How to Set Up a Safe Nursery: A Parent's Complete Guide

Creating a nursery is one of the most joyful parts of preparing for a new arrival — but it's also one of the most important decisions you'll make for your baby's safety. This guide covers the key things to consider so you can build a nursery that's both beautiful and safe from day one.

Safe Sleeping: The Foundation of Nursery Safety

Safe sleep guidelines in the UK are set by the Lullaby Trust and recommend the following for babies under 12 months:

• Back to sleep – always place babies on their back to sleep
• Feet to foot – position them at the foot of the cot so they can't wriggle under blankets
• Clear sleep space – no pillows, duvets, bumpers, or soft toys in the cot
• Room temperature – keep the nursery between 16–20°C
• Same room – for the first 6 months, the NHS recommends babies sleep in the same room as you

Choosing the Right Cot or Bed

Your choice of sleep surface will evolve as your child grows:

• Newborn to 18 months: A sturdy cot with a firm, flat, well-fitting mattress. Check the cot meets current UK safety standards (BS EN 716).
• 18 months to 3 years: Transitioning to a toddler bed or children's bed. Look for low-profile frames with safety rails to prevent falls.
• 3 years and up: A full single bed is usually appropriate. Upholstered frames like the Monio Children's Bed are a popular choice — soft to the touch and available in calming neutral tones.

Room Layout and Furniture Placement

Where you place furniture matters as much as what you buy. Key rules:

• Away from windows – cots and beds should not be placed near windows, where draughts, cords, or direct sunlight can be hazardous
• Away from radiators – avoid positioning the cot directly next to a heat source
• Anchor tall furniture – wardrobes, bookshelves, and chest of drawers must be wall-anchored to prevent tipping once your child starts pulling up and climbing
• Clear the floor – keep walkways clear, especially around the cot and changing area, to avoid trips in night-time feeds

Blind and Curtain Safety

Looped blind cords are one of the most underestimated hazards in a child's room. The UK has banned the sale of looped blind cords for new products, but if you have older blinds:

• Replace them with cordless or motorised blinds
• Install a cord cleat high on the wall and keep cords wrapped at all times
• Never place the cot or bed where a child could reach a blind cord

Non-Toxic Materials and Finishes

Babies and young children spend more time in their nursery than anywhere else — so the materials in that room matter. When choosing furniture and décor:

• Look for low-VOC or zero-VOC paints if redecorating
• Choose furniture with non-toxic finishes — particularly important for upholstered pieces that children may lean, chew, or drool on
• Check for certifications such as Oeko-Tex Standard 100 for fabrics (confirming no harmful substances are used)
• Avoid heavily scented candles, plug-in air fresheners, or strong-smelling cleaning products in the nursery

Electrical Safety

• Cover all unused plug sockets with safety covers
• Keep electrical cords (baby monitors, lamps) out of reach and neatly managed
• Use a baby monitor with a stable base that can't be pulled over
• Choose nursery lamps with cool-touch bulbs — LED is ideal

Nursery Safety Checklist

• ✅ Cot or bed meets current UK safety standards
• ✅ Firm, well-fitting mattress with no gaps at the sides
• ✅ Clear sleep space (no pillows, duvets, or bumpers for babies)
• ✅ Room temperature between 16–20°C
• ✅ Furniture anchored to walls
• ✅ No looped blind cords in reach
• ✅ Non-toxic paints and finishes
• ✅ Plug socket covers fitted
• ✅ Electrical cords managed and out of reach
• ✅ Cot/bed positioned away from windows, radiators, and blind cords

Ready to Shop?

Once you've planned your nursery layout and safety setup, it's time for the fun part — choosing the furniture. Browse our Nursery collection for beautiful, considered pieces including the bestselling Monio Children's Bed in boucle and corduroy, and our range of nursery accessories to complete the room.