Do's & Don'ts of Baby Bedding

Over the years experts have come to realize that bare minimum is best for baby bedding. While many crib ensembles are well designed and beautiful, less is still more for awhile. Crib bedding should be comfortable and attractive but more than anything else....safe. Reducing clutter in the crib reduces the risk of choking and breathing restriction. Things to consider when preparing your crib for your new baby include:

Never use a pillow under baby's head.
Always put baby to sleep on his/her back.
Remove all stuffed animals.
Refrain from using blankets of any type.

Purchase a firm mattress with mandated measurements of 27.25 inches X 51.5 inches by no more than 6 inches thick.
Use snug fitting mattress pad and crib sheets.
If using bumper around crib, make sure it is tied securely in at least 6 locations.
Remove bumper when child is able to pull self up so he/she will not use to stand on.
Remove plastic coverings from mattresses.

The bottom line is, while we would love to decorate a crib from the beginning with ultra plush bedding, it is not safe to do so. Wait until your child is past the helpless age to deck out those sleeping places. There are many years to come for doing so and safety should be the number one priority from the beginning.