How to Choose Daycare Bedding for Australian Childcare

If your little one is starting daycare or long day care in Australia, you've probably been handed a list of items to bring — and daycare bedding is almost always on it. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right set? Here's everything Australian parents need to know.

What Is Daycare Bedding?

Daycare bedding (also called childcare bedding or kindy bedding) is a compact sleep set designed specifically for the stacker beds used in Australian early childhood centres. Unlike a regular cot or toddler bed, childcare centres use foldable stacker beds or floor mats— which means the bedding needs to fit snugly and store easily.

A complete daycare bedding set typically includes a fitted sheet, a flat top sheet or sleeping bag, and sometimes a pillowcase — all sized to fit a standard stacker bed (roughly 60cm x 120cm).

What to Look for in Childcare Bedding

1. Correct Sizing for Stacker Beds and Floor Mats

This is the most important factor. Standard Australian childcare centres use stacker or fold-up beds, not full-size toddler beds. Always check that the bedding is labelled as stacker bed size or childcare bed size before you buy. Regular cot sheets are often too large and won't stay tucked properly.

2. 100% Cotton Material

Australian childcare regulations and best practice guidelines recommend breathable, natural materials for sleeping children. 100% cotton is the gold standard — it's soft, breathable, and easy to launder at high temperatures (important for hygiene). Avoid synthetic blends that can cause your child to overheat.

3. All-in-One Design for Convenience

Look for an all-in-one set that includes everything your centre requires. This saves you from mixing and matching pieces and ensures everything coordinates. Many Australian parents also love personalised daycare bedding — having your child's name embroidered or printed on their set means it never gets mixed up with another child's belongings (a very real problem in busy childcare rooms!).

4. Easy to Wash and Quick to Dry

Daycare bedding goes through the wash frequently. Choose a set that's machine washable and holds up well to regular laundering. Light colours and simple prints tend to stay looking fresher for longer.

5. A Design Your Child Will Love

Getting a toddler excited about rest time is half the battle! A fun, age-appropriate print can make a surprising difference. Dinosaurs, vehicles, animals, and bright colours are always popular with the under-5 crowd.

Our Personalised Daycare Bedding Sets

At Nap It Up, we've designed our daycare bedding sets with Australian childcare centres in mind — stacker bed sizing, 100% cotton, and all-in-one convenience. Add your child's name for a set that's uniquely theirs.

• Personalised Daycare Bedding — Daring Dinosaurs — perfect for little dino fans
• Personalised Daycare Bedding — Vehicle Transport — ideal for kids obsessed with trucks, cars, and anything with wheels

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my child need their own bedding at daycare?

Yes! Most Australian childcare centres require children to bring their own bedding set for hygiene reasons. Check your centre's specific requirements, but a stacker-bed-sized set with a fitted sheet and top sheet or sleeping bag is standard.

How often should I wash daycare bedding?

Most centres ask that you take the bedding home at the end of each week for washing. Wash at 40°C if the fabric allows, or use a quality laundry sanitiser on a warm cycle.

What size is a stacker bed?

Australian stacker or fold-up childcare beds are typically approximately 60cm x 120cm. Always confirm the exact dimensions with your centre, as there can be slight variations between suppliers.

Can I personalise daycare bedding?

Absolutely — and we highly recommend it! Personalised bedding with your child's name means no mix-ups at the centre and makes rest time feel special. Browse our kids' bedding range to find the perfect design.

Ready to Get Sorted Before Day One?

Starting daycare is a big milestone. Having the right gear sorted in advance means one less thing to worry about. Explore our full range of children's bedding and accessories at Nap It Up — designed for Australian families.