Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) (accessed 2026-10-21)
General information only, not medical advice. Always follow your product's instructions. If you are worried about your baby, contact your GP, health visitor or 111. In an emergency, call 999.