Your newborn baby needs all the love and care in the world to grow into a happy child. They’ll also need enough sleep. Getting the right amount of sleep is crucial for your baby’s health, development, and mood. In the early months,your baby will probably be asleep more than they are awake. As a parent, it is your responsibility to ensure that the baby has all the comforts of a safe and sound slumber. To create the ideal sleeping environment for your baby, everything from the room temperature to their bedding should be chosen with care. Several other essentials will also ensure that your newborn gets the best environment for a healthy sleep cycle.
Newborns have a higher skin sensitivity than most adults. So even the slightest skin allergy or irritation can disturb their sleeping patterns seriously. Experts always stress that parents should use natural products that are free of chemical toxins to avoid any kind of exigencies, especially when it comes to sleep and nursery products Parents usually switch to a lighter detergent for their baby’s clothes, use lotions on their babies skin and more, but many forget about the products that you use while putting your baby to sleep.
Here’s some sleep essentials that help your baby sleep and should be naturally made to ensure your baby sleeps comfortably and safely, while also giving you peace of mind.
Crib or Bassinet Mattress
The quality of your baby’s mattress and your baby’s sleep quality are directly linked. Buying a perfect crib mattress is a big decision as you want your baby to sleep well. Your baby’s crib or bassinet mattress should:
- Fit snuggly in the crib (make sure there’s no gaps between the rails and the mattress)
- Pick a natural mattress made of cotton or a soft breathable fabric
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, your baby’s sleeping surface should also be nice and firm to reduce the risk of SIDS.
Bedding Sheets
Along with your crib mattress, make sure you pick up proper crib sheets. You’ll want multiple sets, so you always have backups when some are in the wash. Babies only require a fitted sheet to cover their mattress. Using a top sheet or blankets of any kind substantially increases the risk of SIDS. Just like crib mattresses, natural bedding sheets made of 100% cotton or natural fibers are best Artificial fibers can cause your baby to overheat or be uncomfortable. In some cases, it might even cause skin rashes. Stick to cotton or nylon blended materials to ensure sound sleep.
Baby Swaddle or Sleeping Bag
Believe it or not, falling asleep independently is a learned skill. You’ll help your baby learn how to fall asleep by rocking, shushing, and having a soothing bedtime routine each night. Swaddling is also an effective way to help your baby fall asleep because it mimics the womb. Wearable blankets or baby sleeping bags can also help your baby sleep. Additionally, since blankets and loose bedding are a SIDS risk for babies, a swaddle or sleep sack will keep your baby warm, cozy, and – most importantly – safe Nested Bean’s Zen Sack Premier, made of 70% bamboo and 30% cotton, is a good choice made of natural fibers and free of flame retardants.
Bedtime Lotion
Until the first few months after the birth, your baby’s skin will remain flaky and peeling. Don’t worry – it’s totally normal! But also, don’t be too quick to reach for the baby lotion right away. In fact, medical professionals advise to abstain using them for the first few months until the skin is ready to absorb external ingredients. However, after a time, lotion can be a great addition to your baby’s soothing bedtime routine and can help keep their dry or irritated skin comfortable and moisturized.
Once it’s time to add bedtime lotion to your baby’s routine, be wary of chemical-based lotions. They contain “phthalates”, which, if absorbed by the skin, can cause long-term health problems. It is always better to use lotions made from natural ingredients that are mild and soft on your baby’s skin.
Final Thoughts
Putting a baby to sleep is one of the most delicate and difficult tasks every parent goes through. These bedtime essentials can make it easier by helping to soothe your little one, keep them safe and comfortable, and get them ready for a good night’s sleep.
