BabyRest Sleep Toolkit: The new parent’s guide to sleep essentials

Say hello to beautiful dreams.

If you’re expecting your first baby, you’ve probably got your fair share of questions. Where will your little one sleep? How do you make it safe? And what on earth do you actually need from the endless aisles of baby products? 

That’s exactly why we’ve created the ‘BabyRest Sleep Toolkit’. Think of it as your practical, step-by-step guide to creating a safe, comfortable sleep environment for your baby - one that grows with them all the way to toddlerhood. 

We’ll cover the essentials, what each piece does, why you don’t want to skip it and when you'll need it. 

Step 1: Start with the cot 

Your baby’s cot is the centrepiece of their sleep space. At BabyRest, our convertible cots are designed to support safe sleep from newborn to toddler years. 

Whether you love the peek-a-boo style of the Kaya, the classic closed ends of the Tommi, or the wraparound bars of the Amara, you can choose a style that feels right for your family and your home. 

Start with the cot in bassinet mode, and then once your child reaches 6 months or learns to sit up (whichever comes first), it's time to take the base down to the lower level for safety.

Learn more about what makes a safe cot in our safer sleep checklist →  

Step 2: The mattress matters 

A cot is only as good as the mattress inside it. In fact, we’d argue it’s the unsung hero of the nursery as one of the biggest contributors to a safer night’s sleep. Our award-winning DuoCore™ Bamboo Cot Mattress is Australia’s highest-certified cot mattress and has a clever dual-sided design that grows with your child. 

It’s the mattress parents tell us they wish they’d known about sooner. Once your child hits 12kg, simply flip the mattress over and your child will continue to enjoy unrivalled safety and comfort.

Curious about CO2 rebreathing and why it matters? Read our guide here 
 
  

Step 3: Protect & layer 

This is the bit many new parents forget... until the 2am nappy leak. A waterproof mattress protector is non-negotiable. It keeps the mattress hygienic, bacteria-free, and helps it stay fresh for years. 

Pro tip: Have two and layer them on top of each other. That way, you can easily remove the top layer in the middle of the night if needed. 

On top, add a bamboo fitted sheet - naturally breathable, antibacterial, moisture-wicking and unbelievably soft against baby skin. Perfect for hot Australian summers.
 
Curious about the benefits of bamboo? Learn all about bamboo bedding →  

Step 4: Next to the bed - The early days 

In the first 6 months, many parents choose to have baby sleep close by. Enter the Alfie² Bedside Bassinet - Australia’s highest-certified bedside bassinet. 

It’s the perfect blend of closeness and peace of mind. Once your child hits 6 months or learns to sit up - whichever comes first - it's time to transition them to a cot in toddler mode, ie the lower base.

While a bedside bassinet offers comfort and convenience, it’s not essential – many parents safely use a cot from day one. We’ve put together a guide to help you decide which option best suits your family and lifestyle.

You'll want to pair it with a waterproof mattress protector and bamboo fitted sheet.

 
Read about what’s new with the Alfie² (and what to look for in a bedside bassinet) →  

Step 5: Sleep on the go 

Nothing has the power to make or break a holiday quite like sleep, and when baby doesn't sleep, no one does. Don't get caught out - choose a travel cot with a quality mattress. The Journey 2-in-1 Travel Cot is your reliable sleep companion from newborn to toddler. 

Like both the cot and bedside bassinet, you'll want to pair your travel cot with a waterproof mattress protector and bamboo fitted sheet.
 
Learn what to look for (and avoid) in a travel cot →  
 

 
Step 6: When they graduate to a junior bed 

Sometime around age three (sometimes earlier, sometimes later), you may start thinking about moving your little one into a toddler or junior bed. Every child is different, so there’s no set timeline – just follow their cues and your family’s needs.

If your cot converts, you won’t need the junior bedrail straight away. Most families wait until their child is showing signs of readiness to upgrade to a 'big kid bed' - whether that’s climbing, refusing to sleep in the cot, or simply wanting to be more independent.

Around this stage, your toddler may also be ready for their first pillow. Our Junior Pillow - Ventilated + Bamboo has been thoughtfully designed for safe, supportive toddler sleep:

For hygiene and convenience, add: 

Upgrading your nursery into a toddler room? Here’s what you need to know →  

Your toolkit, complete! 

So, to recap, what do you really need in your BabyRest Sleep Toolkit?