If there is one thing you want to get right as a parent, it's your baby's bed. While you can never expect to be perfect as a parent raising your child, you can try your hardest to get them a bed where they will sleep comfortably and safely for the next 2 to 4 years of their life. 

Buying the right baby bedding is important, as it will ensure that your child is safe and protected as they sleep. If you're expecting a little critter, here is what you'll need:

• Mattress -- The baby mattress needs to be fairly firm, and baby shouldn't sink into the mattress when he or she sleeps at night. The reason you want it to be firm is that a soft mattress can cause baby's neck and spine to bend, and can cause problems with their skeletomuscular structure. The mattress should fit the crib perfectly. It should preferably be an organic mattress, as baby spends a lot of time face down - inhaling anything that the mattress lets off.

• Sheets -- Organic sheets are always the way to go when it comes to baby bedding. Regular sheets are fine comfort-wise, but there is always a risk that baby will be allergic or react negatively to the chemicals used to treat sheets. Organic sheets are chemical-free, and they're much safer on baby's sensitive skin. They should stretch tight, and will need to fit the mattress like a glove in order to be safe.

• Bumper -- A baby bumper is a must-have if the crib is a bit larger than the baby mattress. It stops the baby from rolling off the sides of the mattress, preventing them from getting stuck between the crib frame and the mattress. It will also stop them from bonking their head on the crib bars as they roll around, so it's as much for their protection during the day as for their safety when sleeping.

• Pillows -- Pillows will make the crib look adorable, but they're not something baby can sleep with until they are much, much older. Pillows can actually suffocate your little one (the same goes for stuffed animals), so it's best to keep them out of the crib. You can leave the pillows on the bed during the day (they provide get cushioning for the little one as he's playing around), but make sure to remove them come bedtime or nap time.

• Blanket -- If the weather is cold, you may think that adding more blankets is the way to go. Not so! The best way to deal with the cold is to turn up the thermostat, and let the central heating keep your baby's room warm. You should never have more than one blanket, as too many blankets will increase the risk that your little one will get tangled - which could lead to suffocation. One thin blanket will be more than enough, and add a few more layers to baby's outfits if they really need to stay warm during the winter.

Get the baby bed right, and your baby will be safe!