Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be able to remove stains easily from the crib bedding?

Washable sheets and skirts can be laundered just like any other item. Most manufacturers provide slip covers for items like bumpers, making them easy to launder as well.

Are crib bumpers safe for my baby’s crib?

There have been some safety concerns about bumpers in recent years. When used properly, bumper pads should be perfectly safe, but you can help guard against accidents or injury with the following tips:

• Make sure that bumper pads are tightly secured to the crib so that they don’t fall over on the child.
• Make sure that the ties are long enough to be functional, but not so long as to pose a strangulation risk.
• Remove bumper pads when your child begins to stand so they can't be used as steps.

Are blankets/pillows safe for my baby’s crib?

Pillows and stuffed animals, especially those that are particularly soft and fluffy are not recommended in crib bedding due to the risk of suffocation.  

Is it OK to have appliqués on the crib bedding?

This should be at the parents' discretion, but be sure that any appliqués are tightly secured and have no loose threads. Parents may want to consider removing appliqués when the child is old enough to be able to tear them off.

Will cotton or nylon thread hold up better during washing?

Cotton thread is preferred with cotton fabrics because it easily adjusts with the material, is strong and durable and made from all natural fibers. Nylon thread is not colorfast and may become brittle through washings.

What thread count should the crib bedding have?

The rule is the higher the thread count, the better quality the sheet (such as durability and softness). However, many parents feel that it is impractical to purchase the highest thread count possible for everyday bedding. In general, the most important aspects are a trust of the manufacturer and the type of material.

What type of fabric is best for crib bedding?

Natural fabrics, like cotton, are the best choice for baby bedding. This type of material is typically less likely to cause irritation or allergies, is very soft and can be found in very high qualities.

Should I cut the tags off of the crib bedding?

If the tags are likely to wear and produce loose thread, have sharp edges or pose any other potential threat, you should remove them. However, if the tags are not within reach of your baby you may want to keep them for material information and washing instructions.

What is the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association? (JPMA)

The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) is an organization that has been recognized for enhancing the safety of children's products. The JPMA works with government officials, consumer groups, and industry leaders on programs to educate consumers on the safe selection and use of juvenile products.

What should be the space between crib slats, so that the child does not get any of their body parts stuck?

Slats should be no more than 2 3/8 inches apart. Widley spaced slats can trap an infant's head. Fortunately, there are regulations on cribs sold in the United States and Canada that prevent manufacturers from making cribs with too wide of slats.

What should be removed from the crib before the baby is left alone?

Ideally, there shouldn't be anything in the crib when your baby is left alone. The fewer things present, the less the risk of injury. This is especially relevant to large, fluffy items such as stuffed animals or soft pillows. These type of items offer the most risk of suffocation should your child's face become pressed against them while they are sleeping. Any small object that could poke an eye or become lodged in the throat should be removed as well.

Is it OK to buy used baby products?

The JPMA recommends that secondhand products should not be used for your baby. However, if it is necessary to do so, they recommend to check all the safety features, make sure the product is fully functional, has all the parts needed, and has not been recalled. Keep in mind that new products meeting current safety standards are the safest option.

What does “green furniture” really mean?

"Green" can take on many meanings, but typically it refers to products that are produced with environmentally-friendly materials and or methods. In terms of furniture, "green" usually means made with sustainable, renewable materials with a less harmful impact on the earth. "Green" furniture is appealing to many parents because it's more natural which is often seen as healthier for their children.

What is the advantage to purchasing organic crib bedding?

Buying organic crib bedding is a great way to incorporate the values of environmentally conscience parents into their children's lives. There may be health advantages also as many people believe that organic bedding has fewer contaminants, allergens or other potentially harmful or irritant components.

What pieces will typically come in a crib bedding ‘set’?

This depends on the manufacturer, but typically a set will include a bottom fitted sheet, bumper, and skirt. Some manufacturers might add an additional sheet, matching blanket, or other accessory as part of their set.

Why are top sheets not included in a crib bedding ‘set’?

Most parents, experts and product manufacturers find top sheets to be unnecessary for infants. Most babies sleep wrapped in a blanket or sleeper and often do not need a top sheet until they are much older.

Are Mobiles safe to have?

Mobiles are perfectly safe if secured properly and out of the infants reach. Experts recommend removing mobiles when your baby is 5 months old or begins to push up on his or her hands and knees (whichever comes first). Their ability to reach the mobile or any hanging crib toy may result in injury.

Are crib mattress typically only one size?

Crib mattresses should fit exactly in order to prevent gaps between the mattress and crib where body parts could become stuck. The general rule is that if you can fit two fingers or more in between the mattress and crib, your mattress is not a good enough fit.

Can I scotch guard crib bedding?

The makers of Scotchgard (3M) do not list crib bedding as a recommended material to use this product on. However, most manufacturers make is easy to launder crib bedding because of natural fabrics and slip-covered bumpers.

Are there crib bedding sets are sold with the scotchguard?

There are some fabrics available that are treated with this liquid-repelling agent. However, the manufacturer does not list crib bedding as a recommended material to be treated.