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Crying for a Reason: Decoding Your Baby’s Different Cries
Every baby cries, but not every cry means the same thing. We’ve enlisted Family Sleep & Wellness Coach, Lauren Moran from Little Dreamers, to help decode the different cries.
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The Secrets of Dimples Merino, Natures Miracle
Marvellous Merino – and How to Care for It Dimples high-quality Merino is made in New Zealand and designed to last – treat it with love and care and it will stay looking beautiful for years to come. Why Merino? Merino wool truly is nature’s miracle. Its warm, soft, breathable fibres keep your little one comfortable all year round. Because babies take time to develop the ability to regulate their temperature – and can’t tell us if they’re too hot or cold – Merino clothing and sleepwear offer peace of mind. The natural fibres form little pockets of insulating air, keeping warmth in on chilly days and helping release heat when it’s warm. Other wonderful benefits of Merino: Naturally hypoallergenic – gentle on delicate skin and suitable for babies with eczema, allergies, or sensitivities Naturally flame-resistant – without added chemicals Moisture-wicking – absorbs moisture while staying warm and drying quickly Stain-resistant – perfect for little spills and dribbles Keeps its shape – it stretches with your baby, then springs right back after each wash Made to Last Each Dimples Merino garment is lovingly hand-sewn and embroidered by our talented team right here in New Zealand. Crafted with care and attention to detail, these pieces are designed to last – ready to be worn, washed, and passed down through generations. To help your Merino stay soft, beautiful, and in great condition, it just needs a little extra love when it comes to care. How to Wash Merino Always check the garment’s care label first Do not soak – for stubborn stains, we recommend Sard Wonder Soap. Wet the stain in cold water, rub on the soap, agitate gently, then rinse thoroughly Use a wool-approved detergent like Earthwise Wool & Delicates. Dilute the detergent before adding to your washing machine – never pour directly onto the fabric Avoid detergents that contain eco-brighteners or enzymes, which can damage Merino fibres (even some ‘baby’ or ‘eco’ detergents) Use the wool wash cycle on your machine, or hand wash gently in cold water Rinse well, gently squeeze (no twisting), and lay flat to dry in the shade Never bleach, rub, soak or tumble dry. Merino prefers to be air-dried Cool steam iron if needed – and yes, it’s dry cleanable if preferred How to Dry Merino Merino should be air-dried flat in the shade. Direct sunlight can cause fading or damage, and tumble dryers are a no-go. How to Store Merino Because Dimples Merino contains no chemicals, it can be extra appealing to clothes moths. If you're packing your garments away for a while: Wash and dry them first Store in a sealed garment bag or container Clothes Moths – What to Watch For Noticed tiny holes? Pop the item into a sealed bag and freeze for 72 hours – this helps eliminate any moth larvae. After freezing, rewash the garment as usual. Shop the full range of our luxurious Merino here
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Which bed is right for your baby?
Choosing the Right Bed for Your Baby – What’s Best and Why Your little bundle is nearly here – how exciting! 🐣 One of the first big decisions you’ll make is where they’ll sleep. With so many beautiful options to choose from, it’s easy to feel a little unsure. Should you start with a bassinet or go straight to a cot? Do you want something that grows with your baby, or a cosy little nest for those early days? We're here to help you figure out what matters most – and which sleep setup will suit your family best. Bassinet or Cot: What’s the Right Starting Point? Your baby can sleep safely in either a bassinet or a cot from day one, but the best choice really depends on your space, routine, and preferences. A bassinet is ideal if you want: Your baby sleeping close by during those early weeks. Most bassinets fit comfortably beside your bed, making night-time feeds, nappy changes, and soothing much easier. A compact sleep space that’s great for small rooms, shared bedrooms, or apartments. Something easy to move around the house – bassinets are typically lightweight, so you can keep your baby nearby while you get on with your day. A cosier environment for your newborn. The smaller size can help babies feel more snug and secure, which may lead to more settled sleep. A short-term option before transitioning to a cot – especially if you plan to move your baby into their nursery after the fourth trimester. An easier height for recovering parents. The higher profile of most bassinets means less bending, which can be especially helpful after a C-section or challenging birth. At Dimples, we have several lovely options to choose from. The SnuzPod is a clever bedside bassinet that attaches securely to your bed, making night feeds and check-ins easier while keeping baby in their own safe space. If you love a natural, timeless look, the Nestling Moses Basket is a lightweight, woven option that’s easy to move from room to room and brings a beautiful softness to your nursery. The Snoozi Bassinet is another great choice – designed for safe co-sleeping, it offers mesh sides for airflow, a washable inner nest, and folds down easily for travel or storage. Each option has its own charm, and what works best will depend on your lifestyle, home setup, and how you’d like those early newborn nights to feel. Thinking Ahead? Choose a Bed That Grows With Your Child If you're looking for something that can go the distance – from those sleepy newborn days through toddlerhood and beyond – the Stokke® Sleepi™ is an outstanding choice. Starting off as a snug and secure Sleepi Mini bassinet, it gives your baby a nest-like sleep space in the early months. Its soft oval shape and breathable sides create a cocooned environment, helping your newborn feel safe and settled. But the real beauty of the Sleepi is what happens next. With a simple extension kit and a new mattress, it can transform from a bassinet into a full-sized cot! Then when your little one is ready, simply take one of the sides off and you have a toddler bed – suitable for children up to around 5 years old. It’s an investment that pays off – both practically and emotionally. Your child can grow up in the same bed they’ve slept in from day one. Beautiful Cot Options to Consider Not every family needs a full multi-stage setup – so here are some other wonderful options depending on your needs, aesthetic and space. Most also offer a toddler bed conversion once your little one is ready for the freedom to get in and out of bed by themselves. Here are a few favourites: Amara Cot Crafted from sustainable European beech, the Amara brings a calm, natural feel to your nursery. It starts with a higher mattress setting for newborns and easily converts into a stylish toddler bed with the optional conversion kit – perfect for parents wanting both form and function. Mackenzie Cot With clean lines and a single-tone finish, the Mackenzie adds warmth and simplicity to your nursery. It grows with your child by converting to a toddler bed and can be paired with the matching dresser for a cohesive look. Indi Cot A gentle boho option that pairs soft hessian fabric with natural tones to create a warm, grounded feel. Made from sustainable materials, the Indi Cot converts easily to a toddler bed for long-lasting practicality. Tommi Cot Subtle Scandi design meets versatility in the Tommi Cot. Available in white or oak finishes, it offers 3-in-1 functionality, growing from a cot to a toddler bed or daybed with the optional junior rail – a timeless piece that suits both modern and classic spaces. What’s Best For You? Every family is different. To help you decide, think about: Where your baby will sleep in the early months. How long you want your sleep solution to last. Your space – are you in a small home, apartment, or planning to move? Your lifestyle – do you travel often? Need a portable option? Your budget – are you wanting one long-lasting solution or buying in stages? We’ve carefully curated a range of sleep options to suit every family – whether you're after something compact, long-lasting, budget-friendly, or beautifully designed to match your nursery. There’s something here for every stage, every space, and every style. Browse our full range of cots, bassinets, and junior beds here, or pop in-store to see them up close – we’re always happy to help you find the right fit for your little one’s first sleep space.
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Trouble sleeping? Finding The Right Sleep Aid
Sleep Struggles? These Soothers Might Just Save Your Sanity 😴 There’s nothing quite like the hopeful moment when you lay your baby down to sleep… followed by the crushing sound of a whimper, shuffle, or full blown cry. If your little one finds it hard to settle, or just can’t seem to stay asleep - a good sleep soother could make all the difference. White noise and gentle sound machines help to mask the everyday background noise that can disturb your baby’s rest. Think: older siblings, barking dogs, or the neighbour deciding now’s the time to mow the lawn. These soothing sounds - like a heartbeat, waves, or soft shushing - mimic what baby heard in the womb, helping them relax and drift off more easily. We’ve curated a handy Quiz to help you make a decision, plus a small but mighty collection of trusted sleep soothers and calming aids below, that can help take the edge off bedtime - for both you and your baby. YogaSleep Hushh 2 White Noise Machine Compact, rechargeable, and seriously effective — the YogaSleep Hushh 2 is the sound machine you’ll wish you bought sooner. It offers several soothing sound options (including the classic white noise hum, surf, and gentle fan) and lets you customise volume and tone. The real standout is the glow-in-the-dark nightlight — gentle enough not to disturb baby, but just right when you’re fumbling for the dummy at 2 a.m. With a simple clip for attaching to prams, car seats or bassinets, this is your go-to for sleep on the move. Or, just clip it to your sanity and go about your day. No judgement here. YogaSleep Nod Sound Machine and Night Light The YogaSleep Nod is the ultimate stay-at-home sleep station — perfect for setting up a consistent, calming bedtime routine in the nursery. It features 20 sleep sounds, including white noise, fan sounds, lullabies, and nature tracks, so you can tailor the soundscape to your baby’s preferences. What makes it a standout? The built-in nightlight, which emits a warm amber glow to create a peaceful sleep space without overstimulating your baby. You can also set sleep timers or run it all night long — ideal for little ones who are easily stirred. Simple, soothing, and super customisable, the Nod helps create the kind of sleep environment you’ll both appreciate. Sleepytot Portable White Noise Machine & Nightlight If you’re looking for a multi-tasking marvel, the Sleepytot Portable White Noise Machine ticks a lot of boxes. It has a built-in rechargeable battery (USB charging = no more hunting for AAs), multiple white noise sounds to choose from, and a soft nightlight built in. Whether you’re heading out for the day or just trying to settle baby at home, this little helper is easy to toss in the nappy bag and use wherever you are. Simple to use, easy to love — and surprisingly effective when nothing else seems to be working. The Baby Shusher Sloth You’ve heard of the Baby Shusher — now meet its adorable new friend Shusher Sloth! This sweet sloth still uses the same rhythmic “shhh” sound that mimics a parent’s voice and taps into your baby’s natural calming reflexes. It’s a surprisingly effective technique (and one backed by science, not just tired parents). The sloth’s cuddly design means it doubles as a comfort toy, and the shushing sound is timed to switch off after 15 or 30 minutes — giving you a bit of peace without draining the battery. With a built-in timer and innovative sound activation, Shusher Sloth can listen for your baby’s cries and respond by soothing them back to sleep. Bonus: it’s small enough to take on the go, and far less exhausting than manually shushing for 45 minutes straight. Storytime and Soothing Light for Sweet Dreams Another beautiful way to support your child’s sleep is by building a calming, familiar bedtime routine – and the CloudBox™ helps make that easy. This clever little device plays comforting bedtime stories while gently projecting sleepy visuals onto the ceiling or wall. With a soothing mix of audio and light, it creates a multisensory environment that helps children wind down at the end of the day. You can choose from the preloaded stories or record your own – a lovely way to keep bedtime personal, even when you can’t be there in person. Repeating the same story or image each night can become part of your child’s sleep ritual, providing a sense of security and consistency they can count on. Simple to use and designed for children from birth and up, the CloudBox™ is a thoughtful addition to any nighttime routine – helping little ones feel calm, safe, and ready for sleep. Supporting Sleep, Naturally For many families, Magnesium Rescue has become a much loved part of their wind-down ritual. This gentle, topical formula is made from natural ingredients and can be massaged into your child’s back, tummy, or feet at bedtime. It’s designed to help support a relaxed nervous system – a simple, non-invasive way to encourage calm before sleep. Another lovely option is the Bedtime Bestie - a lightweight magnesium mist infused with calming lavender, designed to support relaxation and make bedtime a little easier. Simply spritz it onto your child’s back or feet as part of your evening routine. It’s a fuss-free way to help little bodies and busy minds slow down – one small spray at a time. Shop Sleep Saviours at Dimples now Whether you’re trying to improve naps, master the bedtime routine, or just desperate for an extra hour of sleep, our range of sound machines and calming sleep aids are here to help. Browse the full collection in-store or online and find the right fit for your baby (and your sleep-deprived self).
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Safely Co-Sleeping with your baby
Co-Sleeping With Your Newborn: What It Really Means 💤 The term co-sleeping simply means having your baby sleep in the same room as you. While it can be a hot topic among parents, co-sleeping doesn’t have to mean sharing your bed. It’s often about finding ways to be close, while keeping baby safe in their own sleep space. Every family is different, and your approach to sleep might look different to your friend’s. That’s perfectly okay. Some parents find that co-sleeping helps with easier night-time feeds, supports milk supply, and even helps everyone get a little more shut-eye. There’s also strong evidence that sleeping in the same room as your baby reduces the risk of SIDS. Bedside Bassinets: A Safe Way to Co-Sleep 👶 Room-sharing doesn’t mean bed-sharing. A great alternative is using a bedside bassinet, which allows your baby to sleep safely in their own space, right beside you. This setup gives you easy access for feeding or settling in the night, without having to get out of bed. If you’ve decided co-sleeping works best for your family, Dimples offers some thoughtful, safe-sleep options to support your journey. Shnuggle Air Crib: Comfort and Versatility 🌙 The Shnuggle Air Light Bedside Crib makes co-sleeping easier and safer. Designed to function as both a standard bassinet and a bedside sleeper, you can drop one side of the crib for quick access to your baby at night. A raised edge remains in place to prevent any accidental rolling, so baby stays safely in their own space. With adjustable height settings, you can align the crib perfectly with your bed. Its dual-view mesh sides help with airflow and visibility, so you can always keep an eye on your little one. It also includes a hypo-allergenic fibre mattress, which is 50% more breathable than standard foam and firm enough to support safe newborn sleep. And when your baby is ready for a cot? The Shnuggle Air Crib can transition with them. Just add the cot conversion kit and you’ll have a longer-term sleep solution without needing to invest in multiple beds. SnuzPod5 Bedside Bassinet: Style Meets Safety 🛏️ The SnuzPod5 is another excellent option for co-sleeping families. Designed with both parents and babies in mind, this award-winning bedside bassinet keeps your little one close while offering smart safety features and modern style. Its standout ComfortAir™ system helps regulate temperature and airflow through 3D breathable mesh sides and a perforated base. The zip-down wall means you can lift baby out for feeds without straining, while the bassinet stays safely anchored next to your bed. The SnuzPod5 fits more beds than ever before thanks to its adjustable height settings. The improved rocking stand allows for gentle motion to help soothe baby to sleep, or you can lock it in place when needed. With a reflux incline feature, washable fabrics, and thoughtful touches like a lightweight lift-off bassinet for daytime naps, the SnuzPod5 supports safe, convenient sleep from day one. Choosing What’s Right for Your Family 💛 There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to co-sleeping. What matters most is that your baby sleeps safely, whether that’s right beside your bed or in their own room. At Dimples, we’re here to support your sleep choices with a range of trusted, newborn-safe bassinets and cots to suit your lifestyle. Whether you're looking for convenience, flexibility, or long-term value, you'll find something that helps both you and your baby rest easier.
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How to Dress your baby for Sleep
Dressing Your Baby for Sleep – A Seasonal Guide Knowing how to dress your baby at bedtime can feel like a bit of a guessing game – especially when the seasons start to change. Should you add another layer? Is the room too cool? Are their hands meant to be that cold? To help take the guesswork out, we’ve put together a simple guide to dressing your little one for sleep using our Dimples sleeping bags and sleepwalkers, without any additional blankets. A Gentle Reminder Every baby is different, so this guide is just that – a guide. The best way to check if your baby is at a comfortable temperature is by feeling the back of their neck. It should feel warm, not hot or sweaty. Hands and feet can feel cooler and aren't always a reliable indicator. Baby’s body temperature naturally dips during the early morning hours, so if your little one is waking more often than usual, it might be worth checking if they’re feeling a bit chilly. And remember – when it comes to sleep, it’s safer for babies to be slightly cool rather than too warm. Choosing the Right Layers When dressing your baby, natural fibres like Merino wool or cotton are best. These breathable fabrics help regulate temperature and keep your baby comfortable through the night. Merino in particular is a year-round superstar – its clever fibres trap warm air on cooler nights and allow heat to escape on warmer ones, making it ideal for all seasons. At Dimples, all of our garments are designed especially for keeping little ones cosy and safe. We recommend having at least two sleeping bags or sleepwalkers on hand for each season, so you’re always prepared for the inevitable midnight messes. Ideal Room Temperature The ideal temperature for a baby’s room is between 16–20°C. If you’re using a heater or heat pump, setting the thermostat to 18°C will help maintain a steady climate through the night without overheating. Monitoring the Room Many baby monitors display room temperature, which can be a helpful reference.Alternatively, something like the Shnuggle Moon Nightlight can be used to keep an eye on the room temperature. It uses a handy colour display to show whether the room is sitting within the ideal range. Signs Your Baby May Be Too Warm Waking more frequently than usual Sweaty back or neck Damp hair Shallow or rapid breathing If you notice these signs, try removing a layer or adjusting the room temperature. A cool, damp cloth on the back of their neck can help if they’re feeling very warm – and always check for fever if you’re concerned. Signs Your Baby May Be Too Cold Restless sleep or unusual movement around the cot Rolling onto their stomach Catnapping during the day Waking around 5am If any of these sound familiar, consider adding a layer, using a warmer sleeping bag, or gently warming the room. Dressing your baby for sleep doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few key pieces and a little trial and error, you’ll find the sweet spot that keeps them cosy and safe – all night long 😴 Explore our full sleepwear range to find breathable, natural fibre options for every season.And if you’re ever unsure, we’re here to help.
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Protecting your baby from the cold this Winter
How to Dress Your Newborn in Winter When winter sets in, keeping your newborn snug and comfortable becomes a top priority. Dressing baby in natural, breathable layers helps to regulate their temperature and reduce the risk of overheating or getting too cold. At the heart of this is Merino wool – a super-soft, temperature-regulating fibre that’s perfect for delicate skin. Merino is the ideal base for your baby’s winter wardrobe. It works to insulate when it’s cold and cools when it’s warm, keeping baby cosy without the need for bulky layers. At the same time, organic cotton can be used alongside Merino for gentle layering or in warmer indoor settings, giving you flexibility as the temperature shifts. Why Merino is the Best Choice for Winter Unlike synthetic fibres, Merino is breathable, moisture-wicking, and ultra-soft, making it an excellent next-to-skin layer. It naturally helps regulate body temperature, which is essential in those early weeks when your baby can’t do it themselves. Cotton is also a trusted option, especially for sensitive skin. While it doesn’t insulate quite like Merino, it’s great for layering over Merino or wearing in warmer rooms or during nap times when baby doesn’t need as much warmth. What to Dress Baby In During the Day At Home When indoors, comfort is key. A Merino bodysuit or baby grow offers the right amount of warmth without overheating. For mild days or heated rooms, you might choose a cotton bodysuit as the base, layering a Merino cardigan or leggings on top. Combining the two materials gives you the best of both worlds – Merino for temperature regulation, cotton for softness and breathability. Heading Out When you're on the go, think in layers. Start with a Merino base layer, followed by a cotton or Merino baby grow. Add mittens, a beanie, and a warm blanket in the pram or carrier. A simple rule: dress baby in one more layer than you’re wearing. Merino accessories like socks and hats are especially good for keeping warmth in, as babies lose a lot of heat through their head and feet. Dressing Baby for the Car For car rides, avoid bulky outerwear that interferes with the car seat harness. Dress baby in Merino and/or cotton layers, and use a blanket over the harness if needed. Merino’s warmth means you don’t need excessive layers, making it ideal for safe travel. How to Dress Your Baby for Sleep The ideal room temperature for baby’s sleep is between 16°C and 20°C. Use breathable Merino sleepwear and a Dimples Sleeping Bag suited to the room’s temperature (based on TOG rating) to help keep your baby warm and safe without overheating. Sleepwear suggestions: 16°C – Duvet Lined Sleeping Bag (TOG 2–3) over a Merino baby grow, cotton or Merino bodysuit, and socks. 18°C – Merino Lined Sleeping Bag (TOG 1.5–2.5) with a cotton bodysuit and Merino baby grow. 20°C – Summer Sleeping Bag (TOG 1–2) over a lightweight cotton or Merino bodysuit. Using a cotton bodysuit underneath Merino layers is a great option if your baby tends to run warm, or if your home is well heated. Why Layering Matters Layering natural fibres gives you the flexibility to adjust to your baby’s needs throughout the day. Merino next to the skin helps regulate their temperature, while cotton adds comfort and light coverage. If you’re unsure what your baby needs, check the back of their neck – warm (but not sweaty) means they’re just right. Adjust layers as needed. Why Choose Dimples At Dimples, we’ve been lovingly making New Zealand Merino and organic cotton clothing for over 30 years. Our Merino comes from trusted NZ sources, designed with your baby’s wellbeing in mind – soft against their skin, naturally breathable, and kind to the planet. Whether you’re layering for winter sleep or everyday wear, our Merino baby grows, bodysuits, sleeping bags, accessories, and blankets are crafted to keep your little one comfortable, safe, and warm through every season. Cotton remains a wonderful companion to Merino, offering softness and flexibility in your baby’s wardrobe. Together, they make a perfect pair. Explore the full range of Dimples Merino and Organic Cotton essentials online or in store.
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Temperature Control and Sleep
Hot and cold – helping your baby sleep comfortably We all know how much temperature affects sleep. Too hot and you’re tossing the covers off, too cold and you’re hunting for another blanket. For babies, who are still learning to regulate both their body temperature and sleep patterns, the impact can be even greater. If they’re too warm or chilly, they might struggle to drift off – or wake more often through the night. The good news is you can help keep your baby at a comfortable temperature with the right mix of clothing, bedding, and room adjustments, making it easier for them to settle and stay asleep. Why temperature matters Our bodies can regulate internal temperature, but during deep sleep, that process slows down. This means a room that’s too hot or too cold can cause night wakings. For babies, the ideal room temperature is around 18°C – it might sound cool, but a lower core temperature is linked to better sleep, while warmer conditions often mean more restlessness. A warm bath before bed can also help. While it seems backwards, the water on your baby’s skin will cool them down after the bath, helping them start the night at a comfortable temperature. Ways to manage temperature Heaters, fans, air conditioning, and the right bedding can all help keep things steady through the night. If you have a thermostat, set it to 18°C and let it do the work. If not, you can buy a plug-in thermostat for your heater to help maintain consistency. Merino – your sleep-time secret When it comes to baby sleepwear, merino wool is a year-round winner. Naturally breathable and temperature-regulating, it helps keep your baby comfortable in both warm and cool conditions – and research shows it can even help them sleep longer. In winter, use merino layers under a merino sleeping bag or sleepwalker. In summer, lighter cotton or merino sleepwear with a lighter weight sleeping bag is usually enough, depending on the temperature where you are. Sleeping bags are especially useful as they can’t be kicked off like blankets, keeping your baby covered all night. Choose one with a weight (or TOG rating) that suits the season. Spotting temperature troubles Signs your baby might be too hot: Waking often Sweaty neck or back Damp hair Rapid, shallow breathing If you notice these, remove a layer of clothing, switch to a lighter sleeping bag, improve airflow, or lower the room temperature. If your baby seems uncomfortably hot, check for fever and use a cool, damp cloth on their forehead and back. Signs your baby might be too cold: Moving around the cot more than usual Rolling onto their stomach during sleep Frequent short naps Early morning waking (around 5am, when body temperature naturally dips) If this happens, add a layer, switch to a warmer sleeping bag, or adjust the room temperature. Getting the temperature right won’t solve every sleep challenge, but it’s one piece of the puzzle that can make nights smoother for everyone. Click here to shop our full range of merino.
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How to make a cute, cosy and safe baby bed
Here’s what you really need to know about safe sleep It’s easy to get caught up in the dreamy images of babies curled up in plush bedding, surrounded by teddies and soft textures. But when it comes to real-life safe sleep, less is definitely more. Whether you’re still setting up the nursery or your baby is already here, creating a secure and snuggly sleep space is one of the best things you can do for their wellbeing - and your peace of mind. Understanding SUDI SUDI stands for Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy, and while it sounds confronting, knowing the facts can be empowering. SUDI includes deaths from a range of sleep-related causes, including accidental suffocation and unexplained deaths (previously called SIDS). In New Zealand, it’s one of the most common causes of death for babies under one—but the good news is, there’s a lot we can do to reduce the risk. Research shows that a baby’s sleep environment plays a big role. Things like sleeping baby on their back, using a firm mattress, avoiding overheating, and keeping their sleep space free from loose items all help create a safe place for them to rest. SUDI is most likely to occur between 2 and 4 months, so starting safe sleep habits from day one is key. By following a few simple guidelines and making thoughtful choices around where and how your baby sleeps, you're helping create the safest possible start. Safe sleep isn’t about fear—it’s about giving your baby the best chance to thrive. Safe sleep basics: what to know One of the most important ways to reduce the risk of SUDI is to make sure your baby sleeps on their back, in their own bed, and in the same room as you for at least the first six months. Their sleep space should be simple, uncluttered, and specifically designed for babies. Keep your home smokefree, avoiding overheating, and ensuring your baby’s face remains uncovered during sleep. Here’s what that looks like in practice: Choose a compliant cot A safe night’s sleep starts with a compliant cot. In New Zealand, all cots must meet the AS/NZS 2172 safety standard, which covers features like the minimum depth, spacing between slats, and secure construction. Look for the safety label when buying, and avoid using broken or modified cots - even hand-me-downs. Having baby in their own cot or bassinet reduces the risk of accidental suffocation and overheating. Shop our safe and gorgeous range of bassinets and cots here. Pick a firm, snug-fitting mattress A firm mattress that fits tightly within the cot frame is essential to prevent your baby’s face from pressing into soft surfaces or becoming wedged in gaps. The mattress should be flat and supportive - not shaped or elevated, and free of damage. Bonus points for breathable materials and easy-clean features, especially if you’re dealing with frequent night-time messes. We stock several options that will keep your baby safe. Shop here. Stick to the essentials To keep your baby cosy and safe, layer their sleep space with: Waterproof mattress protector – Ideal for leaks and spills, a protector helps keep the mattress clean and hygienic. Choose breathable options like merino for added comfort. Fitted sheet – This is where you can add your splash of style. Soft, well-fitted cotton or merino sheets keep things simple and sweet without compromising safety. Swaddle or sleeping bag – Skip the loose blankets. Swaddling (if age-appropriate) or using a well-fitting sleeping bag helps regulate baby’s temperature without the risk of fabric covering their face. What not to include Soft toys, bumpers, loose blankets, pillows, or positioners should never be in the cot. These items, while cute, can increase the risk of suffocation. Even mobiles and cords should be securely out of reach. The safest bed is a clear one - nothing but baby, dressed for the room’s temperature, on their back. Monitor with peace of mind If it helps you rest easier, consider a reliable video or breathing monitor. While not essential, these can offer extra reassurance during naps and overnight, especially during the early months. Shop our range of monitors here A minimalist bed is a safe bed We know it might feel counterintuitive when you’re eager to make your baby’s space feel warm and welcoming. But safety should always come before styling. Keep it simple until your little one is at least 12 months old, when they’re better able to move around and regulate their temperature.
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