Babymania

Think of a nursery and more than likely it includes a crib adorned with sweet baby bedding. The crib often serves as a focal point with the bedding announcing the nursery theme. Despite how we often attach meaning and sentiment to baby bedding, in recent years organizations have come forward blasting the safety of their use.  Before you rush out to buy the latest chic crib ensemble, make sure you are aware of these safety considerations.

 The American Academy of Pediatrics along with other child care organizations like SIDS First Candle Alliance and Health Canada all agree that crib bedding poses a significant danger to babies. Their recommendation is that the only thing your baby needs in his crib is an appropriate-sized mattress and a well-fitted crib sheet. Crib bumpers, baby comforters, sleep positioners, stuffed animals and the like are linked to an increased risk of death or injury caused by smothering, entrapment, and strangulation. On the flip side, using these items have negligible benefits as compared to using sleep slacks and bumper-free cribs.

If you choose to follow the AAP’s suggestions on baby bedding, while you might be a bit bummed that the crib doesn’t look “complete,” find comfort in the money you will be saving. You might want to invest that extra cash in quality crib sheets – which most certainly will get used and abused with inevitable repeated washings. Additionally, you might be able to sleep more soundly knowing that you are taking appropriate precautions for your infant’s sleep safety.