Showing newest 13 of 37 posts from January 2010. Show older posts
Showing newest 13 of 37 posts from January 2010. Show older posts

Wednesday

Furry Zebra Bedding

Furry zebra bedding - what a great way to incorporate animal prints into a kids room!


I have talked at length about using zebra print bedding to jazz up a kids room - but animal bed sets with a bit of fur truly add a new dimension. With all the new super soft microfiber available - it now easier than ever to find a comforter or sheet set that is cozy and warm - not the scratchy polyester feel of faux fur from the past.

However there is a downside to this type of bed set - and that is that it can actually be too warm. If you live in a hot climate, the last thing you need is are plush sheets. In this case it is easy to implement some accent pieces with nap instead of getting the whole bed in a bag.

Blanket Large Cozy Fluffy Fleece Throw In Zebra Jungle Fun by Room It UP #CF6172This fuzzy fleece blanket is most likely the best example of a plush accent. I love it because it is easy to remove and it is quite portable as well. 

Ivory Brown Faux Fur Zebra Skin RugKeep in mind that furry zebra bedding can extend beyond the mattress. A great an fake animal skin rug can also help you achieve the look that you are striving for. Take this one for example.

JoJo Designs Baby Blanket - Pink and Zebra Print Minky Dot Chenille and SatinOf course - these items are very sophisticated and and more suited for older children and teens. If it is younger kids that you are creating the room for - soft accent pieces are also available.  I found this cute chenille baby blanket with a pink satin edging that brings a bit of sass into the nursery.There are many ways to bring a little fluff into an animal themed room - it just requires a bit of research and imagination.


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Are Memory Foam Mattresses Good For Kids?

Are memory foam mattresses good for kids? This is a question that I have often wondered about.


With the recent popularity of memory foam products in bedding - like Tempurpedic I am curious about their safety for children. My nature is to research everything and anything - so I began my quest online. I did find one good article that speaks very favorably about a using a visco elastic foam mattress. But surprisingly I was not able to find much information on the net specifically aimed at the use of this product by children. My next step will be to ask my pediatrician - but my "mother's intuition" tells me that this type of bed is not a good choice for the very young.

Why do I feel this way? For two reasons. First, soft bedding is associated with SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). While babies should probably sleep in their own nursery with appropriate crib bed sets - every harried and sleep deprived parent knows the temptation of bringing baby into their own beds if only to be able to get a little more shut eye. If mom and dads mattress is made of foam then this could spell danger for the little one.

Once a baby becomes a toddler - I still feel that the danger of SIDS is still there, and a soft spongy bed would again be a bad choice. Usually it is at this age that parents buy a twin bed that will last the child for many years to come.

As the kids get older - the risk of SIDS diminishes but their body is growing and developing. I don't know if a Tempurpedic or similar style bed will provide enough support for the spine and back. Until there are documented research and studies that prove that the answer to my question - Are memory foam mattresses good for kids - is a unanimous yes - I will most likely steer clear of this product.

Interestingly - about a year ago - my husband and I purchased a foam mattress topper for our bed. Maybe we didn't buy the right one, but we didn't really like it. Meanwhile, the kids (they are older) thought that it was the most wonderful thing. So when we decided to get rid of it - well the kids wanted to use it. So we cut the topper in half - one king size splits nicely into two twin size pieces - and the kids put them on their beds. That lasted for a few months, the novelty quickly wore off, and the kids decided to get rid of them as well. Go figure.


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Monday

Beach Bedding

I'm dreaming of Beach bedding - actually it's the seashore that I miss.


Usually, at this time of year, with spring just around the corner but still too far away for my liking, I start thinking about sun and sand. And while many people decorate their homes by the shore in this motif, it actually makes a great year round theme just about anywhere. Older kids will probably like this decor more than the younger ones.

Harbor House Beach House Full/Queen Duvet Cover Mini Set, BlueFor starters, especially for girls bedding, I would start with some warm pastels. It is typical to find sets in blue and white like the one pictured here. But while the toned down sophistication of this pattern is fresh and crisp - I think it lacks color and verve. Painting the walls in a sun kissed yellow or mint green will bring a little life into this pattern.

Decorating is a sea breeze. Collections of seashells and sand dollars from vacations past can fill big glass jars. Even a small vial of sand will bring back memories of the ocean.

Weather worn signage and wall hangings are plentiful at stores like Bed Bath and Beyond or Home Goods. These add to the beachy feel for a small investment. Colorful flip flops in crazy patterns can serve as more than just footwear. Mount several pairs of these on the wall as if they are walking in a path and use them as a very original corkboard. Use thumbtacks to hang pictures, notes, reminders - just about anything you would on a regular bulletin board.

Nautical decor is also a good complement to this beach themed room. Model ships, a ship's steering wheel, and replicas of lighthouses can bring in that salty air.

Tiki Surf Shack Surfboard Hand Carved Wood Sign Plaque ArtA beach bedding theme also works for boys - think surfboards (and yes this could work for girls as well). Instead of going with the pastel look, go for bold and bright. A rich, vibrant aqua comforter and sheet set would simulate the ocean in some tropical part of the world. My sons would love to have this plaque hanging on their doors.

Ecotots Surfin Kids Surfboard Growth Chart - FireIf your child is actually a surfer then his or her surfboard would make a great and authentic prop. But if they are not - no worries, Ecotots makes this cool wooden surfboard children's growth chart. The idea with this is to record the height between the two center lines. I wish I had known about this years ago. We have been recording our children's growth on the back of our bedroom door. If we ever move, that door will have to come with us.

Crayola Sea Adventure Twin Sheet SetCrayola Sea Adventure Twin Comforter SetOne great example of beach bedding that I just have to include, because it is just so spot on is this Crayola Sea Adventure bed set. It is a bed set for kids - not grown ups - so it is fun and exciting. There is a coordinating sheet set as well that has brighter colors in it - a good contrast to the all over blue of the comforter.

For really young children and toddlers - a room that features Disney's Finding Nemo bedding or Disney Ariel bedding would be a good choice. 





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Pottery Barn Kids Vintage Plane Bedding

The Pottery Barn Kids Vintage Plane bedding line is a classy representation of the aircraft of yesteryear.


In plain English, what this means is this bed set features old airplanes - in a very appealing way. Every little boy would loves planes and these antiques are so charming. Decorating the room with binoculars, helmet style aviator hats, a leather jacket on a hook make this theme even more authentic.

Now for the bad news ~ it appears that this line has been discontinued. There is nothing at all at the PB site related to this set. However, you may be able to find a stray comforter pillowcase on eBay or Craigslist. Disappointing as this may seem, there truly are options.

First you could snap up whatever pieces that you find and fill in the blanks, so to speak, with kids neutral bedding options in the colors of green, blue, khaki and red that are featured. By going a little crazy with the accent pieces you will still be able to put together a beautiful room.

Red, White & Blue Vintage Aviator Airplane 4 pc Twin Kids Childrens Boy Bedding Set by JoJo DesignsThe other choice is to find an alternate pattern that is similar to the Pottery Barn Kids Vintage Plane bedding but not exactly the same. I was able to find the one pictured here at Amazon.com. The advantage here is that there are coordinating pieces like valances, wall hangings, lamps, and hampers readily available.

My personal preference? I really like to get creative and while a kids bed in a bag is a quick and easy way to change the look of a room, it really does not provide much of a design challenge. For example, I have seen some gorgeous antique airplane posters that would look just as awesome on the wall in a kids bedroom as it would on the wall in a distinguished home office or study. These kind of items, I feel, are an investment - not just a here today gone tomorrow piece of decoration.

On the bright side, if it is baby crib sets that you are looking for - PB does have a Little Planes nursery set that features an old fashioned flying machine and blue gingham as well.


Check out some other Airplane Kids Bedding options here.

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Dora and Diego Bed Sets

Dora and Diego bed sets are two good themes for twins.


One of the things that I enjoy is finding a theme that works for both boys and girls bedding in different ways. Perhaps my youngest son and daughter share a room, this area is of special interest to me. Ideally every child would have his or her own room. But in the real world this is not always the case. So it is great fun to be able to coordinate both different "sides" in a way that makes it all work together.

Dora the Explorer bedding and Diego bedding are two themes that fit the bill. These ensembles are ideal for twins - because, really, these characters are most appealing to toddlers or children that are very similar in age.

The little girls would have the Dora comforter and sheets, and the boys would sport the Diego blankets on their side. The common areas would be decorated with characters that are featured in both television shows. A Boots the Monkey stuffed animal is a cute addition on one side with a Swiper stuffed animal on the other. And Map is actually a versatile piece of decor - it can be displayed by way of a wall hanging or even a depiction of a treasure map on an area rug would be a unique way to incorporate this into the bedroom.  And let's not forget Backpack ~ if someone you know is handy with a sewing machine, they can whip up two oversized versions of this character to use as hamper bags or toy sacks.  There are tons of toys, games, and books available in both themes and these can be displayed prominently on shelves and dressers.


Return from this page about Dora and Diego bed sets to the Kids Bedding homepage.

Diego Bedding

Diego bedding is fun for toddlers that love the Dora the Explorer television series.


Go Diego Go Twin ComforterWhile Dora makes a great bedroom for girls - boys who were fans, felt a bit left out until Go Diego Go came along. Now these young guys can also sport this theme.

Although this pattern is sure to be short lived - they will probably outgrow their fascination with this character shortly after their preschool years - childhood is fleeting and so I like to indulge the kids when they show a strong interest in a good role model.

Go Diego Go Self-Stick Wall AppliqueThanks to Nick Jr - there is no shortage of decorating ideas here. Wall decals are my favorite way to spice up a room when I know the theme won't be a permanent one. Coordinating sheet sets are also a must. In this case you don't need to limit yourself to Go Diego bedding. Display a backpack featuring this character prominently in the room. Put a Diego game out on a child size table for fun at the ready - or place it on a shelf along with a collection of his books and Dora books as well.

Another idea is to build on the Explorer theme - this can lead into a variety of different themes when the kids get older. For instance, a travel style trunk or chest can be used to hold toys or clothes. This will eventually blend well with a pirate bedding theme or a camo bedding theme. Hanging a treasure map poster on the wall can also work with a pirates room as well as this one.

If you have a daughter ~ take a look at some thoughts on building a room around a Dora the Explorer bedding theme. And if you have twins that share a room here are a few ideas on how to incorporate Dora and Diego bed sets into one room.


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Sunday

Blue Camo Baby Bedding

I have mentioned that blue camo baby bedding is an excellent choice for the nursery.


One of the main attractions is that this is actually a theme without being a "theme". I guess we could call it subtle. After all, when a child is born - we really don't know where his future interests will lie. However, by the time he turns one year old he will definitely be starting to express his likes and dislikes.

The point being is that a camouflage pattern is makes for a fairly neutral bed set without being too boring. As the child grows it can be accessorized with toys, stuffed animals, and other decor that may be more to his liking.

SoHo Modern Blue Camouflage Baby Crib Nursery Bedding 10 Pcs SET ** Reversible Into 2 Designs ! **And fortunately, since this pattern is so popular - there are a more than a few different options to choose from. Here is one from SoHo Designs that incorporates the bolder colors of gray and black but softens the tone with a border that brings in the bluish freshness of sky.

One word of caution that I must point out when it comes to crib bed sets has to do with the bumpers and the comforters. Most crib ensembles prominently feature beautiful, fluffy bumpers that are supposed to add to the overall effect. However, in reality parents of newborns are supposed to remove the bumpers from the crib before the infant is able to pull himself up. Also - a big poofy comforter can add to the risk of SIDS. In actuality I never used the comforter until my sons were toddlers.  So if you are considering a blue camo baby bedding set, just keep this in mind.

JoJo Designs 9-Piece Baby Crib Bedding Set - Blue and Khaki Camo Camouflage ArmyHere is another fun camouflage crib set for boys from JoJo Designs. It also uses the soft blues - but instead of combining them with black, they use a more gentle khaki. And Wendy Bellissimo also makes a nice set for babies as well.


Take minute to go from this page about Blue Camo Baby Bedding to the post that I have written about Camouflage Crib Bedding in general.

Or, head over to the Kids Bedding sets homepage from this page about Camouflage Bedding for Infant Boys.

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Friday

Girls Bedding

Girls bedding has come a long way in the past few years. While ensembles for the younger set more often feature the traditional pink and frills - an older girl has a much wider variety of choices.


I have been so impressed by bed sets with "attitude". Really. I have seen polka dots combined with paisleys in bold "go get them" colors. These do not project a demure, feminine look but rather an indepedent yet sophisticated streak. I really like that. While we are only talking about comforters and bed sheets - this new look really does make a statement. Teenagers spend a lot of time in their rooms - studying or hanging out. If they are surounded by bold patterns - all the better. OK - enough psychobabble. I also like these patterns because they are bright and appealing.

Blancho Bedding - [Colorful Days] 100% Cotton 4PC Comforter Cover/Duvet Cover Combo (Queen Size)This site covers a lot of different varieties of kids bedding sets. Some are more suited to boys while others are more applicable for girls. I will use this page to summarize some of the linens that girls  of all ages will love.


Return from this page about Girls Bedding to the Kids Bedding Sets homepage.

Tuesday

Bassinet Bedding

Should you invest in bassinet bedding sets? This question is a good one - and an even harder one to answer.


Let me tell you my story. Being of a very practical nature - a frilly bed set for a bassinet seemed completely unnecessary to me when I was expecting our first child. In fact this piece of baby equipment seemed a bit frivolous as well. After all, the baby had a crib in a decked out nursery - what more could he or she want? And for how long would the baby need that little basket for anyway - it would be outgrown in a matter of months.

Well, baby number one came along, and we managed with just the crib, but boy, it would have been nice to have a place for the baby to sleep in our room for those first few months (as any new parent knows - those are a loooooooong couple of months!)

When baby number 2's arrival grew close - I made it a point to borrow a bassinet. It didn't make sense buying one now. This most likely would be our last child. I had to grudgingly admit that this contraption was one of the most useful pieces of baby furniture I had for a newborn.

Somewhere between baby number 2 and baby number 3 - we moved out of state. And sadly, I had to leave behind my friend - the loaner of the very useful bassinet.

Luckily, I made a few new friends. And one, recognizing my predicament - found a lovely "vintage" (and I say that nicely) wicker basket on legs at a garage sale sans any type of bassinet bedding whatsoever. But my frugal side still resisted making the purchase - after all - this one would most likely be our last child. Well I suffered through my sons' infancy with that solid, yet quite ugly, baby basket and promptly disposed of it the moment we we no longer needed it.

But wait - the story is not over yet. There was still one more child yet to arrive. Baby number four (yes, the last one!) made her entrance and spent her first few months in my neighbors old bassinet that was rescued from storage in some remote corner of her basement.

So, after that saga, if you were to ask me, I would most emphatically say yes! Go ahead - indulge in that pink or blue baby bassinet bedding set that you have had your eye on. And don't look back or consider it to be a frivolous purchase. This is one piece of equipment that I will always wish I had bought right in the beginning. It truly is useful - especially if you are nursing. Of course, safety comes first and parents should always make sure that the cradle is in a safe spot and that baby is not too big or too old for it. Maybe one day I will buy one for my grandbabies!


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Friday

Dinosaur Bedding

Kids dinosaur bedding is a very popular theme for little boys.


Olive Kids Dinosaurland Twin ComforterEvery one of my three sons went through this phase - and I can tell you that I miss it. That time was a very precious age and I wish I had realized it at the time. That being said, there are currently two patterns (and probably many more) that I adore. The first is shown here to the left and is the Olive Kids Dinosaurland pattern. It features bright colors and whimsical creatures that bring these prehistoric giants to life - in a fun way. There are a myriad of coordinating accessories available as well. The rug is really cute.

Dinosaur Childrens Bedding - 4 pc Twin SetAnother pattern that displays more muted tones is by JoJo Designs and is pictured to the right. The shades of brown, cream, tan, and burgundy are more sophisticated and would fit with traditional style furniture.

Jazzing up either one of these dinosaur bedding sets is child's play (pun intended) - as there are many toys, Lego sets, books, and apparel widely available in this theme. Peel and stick vinyl wall appliques might seem a little tacky but kids really love them. If you really don't want to go that route, there are lots of posters available that would do the trick. I have found book ends, stuffed animals and sheet sets in this pattern. Even the Sesame Street Snuffleupagus is a well know fictional rendition of a dino.

This theme is also appealing because it is not only fun but also educational - similar to the kids space bedding theme. If children can learn something from their bedroom decor - then even better!

The versatility of a prehistoric theme covers a wide age range as well.  From baby crib sets and toddler dinosaur bedding in bright pastels to a more sinister Lost World pattern for tweens and teens - this is one that is not outgrown early.  For older kids, something to consider might be finding a camo comforter in traditional green, khaki, and brown colors - and dressing it up with dino sheets and shams.


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Jasmine Bedding

Princess Jasmine bedding is a personal favorite of mine. Last year when we were at Disney World, we purchased this costume for my daughter. It was truly an exquisite costume, with little gold coins dangling around the entire top - and she looked lovely in it.


So it got me thinking that this would also be a great theme for a girls bedding set. But, alas, a quick search at Amazon turned up zip - nada - nothing in kids bed sets that fit the bill. I guess her popularity is similar to that of Princess Pocahontas which is really a shame, given the diverse ethnicity of each of these characters.

But whenever one door closes, another one opens, right? The lack of Aladdin comforter sets forces us to either come up with something totally creative or to choose something else. I like a good challenge and originality is totally my thing so if I want a room themed after the Arabian Nights I will do it without Princess Jasmine bedding.

Let's see - what comes to mind when I think of the Aladdin movies is a magic carpet, a genie that lives in a beautiful brass lamp, lots of sheer fabrics, and bright, bold colors. To me - the obvious focus here will be a beautiful rug. There is such a wide variety of inexpensive area rugs available that choosing one with your child will be a lot of fun. It can be in a traditional middle eastern pattern or just be something that she likes - whichever one you pick will be a magic one because that is what you will call it.

Jasmine - One True Love by Walt Disney 19.75"x16" Art Print Poster DisneyDisney Princess Mini Jasmine SnowglobeChoosing neutral sheet sets and snazzy pillows to complement the rug should be a snap. Or picking a base of more wide reaching princess castle bedding might just do the trick. Then it is a matter of adding customized trimmings that a little girl will love.

Adding some sheer fabrics to cover the windows or to drape along the walls will also set a fantasy like atmosphere. Introducing a some zebra print sheets or tiger print fabrics will add to the exotic feel as well. And let's not forget that brass genie lamp (look in store like Pier 1 Imports) that can double as a unique jewelry box.

The obvious place to look for tons of themed Disney merchandise would be the Disney Store that also has an excellent selection online.

The bottom line is to not get discouraged if you cannot find what you are looking for right away. Improvising is easy and a heck of a lot more enjoyable.

Check out some other ideas for decorating a princess bedroom:
  • Pocahontas Bedding
  • Cinderella Bedding
  • Tinkerbell Bedding
  • Belle Bedding
  • Princess Tiana Bedding
  • Snow White Bedding
  • Disney Ariel Bedding
  • Sleeping Beauty Bedding


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Thursday

Disney Ariel Bedding

Disney Ariel bedding brings star of The Little Mermaid movies into the hearts of children everywhere.


What little girl isn't enchanted with the story of a beautiful mermaid that falls in love with a handsome prince and longs to join the world of humans so she can be with him forever?

Disney's The Little Mermaid Special Edition Twin Size ComforterThis princess is now an "old" favorite and there are some cute choices in bed sets and toddler bedding sets available bearing her image. The kids sheet set and comforter shown here have a background color of aqua that is a bit different from the ordinary. While there are options in pink I really like the idea of going with an underwater theme because of its' uniqueness.

Adorning the walls with strings of faux pearls or shells is an original design that is easy to make at home. Of course, using mermaid figurines and Ariel dolls to add to the aura of the room.

Reflective BubblesBubbles---27in W x40in HAn underwater paradise is easy to recreate with the use of bright area rugs and lounging pillows. Adding some bubble wall decals will instantly set the mood without using specialty paper. Personally I like the silver metallic ones best. These can be used for a retro themed room when the child gets older.

Another homemade option is to design some fish mobiles out of brightly colored fabric or paper and hang these from the ceiling once again creating the feel of living beneath the sea.

Of course, there is no shortage of licensed toys and props that can complement Disney Ariel bedding very nicely. My daughter had the Little Mermaid talking kitchen playset and longed for the vanity (which actually would be very cute in a kids bedroom).

Whether you decide to tap into your creative side or just buy a complete set for an instant room you are sure to make a special little girl very happy!

Not sure which Princess is right for your little girl? Check out some of the other royal bed sets: Cinderella Bedding, Tinkerbell Bedding, Princess Tiana Bedding, Princess Pocahontas, Jasmine Bedding, Sleeping Beauty Bedding, and Snow White Bedding.


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Cinderella Bedding

Cinderella bedding is so nostalgic - a memory from mom's own childhood.


And that beautiful castle towering over the land brings back so many memories of fun Disney vacations. How could I not implement this theme if my daughter so requested? Some of the other Disney Princesses are so new that parents don't have much of an attachment to those characters.

Luckily - this Queen of Hearts (pun intended - because she has captured all of ours) has an excellent following - unlike Princess Pocahontas - and, therefore; there is a ton of kids bed sets available in a variety of patterns.

Disney Princess Cinderella Twin Bed-in-a-Bag SetThe comforter and sheet set pictured here features a lot of pink and blue. Since Cinderella dolls are usually wearing the blue dress - this set builds on that outfit. For girls that are not into pink but who still like princesses, this is a good fit. Of course there are several Cinderella bedding sets available in pink as well if that is your must have color.

Once again decor is easy. Starting with a princess castle bedding theme could keep things somewhat basic and neutral. Add to that some licensed pillow shams or a themed sheet set and the setting is complete.

Disney Cinderella Jewelry BoxIf your daughter is old enough, and careful enough with delicate decorative pieces you can add some beautiful china figurines. Princess  jewelry boxes like the one shown here are lovely as well as useful. And if you have been following along you know that I am a big fan of interactive displays. I mean really, why waste money on something you can't truly use? One thing that I think would be awesome to display in this kids bedroom would be some kind of replica of Cinderella's glass slipper. However, I have been unable to find a usable item - perhaps a coin bank or notepad holder of some sort.

Another option for the younger kids is setting up a princess costume dress up area. Set up a small wardrobe and hang some of the Princesses gowns (like Princess Aurora and Snow White) in it. Include a full length mirror and voila - a wonderful way to pass a lazy afternoon.

Anyway - the possiblilities are endless!

If your daughter is a big Disney Princess fan - check some of the other bed sets in the royal family: Belle Bedding, Jasmine Bedding, Ariel Bedding, Princess Tiana Bedding, and Snow White Bedding.


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