Best Crib Sheets

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.

In-Depth Reviews

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.