Top products in 🎭 Activity & Entertainment
How to choose the right size fitted sheet for your playard?
When shopping for fitted sheets for your playard or portable crib, it’s important to get the right size so they’ll fit snugly over the mattress. Here are some tips for choosing the correct sheet size:
Measure your playard mattress
The best way to determine what size sheet you need is to measure your actual mattress dimensions. Use a tape measure to check the length, width, and depth of the mattress. This will give you the exact mattress size to look for when sheet shopping. Standard portable crib and playard mattress sizes include:
- 24 x 38 inches
- 27 x 39 inches
- 28 x 40 inches
- 36 x 36 inches (square)
Read product details
When browsing sheet options online or in stores, carefully read the product details for sizing info. Fitted sheets made specifically for playards and portable cribs will list the mattress dimensions they are designed to fit. Match this up with your mattress size. For example:
| Your mattress size: | 24 x 38 inches |
| Sheet product details: | Fits mattresses 24 x 38 inches |
Allow for mattress depth
Make sure to account for mattress depth as well when choosing sheets. Many portable cribs and playard mattresses are 5 to 6 inches deep. Fitted sheets need to fit all the way around the thickness of the mattress to stay securely in place. Look for sheets that list a depth of at least 5 inches for a snug fit.
With the right measurements and sizing info, you can easily find soft, comfortable fitted sheets that will hug your playard mattress perfectly and create a cozy sleep space for your little one.
Another interesting products
How to get a snug fit with fitted playard sheets?
A loose or ill-fitting sheet in a playard can be annoying and even dangerous if it comes untucked. Follow these tips to get a super snug fit with fitted playard sheets:
Choose the right size
Make sure you select a sheet that matches the measurements of your specific playard mattress. Even an inch size difference can lead to loose corners and sides. Refer to the mattress dimensions and opt for a fitted sheet made for that size.
Consider mattress depth
Many playard mattresses are 5-6 inches thick. Account for the depth when shopping for sheets. Look for fitted sheets with at least a 5 inch pocket so they can stretch around the mattress ends without being too tight.
Feel the fabric
Fitted sheets made from stretchy material like jersey cotton or microfiber will contour to the mattress best. Steer clear of stiff fabrics. Softer, flexible fabrics move with the mattress for a tighter fit.
Wash before first use
Brand new sheets can take a first wash and dry cycle to reach optimal elasticity and fit. Pre-wash and dry your new fitted sheet on a warm, normal setting before putting it on the mattress.
Put corners on diagonally
When placing the sheet, put the corner pockets on opposite diagonal corners first. So if you start with the top right corner, do the bottom left next. This pulls the sheet tight across the mattress.
Smooth fabric as you go
As you put on each pocket corner, smooth out any wrinkles in the fabric. Taut material helps prevent loose spots.
Check that all 4 corners are securely pulled over the mattress ends. Run your hands along the edges to make sure elastic is stretched to its fullest extent for a super snug fit!
How to keep sheets securely in place on a playard mattress?
It can be frustrating when playard sheets become loose or come untucked. Use these tips to keep sheets firmly secured on the mattress:
Opt for fitted style
Fitted sheets that wrap under the mattress and enclose it fully are most secure. The elastic corners grip the edges and prevent the sheet from slipping.
Get the right fit
Don't guess on sheet size - measure your exact mattress dimensions and get a fitted sheet made for that size. Even an inch or two difference in length/width means the sheet will be loose.
Account for mattress depth
Many playard mattresses are 5-6 inches thick. Make sure the sheet pocket depth matches the thickness to keep the sheet from popping off the ends.
Fabric matters
Stretchy fabrics like cotton jersey and microfiber contour tightly to the mattress shape. Avoid stiff fabrics that don't flex easily.
Pre-wash the sheet
Brand new sheets reach optimal elasticity after a first wash/dry cycle. Pre-wash your fitted sheet on warm setting before first use.
Check elasticity
Inspect the elastic edging on the sheet corners. If it seems loose, fraying or worn, the sheet needs replacing for maximum grip.
Use mattress pads
Adding a non-slip mattress pad or crib wedge pad underneath the sheet helps keep everything securely in place.
Reposition as needed
Check edges after placing baby in crib and re-tuck any loose corners. Don't rely solely on elastic to keep sheet on all night.
With the right fit, fabric and adjustments, your little one can sleep safely and soundly on a secured, snug sheet.
How to pick soft, breathable sheets for baby's comfort?
A baby's skin is sensitive, so it's important to choose playard sheets that feel soft and comfortable against your little one's body. Here's how to pick the most breathable, soothing sheets for your baby:
Focus on fabric
The fabric is one of the most important factors for softness and breathability. Recommended options include:
- Jersey cotton - lightweight, super stretchy and soft
- Flannel cotton - gently brushed for extra coziness
- Microfiber - very smooth, flexible and moisture-wicking
- Bamboo rayon - naturally antimicrobial and thermoregulating
Thread count matters
Higher thread counts (200-400) result in smoother, more durable sheets. Lower thread counts can feel scratchy against baby's skin.
Sensitive skin? Go organic
Organic fabrics like cotton, bamboo and eucalyptus are grown without pesticides and are ideal for sensitive skin.
Breathability features
Look for sheets with moisture-wicking fabric, ventilation holes or mesh panels to allow airflow and prevent overheating.
Avoid harsh chemicals
Steer clear of sheets treated with chemical flame retardants or formaldehyde. Seek out non-toxic dyes as well.
Care instructions matter
Washing and drying will impact softness over time. Follow care instructions to prevent pilling, shrinkage or coarse textures.
With a focus on gentle, breathable fabrics, you can keep your baby sleeping soundly and comfortably all night long.
Similar products
How to find waterproof sheets to handle accidents and spills?
When it comes to your baby's crib or playard, waterproof sheets are essential for handling nighttime accidents, spit up and other messes. Here's how to find the best waterproof sheets:
Look for vinyl or TPU coating
Sheets with a vinyl or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) coating provide an impermeable barrier that keeps liquids from soaking through. Vinyl tends to be noisy, while TPU is quieter.
Check backing fabric
Waterproof sheets have a fabric layer behind the vinyl/TPU coating for comfort and noise reduction. Soft jersey cotton or microfiber are ideal options.
Fitted style is best
Fitted waterproof sheets stay in place better than pad-style covers. Opt for a fitted sheet designed specifically for your crib or playard mattress size.
Prioritize soft textures
Even with a vinyl or TPU layer, modern waterproof sheets can feel plush and cozy. Brushed fabric finishes and quilted patterns add extra softness.
Consider convenience features
Some waterproof sheets have handy details like:
- Zip-off top layer for easy washing
- Multi-layer construction to prevent leaking
- Vinyl-free for more breathability
Read reviews carefully
Focus on reviews that test how well the sheets contain liquids during real-life use. Avoid thin or poorly made sheets that leak.
With the right waterproof sheet, you can quickly handle overnight accidents and keep your baby comfortable. Prioritize softness and proven leak protection when shopping.
How to wash and care for fitted playard sheets?
Regular washing is important to keep playard sheets fresh and clean for your baby. Here are some tips for properly caring for fitted playard sheets:
Read care instructions
Check the sheet tag or packaging to see what temperature, cycle, and drying method is recommended by the manufacturer. This will help prevent damage.
Wash new sheets first
Brand new sheets will hold their shape and elasticity better if you wash and dry them once before the first use. This pre-wash allows the fabric to relax into the right size and shape to fit the mattress.
Use a gentle cycle
For most playard sheets, a gentle cycle with warm water will get them clean without high agitation that can cause pilling or tearing of delicate fabrics like cotton jersey and microfiber.
Skip the bleach
Bleach can degrade elastic over time. opt for an oxygen-based whitening agent if you want to brighten whites.
Air dry when possible
Air drying allows sheets to maintain their shape and prevents shrinkage that can impact fit. Lay sheets flat or hang to dry.
Don't overload washer/dryer
Overstuffing will prevent sheets from getting fully clean and lead to wrinkling or uneven drying. Wash just a few sheets at a time.
Use fabric softener sparingly
Too much softener can make sheets less absorbent and even cause irritation for sensitive skin. Use minimal amounts or skip altogether.
With the proper washing method, your playard sheets will feel fresh and keep their form and fit wash after wash.
