Cot matress in perfect condition, does it have to be replaced?

I've bought new mattresses each time, but that's probably more because DD1 and DD2 were both in cots at the same time, and then I had nothing left anyway when DD3 came along. When I was reading your OP I was thinking oh no, she should get a new one just to be safe but then I thought how ridiculous that is when each and every night and most day sleeps I put DD3 down to sleep on our mattress which has been used heavily obviously by us for years now. So, I would say that so long as you used a mattress protector on it with Bub No. 1 then go for it.

DDs wasn't new (from my SIL) and I was going to replace it but never got around to it. It has two mattress protectors on it anyway (protector, sheet, protector, sheet) so its never bothered me.

Replace it? really? A new mattress for each kid? people aren't made of money.
A few days in the sun. Uv light kills almost all germs. A steam clean is a good idea. A lavender spray solution could be an idea too. Lavender is an antibac agent. I spray all our bedding with it and it smells good :)

Yeah, I'll use the pvc side again. Its much easier to clean.
I guess I have a while to think about it, I just like to plan things. Lol

I personally would reuse it, with a matress protector but if this is causing you to think and re-think over and over again then I think it would be less stress just to buy a new one and be done with it. One less thing for you to have to worry about.

*shifty eyes* The cot & mattress I have used with all 5 of my kids was used by a extended member of the family for her 5 kids before mine.
I always used a protector & sheets that got washed. It never crossed my mind that it wouldn't be ok... With that thought collectively the my kids probably spent a total of 6 months in it.

We used the same one for 9 years and it was wrapped in the plastic it came from for 7 years. Then we just used a waterproof mattress protector. SIl has been using it for the past 2 years for her two boys. Personally, if you know that it's still in good nick, then I would use it. Such a waste to get rid of it.

I would use it. Typing the same mattress for siblings is apparently ok. I used the same one with my kids,

I would happily use it given you know its history. DD2 is using the same one we had for DD1 (bought brand new) which is now 3 years old. I would never use someone else's second hand mattress though.

Hmm, ok. I'll run it all by DF too and see how he feels about it.

Thanks everyone!!