Like the popular “bed in a bag” bedding ensembles, baby bedding sets come in coordinating styles, colors and fabrics. This makes it easy to give your baby’s nursery a custom look at ready-made prices. Here’s some information about choosing baby bedding sets.

First and foremost, be sure your crib is a standard size. Like full-size bedding, baby bedding is designed to fit a certain size crib. You might want to buy the bedding first and design the room around it – this will avoid clashes or impossible-to-match wallpaper and/or paint. Baby bedding should be made of durable, washable fabrics and be well-constructed. If you choose a crib that’s neutral in color, it will be easier to coordinate the bedding with it.

What can you expect to receive in a baby bedding set? Minimally, you should get a quilt or comforter, fitted sheet and crib bumper. Other items that might be included or available separately are crib skirts, valances or other window treatments, pillows, laundry bags and diaper holders. You might even find coordinating mobiles and/or lamps and lampshades. Blankets are nice additions, as are toy bags and wall hangings.

If you know the gender of your baby, there are boy- or girl-oriented sets. If you don’t know if your baby is a boy or girl, there are very attractive gender-neutral ensembles with a wide array of extras. Cost can be an issue, with designer sets rivaling custom sets in price. But usually, quality increases with price, so try to buy the best set you can afford. And remember, the baby’s safety is uppermost. For example, even if your set comes with pillows, they should never be put in the crib of a very young baby.

The ultimate benefit of a baby bedding set is convenience. With one purchase, you can take care of most of the decorating needs of the nursery, from crib to windows. A coordinated set will pull the room together and make it a welcoming place for you and your baby.