What do I need for a newborn's sleep?
Short answer: A separate sleep space in your room, a firm flat waterproof mattress that fits, fitted sheets, and a sleeping bag or lightweight blankets. Plus a room thermometer.
Here is the detail behind that answer, taken from current UK guidance from the NHS and the Lullaby Trust.
Things to check
- Use the mattress made for that basket, so it fits with no gaps.
- Use the basket on the floor or on its own stand, never on a raised surface like a sofa or table.
- Check the weight limit in the instructions.
What the guidance says
- The NHS advises placing your baby in a separate cot or Moses basket in the same room as you for every sleep, day and night, for at least the first 6 months.
- The Lullaby Trust says a baby needs just two items in their cot: a firm, flat, waterproof mattress and lightweight bedding.
- Keep the room between about 16C and 20C and check it with a room thermometer.
Related questions
What is a Moses basket?
A small, light, portable basket bed for newborns, often used on a stand.
Shop at Baby Kingdom
- Dorel Rowan Valley Flint 3in1 Crib WHTBLCK Wrail
- CoZee Luxe Mini Me Crib
- Sophie Swinging Crib - White
- Obaby Foam Moses Basket Mattress 75 x 28cm
Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
Can a 6 month old sleep in a travel cot?Can a newborn sleep on their tummy?Is a Moses basket right for you? Quick quizCan a 9 month old have a cot bumper?Cot beds buying guide for UK parentsSetting up a safe sleep space at grandparents' houseAll safe sleep and sleep spaces advice →
Sources
- NHS: Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) (accessed 2026-10-21)
- The Lullaby Trust: Safer sleep advice (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.