Infant and Toddler Bedding

Infant & Toddler Bedding

Page Updated on July 28, 2007

Convertible Crib (1) Make sure the crib you choose satisfy the JPMA standards. Don't buy antique cribs, and don't use a homemade crib. Used cribs are fine as long as they are in excellent condition and satisfy the requirements of the JPMA. I recommend getting a convertible crib because a good one can last with your child through infancy, the toddler years, and even through high school, eliminating the need to buy several beds, each often costing you several hundred dollars. Cheaper convertible cribs generally won't last for the long haul, so it doesn't hurt to pay a little extra for quality.

Forever Mine is a company the manufacturers wonderful nursery furniture that is sturdy and sure to last for many years as it grows with your child. Plus, they're prices are inexpensive when you think about the quality, safety, and how long you will have the item.

Crib mattress (1) If you plan on getting a convertible crib, spend a little extra money to buy a mattress that will last. You don't need to get the top of the line, but make sure it has good support. If you buy a regular crib and don't expect your child to be in it for more than 2 to 3 years, you can go with a less expensive mattress. Do not order a mattress via online, catalog, etc. unless there is free shipping or it comes with the crib. You can reduce shipping costs by buying a standard crib mattress at a local department store. Get a waterproof mattress or a mattress specially designed to allow air flow beneath your child if you're worried about SIDS.
Crib mattress pads (2) Most crib mattresses are waterproof, so this isn't necessary to protect the mattress. However, if you don't feel like cleaning the mattress in the middle of the night after your child's diaper leaks, get a mattress pad anyhow. You can just peel the pad off, slap on a new one, and throw the dirty one in the wash. No need to get out the disinfectant. If your mattress isn't waterproof, this item is a must.
Crib sheets (3) Crib sheets must always be fitted. You'll need to have at least two, one on the crib and one one hand to quickly change the sheets when your child has a leaky diaper. I recommend getting three just in case one of your sheets is in the wash and you need to quickly change a soiled sheet.
Crib bumper (1) Cloth crib bumpers are more attractive and safer in my opinion than vinyl if your child pushes his face into it. When it gets dirty you can just throw it in the wash rather than having to wipe it down. Unfortunately, some cloth crib bumpers become deformed in the wash, so make sure you spend a bit on quality to reduce deformation. There are also mesh crib bumpers that allow your child to breath if pushed up next to it and encourage air flow in the crib. I like this idea but haven't tried it myself.
Crib wedge (1 optional) There are a couple of different crib wedges. One type fits around the baby to support him on his side. The other fits underneath the crib sheet to create an incline to keep baby's head higher than his feet. This is a must have if your child tends to suffer from gas pains when laying flat or has GER (gastroesophageal reflux).

Co-Sleeping Infant Bed (1) There are several ways to practice co-sleeping while reducing the risk of rolling onto your baby. One way is to purchase a product designed to keep you close to your baby but still allow baby to have his own space. There are infant beds that sit next to your bed, giving your child the feeling of closeness and allowing parents easy access to her at night without actually having her in your bed. There are also infant beds that go directly into the parents' bed. These are great because you can easily take them into any room to let baby sleep near you, and they're small, so you can pack them up for a quick overnight trip without having to lug around a huge portable crib, play pen, etc.

Baby Delight Snuggle Nest® is a small infant bed that safely allows parents to have their baby in their bed with them without the worry of rolling over onto the little one. It folds up into a nice travel bed, can be used as a changing pad (for use on the floor or a bed only), and can be used in a crib to help your baby feel more secure. Unfortunately, babies grow too big for it quickly, but it also works well as a doll bed when your kids start playing with dolls.

Light blankets (2) Two light blankets are the absolute minimum you will need because they can be used for so many things. One light blanket can be placed on your baby if needed. Swaddling is the safest way to wrap your baby in a blanket during sleep, but some babies can wiggle out, so make sure that the blanket is light enough for your baby to move it off of her if necessary. Try to dress your baby warmly instead of using a blanket if possible.
Heavy blankets (2) Heavy blankets should only be used on your baby when you are nearby and alert to make sure that they don't accidentally cover your baby's face after minutes of wiggling around. They are incredibly handy for making an instant bed on the floor or a place to set baby down because they add a bit of comfort to a hard floor and cover up any small objects that you may have missed.