All parents want their babies to feel safe, cosy, and comfortable in their pram. But, when it comes to adding sheets to a pram, is this really necessary? And, most importantly, is it safe to add sheets to a pram?
That’s what we’re going to be looking at here. We’ll explore the need for sheets, discuss the safety requirements, and look at some alternatives for those who want to avoid pram sheets but still want their baby to feel as warm and comfortable as possible in their pushchair.
Key Points
- Using a pram sheet is not a requirement, although some parents prefer using them to give them peace of mind.
- There are several ways parents can safely use sheets in a pram.
- Parents should avoid using heavy blankets, pillows, towels, or stuffed animals.
- If parents are uncomfortable using pram sheets, several alternatives may make life easier during those cold winter months.
Content in this article:
- Do Prams Need A Sheet?
- Should You Use Bedding In Your Baby’s Pram?
- How To Use Bedding Safely In Your Baby’s Pram?
- What Are Some Safe Alternatives Parents Can Use For Pram Sheets?
Do Prams Need A Sheet?
While some prams and strollers come with pram liners, padding, or thin mattresses, it isn’t completely necessary to use a sheet. However, many parents choose to use a sheet to provide additional warmth for their little one, particularly on cold days, as well as to add some personality to the pushchair.
If you have decided to use a sheet in your pram or pram bassinet, the most important thing to remember is that you avoid any strangulation hazards. Young babies, in particular, can become tangled in blankets or other loose bedding materials, so be sure to keep your baby’s head clear of the blanket and, if possible, swaddle them so their hands and feet are prevented from pulling at the blanket.
Should You Use Bedding In Your Baby’s Pram?
Using lightweight fitted sheets in your baby’s pram is fine, but any heavier bedding is generally not recommended. This is because the additional weight of blankets, pillows, or stuffed animals can pose a suffocation hazard.
However, from time to time, you may find that you have no option but to take your baby out in extreme weather conditions, and when doing so, you’ll likely want to make sure they are warm while you’re out and about. In this instance, it’s best to choose lightweight bedding made from a breathable material, making sure that it is tucked firmly away from your baby’s face.
The same goes for taking your baby out in the heat of the sun, and you may find that thin, lightweight, breathable bedding helps to protect your baby’s skin without causing them to overheat.
How To Use Bedding Safely In Your Baby’s Pram?
You’ll need to ensure you’re following certain safety measures if you’d like to use bedding in your baby’s pram or pram bassinet. Luckily, they are relatively straightforward to follow and are very similar to the safety rules you likely already have in place for your baby’s cot.
Ensure The Bedding Fits
As with cot sheets, pram sheets need to fit tight and snugly in your baby’s pram. This will prevent them from riding up around their face and posing a suffocation risk or becoming loose and bunching up, which can become uncomfortable for your child. A good fit also reduces the risk of the sheets separating from the pram and becoming lost.
Choose Materials Wisely
To protect your baby’s delicate skin, it’s best to choose natural or organic fabrics that are free of dyes, chemicals, and toxins. It’s also a good idea to choose lightweight materials such as cotton or linen as these won’t add too much pressure on your baby’s body, are breathable, and retain warmth really well.
Wash The Bedding Regularly
It’s best to wash your pram’s bedding at least once a week and, in a spell of really warm weather, more than twice a week. Doing this won’t only keep it looking and smelling fresh but will prevent potentially harmful bacteria from building up and causing your baby to become sick.
Check For Damage Regularly
Every time you wash the bedding, take a moment to check it for loose threads, fraying, or tears. These are all things that could potentially become a choking hazard, so be sure to do this regularly in order to keep your child as safe as possible.
Never Use Heavy Blankets Or Pillows
Heavy blankets and pillows can pose a suffocation risk to your baby, and while you want them to be as cosy and comfortable as possible, it’s best to leave them out. The same goes for large soft toys as well, which could accidentally fall onto your baby’s face and cause suffocation.
What Are Some Safe Alternatives Parents Can Use For Pram Sheets?
Lots of parents are uncomfortable using pram sheets, especially for newborns. Luckily, there are some alternatives that work equally as well and will ensure your little one is protected from the elements and feels comfortable in their pram. Take a look at some of our favourites listed below:
Muslin Squares
Lightweight and breathable, a large muslin square is the ideal alternative to a blanket. They are also multifunctional and can be used as a nursing cover, makeshift changing pad, burp cloth, and privacy curtain. The fact they are so lightweight also makes them really easy to carry, and not only will they keep your baby warm and protected, they’re perfect for busy parents on the go.
Pram Liners
Designed to provide a protective layer between your baby and their stroller, a pram liner can also be used as a lightweight blanket. Most are machine-washable as well, which makes them super easy to clean regularly. Better yet, they’re available in loads of different patterns and colours, giving you the opportunity to inject some personality into your baby’s pram to suit your style.
Cellular Blankets
As you may have guessed from their name, cellular blankets have a unique honeycomb structure that can keep your baby warm and cosy while being lightweight. They’re also breathable, durable, and hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for babies with allergies or super sensitive skin.
Footmuffs
Perfect for the colder months, footmuffs are a great way of ensuring that your baby has cosy toes even in the depths of winter. They can easily be stored in your baby’s diaper bag when they aren’t in use as well, so they won’t take up too much valuable space, and they come in a huge range of styles.
Final Thoughts
While not totally necessary, using pram sheets is a great way to help your baby feel cosier in their pram, and when used correctly, they can provide a comfortable and safe place for your baby to enjoy the outside world. Just be sure that you choose a lightweight, breathable material that fits your pram and avoid any heavy blankets, pillows, or large stuffed toys.