As new parents, there are so many things to learn about, for example bassinets and how to use them. In this article, we’ll go over some quick facts about bassinets that apply to most major brands on the market so you can get up to speed.
If you’re preparing your baby’s nursery you may want to read next: Foam vs Spring Crib Mattresses.
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Do bassinets need sheets?
Yes, most bassinets need sheets. A fitted bassinet sheet will work best for most bassinets on the market.
Most bassinets have a removable mattress pad, as seen in this photo. The best kind of sheet for a bassinet with a removable mattress like this is a fitted bassinet sheet because it remains in place without sliding around or posing a risk of tangling your baby like a loose sheet might.
Some bassinet mattresses have a pad that is not waterproof and may benefit from a waterproof mattress protector but you will still want to put a bassinet sheet overtop for your baby’s comfort.
You’ll want to make sure there is no loose bedding in your baby’s bassinet like a blanket or flat sheet. If you’re worried about your baby getting cold, consider a sleep sack. We’ve got a whole article on the best long sleeved sleep sacks for cool weather.
Why do you need bassinet sheets?
The majority of bassinets have a waterproof mattress pad that can be cold and plastic to the touch. The great thing is it’s easy to wipe down and provides your baby with comfort and protection from the base of the bassinet. However, it can be uncomfortable to sleep on directly.
A bassinet needs to have a fitted sheet so that it is more comfortable for your infant to sleep on and also easier to clean. The first few months of life can be messy. In the middle of the night, if your bassinet becomes dirty with spit up or a diaper leak, you can quickly change your sheet and wipe the mattress pad before soothing your little one back to sleep.
How many bassinet sheets do I need?
Most of the time, having two bassinet sheets will be enough. One to wash and one to use. However, I highly recommend getting three fitted bassinet sheets if your budget will allow it. Occasionally, babies will have a diaper blow out, or pee through their diaper in their sleep. Some babies also suffer from reflux and spit up more than others.
You don’t want to lay your baby back down in a soiled bassinet, so you may find yourself quickly changing your bassinet’s fitted sheet overnight. On the off-chance that it happens more than once a night, having three sets will allow you two backup spare sheets, which can come in handy.
How often should you change bassinet sheets?
Change your bassinet sheets as soon as they become soiled from spit up, or diaper leaks. Some babies also start to lose their fuzzy newborn hair around the three-month mark, and you may notice a lot of little baby hairs accumulating in your bassinet. It’s normal and usually nothing to be alarmed about, but as you start to see your newborn baby shedding hair you’ll want to put your bassinet sheets through the washing machine more often too.
In general, aim to change your bassinet sheets whenever they’re dirty, or twice a week, whichever comes first. Having a good clean sleeping environment is important for newborns.
How to choose the best bassinet sheets
Material:
Organic cotton, or bassinet bedding that is made of 100% cotton, are safe materials, which makes them a great choice for bassinet sheets. Some of the best fitted-basinet sheets are made from 100% cotton flannel, the same material that newborn babies are swaddled with because it is so comfortable for your baby’s skin…soft and safe.
If cotton flannel is too warm for your newborn, regular cotton sheets like jersey cotton are another good choice. It’s a good idea to stay away from chemically-produced fabrics like rayon, which may have come into contact with potential hazards. Pick a machine washable material and a safe option for your baby’s sensitive skin.
Fit:
Good quality fully elasticized bassinet sheets are often the easiest way to be certain your bassinet sheet will fit and stay in place on your mattress pad.
Alternatively, some bassinet sheets are designed like a pillowcase/pillow sham cover and fit over a mattress pad like an envelope, with no elastics. An example of this good option is something like the Halo brand bassinets and some of their bassinet sheets on the market that are designed to fit only their bassinets.
Manufacturing:
Where was the bassinet sheet made? You may want to consider where the bassinet sheet was manufactured before you purchase it. For instance, Kushies brand bassinet sheets are made in Canada and their factory passes the most rigid standards in the industry. Manufacturing standards can add to your peace of mind knowing your bassinet sheets are made of safe material and well constructed.
Style:
If you want your bassinet sheets to match your nursery decor or have a cute design, some brands offer bassinet sheets in various colors with matching change pad covers, crib sheets to fit traditional cribs and playpen sheets too.
General bassinet safety guidelines
No loose bedding in bassinet
Your baby’s bassinet should have no loose bedding or items in it that could increase the risk of suffocation. Follow the advice of the American Academy of Pediatrics for newborn sleep safety and make sure your bassinet is a flat surface free from loose items.
Lock bassinet wheels
Some bassinets are designed with wheels to make them easier to move between your master bedroom and your baby’s nursery. Always ensure your bassinet’s wheels are locked when in use.
Don’t move the bassinet with the baby inside
If you’re going to move your bassinet, don’t pick it up and lift it with your baby inside. To move your bassinet, it should be empty first so there is no safety hazard or risk to your baby like falling.
Bassinet with mesh sides
It’s becoming more and more common for new bassinets to be made with mesh sides to help reduce the chance of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). If your baby manages to press up against the side of their bassinet, it can be a suffocation hazard. Having a bassinet made of breathable material is recommended.
Safety certifications for bassients
Safety certifications are another important factor to take into account. JMPA, Green Guard, and CPSC certifications are all designed to help ensure your baby has safe products and baby gear. Look for these kinds of labels when deciding what brand of bassinet to purchase so it is safely designed and free from known hazardous substances.
Keep bassinets away from cords (electrical and blinds)
Pacifier cords, clothing hood strings, toy cords, blinds with cords, electrical cords from video monitors and white noise machines should all be kept away from your baby’s bassinet to ensure safe sleep.
This Site cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. The use or reliance of any information contained on this site is solely at your own risk.
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