Baby Crib Sheet & Mattress Safety

Before you start shopping for nursery crib bedding sets, you will want to verify your crib's safety. MaternityandBabyShoppingMart.com would like to keep our shoppers knowledgeable of the most up-to-date crib safety regulations. These rules are ever-changing so it is important that you check back often to make sure your crib is the safest possible for your little one.

Crib Sheet Safety
To begin, the crib sheet should fit snugly on the mattress and the corners of the sheet have to overlap the corners of the mattress to avoid displacement by pulling on the sheet corners. Also, it might be a good idea to invest in multiple crib sheets to coordinate with your crib bedding. This way, you will have a suitable crib sheet for in-between washings.

You may think it is safe to use an adult sheet or blanket since it is only temporary but an adult sheet is not a substitute for a fitted crib sheet. The adult sheet may become loose and cause an entanglement hazard. The current safety standards are to place your baby on their back over a tight fitting sheet and mattress.

Crib Mattress Safety
Before you think about looking for baby bedding sets, your crib mattress should also be a point of concern. The mattress should be flush with the crib's sides with no space between. If you can easily fit two fingers between the edge of the mattress and crib wall, you should get a better-ftting mattress. Other than fit, it is important to have a firm mattress. Although you would assume that this will be uncomfortable for baby, it is actually the safest way to go.

Another good thing to remember is to check the mattress's support height often. Newborns often necessitate it being set up high because it is easier to reach in for your baby or to change your nursery crib sets. As soon as he or she can roll over, the height should be lowered. It is important to stay aware and pay attention to the mattress height accordingly as your baby grows. Be especially careful when your baby can pull his or herself up to a standing position. At this point, the mattress should be lowered as far as possible, preferably to the lowest setting. When it is set this low, the top of the crib rail should reach no less than 3/4 of your child's total standing height.

Clear Out the Crib Set at Bedtime
Crib bedding sets can come with a variety of nursery accessories from decorative pillows to fluffy comforters. Although these products are adorable and look great in the crib set when company is visiting, some of these items are not safe in the crib when baby is alone. Soft toys, decorative pillows and other free-moving items should be kept out the crib when you are not in the room or when baby is sleeping. These precious accessories can fall on baby's face and pose a suffocation hazard. If your baby bedding set came with a soft comforter or coordinating blanket, consider using this to rock baby in or to hang on the nursery chair. These comfy blankets and baby comforters can also be a suffocation hazard if placed over baby's face. Use a flannel nightie or pajamas with footies to keep your little one warm at bedtime.

Finally, make sure your crib set is not placed near any hanging cords or window blinds. Any hanging string or object could be a stragulation hazard. Keep your crib set away from the wall and out of danger. Following the modern nursery safety regulations will ensure your little one sleeps safe and sound.

Here at Maternity and Baby Shopping Mart, we care about your baby's safety and strongly suggest that you take all proper precautions when it comes to your crib and custom baby bedding. We also care about offering you the best quality in baby bedding and crib sets. We have a variety of crib sets for designing a nursery on a budget! Having trouble deciding on a theme? Go to our themes page and check out our suggestions for beautiful baby nurserys!