When buying the crib for your nursery, your mind will naturally turn to bedding next. A big portion of baby bedding sets contain 3 to 6 pieces, but how many of those do you actually need? The most up-to-date recommendation for crib bedding is to use sheets only, and keep other bedding out. If you want to get the most for your money, skip the crib set and the useless (but cute) accessories. Instead, invest in a half dozen comfortable, high quality crib sheets.
by DorotheaFrankson
Now that you've got a baby crib, the next thing you'll need to get is a crib set. Most crib 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. Babies are a messy lot, so 4 or 5 crib sheets will serve you well. Spend your money on getting really good sheets, instead of on a designer bedding set that isn't even recommended to stay in the crib.
Neither bumper pads nor comforters are recommended for newborns, as they both increase the risk of suffocation. Winter brings worries about the cold, but wearable blankets or sleep sacks are a better choice than a loose quilt. 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. If you interested in a swaddling blanket, you might want to investigate some of the more modern styles that aid in getting the right fit. Swaddling can be an excellent way to help a newborn sleep, but it is generally not recommended beyond 6 weeks because of fears it can hinder hip development. 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. However, when baby goes in the crib, be sure to take the blanket off.
You may have seen the foam wedges that are sometimes recommended for young babies, to keep them sleeping on their backs. However, since a newborn that is put to sleep on her back can't roll over, she will remain on her back for the whole night. Soft bedding of any kind should be kept out of the crib due to suffocation concerns, and these foam wedges are themselves soft.
Some of the items in a bedding set may not even be bedding - window valances or diaper stackers, for example. These can make the nursery look great, but aren't necessary if you're on a budget.
But most parents are going to want a bedding set anyway, just for the look of the nursery. In this case, try a neutral crib set 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.
About the Author:
Dorothea is a writer and researcher on parenting and family issues. She also works part-time as a freelance writer for Your Baby Bedding.
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