What is a fitted sheet and why is it essential for your baby?
It's on every baby essentials list: a fitted sheet. But what exactly is a fitted sheet? And why is it so important for a safe and comfortable place for your little one to sleep?
On top of that, there's a huge amount of choice these days. Cotton, jersey, wool, mattress protectors, underlays and under-blankets. No wonder so many parents wonder which fitted sheet is best for their baby.
In this article, we explain what a fitted sheet is, which size you need and what to look out for when choosing the right material.
What is a fitted sheet?
A fitted sheet is a cover that's pulled tightly around the mattress, and it's the layer your little one lies directly on while sleeping. Thanks to the elastic in the edges, it stays neatly in place with no loose creases or folds.
For babies, that's extra important. A well-fitting fitted sheet doesn't just provide comfort, it also contributes to a safe sleeping environment.
Why is a fitted sheet important for babies?
A fitted sheet does more than just protect the mattress. A good fitted sheet:
- creates a smooth and comfortable sleeping surface
- protects the mattress against moisture and little accidents
- prevents loose fabric or creases in the cot
- contributes to a safe sleeping environment
With babies in particular, it's important that a fitted sheet fits snugly around the mattress and can't slip.
What's the difference between a fitted sheet and a mattress protector?
These two often get mixed up, but each has a different function.
A mattress protector is a protective layer that sits underneath the fitted sheet. It absorbs moisture and protects the mattress against leaks or accidents.
A fitted sheet is the layer that's pulled around the mattress (and often over the mattress protector too), and it's what your little one sleeps directly on.
In short:
| Mattress protector | Fitted sheet |
|---|---|
| Protects the mattress | Provides comfort |
| Sits under the fitted sheet | Fits around the mattress |
| Absorbs moisture | Forms the sleeping surface |
Many parents use both together.
What's the difference between a wool underlay and a wool fitted sheet?
Another question we're often asked.
You place a wool underlay on top of the mattress as an extra layer. Because an underlay isn't pulled tightly around the mattress, we always recommend using a well-fitting fitted sheet over it.
A wool fitted sheet basically works the same way as a regular fitted sheet. You pull it tightly around the mattress so it stays firmly in place, and your little one can sleep directly on the wool.
Want to combine the benefits of wool with the convenience of a fitted sheet? Then a merino wool fitted sheet is often the nicest solution.
What materials are fitted sheets made from?
There are various materials available, each with their own properties.
Cotton
Cotton is soft, strong and easy to wash. That's why it's widely used for baby fitted sheets.
Jersey
The main difference is that cotton is a material, whereas jersey is a knitting technique. Jersey is often made from cotton (cotton jersey), but it can also be made from wool or synthetic fibres.
Terry towelling
Terry towelling is a special cotton fabric made up of woven-in loops. It's mainly used as a mattress protector rather than a fitted sheet, especially in the winter months, and it feels a little thicker and warmer.
Merino wool
Merino wool is a remarkable material. The wool helps regulate your little one's temperature naturally, wicks away moisture and feels wonderfully soft. Warm when it's cold, airy when it's warm.
What's more, merino wool is naturally dirt-repellent and needs washing less often than many other materials.
What size fitted sheet do you need?
The right size is important for both comfort and safety. A fitted sheet that's too big can slip or form creases.
At Kico Label, we use the following sizes for our wool fitted sheets:
Use |
Size |
| Crib or pram | 40 x 80 cm |
| Co-sleeper | 50 x 90 cm |
| Cot | 60 x 120 cm |
| Large cot | 70 x 120 cm |
| Toddler bed | 70 x 150 cm |
Don't just check the length and width of the mattress, check its depth too. That way, you can be sure the fitted sheet fits nicely.
How many fitted sheets do you need?
Most parents find this is plenty:
- 2 to 3 fitted sheets for the crib or co-sleeper
- 3 fitted sheets for the cot
- one extra spare fitted sheet for accidents or wash days
That way, you'll always have a clean fitted sheet to hand.
What's the best fitted sheet for your baby?
Ultimately, the best fitted sheet is the one that fits well, can be used safely and feels lovely for your little one.
Ideally, choose natural materials that breathe and contribute to a comfortable sleeping climate, such as our merino wool fitted sheet.
A merino wool fitted sheet combines the convenience of a classic fitted sheet with the natural benefits of wool: breathable, temperature-regulating and wonderfully soft on delicate baby skin. A lovely foundation for peaceful naps, in every season.
