Baby, Baby articles,babies, baby beds

Safety Tips for Baby Bedding

Obviously, the age of your baby is an important factor in creating a safe sleeping environment that is appropriate for them, but there are some general guidelines that you can follow.

For babies under the age of twelve months, it is better to ensure that they are dressed warmly than to use heavy blankets. Blankets can create an uneven surface which can obstruct breathing in rare cases, while clothes will always fit closely and not interfere with the airways. Additionally, a baby dressed properly and covered with a light blanket of the proper size will remain comfortable even if they move in their sleep and push the blanket away.

Babies should be placed on their back and the nose and mouth should always be clear. Full airflow is necessary, and limited ability to breathe can cause medical problems beyond just suffocation.

Even older babies should have a sleeping area that is free of any small objects that could cause injury or obstruction of breathing. Even if a potentially dangerous object is not close enough to cause problems when the baby falls asleep, it can become a danger if the baby moves while asleep.

Your baby's bedding should also be clean and dry. This is especially important for babies that are not yet fully potty trained, but ones that are may continue to have problems with going to the bathroom while asleep. Having a fresh set of bedding on hand is a good idea, since babies' skin is sensitive and should be kept dry and free of waste while they sleep.

Bedding should also be in good shape, and not worn or damaged. Small tears or loose threads can catch on fingers or toes, causing discomfort or minor injury.

In addition to the what should or shouldn't be in your baby's sleeping area, the materials that are used are also important.

Flame-resistant fabrics are an excellent way to protect babies from the threat of accidental fire or the more subtle risk of smoke inhalation. Most bedding in use today will provide this protection, but older bedding or bedding from other countries with their own standards may not. If you are unsure, check the labels or the packaging that it came in.

The materials used in your baby's bedding can also cause skin irritation or a rash if your baby is allergic to them. When adding new bedding to you baby's sleeping area, ensure that there is no change in their health.

Bedding describing itself as "natural" can still contain allergens, since babies are more sensitive to irritants than adults are. Additionally, "natural" bedding may not provide the protection of modern flame-resistant fabrics.

In much the same way that you feed your baby a specific diet instead of adult food, you should use baby bedding instead of using bedding intended for adults. Generally speaking, bedding made specifically for babies by a company you trust will the correct size, made of the correct materials and be designed to be safe for them.

Back to Articles