Not so long ago, bedding for the nursery was limited to basic solid hues. There was white, and then pastel pink, blue, green, and yellow were added, but it was still rather boring and dull. Cotton was the only fabric offered. Next, a few prints were produced, featuring playful lambs or teddy bears. Still later, quilts began to sport cotton appliques, frequently of a fuzzy lamb. Truly interesting nursery bedding, however, remained elusive.

At length, however, manufacturers realized that parents were interested in better products. A flurry of new patterns were developed, and a variety of fabrics were added. Major fashion designers began to take an interest and to create crib products for young clients. Finally, the nursery could receive the decorating attention it deserved.

It has now become standard to offer all items needed to outfit a crib in one package that offers a complete bedding collection. The precise elements can vary, but the typical set will have a dust ruffle, bumper pad, crib sheet, and blanket or quilt. While each item can be bought separately, the cost would be higher than buying the set. Naturally, all the elements in the set feature the same theme.

Designer baby bedding from famous designers is available from numerous retailers. Some of the names, such as Eddie Bauer or Laura Ashley, are quite recognizable to most people. Designers feature a huge variety of themes, from geometrical designs to animal motifs. Exciting fabrics, appliques, and embroidery may also be included.

Many different themes are available. Some are gender specific, while others are not. Pirates, cowboys, fish, sports, jungle, and animal motifs are all available. Ballerinas, flowers, butterflies, and angels can also be found. There are images of the sky or the ocean as well as alphabet characters and numbers. Some are inspired by vintage patterns, such as traditional quilts, while others are more contemporary, with modern geometric shapes. Dragonfly and ladybug baby bedding is also very popular.

For those who would like to make it interesting for baby to touch his or her quilt, there are some that combine fabrics such as satin, felt, and corduroy. It is also possible to buy complete sets made of recycled or organic materials.

Accessories can also be found that match the crib sets. Mobiles, lamps, rugs, toy bags, and diaper holders are widely available. Window treatments and wall art to match can also be found. Since there are so many themes to choose from, the only problem will lie in choosing which motif to select.