There's More to a Nursery than Adorable Baby Bedding Sets

There are three essential items required in every baby's nursery. The most important one is the crib. Next, you need a safe and convenient place to change diapers and clothes, and lastly, you must have somewhere to store all the baby accessories you'll use everyday, like diapers, extra baby bedding sets, blankets and toys.

A diaper disposal is really a necessity too, but the most critical decision you'll make about your baby's nursery is which crib you put in it.

Choosing the Right Crib

The two most popular styles of baby cribs are the traditional, drop-side crib and the convertible crib. The drop-side crib makes it very easy to take your baby in and out of the crib. Typically you can use this style crib for about two years or until baby learns how to climb out of it, whichever comes first. (It's usually around 2 years of age.)

Convertible cribs grow with your baby, and by the time they reach toddler age, you can convert the crib to a toddler bed. These cribs will generally last until about 5 or 6 years of age.

The single most crucial feature a crib should have is safety. Everything else is secondary. Make sure the crib you're considering has the approval of the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association. There should be a JMPA sticker located somewhere on the crib.

The space between the railing bars should be no wider than 2-3/8 inches. A soda can shouldn't be able to fit through the space. Also be aware of headboards and footboards with decorative cutouts that could trap fingers or toes, or arms and legs.

If you'll be using a second-hand crib, or a borrowed one, make sure it was manufactured after 1991. All cribs made since then comply with safety regulations.

What to Look for in a Crib Mattress

A crib mattress is generally a separate purchase from the baby crib. You want a mattress that you can't put more than two fingers between the edge of the mattress and the crib. It should fit snugly in the crib. You also want the mattress to be fairly firm. If the mattress is too soft, it won't properly support that tiny neck, spine and developing muscles.

It's wise to look for a mattress with a staph guard to cut down on bacteria coming in contact with your baby. Additional beneficial features can include fire retardant, stain resistant, waterproof, tear resistant and odor proof.

If you decide on a traditional crib style, be sure to use a square mattress that fits snugly in the corners. Your baby is less likely to get an arm or leg stuck if the mattress fits properly.

You'll sleep better, and so will your baby, when you take the time to choose a crib that's just right.