Nursery Bedding and Baby Precautions

Now that you've got a baby crib, the next thing you'll need to get is a crib set. The majority of crib bedding sets have from 4 up to 10 pieces included, but how many of those should you actually use? The most up-to-date recommendation for crib bedding is to use sheets only, and keep other bedding out. If you're on a tight budget, you're much better off spending your money on a few high-quality crib sheets than on a bedding set that can't be used for much more than decoration.

Both comforters and crib bumpers are now on the "not recommended" list, because they pose a pretty serious risk of suffocation. If you're worried about baby getting to cold, put on some warm pajamas or a swaddling blankets instead. Sleep sacks have become a commonplace item these days. While a bit difficult to explain to someone who's never seen one before, a photograph will clear things up instantly. Swaddling blankets have come a long way, with many mow featuring special fasteners to keep the blanket snug. Swaddling helps some babies sleep better, but others find it constricting and do not like it. You will be holding your baby a lot, so you might still want a blanket or comforter for those times, especially if you've had a winter baby. You'll be fine as long as you remember not to leave the blanket in the crib with the baby.

Some people choose to use a sleep wedge, which is designed to keep babies off their tummies (believed to increase the risk of SIDS). It should be pointed out here that infants are unable to roll onto their tummies until they are about 6 months old. At this point, SIDS risks are considerably reduced anyway. Soft bedding of any kind should be kept out of the crib due to suffocation concerns, and these foam wedges are themselves soft.

Other items included in a bedding set can include a window valance, diaper stacker, toy bag, and crib skirt. While these add tremendously to the look of the nursery, they are quite honestly not needed.

If you do decide to get a bedding set, go for a neutral crib set like a Hot Cocoa baby bedding set. {It's much more cost effective because you can use it again and again, regardless of the sex of your next baby.}