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First Time Parent

Are you soon to be a parent for the first time? Area you soon to be a new grandparent that hasn't bought baby bedding in a while? Your probably looking to find that perfect bedding set for your new little one that will keep him or her safe and sound. Here is a guide that I have come up with to give you some useful information before you make that all important decision.

What Is Included In a Set

Crib bedding comes in a plethora of styles and number of pieces. Your basic sets usually consist of three pieces; being a sheet, comforter and bumper and can go up to an entire nursery ensemble which may include any of the following: crib skirt, diaper stacker, mobile, window treatment, toy bay, basket liners, pillows, lamps, shelves, tissue holders, trash baskets, rugs, clocks and the list goes on. Many manufacturer's sell themed nursery sets which may include several of the above.

The Nursery Theme

You may want to pick a theme that is specific to each individual baby or a neutral set that you can use from one baby to the next. Many crib sets can also be used on toddler beds. So, if your child becomes "attached" to his or her favorite crib comforter/quilt, it can also be used on the toddler bed. It can make for an easier transition to the toddler bed if it is the bedding they are used to.

The Little Details

When purchasing a crib set, you will find a big range in price. You can find simple basic sets for around $40 and they can go up into the several hundred depending on how many pieces you would like in the set. You can also find many good quality sets for less that a hundred dollars. You can expect to pay more for the high end sets that have a lot of detail work and excellent quality fabrics. Most all sets are made of some form of cotton with polyester fiber fill. If you are looking for an aged "vintage quilt" it is likely to have cotton batting/filling as well. This will cause a slight shrinkage of the batting after washing, allowing the quilt to get the "puckered" look of age.

Some things to look for when purchasing a crib set:

1. Make sure the crib sheet is tight fitting. If the long sides of the sheet are loose, make sure you tuck them under the mattress, to keep them free from babies fingers. Some manufacturers make a safety sheet. These sheets have a large piece of gathered elastic on the short ends of the crib sheet so it has a very snug fit, keeping baby safe.
2. Crib bumpers are another important part of the crib set. When baby begins to roll and move around, it keeps them safe from the sides of the crib. It is important to make sure the bumper has both top and bottom crib ties. This will keep the bumper attached to the crib. The ties should be just long enough to be able to tie it securely. If the ties are too long, baby can get ahold of the loose ends and pull the bumper loose. Bumpers also come in a few different styles. There is a one piece bumper that goes around the entire crib. There are bumpers that are four seperate pieces, that also attach with top and bottom crib ties. There is also a new style of crib bumper that is becoming very popular which is called a coverlet. It is a bumper that has a removable cover for easy washing. It too attaches with top and bottom crib ties. You will also find some bumpers have more "stuffing" making them more plush. Bumpers should be removed from the crib once the baby becomes very active. You will know wehn this is, because baby will be able to pull on the bumper making it loose or completely removing it. Then there are breathable bumpers available, which are made of a mesh fabric to alow air to pass through.
3. The crib comforter or quilt is another key part of the crib set. A quilt should not be used to cover a new born. Some people like to hang the quilt on the nursery wall as a decoration. If this is something of interest to you, make sure the quilt has a rod pocket on the back side. The quilt is also used on the floor to lay baby on for play time or a nap. The quilt can be used in the crib after baby has become very active. You should never keep loose blankets or pillows in the crib until baby has become very active.
4. The crib skirt is alos important or sometimes called a dust ruffle. It helps to protect the underside of the mattress and sheet from the crib springs. It also adds a visual deterrent for baby so he or she doesn't roll under the crib for investigation, all while adding a nice decorative touch.
5. The sleepsack is relatively new. It is a wearable sleeping bag for newborns. These are really nice. After you have baby ready for bed, simply put babies sleepsack on and you will know he or she will stay warm all night long. Babies arms are kept free, because it is sleeveless. Some of them zip from the bottom to the top, for easy diaper changing without completely removing all of babies clothes.
6. Another item that you may want to consider for your crib is a mattress wedge. This simply slides underneath the mattress, to raise up one end. This can be very important for the baby with heartburn and acid reflux. Yes, newborns can have these problems also.
7. The crib mobile is another accessory for your consideration. Most mobiles play a 6-10 minute lullabye to soothe baby as he or she falls asleep. They also help to stimulate babies eyesight. Just remember to remove the mobile from the crib when baby can pull himself/herself up.

The Nursery Theme

After you have decided what type of a crib set you would like and with which accessories, you can then look for a particular pattern. There are many different patterns available. You may like a plain pattern or something fancy and frilly with lots of detail. The sky is the limit when it comes to crib bedding. There are patterns available for boys, girls and neutral patterns for those who don't yet know what they are having. Some parents like to get a new beddings for every child they have or some like to get a gender neutral set to last through all their babies.

Now you can have fun looking at all the different patterns and style to choose that perfect theme for your new little ones nursery! Have fun and enjoy this special time in your life!

I hope you have found this guide to be useful. Thank you!