Childrens Bed Sheets …
Beyond Color and Print
The bed sheets for the kids rooms need to go beyond the color and print on the fabric.
Now why would anyone need to read a guide to buy bed sheets? I mean, you’ve been sleeping on one ever since you were born. All you need to do is go out and find the one that you like and that is that. Right?
Right! Sure, choosing sheets should be an easy task. There really is no need to go into the details of how it is made and why. Normally, this is what we do…just walk into a store, browse around, see the one that we ‘kind-of’ like, check if it fits our budget and bingo…it’s ours.
But then again, everything changes when you shop for the kids. You want the best for him. This guide is for you to know why the bed sheets you chose are good (and what to avoid).
Then there are those who just love to get into the minute details. This guide is for you too. As always, read the headings on each idea to check if it addresses the issues you want to be clear about. Skip the rest.
1. Go Back to the Dream Folder. Remember the dream folder you created at the beginning of this project? (Check our Basic Rules page, if you missed out). By now, the color scheme of the room must be clear in your mind. No? Still looking for inspiration? Your best bet is to find the comforter for the room. Being the largest and most eye-catching piece in the entire room, it acts as the inspiration for the theme and color scheme of the room.
2. Understanding Terminologies – Thread Count. It refers to the total threads running horizontally and vertically in one square inch of fabric. In simple terms, higher the thread count tighter the weave and softer the material.
The thread count can range from 200 to over 1000. The average bed sheets are around 200 and these are wonderful and long lasting.
300 to 400 range sheets are a little nicer and still affordable.
400 to 900 range sheets tend to be a little expensive and are obviously much softer.
1000 or more will ensure soft and smooth sheets, but since they use finer threads these sheets might be less durable.
3. Percale and Sateen Sheets. You hear mention of percale or sateen sheets. These refer to the weave of the fabric. Weave creates the texture of the fabric and affects the look and feel of the sheets. It’s like choosing between a matte finish and a glossy finish for your photos.
Percale sheets - woven closely in a kind of basket weave, they have no gloss, creating smooth-textured sheets. They tend to have fewer wrinkles.
Sateen sheets - woven with more fibers on the fabric surface, they have sheen similar to the look of satin sheets.
Satin sheets - woven of wool, cottons, acetate, polyester, silk or other materials, they are extremely smooth and sleek.
4. Cotton or Silk Sheets. The fabric of the sheet needs careful consideration, as this is what touches your child’s skin. Although silk sheets can stylize the room, it is not recommended as crib and other bed sheets. You can use them to accessorize the room. Cotton is the most popular. It is soft on the skin and durable (can withstand repeated washing). There are different types of cotton sheets – combed cotton, Egyptian cotton, pima cotton – choose based on the feel of the fabric. Keep an eye on your budget.
Flannel is actually a blend of cottons. Here the quality is in ounces of material per square yard of fabric instead of thread count. Four ounces or more per square yard is considered good quality flannel. These are highly popular for their warmth and often sold as crib sheets.
Whether you obsess over the things your baby comes in contact with, or whether you are just an environmentally conscious person, organic bed sheets are a good alternative to the regular ones. Organic bedding provides natural relief from allergies, MCS (multiple chemical sensitivities), skin problems; and may reduce the risk of SIDS. The difference can be quite subtle ... just a nice and clean feel, with a softness in the sheets that grows even more comfortable with every wash. Most importantly it gives you the peace of mind that your child is in a safe and natural environment.
7. Solids vs Prints. This is a simpler decision. If your comforter has a colorful print, keep the sheets solid colors taken from the comforter. If the comforter is a solid color, get fancy sheets with whimsical prints…dinosaurs, flowers, stripes, sports or whatever your theme. If the quilt has a simple central design with the rest of it solid, gingham check sheets might make an interesting match.
8. Stock up on those sheets. Childrens bed linens need constant change. Stains, marker spots, food crumbs…the kids rooms have a lot to stand up against. Everything from the wall paint to the bed linen should be chosen bearing this in mind. Stock up on extra bed sheets. Keep them washed and ready for the next use. This is especially required during the child’s early days and those middle-of-the-night accidents.
Tip: The washable markers and paints are a parent’s dreams come true. Always keep them handy…it will keep your child happier (no parents screaming) and your stress levels controlled (no screaming!!)
Bed sheets come in an amazing array of colors, patterns, fabrics and prints. They are not just beautiful decorative items, but functional too (not to mention washable many times over!!). Now that you are ready and armed with the knowledge of the best childrens bed sheets to look for; let us turn our attention to the decorative pillows section!
Top
|
