What do I need in the nursery before the baby arrives?
Short answer: A safe sleep space (Moses basket, crib or bedside crib, then a cot or cot bed), a firm flat waterproof mattress, fitted sheets or a sleeping bag, a room thermometer, and somewhere to change and store clothes.
Here is the detail behind that answer, taken from current UK guidance from the NHS and the Lullaby Trust.
Things to check
- Measure the room and plan where each piece goes before ordering.
- Check what is in the set (cot, cot bed, dresser, wardrobe) and the mattress size the cot takes.
- Wall-anchor wardrobes and drawers as the instructions say.
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.
- Keep the room between about 16C and 20C and check it with a room thermometer.
- Use a firm, flat, waterproof mattress in good condition, with no raised or cushioned edges, that fits the cot or Moses basket with no gaps.
Related questions
What is a nursery furniture set?
Matching furniture, typically a cot or cot bed with a wardrobe and/or chest of drawers.
Shop at Baby Kingdom
- Obaby Maya Mini Cot Bed 3 Piece Nursery Furniture Set
- Gracie 2 Piece Room Set - White
- Vox Bosque Baby Cot 3 Piece Nursery Set
- Obaby Nika Mini Cot Bed 2 Piece Nursery Furniture Set
Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
What nursery wardrobes does Baby Kingdom sell?How do I choose a nursing chair?What baby toys does Baby Kingdom sell?Where should I put a nursing chair in the nursery?Is a nursery wardrobe right for you? Quick quizChanging units buying guide for UK parentsAll nursery furniture and planning advice →
Sources
- The Lullaby Trust: Safer sleep advice (accessed 2026-10-21)
- NHS: Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) (accessed 2026-10-21)
- The Lullaby Trust: Baby mattresses and bedding (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.