What to Put in a Moses Basket — A Complete Newborn Checklist

Getting the Moses Basket Ready

Setting up your baby's first sleep space is one of the most exciting parts of preparing for a new arrival. A moses basket is wonderfully simple — but knowing exactly what to put in it (and what to leave out) is important for your baby's safety and comfort.

The Essentials — What You Do Need

1. A Firm, Flat Mattress

This is the most important item. Your moses basket should come with a mattress that fits snugly inside with no gaps around the edges. The mattress should be firm and flat — not soft, padded, or memory foam. A firm surface reduces the risk of suffocation and supports healthy spinal development.

All Lullaby Nest moses baskets come with a fitted mattress included.

2. A Fitted Sheet

Use a fitted sheet designed specifically for your moses basket mattress. A sheet that is too large can bunch up and create a suffocation risk. Have two or three fitted sheets on hand so you always have a clean one ready.

Choose natural, breathable fabrics such as cotton or bamboo — these are gentle on newborn skin and help regulate temperature.

3. A Light Cellular Blanket (Optional)

If you choose to use a blanket, a thin cellular cotton blanket is the safest option. The open-weave design allows air to circulate even if the blanket covers your baby's face. Tuck it firmly under the mattress no higher than your baby's shoulders.

Many parents prefer to use a baby sleeping bag instead of a blanket — these are a popular and safe alternative as they cannot be kicked off or pulled over the face.

What to Leave Out — Safety First

The following items should never be placed in your baby's moses basket:

• Pillows — newborns do not need a pillow and they pose a suffocation risk
• Soft toys or comforters — keep these out of the sleep space until your baby is at least 12 months old
• Bumpers or padded liners — these restrict airflow and are not recommended by safe sleep guidelines
• Thick or heavy blankets — these can cause overheating
• Loose bedding of any kind — anything that can shift and cover your baby's face
• Wedges or positioners — these are not recommended and can be dangerous

The Safe Sleep Summary

The Lullaby Trust's safe sleep guidelines are simple to remember:

• Back to sleep — always place your baby on their back
• Clear sleep space — firm, flat mattress with nothing else in the basket
• Room temperature — aim for 16–20°C
• Smoke-free environment
• Same room as parents for at least the first six months

A Note on Moses Basket Stands

Always use your moses basket on a dedicated moses basket stand — never on a raised surface such as a table, sofa, or bed where it could fall. The stand should be stable and the right size for your basket. Place the stand on a flat floor surface away from windows, radiators, and direct sunlight.

Our Moses Baskets

Each Lullaby Nest moses basket comes complete with a fitted mattress, ready for your fitted sheet. Our baskets are handcrafted from 100% natural cotton — breathable, beautiful, and made with your newborn's comfort in mind. Browse our collection to find the perfect first nest for your little one.