High-quality bedding is an essential component of your baby’s nursery. However, not all bedding is created equally, so it’s important to choose sheets that are both comfortable and safe for your little one. Let’s explore the importance of quality bedding for your baby’s crib so both you and your child can rest easy.

Prioritize Tight-Fitting Sheets

Tragically, many babies die each year in the United States due to unsafe sleep environments. Therefore, it’s critical to ensure your crib bedding won’t harm your little one. When it comes to bedding, it’s best to keep it simple. The crib should be covered with a tight-fitting sheet. If the sheet doesn’t fit snugly, you risk the corners coming undone and potentially suffocating your child.

Additionally, you’ll want to invest in a waterproof mattress cover you can place under the fitted sheet. Since babies are prone to leaky diapers, spills, and stains, a waterproof cover is necessary to avoid ruining your crib mattress. Mattress covers are typically made from plastic, flannel, or rubber. Flannel is cool and comfortable, so it’s a great option for your little one. Keep in mind the mattress cover should be the only item between the mattress and fitted sheet. Avoid putting pillows, blankets, or other padding between the two layers.

Avoid Bumpers

Crib bumpers are soft, fabric pads that are tied to the inside panels of the crib. Bumpers are marketed to stop babies from injuring themselves by banging their heads or getting extremities stuck in the crib slats. However, crib bumpers are a hazard to your child and should not be used.

Bumpers can put your child at risk of suffocation, strangulation, or entrapment. Even bumpers made from mesh or other breathable materials pose a risk for your little one, so it’s best to completely avoid them. Plus, if your baby is older, they can use a bumper to climb out of the crib and potentially harm themselves.

Invest in High-Quality Fabrics

Quality bedding for your baby’s crib is important because your little one sleeps so much during the first few months. As such, you want to choose a fitted sheet that is well-made and doesn’t irritate their skin. With only a fitted sheet and firm mattress in the crib, the quality of both items is essential.

In terms of a fitted sheet, there are several fabric options and price points to choose from. In general, you’ll want to purchase a sheet with maximum breathability; natural fibers such as cotton or cotton blend provide good airflow. Additionally, you’ll want to avoid synthetic fibers that can trap your baby’s heat and sweat while they’re sleeping. Once you choose a sheet, pay special attention to the washing and drying instructions. The fitted sheet should always remain snug, so you don’t want to accidentally shrink it.

At Simply Nursery, we make modern nursery furniture created to grow with your child. Our beautiful wood cribs are the perfect place for your little one to sleep safely. Not to mention, the neutral, organic design works well with any bedding color you desire. Check out our selection today!