How to Choose a Crib and Crib Bedding for Your Baby


By Tom Jo
3 min read

A guide on selecting the perfect crib and crib bedding for your baby's comfort and safety.

Choosing the right crib and crib bedding for your baby is crucial for creating a safe, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing nursery. Here are essential guidelines to help you make informed decisions.

Selecting the Crib

Safety First

When choosing a crib, always prioritize safety. Ensure that it meets the latest safety standards from trusted authorities like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Check that the slats are no more than 2 3/8 inches apart to prevent your baby from getting trapped. The mattress should fit securely in the crib with no gaps around the edges for maximum safety.

Build Quality and Durability

Look for a crib made from high-quality, sturdy materials such as solid wood or metal that can withstand regular use. Steer clear of cribs with drop-side rails, as they can create serious safety risks, including the potential for suffocation or entrapment.

Adjustable Mattress Height

Select a crib with an adjustable mattress height so you can lower it as your baby grows and becomes more active. This feature helps prevent your little one from attempting to climb out, ensuring they stay safe as they develop.

Choosing Crib Bedding

Material Selection

Select bedding made from high-quality, breathable materials such as cotton or linen. These fabrics are soft, comfortable, and promote airflow, helping to regulate your baby's body temperature and prevent overheating. Avoid synthetic materials like polyester that can trap heat and moisture.

Fitted Sheets

The most essential piece of crib bedding is a fitted sheet. Ensure it fits snugly on the mattress to prevent any risk of suffocation. Look for sheets with elastic that wraps around the entire edge of the mattress for a secure fit.

Avoid Soft Bedding Items

According to guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), avoid using loose blankets, pillows, or stuffed animals in the crib until your baby is at least one year old. These items pose suffocation risks. Instead, consider using a sleep sack or swaddle for warmth.

Care Instructions

Choose bedding that is machine washable for easy cleaning. Babies can be messy, so opting for bedding that can withstand frequent washing will help maintain hygiene in the nursery.

Size Matters

Ensure that all bedding items are appropriately sized for your crib. Standard crib mattresses typically measure about 28 inches by 52 inches. Check dimensions before purchasing to avoid safety hazards caused by improperly fitting sheets.

CPSC’s "dos and don’ts" for baby sleep spaces

DO:

  • Do use products intended for sleep: including cribs, bassinets, play yards and bedside sleepers that meet federal requirements.
  • Do remember "Bare is Best"nothing but a fitted sheet in a crib, bassinet or play yard.
  • Do always place baby on their back.
  • Do move your baby to their crib, bassinet, play yard or bedside sleeper if they fall asleep elsewhere.

DON’T:

  • Don’tadd pillows or blankets to your baby’s sleep space.
  • Don’tuse weighted blankets or weighted swaddles.
  • Don’t leave your baby unsupervised in products that aren’t designed for safe sleeping. Inclined products with an angle greater than 10º -such as a rockers, gliders, soothers, and swings- should never be used for infant sleep.

Aesthetic Considerations

Design and Style

While safety and comfort are paramount, don’t overlook aesthetics. Choose colors and patterns that complement your nursery's overall design theme. Whether you prefer modern minimalist styles or more traditional looks, there are plenty of options available to suit your taste.

Layering Options

Consider adding a crib skirt as an optional decorative element that can also hide under-crib storage. A well-coordinated look can enhance the visual appeal of the nursery while maintaining safety standards.

Conclusion

Selecting a crib and crib bedding involves careful consideration of safety, comfort, and design. By prioritizing breathable materials, ensuring a snug fit for sheets, avoiding soft bedding items, and choosing a visually appealing style, you can create a safe and inviting space for your baby to sleep soundly.