The Truth About Baby Bedding

I am a true believer that simple is always best, especially in the home.

I like minimalist designs and clutter-free homes because that’s just the way I feel at peace with my surroundings. If there’s too much “stuff”, I get antsy and claustrophobic.

When it comes to your baby’s nursery, the same rule should apply. Resist the urge to buy too much, and keep it simple & practical.

#1

Especially when your baby is very little, he or she has limited abilities in terms of body movement. You don’t want there to be the slightest chance your baby could get his arm or leg stuck, or worse, somehow end up with his/her face covered and unable to breathe. Until at least a year old (I still don’t feel comfortable with these and Liam is almost 14 months old!), avoid anything other than a fitted sheet. No extra padding, covers, nothing. If you’re concerned about your baby being cold during the winter months, buy a sleep sack like this one, which should work just fine to keep him nice and warm.

#2

Bumper-related crib deaths tripled from 2006 to 2012. They pose a safety risk because a baby’s face can get wedged against the bumper or between the bumper and mattress. Most of the bumpers sold in baby bedding sets are thick and not breathable, which is a health concern. If you want to prevent your baby from getting his legs through the crib slats, buy these breathable mesh crib liners – they did the trick with Liam.

#3

Although it may be tempting to leave a full bottle in your baby’s crib, it is dangerous for a few reasons. Bottle propping poses choking and suffocation risks, and often leads to cavities and ear infections. Your baby may develop a negative sleep association (needing a bottle to soothe himself to asleep), which is never a good thing in the long run.

#4

A baby’s sleep space should be clutter-free, and this includes stuffed animals and toys, which pose a suffocation risk. They are totally fine during supervised tummy time, but never while baby sleeps.

In love with these rope letters by Alaska Rug Company. The rope they use is up-cycled, re-purposed, and recycled from Alaska beaches and old fishing grounds.

Simple white curtains were the perfect, gentle touch we were looking for to let in some natural light. Minimal wall accents add a nautical touch to the nursery.

Once Liam figured out to how to stand on his own, we realized we also needed to buy some crib railings or we’d end up with a ton of little teeth marks along the wood. I am obsessed with the brand LizandRoo and their hand-sewn cotton crib rail covers. They have a padded recycled polyfil center for comfort and protection, and all of their fabrics are made using water-based dyes for baby’s safety. I highly recommend checking them out!

Liam’s crib was also one of our best buys – love the bottom drawer!

And who doesn’t love children’s books?