What bedding goes in a crib?
Short answer: The Lullaby Trust says a baby needs just two items in their cot: a firm, flat, waterproof mattress and lightweight bedding. Use a fitted sheet in the right size and either a well-fitted sleeping bag or firmly tucked-in lightweight blankets.
- Use a mattress made to fit that crib exactly.
- If it rocks or glides, check there is a lock and use it for sleep where the instructions say to.
- Check the weight and stage limits.
What the guidance says
- The Lullaby Trust says a baby needs just two items in their cot: a firm, flat, waterproof mattress and lightweight bedding.
- If you use sheets and blankets, tuck them in firmly no higher than shoulder height. One blanket doubled over counts as two.
- A well-fitted baby sleeping bag is an alternative to blankets. Most makers base suitability on weight (usually around 4kg) rather than age, so check the label.
- 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 crib?
A small free-standing baby bed, sometimes with a rocking or gliding action, sized between a Moses basket and a cot.
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Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
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Sources
- The Lullaby Trust: Safer sleep advice (accessed 2026-10-21)
- 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.