A Few Advisements for Tweaking Newborn Crib Sheets as Your Child Matures

by Dorothea Frankson

Safety guidelines are important to know and understand before undergoing the simple process of purchasing crib bedding for your new baby. When it comes to safety and quality standards, you will find that numerous child safety organisations have put out lists of requirements and recommendations for parents who are trying to pick out crib bedding. There are safety guidelines in place for a reason; you don't want your child to suffocate in his or her sleep.

They believe that infants should not have soft bedding in the crib, and that they should sleep on their backs. Even though stuffed toys, pillows, quilts and comforters may look cute, soft bedding items such as these shouldn't be in cribs with infants. In order to adhere to these guidelines, the only bedding you need in the crib is a mattress with a snug fitted sheet. For safety reasons, blankets placed in cribs need to be well-secured near the end of the crib and should not come up higher than the baby's chest.

Crib bumpers are a matter for debate, while they are often tightly affixed to the crib rails and unlikely to obstruct an infant's breathing, many pediatricians still recommend against their use to maximize airflow. Problems with bumpers have led to the production of many alternate methods. There is no universal consensus as to the usefulness of crib bumpers, and accordingly you will probably find one in the set when you purchase your baby bedding. There are several opinions on crib bumpers; parents should use their judgment and decide whether or not to use them.

Follow the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations on minimal bedding until the baby is at least one year old and able to clear bedding away from his or her own face. During the baby's first year, the crib's contents will need some changes to reduce the injuries incurred. As soon as the baby can sit upright, and definitely before she can pull herself into a standing position, lower the mattress and remove any items that might be used as steps. For safety purposes, parents should not use crib bumpers, as children can easily use it as a step to exit their crib.

SIDS becomes much less likely after the baby's first birthday, and more bedding can be added to the crib to make it comfortable and look better. Comforters and a matching bed skirt can be used to complement the baby room decor. The fuzzy blankets are available in child sizes and they are very cozy and warm. Most toddlers like having a cuddly toy in bed to snuggle with and provide comfort overnight; however you should stay away from pillows until your child is almost two years old.

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