What bedding do I need for a moses basket?

This article contains information about what your bedding options are and how much you need. You can view a wide selection of baby bedding in our Online Store.

If you are planning on using a moses basket you will need to stock up on some suitable bedding before your baby is born. It is often not clear what you moses basket bedding you will need, so our guide below should help explain the basics. At the very least, you will need two sets of bedding so that one can be washed while the other is in use, but three or more sets is more practical and - if you are using them - you will need more for blankets for colder weather.

Moses basket bedding: Sheets

Flat sheets

Many parents choose to use flat sheets with their moses basket because they can be used both to cover the mattress or as a blanket. To use as a mattress cover you will probably need to double over the sheet and the corners should be tucked firmly underneath the mattress. Although flat sheets have the advantage of versatility and can still be used once baby is moved to the cot, the downside is that a wriggly baby can dislodge them more easily than a fitted sheet.

Fitted sheets

Fitted sheets should feel much more secure as a moses basket mattress cover. They are fairly generic and sheets should fit most sizes of mattress due to their elasticated edges. Moses basket fitted sheets can also be used as pram sheets, and vice versa.

Moses basket bedding: Blankets

Cellular blankets

Cellular blankets are a practical choice because they regulate temperature well. The holes allows the air to circulate which will help keep baby cool and comfortable during warmer months, but the cellular structure also helps retain heat in winter. They can be cotton or acrylic, and both have their pros and cons. Acrylic tends to be more lightweight and slightly warmer on cold nights, but cotton is softer to the touch and kinder on delicate skin.

Fleece blankets

Fleece is warm and soft, making it an ideal material for baby blankets. Fleece blankets are also durable and wash well.

Receiving blankets

The term "receiving blanket" usually relates to a small, square blanket which is particularly practical for newborns and suitable for swaddling. They are generally made from soft materials from such as flannelette. Receiving blankets are popular as baby gifts and keepsakes.

Swaddling blankets

Swaddling can be great for calming fussy babies, and may even help them sleep longer. Any square baby blanket can be used for the purpose - we cover how to swaddle elsewhere on this website - but there are also several types of swaddling blankets available which make it much easier for parents to wrap their baby securely.

Moses basket bedding: Baby sleeping bags

Baby sleeping bags (such as the popular 'grobag' ones) have become popular because they maintain a constant temperature and you don't need to worry about your baby waking because they have kicked off their blankets. There are some versions now available which are suitable from birth, but please check weight restrictions because many can only be used from 10lbs and it can pose a danger to the baby if this is not adhered to. There are several different tog ratings available. Blankets should not be used in addition to the sleeping bag to avoid overheating.

Moses basket covers

If the moses basket you have is second hand or if you want a spare set for wash day, you may want to invest in a set of spare moses basket covers. Most sets include a basket cover, a hood and a quilt. Very few of the major retailers carry moses basket covers only, but we have tracked down some of the best places online to find them (find the article here).

How many blankets do I need?

How much bedding you need to start with is going to depend on factors such as the season and how warm your home is. It is important not to overheat your baby as this has been linked to an increased risk of sudden infant death. But newborns do tend to prefer to be kept slightly warmer than would feel comfortable to an adult, and you do not want your baby to become too cold or they will not sleep well. The following is a general guide to how many baby blankets to use: