BabyAndProducts.com is reader-supported. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.​ Learn more here >

Do you need sheets for pack and play? [8 Popular Reasons]

Do you need sheets for pack and play

📄 Table of Contents

One question often asked is whether or not sheets are necessary for a pack n play. The answer to this question is yes, sheets are needed for a pack and play, if you want to keep it simple and hygienic for you and the baby.

They make the pack and play more comfortable for your baby, but they also help keep the playpen clean for when babies spit up.

Pack and play sheets are also great for protecting the mattress pad from dirt and spills, especially when you’re traveling or at grandma’s house.

When looking for Playard sheets, you don’t want to get the cheap ones. You want to get the ones made out of quality material. This blog will discuss the benefits of using a sheet for pack and play and how to choose the best sheets for your needs.

Do you need sheets for pack and play?

Playard sheets offer several benefits for both parents and babies.

While some feel that sheets are necessary to make cleaning up easier, others believe that they should only use them if their child will be sleeping in the pack n play.

They can make it easier to keep the bassinet clean when babies spit up. Sheets can also help regulate the temperature, keeping your baby cool and comfortable no matter the time of year.

Additionally, sheets can help to protect the mattress from dirt and dust.

Can a baby sleep in a pack and play with no sheets?

Some parents choose not to use sheets in their pack and play bassinet, opting instead to just place a blanket directly on the mattress pad.

While this is undoubtedly an option, it has some potential downsides.

  1. Keeping the pack n play mattress clean and free of allergens after diaper leaks can be challenging.
  2. Most pack-n-play mattresses aren’t great at regulating airflow – no sheet means less breathability for your baby.
  3. Using a blanket can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Does a pack and play need a sheet?

Whether or not to use a sheet in your pack and play bassinet is up to you. However, we believe that the benefits of using a Playard sheet make them well worth the purchase.

Here are some benefits of using playpen sheets:

1. Protection for mattress

One of the primary reasons to use sheets in your pack and play is to protect the mattress from dirt, dust, and allergens. Babies can be particularly prone to allergies, and using sheets can help keep the mattress clean and free of these irritants. Plus, you never know when the diaper leaks.

2. Easy cleaning

Another benefit of using a play yard sheet is that they are easy to clean. All you need to do is remove and throw the dirty sheets in the washing machine.

Cleaning a sheet is a lot easier than cleaning the pack n play mattress, which can be a challenge.

3. Added baby’s comfort

Sheets provide an additional layer of comfort for your baby. Plus, they help regulate the temperature keeping your baby cool when they sleep.

4. Convenience

Having multiple sheets handy is a great way to add convenience to your life. You don’t have to worry about putting a blanket or SwaddleMe on the mattress every time you use the playpen. They make it easy to keep your baby comfortable and clean.

Other benefits of using pack n play sheets for safe sleep practices:

There are several other benefits to using a sheet in your pack and play bassinet.

  1. Great to have when traveling: If you plan to take a travel crib on vacation or a trip, it is good to bring along some sheets for their convenience. Just pull them off and put a fresh, clean sheet when dirty. This will ensure that your baby has a comfortable place to sleep.
  2. Must-have when at grandma’s home: When you will be leaving your baby with a family member or friend, it is a good idea to bring along some sheets for their pack and play. This will ensure that your baby has a comfortable place to sleep.
  3. The mattress is not comfy: If you find that the pack and play mattress is thin, firm, and not comfortable for your baby, using sheets can help make it comfier by adding a layer on top.
  4. The mattress is wet after washing: Usually, mattresses take time to dry after washing. By using Playard sheets, you can avoid the extra wait time of having to let the mattress dry before your baby can use it again.

Are Playard sheets safe?

Yes, pack and play sheets are safe for use. They are much safer than a crib or a cot sheet in that they are close-fitting with no chance of coming loose. If you are using a sheet that does not fit snugly on the PNP mattress, it can be a potential risk.

Be sure to measure your mattress or check with manufacturer guidelines before purchasing to get the perfect fit.

Are quilted pack n play sheets safe?

Yes, quilted pack n play sheets are just as safe as any other sheet, but they’re super soft. They should fit perfectly on the mattress and not have any loose fabric that could potentially cause your child to become entangled.

You can check these quilted sheets for your nursery:

💡 Recently I read a forum thread where a parent was concerned about air trapped between the mattress and the quilted sheet. Like me, most parents have never had any concerns, but if you want to read it you can check the discussion here.

What kind of sheet goes on a pack and play?

Fitted sheets are the best option as they fit perfectly on the mattress and won’t come off. You can also use a flat sheet, but make sure it is close-fitting so that there is no chance of it coming loose and covering your baby’s face.

Are pack and play sheets the same as crib sheets?

Although they may look identical, traditional crib sheets are not designed to be used in a pack n play or a portable bassinet as they are large, loose, and won’t fit correctly. This increases the risk of SIDS and is dangerous. BUT, if they are elasticated, you may use them.

Can you use a mini crib sheet for a pack and play?

Sheets that are not explicitly designed for a pack and play can be dangerous as they may be too big or small. Using mini crib sheets is not recommended.

It is crucial to select a cover that perfectly fits the mattress to avoid any safety risks. Be sure to double-check the safety requirements of your specific model before purchasing any sheets.

Do pack ‘n plays need fitted sheets?

Many parents use them on their pack and play mattresses to keep their babies clean and comfortable. This is especially important if you are using a pack and play as a bassinet or crib substitute in your home. A fitted sheet will help you keep your mattress clean and keep your baby out of harm’s way.

What size sheets do I need for a pack n play?

Standard sized pack n play mattresses are 37.5 by 26 inches, but you should always measure the mattress to get the best fitting sheet. If you have a pack and play with a different size mattress, check the manufacturer’s guidelines for a perfect size sheet.

What sheet fits Graco Pack n Play?

Sheets that are 27inches wide by 39 inches long should fit Graco Pack n Play perfectly. Most manufacturers will have these dimensions printed on the package.

Here’s a list of our best picks:

How to put sheets on Pack n Play?

Most sheets for a pack and play fit the mattress snugly. To put the sheet on, start by unfolding it and placing it on the Playard mattress with the fitted end at the head. Next, smooth out the sheet and tuck in the sides of the mattress to secure it in place. Sheets with elastic banding help keep it fitted to the mattress.

How to select the best sheets for your pack n play mattress?

When selecting a standard pack-n-play sheet for your pack and play, choosing a snug-fitting sheet that will not come loose is essential. Sheets that are too big or too small can be dangerous as they could cause your child to become entangled. Some key features you need to check before purchasing pack n play sheets are:

Size

Make sure to measure the mattress and select the correct size sheets. Sheets that are too large or too small can be dangerous.

Material

Pack n play sheets can be made from a variety of materials, such as cotton, flannel, or jersey knit. Be sure to select a soft and comfortable fabric for your child.

Comfort

Always check if the sheets you’re getting are comfortable for your baby when they sleep. Sheets that are quilted or have a plush top offer extra comfort and support.

Fitting elastic straps

Some sheets have elastic banding around the edges to help keep them in place on the mattress. It is vital to use sheets that fit snugly on the mattress.

Machine washable

Check the instructions before purchasing sheets to ensure they are machine-washable and dryer-safe.

Price

Sheets for pack and play bassinets can be found for various prices. Select a sheet that is affordable for you.

Design

Sheets for a pack and play can come in various designs, such as floral, animals, or geometric prints. Choose a design that will go with the nursery.

Final word

It is important to use sheets on a pack and play mattress to keep your child safe and clean. When selecting sheets, be sure to choose one that fits the mattress snugly and is machine-washable for easy cleaning. There are a variety of designs and materials to choose from so you can find the perfect sheet for your child’s needs.

Parents Also Ask

Do I need a sheet for Pack N Play bassinet?

Ultimately, whether or not to use sheets in your Pack N Play bassinet is up to you. However, many parents believe that the benefits of using sheets make them well worth the effort.

Can I use a blanket instead of a playpen sheet?

You can, but using a blanket presents several safety risks. It is much more likely for a blanket to become bunched up and cover your baby’s face or for the baby to become tangled in the blanket. Sheets are recommended for the baby’s safety compared to a crib.

Are crib sheets and pack and play sheets the same size?

No, crib sheets are typically larger than pack and play sheets as they are designed to fit on a standard-sized crib mattress.

How many pack n play sheets do I need?

It’s best to have about 2-3 sheets for when one becomes dirty due to diaper blowouts or a food spill. You can swap it with the clean sheet and put the dirty sheet in the washing machine. But if you’re doing laundry often enough, then one should be fine.

Show us some ❤️ by sharing this review guide with your friends on:

You may also like:
Recent Posts
Scroll to Top

Give the best to your little one!

Enter your email below to get our curated product reviews, buying guides, and parenting tips once a month.

We promise to never SPAM your inbox. Check our Privacy Policy.

Give the best to your little one!

Enter your email below to get our curated product reviews, buying guides, and parenting tips once a month.

We promise to never SPAM your inbox. Check our Privacy Policy.