Bedding Sets and Newborn Safety

It only makes sense that when you shop for your baby's crib, you'll be looking for bedding, too. Most baby bedding sets include a number of pieces - but do you really need them all? Most pediatricians now recommend keeping the crib free from any extra bedding, so all you really need is a crib sheet. Leaks will happen, of course, so buy a few extra crib sheets. It's better to spend your money on a few really good, durable, and comfortable crib sheets than on accessories you don't even need.

Quilts and crib bumper pads both pose a risk of suffocation, so use them for decoration or just don't use them. Most parents worry about their baby getting too cold, but this problem is easily solved with swaddling blankets or a sleep sack. Wearable blankets are sort of like a cross between clothing and a sleeping bag. Swaddling blankets have also come a long way, with many products that aid in getting a snug fit. Swaddling helps some babies sleep better, but others find it constricting and do not like it. A comforter can still be a good idea to keep on hand for wrapping your baby while you're holding them. But just keep in mind that the quilt doesn't go into the crib when baby does.

Another crib accessory is a sleep positioner - a kind of foam wedge designed to keep baby on his back. It's supposed to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). But a young baby is unable to roll onto his tummy anyway - just put him to bed on his back and you should be fine. Soft bedding of any kind should be kept out of the crib due to suffocation concerns, and these foam wedges are themselves soft.

Aside from the standard bedding, a crib set can also include a diaper stacker, a toy bag, or even a window valance. If you're on a strict budget, skip these. There are mostly decorative and really won't be missed.

But most parents are going to want a bedding set anyway, just for the look of the nursery. In this case, try neutral baby bedding like a Hot Cocoa baby crib bedding set. {It's much more cost effective because you can use it again and again, regardless of the sex of your next baby.}