What to Buy for Your Baby's Bedding

When you have a new baby on the way, one of the things new parents focus on the most is decorating the nursery. Nesting is a natural instinct when you have a child, and you want that nest to be as beautiful and comfortable as possible.

One of the most important purchases you will make is bedding for your child. Different ages require different types of bedding, so it's good to be aware and up-to-date on the latest baby bedding. With a little creativity and thought, you should be able to find something pleasing that's within your budget.

There are many manufactures that make all-in-one bedding sets and they are often reasonably priced. There are also very expensive sets, but keep in mind that the sheets are for a baby, who really isn't going to care if he's on a pure Egyptian cotton sheet or a regular cotton blend. If you're looking on your own, there are several staple items beside the mattress that you'll want to purchase before anything else. These include bumpers, valences, sheets, pillows, quilts, and blankets.

Bumpers

Bumpers are padded pillows that run around the sides of the crib to avoid baby's head or limbs from sticking out. But as with all pillows, they may increase the risk of SIDS, so parents should be careful. The now manufactures only safe cribs, and most modern cribs don't have slats (spaces between the bars) big enough for a baby to get their head stuck.

Valences

Valences are another common baby bedding item, but they aren't actually needed. They may add some cohesiveness to your baby bedding set, and are often a lovely addition to your baby's nursery.

Baby Sheets

Sheets should be made of a fitted, soft material that is easy on your baby's skin, like jersey cotton blends. You want to ensure that the sheets fit snug and well over the sides of the mattress, because loose sheets pose hazardous suffocation risks for your baby.

Pillows

Pillows should only be used when the child is older. When you have a newborn, you absolutely do not want pillows because of the possibility of suffocation. When you're child is an older toddler, small, thin pillows may be appropriate, but not until your child is old enough to change positions and reason.

Quilts and blankets

In general, quilts and blankets should only be used when the child is a little older. Choose safer options like sleepers or light blankets or quilts that are snugly fitted to come just below the baby's chest, ensuring there is no chance of suffocation.