Crib Bedding Safety Checklist Every New Parent Should Know

Bringing your newborn home is one of life’s most cherished moments—but it also comes with big responsibilities. One of the most important is creating a safe sleep environment, especially when it comes to crib bedding. While a beautifully styled nursery is lovely, safety should always come first.

At Brandream, we believe that beautiful bedding should also be baby-safe. This guide walks you through a practical crib bedding safety checklist every new parent should know—so you can sleep as soundly as your baby.

✅ 1. Use a Firm, Snug-Fitting Mattress

Your crib mattress should be firm and flat, with no indentations or soft spots. A mattress that’s too soft increases the risk of suffocation and SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).

Checklist:

• Fits snugly in the crib (no more than two fingers’ width between mattress and frame)

• Firm, not pillow-like

• Waterproof or has a waterproof cover

✅ 2. Only One Sheet: Fitted and Tightly Secured

Babies don’t need sheets, blankets, or bedding layers. A single fitted crib sheet—preferably made from soft, breathable cotton—is all you need.

Checklist:

• Fitted sheet with elastic all the way around

• No bunching or loose edges

• Made of natural, breathable materials (like Brandream’s OEKO-TEX® certified cotton)

✅ 3. Skip the Pillows, Bumpers, and Blankets

While decorative pillows, crib bumpers, and fluffy blankets may look charming, they’re unsafe for infants under 12 months old. These items pose suffocation and entrapment risks.

Checklist:

• No pillows or plush toys in the crib

• No crib bumpers (even breathable mesh is discouraged by pediatric experts)

• No quilts or loose blankets—use a wearable sleep sack instead

✅ 4. Avoid Weighted Blankets and Sleep Products

Weighted products are not safe for babies unless specifically recommended by a pediatrician. They can restrict movement and breathing.

Checklist:

• No weighted blankets, sleep sacks, or stuffed animals

• Choose lightweight, sleeveless sleep sacks for safe swaddling or sleep

✅ 5. Check Fabric Certifications and Materials

Newborns have extra-sensitive skin and developing immune systems. Choosing certified, non-toxic materials ensures their bedding is gentle and safe.

Checklist:

• OEKO-TEX® or GOTS certified materials

• No harsh dyes, flame retardants, or chemical finishes

• Hypoallergenic, breathable fabrics (like 100% cotton)

Brandream’s baby bedding is OEKO-TEX® certified, made with pure cotton, and free from harmful substances—perfect for your peace of mind.

✅ 6. Keep the Crib Bare and Clean

Less is more when it comes to crib safety. A clean, simple sleep space reduces risk and is easier to maintain.

Checklist:

• Clean bedding changed regularly

• No toys, cords, monitors, or clutter inside the crib

• Crib placed away from windows, blinds, or cords

✅ 7. Use Sleep Sacks or Swaddles the Right Way

Swaddling or using a wearable blanket can help soothe babies and keep them warm safely—if used correctly.

Checklist:

• Swaddle should be snug at the chest but loose at hips

• Stop swaddling once baby can roll over

• Use breathable, lightweight fabrics for temperature regulation

✅ 8. Crib Must Meet Current Safety Standards

Make sure your crib itself is up to date. Older hand-me-down cribs may not meet today’s safety requirements.

Checklist:

• Slats are no more than 2 3/8 inches apart

• No drop-side rails

• Hardware is secure and intact

• Made from non-toxic finishes or paints

Final Thoughts: Safe Sleep Starts with Smart Choices

While there’s a lot to think about as a new parent, crib safety doesn’t have to be complicated. With a firm mattress, breathable fitted sheet, and a bare crib, you’re already on the right path.

At Brandream, we design every piece of baby bedding with safety, softness, and simplicity in mind—so you can focus on what matters most: rest, love, and bonding.

Because the safest crib is also the coziest—when it’s made with care.