I always use a batting in my baby quilts- I love for them to be lofty, soft & snuggly. I generally use hobbs 80/20 ~ it is lightweight but has nice body/loft. a lot of people choose to not use a batting in flannel quilts- it's a personal choice- and I would also consider where the baby is- cold climate? batting; warm climate- maybe not. (I always use batting- just don't much like flat quilts- might as well give a sheet *just me*)