Dreaming about how to outfit your baby's nursery is one of the joys of being an expectant or new mother. There's a lot to decide, and the baby cribs bedding you choose will be the centerpiece of your little one's room.

Baby cribs bedding is about more than a look. Appropriate baby cribs bedding also plays a role in the safety of your child, so baby cribs bedding should be chosen with care. Both infant suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) have been linked to sleep time, and it is thought that improper baby cribs bedding may be a contributing factor. Many major American baby cribs bedding retailers have recognized the dangers of improper baby cribs bedding and have adjusted their baby cribs bedding displays and advertising accordingly to help consumers make smarter choices.

A tight, smooth, fit is key in safe baby cribs bedding. Fitted sheets, which are the base of baby cribs bedding sets, should stretch snugly onto the baby's mattress to reduce the risk of the suffocation. Similarly, any other pieces of baby cribs bedding, like blankets or comforters, should be smooth rather than poofy. In fact, babies generally don't need a blanket while sleeping; a swaddling cloth is usually adequate. It is preferable to slightly increase the temperature of the baby's room than to add to the baby cribs bedding if additional warmth is needed. Pillows are not recommended for infants, and should not be added to your baby cribs bedding until after your child is 12 months or older. Soft toys, and all baby cribs bedding except a fitted sheet and a light blanket (if necessary) should be removed before the child is put to sleep.

Baby cribs bedding sets also commonly include bumper pads to protect the child's head and limbs. Current research indicates these may impede air flow to the infant, and some health professionals recommend that they not be used in baby cribs bedding. Matching diaper bags may also be included in a baby cribs bedding set, and while safe to use, should not be attached to the crib.

Fabric used in baby cribs bedding, including all trim, should be flame-resistant, breathable, and hypo-allergenic. Knitted or crocheted baby cribs bedding items can be beautiful, but are not be appropriate for young infants who can easily get caught in the fibers. Waterproof baby cribs bedding pieces, like mattress covers, can be made of low-irritant fabric like organic cotton.

All baby cribs bedding should be laundered with gentle detergent before being used.