Starting daycare or travelling with your baby? A simple bedding kit makes naps cleaner, faster and more comfortable.
Use this checklist to pack the right sheets, spares and labels for daycare, grandparents and trips away.
What daycare usually asks for
- 1–2 fitted cot sheets (or bassinet sheets, depending on their setup).
- A labelled bag for used bedding.
- Season-appropriate layers (sleeping bag or approved blanket, if allowed).
Always check your centre’s own policy, then build your kit around a snug-fitting, easy-to-wash sheet.
Core cot sheet kit (daycare & travel)
- 1 x waterproof fitted cot sheet for the nap bed.
- 1 x spare fitted cot sheet in case of spills or illness.
- 1 x waterproof bassinet/change-pad cover if they use change mats or smaller sleep surfaces.
- 1 x breathable sleeping bag (if used at home and allowed at daycare).
- 1 x labelled wet bag or tote for used bedding.
Choosing the right sheet for daycare
- Fit first: measure the centre’s mattress length × width × thickness and match to a fitted sheet that wraps fully under all four corners.
- Fast changes: a 2-in-1 waterproof fitted cot sheet means staff only change one layer after accidents.
- Neutral, easy-to-label colours: easier to spot your sheet in shared laundry areas.
Not sure on size? See our Cot & Bassinet Sheet Size Guide (AU) for common mattress measurements.
Travel packing list (cot, portacot & guest beds)
- 2 x waterproof fitted cot sheets – one on the mattress, one spare.
- 1 x bassinet/change-pad cover – doubles on change mats and some travel cots.
- 1 x small bottle of mild detergent – for quick washes away from home.
- 1 x mesh laundry bag – to keep baby bedding separate.
For unfamiliar mattresses, a waterproof fitted sheet gives an extra layer of reassurance and keeps cleanup simple.
Labelling tips
- Use permanent fabric marker on the care label or a stitched name tag.
- Label both the sheet and the bag it travels in.
- Keep daycare sheets in a dedicated drawer or basket so you don’t mix them with home-only bedding.
Fast washing routine between daycare days
- Shake off crumbs, then wash on a gentle cycle with mild liquid detergent.
- Avoid bleach and fabric softener to protect the waterproof membrane.
- Line dry where possible; use low heat only if your care label allows.
Full care steps: How to wash waterproof bamboo cot sheets.
If sheets keep coming off at daycare
Different centres use different mattress sizes. If you’re told the sheet pops off or looks loose, re-check the mattress measurements and see our Why your cot sheet keeps coming off (and quick fixes) guide.