Why “adult” mattresses are not safe for babies? Are they too soft? How does it affect the baby?
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Unlike adults and children over 1 year of age, babies may not automatically struggle and readjust if their breathing is blocked by a soft surface while they are asleep. Their brains and automatic behaviors need more time to develop. Therefore, the safest place for them to sleep is a firm surface, with no cushions, stuffed animals, blankets, pets, or other humans. (This is the guidance in the USA). On this firm, empty surface, if they roll over or roll around, they would still get plenty of air. On a soft surface, they could be in danger.
The risks go down a lot after 6 months old, and by 1 year old, a baby’s brain has developed enough that they will automatically wake up and readjust if they are having a hard time breathing.
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