Cot Fitted Sheets

A cot bed sheet may be too large for a small cot. Cot bed sheets are typically designed for mattresses around **70 cm x 140 cm** (27.5 inches x 55 inches), while small cots generally have mattresses closer to **60 cm x 120 cm** (23.5 inches x 47 inches) or smaller.

Using a too-large sheet on a small cot can lead to bunching or loose fabric, which may pose a safety risk for a baby. To ensure a safe and snug fit, it’s best to use sheets specifically designed for the exact dimensions of your small cot mattress.

Making a cot fitted sheet is a straightforward sewing project. Here’s a step-by-step guide to create a fitted sheet for a cot:

### Materials Needed:
1. Fabric (soft, breathable cotton or any preferred material)
2. Elastic (1/4-inch wide is common)
3. Measuring tape
4. Scissors
5. Sewing machine or needle and thread
6. Pins

### Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. **Measure the Mattress:**
- Measure the length, width, and depth (thickness) of the cot mattress.
- Add twice the depth measurement plus an additional 6-8 cm (2-3 inches) to both the length and width. This extra fabric will help create the "pockets" to tuck under the mattress.

2. **Cut the Fabric:**
- Cut the fabric to the dimensions calculated above. For example, if the mattress is 60 cm x 120 cm with a depth of 10 cm, cut the fabric to 96 cm x 156 cm (60 + 20 + 8 by 120 + 20 + 8).

3. **Shape the Corners:**
- Cut a square from each corner that matches the depth of the mattress plus 3-4 cm (for seam allowance). For example, if the depth is 10 cm, cut a 13-14 cm square from each corner.

4. **Sew the Corners:**
- Fold the cut edges of each corner together with the right sides facing and sew a straight line along the edge. This creates a fitted pocket at each corner.

5. **Create the Hem for Elastic:**
- Fold the edge of the fabric around the sheet about 1.5 cm (0.5 inch) and sew all the way around, leaving a small gap (about 1-2 inches) unstitched to insert the elastic.

6. **Insert the Elastic:**
- Measure and cut the elastic to fit snugly around the mattress perimeter (or use slightly less if you want a tighter fit).
- Attach a safety pin to one end of the elastic and feed it through the hem, gathering the fabric as you go. Make sure not to let the other end of the elastic slip inside.

7. **Secure the Elastic:**
- Once the elastic is threaded through, sew the two ends of the elastic together.
- Sew the small opening in the hem closed to secure everything.

8. **Finish and Test the Fit:**
- Stretch the fitted sheet over the mattress to ensure it fits snugly.

Now you have a custom-made cot fitted sheet!

Two fitted sheets can be sufficient for a cot, but having a third one can be helpful. Babies can often have accidents or spills, so having an extra sheet ensures you’re covered when one is in the wash. Here’s a breakdown:

- **Two Sheets**: This can work if you do laundry frequently, as it allows you to have one sheet on the cot and one as a backup.
- **Three Sheets**: Ideal for convenience. It allows you to always have one on the cot, one ready to use, and one in the wash.

Having at least two sheets is manageable, but an extra can be very useful for those unexpected messes.