If you are a first time parent, you probably have a lot of questions on your mind. One of them might be how to choose the right bedding for your crib. What is the best material for a fitted crib sheet? Is a hypoallergenic waterproof mattress protector really necessary?
No worries! The following information gathered by experienced moms will help you figure out what’s best for you and your baby.
Cotton
Pure cotton is breathable, soft, and hypoallergenic. It is also highly durable and very easy to wash. The most common type of baby crib sheet, it should not be hard to find.
What is thread count? Does it matter?
Thread count is the number of threads woven into one square inch of fabric. Most weavers say that the maximum number of threads that can be woven into one square in of fabric is 600, but sheets are sold in thread counts up to 800. A 400 thread count will be lighter, while an 800 threadcount will be dense. For your fitted crib sheet you will want something that will be soft on your baby’s skin. Any cotton sheets with a thread count of 300 or greater are good quality, 200 is acceptable, but anything below a 200 thread count should be avoided.
Polyester
Polyester is known to be cheaper than cotton and other natural materials; however, it is a viable and safe alternative for a crib fitted sheet. Polyester is far more wrinkle and tear resistant and doesn’t tend to shrink like cotton does. However, polyester is not a breathable fabric, nor is it as soft as cotton.
Flannel
Flannel makes the perfect baby crib sheet for the cold winter months. The material traps heat, keeping your baby warm. Flannel is durable, lightweight, and extremely soft, but be aware that it may shrink in the wash.
A waterproof fitted crib sheet or mattress protector can certainly make clean-up a little easier, but it is not totally necessary. In reality, a baby shouldn’t be able to soak through a diaper, a sheet, and a mattress in one night. Many crib mattresses come with a waterproof lining anyway, so you should be fairly protected.
