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Best Crib Sheets
Baby Soft; Organic Options
While parents want the best for their children, they face so many considerations about kid-friendly products that some get more attention than others. Safety is of critical importance, so parents often labor over the best crib options. However, they may not put as much thought into another product that can be just as impactful: crib sheets.
Crib sheets can make an infant’s sleep surface more comfortable while providing a barrier to keep the mattress clean. They can also put finishing touches on nursery decor with cute prints and vibrant colors. But like other products designed for infants and children, safety is paramount, so the materials and fit of the sheets are essential factors to consider.
This guide to the best crib sheets will detail our favorite options on the market today and explain what makes them stand out. We’ll go on to clarify what features to look for as you shop to find the best crib sheets for your bundle of joy.
The Best Crib Sheets
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Best Overall
Brooklinen Crib Sheet Set
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Most Comfortable
Sijo Joi Crib Sheet
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Softest
Eucalypso Tencel Baby Crib Sheet
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Best Fit
Newton Organic Cotton Sheets
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Best Temperature Regulating
Avocado Organic Cotton Crib Sheet
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Best Design
QuickZip Crib Zip Sheet Starter Pack
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Best Patterns
SpearmintLOVE Crib Sheets
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Best Luxury
American Blossom Linens Organic Cotton Crib Sheets
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In-Depth Reviews
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Who it’s best for
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Children with sensitive skin
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Shoppers seeking unique prints
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Parents who prioritize soft bedding
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Highlights
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Breathable long-staple cotton
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Silky-soft sateen weave
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Ten unique color and pattern options
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Price
$52
Material
100% long-staple cotton
Weave
Sateen
The Brooklinen Crib Sheet Set is made with a sateen weave for a luxuriously soft feel. This weave ensures children can move across the sheets easily without any harsh rubbing or irritation, making it comfortable for children with sensitive skin.
The sheets are made from breathable and soft long-staple cotton, a variety known for its exceptional durability. The set comes with two fitted sheets, each featuring a 6-inch deep pocket. Ten patterns are available, and you can select a different pattern for each sheet in the set. Parents can choose between plain white, three jungle patterns, three dotted patterns, and three sprinkle patterns. The sheets are fully machine-washable for easy care. Wash in cool or warm water and tumble dry on low heat.
Brooklinen ships free to customers in the contiguous U.S. Crib Sheet Set purchases come with a 365-night sleep trial and 1-year warranty.
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Who it’s best for
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Families living in warm climates
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Babies with sensitive skin
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Parents seeking bold colors or patterns
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Highlights
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Tencel lyocell fabric stays cool and breathable
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Sateen weave is smooth against the skin
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Playful color options and patterns
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Price
$35
Material
100% Tencel lyocell
Weave
Sateen
The Joi Crib Sheet from Sijo is composed of a Tencel lyocell fiber that feels soft and cool to the touch. The cozy material is ideal for creating a comfortable sleep environment in your infant’s crib, minimizing the chance of overheating.
The Tencel fabric has a sateen weave with a smooth texture that’s ideal for infants, who have sensitive skin that is prone to irritation. Tencel also has breathable and moisture-wicking properties, so you may prefer this sheet for warmer months of the year. The sheet comes in four solid colors — fog, sky, sunset, and night. You can also choose between two playful patterns — froggy and popcorn.
With an 8-inch pocket depth, this sheet fits all standard crib mattresses. You can machine wash on a gentle cycle in cold water and tumble dry on a low heat setting.
Sijo offers free shipping on orders over $100. You may return the Joi Crib Sheet within 30 days but will be charged a $9.95 restocking fee.
Softest
Eucalypso Tencel Baby Crib Sheet
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Eucalypso sheets
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Who it’s best for
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Parents with tight budgets
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People raising children in hot or humid places
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Shoppers looking for crib sheets with a wide color selection
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Highlights
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Pure Tencel fabric is breathable and silky-soft
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Available in five colors
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Approachable pricing
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Price
$40
Material
100% Tencel lyocell (600 TC)
Weave
Sateen
The Eucalypso Tencel Baby Crib Sheet is a great option for parents seeking smooth, silky bedding for their newborn or toddler. This fitted sheet feels incredibly soft and shouldn’t irritate your little one’s skin while they sleep. The fabric also excels at cooling. Tencel is derived from eucalyptus trees, retaining the natural breathability of its botanical source, and the material also wicks away moisture. These qualities make the sheet a good option for small children who live in exceptionally hot or humid climates.
The sheet’s pocket depth makes it compatible with any crib mattress measuring up to 6 inches thick, which is the tallest mattress profile considered safe for infants and toddlers according to Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. Tencel is a fully machine-washable textile, so the sheet should be easy to keep clean. Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle with mild detergent, then line dry or tumble dry on a low setting.
The Tencel Baby Crib Sheet is reasonably priced and shipping is free of charge throughout the contiguous U.S. Eucalypso offers five colors for the sheet. The company also backs each order with a 30-night trial period. Customers who return the sheet in pristine condition qualify for a full refund, while those who return used or washed sheets receive 50% of their money back.
Best Fit
Newton Organic Cotton Sheets
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Newton sheets
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Who it’s best for
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Parents looking for fun prints
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Budget shoppers
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Those who prefer organic materials
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Highlights
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Built of organic muslin cotton
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Available in distinctive prints
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Budget-friendly pricing
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Price
$25
Material
100% organic cotton
Weave
Percale
While organic crib sheets often come at a steep markup, the Newton Organic Cotton Sheets are as affordable as they are adorable.
These sheets come in three cute prints. The Dreamweaver print is reminiscent of fish scales, while the two Stardust patterns offer a more celestial vibe.
The sheets are made from GOTS-certified organic cotton muslin that should be soft enough for a baby’s delicate skin while promoting airflow for optimal breathability. An 8-inch pocket with elastic around the perimeter wraps the sheet snuggly to the mattress.
Parents can wash the sheets in a machine to maintain a clean sleep surface. Since they come pre-shrunk, you shouldn’t have to worry about the fit changing significantly over time.
Best Temperature Regulating
Avocado Organic Cotton Crib Sheet
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Avocado sheets
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Who it’s best for
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Eco-conscious parents
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Any infant sleeping on a crib mattress up to 10 inches thick
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Value seekers
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Highlights
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GOTS-certified organic cotton is sustainably grown and sourced
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Sateen weave creates a luxuriously soft hand-feel
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All orders include a 100-night trial period
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Price
$49
Material
100% GOTS-certified organic cotton
Weave
Sateen
The Organic Cotton Crib Sheet exemplifies Avocado’s commitment to quality and sustainability. This single fitted sheet is composed of organic cotton with a 400 single-ply thread count and silky-smooth sateen weave, ensuring both durability and comfort for your little one. A certification from the Global Organic Textile Standard indicates the cotton has been sustainably cultivated and sourced, which should also appeal to parents who prefer to buy and use eco-friendly products.
The sheet has an elasticated perimeter with a pocket depth of 10 inches, a range comprising the vast majority of crib mattresses sold today. For quick and easy care, this sheet is fully machine-washable. Wash in cold water with like colors on a gentle cycle, then line dry or tumble dry.
Avocado holds carbon negative status, meaning the brand has taken measures to offset more than 100% of its emissions through responsible manufacturing and shipping practices. In addition to carrying a low price-point, the Organic Cotton Crib Sheet qualifies for free standard delivery throughout the contiguous U.S. Each order comes with a 100-night sleep trial. Should you decide to keep the sheet, you’ll also receive a 1-year warranty against material defects.
Best Design
QuickZip Crib Zip Sheet Starter Pack
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on QuickZip sheets
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Who it’s best for
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Parents who dislike constantly changing traditional crib sheets
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Babies with mattresses measuring 4.5 to 6.5 inches thick
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Those looking for reusable crib bedding
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Highlights
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Sheet fully encases the crib mattress for a secure fit
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Single-purchase and bundle options available in a wide range of designs
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Returns allowed within 60 days
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Price
$46
Material
100% cotton
Weave
Percale
Crib sheets with elasticated corners can be a hassle to put on and take off for cleaning, and edges coming loose during the night can disrupt your little one’s sleep. QuickZip’s Crib Zip Sheet will be a welcome alternative to any parent who’s grown tired of dealing with traditional crib bedding. The sheet consists of an encasement base that covers the sides and bottom of the crib mattress, and a top sheet that attaches to the base with a hidden zipper. To clean the sheet, simply zip off the top and leave the base intact.
The zipper is covered and can be tucked away, so it shouldn’t pose any hazard to your child. Each sheet is made of preshrunk cotton and has a soft, gentle hand-feel. You can use the sheet with any crib mattress with a profile between 4.5 and 6.5 inches. For cleaning, QuickZip recommends washing in warm water with similar colors and tumble drying on low heat. You should wash the entire sheet with top and base intact prior to first use.
The Crip Zip Sheet is available in 10 different solid colors and patterns. In addition to purchasing one base and top sheet, you can opt for a 3-pack with three interchangeable top sheets. A “deluxe” bundle features the 3-pack components and two waterproof mattress pads. Since the base is resistant to wear and tear, you can potentially reuse the Crib Zip system for years by simply replacing the top sheet as needed.
Customers in the contiguous U.S. who purchase the deluxe bundle receive free ground delivery, and other orders qualify for reasonable flat-rate shipping. You may return the Crib Zip Sheet within 60 days and receive a full refund, even if it’s been used and laundered.
Best Patterns
SpearmintLOVE Crib Sheets
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on SpearmintLOVE sheets
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Who it’s best for
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Parents who want a crib sheet set with a wide range of design options
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Value seekers
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Shoppers putting together a gift registry
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Highlights
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Wide range of prints and patterns
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Fully machine washable for easy care
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Affordable price-point
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Price
$36
Material
100% cotton
Weave
Percale
The SpearmintLOVE Crib Sheets are high-quality bedding for your little one at a very approachable price-point. The company offers a wide selection of design options, including vintage floral patterns and playful animal prints.
The sheet is produced from medium-weight cotton with a soft hand-feel. A pocket depth of 9 inches makes it compatible with most crib mattresses. While the sheet is sold pre-washed, you should clean it in cold or warm water with like colors prior to using it in your child’s crib for the first time. You may tumble dry or line dry the sheet.
In addition to affordably pricing the crib sheet, SpearmintLOVE offers free shipping for all U.S. customers and reasonable flat rates for international orders. Unused and unwashed returns are accepted within seven days of the delivery date.
Best Luxury
American Blossom Linens Organic Cotton Crib Sheets
Get 10% off with code SLEEPFOUNDATION10
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Who it’s best for
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Parents who prefer organic materials
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Shoppers looking for American-made sheets
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Those who want durable crib sheets they can reuse with subsequent children
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Highlights
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Constructed of organic cotton
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Heavier, more durable fabric than many crib sheets
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180 thread count
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Price
$59
Material
100% organic cotton
Weave
Percale
Thanks to high-quality materials and durable construction, the American Blossom Linens Organic Cotton Crib Sheets offer long-lasting comfort for infants.
These classic crib sheets are constructed using West Texas organic cotton. The 180-thread count fabric is soft-to-the-touch, smooth, breathable, and durable. An outer band of encased elastic is wider and stronger than average for a more secure fit. The pocket measures 8 inches deep, so it should fit most standard crib mattresses.
Two color options are available, white and natural. The natural shade is unbleached, giving it a warm beige hue. Top and bottom labels in the fitted sheet make it easier to put on correctly on the first try. The American Blossom Linens Organic Cotton Crib Sheets are machine washable and dryable.
How to Choose Crib Sheets
The right crib sheet is important for your infant’s comfort and safety. Understanding the key factors that distinguish crib sheets– such as size, materials, and fit– can help you find the best option for your family.
Crib Sizes & Crib Sheet Dimensions
There are a few crib sizes on the market. These sizes call for different mattress sizes, and therefore, they also require corresponding sheets for a secure fit.
Mini Crib: A mini crib mattress typically measures 24 inches by 38 inches. This slightly smaller crib may seem cozier than leaving an infant in a standard crib. Since it doesn’t have as large of a footprint as a standard crib, it could also be ideal for smaller spaces. However, your selection of sheets may be more limited.
Standard Crib: A standard size crib mattress usually measures 28 inches by 52 inches. These are the same dimensions as a toddler bed, making standard cribs popular with families who want a seamless transition as the child ages. Because this size is most common, parents should also have a wide selection of sheet options.
Shaped Crib: Some specialty cribs have a unique shape, frequently round or circular. These options may be visually appealing, but their uniqueness may make it more difficult to find an appropriately sized sheet. Dimensions also vary between models.
Other Factors to Consider
In addition to size, materials, and fit, other factors can influence which crib sheets are best for your family. With any bedding item, marketers often advertise their products asideal for all sleepers, but individual needs and preferences vary. Paying attention to specific criteria can help you decide what’s best for your baby.
Weave:
The fabric weave affects its feel, appearance, and draping. Crib sheets typically use some of the same percale or sateen weaves found in standard bed sheets. However, many manufacturers do not list weave in their product descriptions.
Feel:
Since babies have delicate skin, the feel of the sheet can be especially important. Most crib sheet manufacturers are aware of this, so they take steps to make their products soft. However, there’s still a great deal of variation between fabrics. Some may feel buttery soft, while others are smooth and supple.
Price:
Like most products, crib sheet prices vary based on their materials and quality. Budget-friendly options start at less than $10, while high-end versions can cost $100 or more. Shoppers may also want to budget for at least two crib sheets so that they can change them out regularly.
Ease of Care:
Crib sheets are typically machine washable. The exact instructions may vary between manufacturers, so be sure to check the care label. Some fabrics may shrink over time, which could affect the fit of the sheet. Following care instructions may help reduce this risk.
Thread Count:
Higher thread count sheets are often touted as better or more durable. However, the link between thread count and overall quality is somewhat dubious. Additionally, some manufacturers use techniques to inflate the thread count without improving the quality. As a general rule, sheets with a thread count of at least 200 should be sufficiently comfortable and durable for most shoppers.
Design, Color, and Pattern:
Many parents put a lot of thought into nursery decor, and crib sheets come in different colors and patterns to enhance the look of the room. While some manufacturers may offer just one or two colors, others produce a wider selection.
Breathability:
A breathable crib sheet allows air to circulate into and out of the crib mattress, reducing the likelihood of excessive heat buildup. Parents may also prefer a more breathable option because steady airflow through the sheet could be critical if the child’s face somehow became obstructed by it.
Durability:
Crib sheets typically undergo frequent laundering, which can lead to early wear and tear. Durable options should hold up to rigorous cleaning, and you may even be able to use them again if you have more children down the line. Less durable options may be more affordable, however, so they might be a good short-term solution.
Safe Materials
The materials used to produce a crib sheet can affect its comfort, durability, and safety. Since infant health and wellbeing are of critical importance, many parents prefer to choose options made from organic and/or natural materials. While organic materials aren’t strictly essential, they give some parents extra peace of mind that justifies the slightly higher price point.
Crib sheets may use several different materials or combinations of materials. The most common options include the following.
- Cotton: Cotton is the automatic choice for many parents since it’s a popular natural material. Crib sheets made of cotton are typically soft and breathable. However, if the crib sheet isn’t preshrunk, it could shrink with washing and jeopardize the fit.
- Linen: Linen is another natural material prized for its breathability. In addition to being a strong temperature regulator, linen is highly durable, naturally hypoallergenic, and resistant to dirt. Like cotton, however, a linen crib sheet could shrink with washing, especially if it isn’t preshrunk. Additionally, linen may feel somewhat rough at first.
- Bamboo: Bamboo-derived fabric is usually classified as rayon, lyocell, or modal. These fabrics have a silky texture that should feel smooth, soft, and cool on a baby’s skin. They’re also exceptionally moisture-wicking for a drier night’s sleep. Chemicals may be used to produce these materials, which can be a drawback for parents.
- Polyester: Polyester is a synthetic fiber, so shoppers looking for natural materials generally steer clear of it. This fabric is typically lightweight, affordable, wrinkle-resistant, and easy to wash. On the other hand, it may not be as breathable and durable as other materials.
Whether the material uses organic or conventional practices matters, but how the material is finished is equally important. The finishing techniques play a major role in the final product’s feel, durability, and fit, so shoppers should assess the crib sheet as a whole rather than focusing solely on whether or not it’s organic.
Fit & Safety
While parents want their baby to sleep comfortably, sleeping safely is much more important. To that end, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) provides safe sleep recommendations to help parents protect their children. These guidelines suggest that infants should sleep on their backs on a firm sleep surface with a fitted sheet but no other bedding or soft objects (like stuffed animals) because these could pose a suffocation risk.
Fitted sheets are typically safe, but ill-fitting or incorrectly applied sheets could also pose a suffocation and/or entanglement risk. If the fit isn’t snug and secure, a crib sheet could detach and bunch up. Even a relatively thin fitted sheet could obstruct an infant’s breathing if this were to happen. To minimize risk, parents should select a crib sheet that corresponds to the size of the crib mattress to ensure a proper fit. They should also monitor the condition and fit of the crib sheet and replace it should it show signs that it may not stay put on the mattress.
Most crib sheets use elastic bands around the edge to hold them in place, so if you see signs that the elastic is damaged or weakening, consider replacing the sheet. Some sheets may also shrink over time, which could jeopardize their fit. If you struggle to get the sheet to stay on the mattress, it may also come off while your baby sleeps on it, so you might want to consider a different option.
For more information, talk to your pediatrician.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crib Sheets
Most families should have at least two to three crib sheets on hand if you plan to wash them weekly, but you may prefer to have more depending on how often you plan on washing them. You should always have at least one clean backup ready to go in case the sheet becomes soiled. If you plan to wash daily, five or more may be more suitable.
We suggest changing crib sheets at least weekly. Rather than operating on a schedule, however, you may want to base it on cleanliness. Look over the sheet for spit-up, drool, and/or diaper leaks. If you spot any, switch out the sheet for a clean one. However, even if you don’t see any issues, crib sheets should be washed at least once a week. Some parents prefer to wash crib sheets daily.
Crib sheets are usually machine washable and dryable. Adhering to the manufacturer’s care instructions is important for preserving the sheet’s structure and longevity. If sheets shrink in the wash, they may no longer fit securely on the mattress. While some shrinkage may still occur, following care instructions could reduce its likelihood and severity.
Still have questions?
Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market.
Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Lauren is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with extensive experience researching and testing a wide variety of sleep products.