Why is my baby's mattress damp around the Sensor Pad area?

Unfortunately moisture on the underneath of a baby or adult mattress can happen, especially when using foam mattresses. This is because the mattress can soak up the natural moisture emitted by whomever is sleeping on the mattress.

This moisture is not able to effectively escape due to it being trapped between the plastic Sensor Pad, wooden ply (where used) and a mattress.

This coupled with humidity in general can in some cases lead to mould on the mattress whether using a Sensor Pad or not.

This is a natural occurrence, a build-up of moisture is quite common and easily remedied by:

• rotating the mattress regularly, aerating the whole bed area (removing all covers and standing the mattress in a dry area or by a radiator for a few hours periodically)

Most mattress manufacturers do advise to do this on a regular basis. Sometimes using a mattress protector can help to protect the mattress as you can remove and wash this.

With regards to the Sensor Pad itself we want to confirm to you that there is no heat or electrical source within the Sensor Pad, it is a totally passive unit.

The Angelcare Sensor Pad can be compared to a microphone: where a microphone converts tiny vibrations in the air (sound) into a signal, the Sensor Pad converts movement vibrations ply from the mattress into a tiny signal.

The Sensor Pad has a large collecting surface (the top) which transfers movements and concentrates them in the centre of the pad.

Baby’s movements do not have to be directly on top of the pad as the mattress itself will transfer the vibration forces (but not quite so effectively).

These small vibration forces concentrated in the centre of the pad are detected by a Piezo Crystal. The crystal has the property of producing a small signal in proportion to the change in force applied to it.

When using wood underneath the Sensor Pad, as per the Instruction Manual:

• ensure that you drill some holes in the plywood and to rotate the mattress regularly to allow air circulation and to prevent any build-up of such moisture

This will allow any moisture particles to evaporate from the mattress, all mattresses will contain some moisture but by allowing a little to escape on a regular basis will prevent a build-up which may lead to the occurrence of mould.

To clean your mattress we would advise you to follow the manufacturer's instructions or to gently clean with warm soapy water and allow to fully air dry.

We do hope that this information we have given helps to allay any concerns that you may have.