Choosing Safe Baby Bedding  

Preparing for the arrival of your newborn by choosing nursery decor is thrilling. While it is understandable that you might want to pick baby bedding that compliments your nursery, not all options are safe for your baby. To make matters worse, there are many conflicting opinions to confuse you. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about preparing a safe space for your little one to rest. 

What Baby Bedding Should Be Avoided?

Before we get started on what baby bedding you do need, we think it is important to mention what bedding is not safe for your baby and should be avoided. Contrary to popular belief, blankets are not safe for newborns. Blankets can increase the risk of your baby suffocating or strangling. Pillows, stuffed toys, and other loose items should also be kept out of your baby’s bed. Anything that your baby can roll onto, get tangled in, or cover their face with, should not be placed in your baby’s crib. 

When Can Your Baby Start Sleeping With Blankets? 

It is best to wait until your baby is older before using soft bedding like blankets, whether for bedtime or naptime. Blankets may be dangerous in the crib and may increase the risk of suffocation, strangling or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that your newborn should sleep in your bedroom on their own bedding until they are at least six months old. The AAP further recommends that, only after 12 months, and preferably only at 18 months, should you start using a blanket, quilt, or comforter in your baby’s crib.

What Baby Bedding is Safe? 

A crib, Moses basket, or carrycot are all safe bedding options for your baby. Your baby should always sleep on their backs. A plain cot with a fitted sheet pulled up firmly on all sides, devoid of quilts, blankets, bumpers, cushions, and stuffed toys is the safest way for your baby to sleep. Do not cover your baby with a blanket, even during chilly weather. Blankets and other loose objects in your baby’s crib pose a risk of strangulation and suffocation. If you are concerned that your baby might be cold, a safer option is to dress them in warmer clothing, such as a wearable blanket. You can touch your baby’s skin at the nape of their neck to determine if they are too hot or too cold. Although, in general, your temperature will be more or less the same as your baby’s - if you are hot, they are most likely feeling the same. 

Choose a firm mattress that does not indent when your baby is placed on it. Make sure that the mattress properly fits your cot - neither too big nor too small. The mattress should be covered in a fitted sheet made specifically for crib mattresses. When it comes to material, cotton and flannel is best. Flannel sheets are a great option for adding a little bit of extra warmth during winter. Ideally, your crib’s mattress should also be covered with a waterproof cover. 

Baby Bedding to Keep Your Baby Safe and Sound 

Choosing the right bedding for your baby may seem terrifying, but it is in fact rather simple to provide your little one with a safe sleep environment. The safest way to lay your baby to rest is on their back, in a cot that is bare but for a mattress and fitted sheet. Soft bedding such as pillows, teddies or blankets is not only unnecessary but also pose the risk of obstructing your baby’s breathing. It is best to wait until your baby is old enough before introducing these soft bedding options into your nursery.