They say age doesn’t matter. In some ways, it is true, but it’s a completely different world for babies. In fact, age is crucial in determining what’s good and bad for your little one.
When you’re a first-time parent, there are many things to consider when getting your newborn baby ready for the world. One of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is the bedding essentials to use. Incorrect bedding type and usage can cause minor to major injuries to your little one, so you have to be extra careful.
There are certain blankets, clothes, and pillows that your newborn shouldn’t use. But don’t fret! Luckily, there are alternatives to these prohibited bedding items. With a little research and experience, you can find safer solutions to provide your child with a comfortable sleeping environment.
Let’s talk about these baby bedding alternatives and why they are a better choice for your baby, from the type of blanket you should purchase to using a baby neck pillow.
5 Baby Bedding Items That Are Not Advisable for Newborns and Their Alternatives
Choosing the right bedding for your newborn can be stressful for new parents. Babies are extremely delicate and sensitive, so it’s necessary to treat them with safety in mind above everything else. Let’s begin with seemingly necessary and harmless items that are actually unnecessary and potentially harmful.
Pillows
Problem: Pillows can be a hazard for babies under two years old. They can increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), causing strangulation or suffocation especially without supervision.
Alternative: Fortunately, some pillows are designed for newborns; these are usually called a baby head neck support pillow, baby neck support pillow, or newborn head pillow. They’re also effective for flat head prevention. Still, it is best to get advice and consent from your pediatrician before getting one.
Blankets
Problem: While blankets have become a popular sleep aid for people of all ages, the American Academy of Pediatrics doesn’t recommend them for babies under a year old. The concern is that it might increase the risk of SIDS, especially with weighted blankets. A soft and warm blanket isn’t safe for them, either.
Alternative: Many blanket alternatives can help keep your newborn safe and warm. You can use onesies, swaddles, sleep sacks, and wearable blankets. Aside from blankets, it would also be great to keep the crib away from the air conditioner or window to avoid the cold.
Portable Bed Rails
Problem: Bed rails are supposed to protect babies, but they might give newborns a false sense of security. In some cases, they cause entrapment, leading to strangulation or suffocation of babies under two years old.
Alternative: Fortunately, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CSPC) revised the design standards for baby bed rails. That said, you still have a choice between using bed rails or waiting until your baby turns into a toddler. Should you want to use bed rails despite the odds, consult your pediatrician and seek alternatives such as foam bumpers or roll guards.
Socks
Problem: We included socks on this list not because it’s completely prohibited. Rather, it’s somewhere in between; putting socks on a sleeping baby can cause overheating, discomfort, or sock-line hyperpigmentation. However, this highly depends on room temperature.
Alternative: Avoid putting on too many layers and accessories on your newborn baby, especially during sleep. If they’re already wearing a onesie, footed pajamas, swaddle, or sleep sack, that will be enough to keep them warm. Still, observe your child’s behavior to determine how much clothing makes them comfortable and warm.
Soft Toys
Problem: No matter how soft and child-friendly baby toys are, you shouldn’t place any of them inside your newborn’s crib. They can pose a serious safety hazard, specifically a suffocation risk. Hanging them over the crib isn’t advisable either; it becomes a falling hazard.
Alternative: Toys are unnecessary for newborns since they aren’t fully aware of their surroundings yet. If you want to keep them entertained, you can try alternatives like playing music, reading aloud, making eye contact, and talking to your baby. That being said, you can still use soft, lightweight toys for them to touch. However, don’t leave them unsupervised.
Other Bedding Tips for Your Little One’s Safe Sleep
Now that we’re done with the crucial points, here are a few more reminders on safe baby bedding. Some items might be safe for newborns, but you still need to double-check and use them properly to eliminate the risks.
- Measure the crib space and ensure it fits the baby bedding well.
- Always choose warm, soft, and breathable bedding fabric.
- Ensure regular bedding hygiene.
- Don’t shy away from extra bedding features as long as they’re safe and useful.
- Don’t forget to get a waterproof mattress cover for hygiene and easy cleaning.
- Choose a new mattress over a second-hand one, no matter how safe, clean, and affordable the latter may be.
- Always put your little one on their back when sleeping.
Age Doesn’t Matter, but It Does for Babies
Age is a crucial factor in choosing baby bedding. If your little one is still a newborn, extra care is required to help them get a good sleep. One way to start is by understanding which items are not advisable and what could be a safer alternative to them.
We mentioned pillows, blankets, rails, socks, and toys. At first, they seem necessary and harmless. However, things can get a little complicated when it’s for your newborn. These items can be dangerous, so it is better to seek tailored alternatives for babies under two years old.
Ashtonbee’s Bedding Essentials for Newborns and Toddlers
Are you looking for safe, affordable, and effective bedding for your newborn or toddler? Look no further and check Ashtonbee’s products! Here’s a preview of our bedding essentials.
- Newborn baby pillow and head pillow – designed for better airflow on the neck to act as a newborn baby’s neck support pillow. They can also prevent flat head syndrome upon consent and approval of your pediatrician.
- Toddler bed rails – portable and non-slip bed bumpers to keep your little one from falling off the bed.
You can also find more safe, comfortable, and stress-reducing baby products in our shop. Examples include corner guards, sliding door locks, playmats, feeders, socks, high chairs, and changing pads. Should you need more articles about babyproofing your home, feel free to browse our blogs or try a product from our shop!
