Ensuring your baby gets a restful and safe night’s sleep is one of the most important things you can do for their development and wellbeing. In the early months, sleep fuels everything – from brain development to physical growth, and it affects the mood and energy of the whole family. 

But creating the perfect sleep space is about more than comfort, it’s about safety. In New Zealand, safe sleep guidelines are in place to protect babies from preventable risks like Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy (SUDI). A well-designed nursery and safe sleeping space combine the right equipment, environment, and routines to support both rest and safety. 

In this guide, we’ll explore how to create a safe, comfortable sleep environment for your baby, covering cot and mattress choices, bedding, room conditions, and essential nursery safety measures. 

1. Start with the Right Cot 

Your baby will spend thousands of hours in their cot, so it’s important to choose one that meets New Zealand safety standards. 

Look for the safety standard sticker

All cots sold in NZ – new or second-hand, must comply with AS/NZS 2172. Don’t just take the seller’s word for it, check the sticker is current. 

Check the base

• The mattress base is key to cot safety and durability. Look at: 
• How many slats there are and how they’re secured (screws or bolts) 
• Whether there’s a centre support beam for extra strength 
• Whether the base is solid or slatted (slats can improve airflow) 

Measure carefully

Safety standards allow for gaps between bars of 50-95 mm, small enough to prevent a child slipping through, but big enough for airflow. 

Mind the fit

There should be no more than a 20 mm gap between the mattress and the cot sides when the mattress is centred. 

Avoid drop sides unless well-secured

If your cot has a drop side, make sure it can’t be moved easily from inside by a bouncing child. 

2. Choose a Mattress That’s Safe, Firm, and Breathable 

A baby’s mattress needs to be firm, flat, and well-fitting – soft surfaces increase the risk of suffocation. 

Why firmness matters

A too-soft mattress can let your baby’s face sink in, making it harder to breathe. 

Breathability is a game-changer

Growbright’s airnest Cot Mattress is made from high-quality, ultra-breathable materials. The food-grade polypropylene core allows air to flow freely, reducing overheating and helping dissipate carbon dioxide if your baby rolls over. 

Chemical-free peace of mind

The airnest core contains no foams, adhesives, or chemical nasties. The cover is Oeko-Tex® Class One certified, safe for babies from birth. 

Easy care

The airnest system is completely washable, including the mattress core – keeping your baby’s sleep surface hygienic and allergen-free. 

3. Keep Bedding Simple and Safe 

The Ministry of Health and the American Academy of Pediatrics both recommend: 

• Always place your baby on their back to sleep 
• Keep their head and face clear 
• No loose bedding, pillows, bumpers, or toys in the cot 

Fitted sheets only

Growbright’s airnest Fitted Sheets are made from breathable TENCEL™ fibres that may help regulate temperature. 

Waterproof layer

A waterproof mattress protector can be a real lifesaver during those messy moments, like toilet training or when your little one is feeling under the weather. With the airnest Cot Mattress, we don’t recommend using a waterproof layer every night, so you can enjoy its full breathability. But for “spilly” times, sickness, or for use on another mattress that can’t be fully washed, the airnest Waterproof Mattress Topper is perfect. It keeps your baby comfortable and airflow flowing, while protecting against spills and leaks. 

Swaddles instead of blankets

Loose blankets can cover your baby’s face. A wearable swaddle or sleeping bag keeps your baby warm without risk. Swaddling also soothes and promotes longer stretches of sleep. 

4. Temperature & Ventilation 

Overheating is a known risk factor for SUDI. The ideal nursery temperature is 20–22°C. 

How to maintain the right temperature: 

• Use a room thermometer or monitor with temperature display 
• Dress your baby in layers appropriate for the season (check the TOG rating) 
• In summer, keep blinds closed during the day to reduce heat build-up 
• Improve airflow with a fan or open window (but not directly onto baby) 

The airnest sleep system’s breathable layers naturally help regulate temperature, keeping your baby comfortable year-round. 

5. Light, Noise & Routine 

Light control

Blackout curtains make it easier for your baby to nap during the day and sleep longer at night. For night feeds, use a dim light so baby stays sleepy. 

Sound environment

White noise or gentle lullabies can mask background noise and signal it’s time to rest. 

Consistency counts

A predictable routine – such as bath, feed, cuddle, swaddle, white noise – helps your baby transition into sleep more easily. 

6. Nursery Safety Beyond the Cot 

A safe nursery is about more than just the sleep space. Here’s a quick safety checklist: 

Fix your furniture

Anchor tall furniture to the wall to prevent tipping, especially as your baby starts to pull up and climb. 

Rounded edges & smooth finishes

Choose nursery furniture without sharp corners to reduce bumps and bruises. 

Windows & cords

Install window latches and keep blind cords out of reach to prevent falls and strangulation risks. 

Floor safety

If you have hard flooring, add a rug or padded mat for warmth and cushioning. 

General hazards 

• Use childproof locks on cabinets 
• Keep small objects, coins, and batteries out of reach 
• Move electrical cords behind furniture 
• Check smoke alarms regularly 
• Keep a stocked first aid kit accessible 

7. As Your Baby Grows: Toddler Room Safety 

Toddlers are curious and mobile, so safety needs to adapt. 

• Keep furniture stable and secure 
• Ensure windows are latched 
• Remove climbable hazards near the cot or bed 
• Choose soft flooring to cushion falls 

8. Your NZ Safe Sleep Recap 

From Plunket and Ministry of Health guidance: 

• Baby sleeps on their back 
• Face and head clear of bedding 
• Sleep in their own bed, in parents’ room for first 6 months 
• Firm, flat mattress with snug fit 
• Smoke-free environment before and after birth 

Final Thoughts 

Creating the perfect safe sleep environment for your baby is about combining evidence-based safety guidelines with comfort and practicality. 

By: 

• Choosing a firm, breathable mattress like the airnest 
• Using fitted sheets and swaddles instead of loose bedding 
• Maintaining a comfortable temperature 
• Following a consistent bedtime routine 
• Keeping the nursery free of hazards 

…you can rest easier knowing you’ve given your baby the best possible start. 

When I became a mum to Liam and Amelia, I had no idea what I was doing. Trust your intuition, keep it safe and simple, and lean on your village, you’ve got this. – Natalie