Set up the child’s bedding so that it is easier to wash. This will make it less difficult for you and your child to maintain a dry and clean place to sleep.
Waterproof mattress covers
These will protect the mattress from stains and urine odor. Mattress covers are not very easy to change, but they will protect the mattress and avoid long-term odors and stains. Waterproof mattress covers can be padded with absorbent material that will keep the child drier. Plastic sheets are less expensive, but they are also less comfortable to seep on.
Waterproof mattress pads
They are usually placed on top of the sheet so that the urine does not reach the sheet. These can be thrown away (disposable) or aired/washed (reusable) without changing the sheets. Make sure you get a pad that will not slide or wrinkle and that it is carefully positioned under your child so that the urine is absorbed. Inexpensive mattress-foam and other less expensive mattresses can be purchased so that you do not feel like your child is “ruining” a good mattress.
Easy care sheets-knitted or breathable cotton or cotton/polyester blend seets that do not require ironing or special care should be used. Ideally these sheets should not be expensive and you should have several on hand so you are not made to do laundry immediately or in the middle of the night.
It is very important to make sure your child is comfortable with his bed and sheets. He should like his bed and want to sleep there. Children are more likely to want to sleep in their beds if the sheets have a child theme, and if the bed is comfortable. Kids are more likely to help with the bedding care and avoid soiling, if they are proud of the bedding. Children should choose their own sheets and pillowcases, whenever possible, so they can feel a sense of pride and ownership of their bed.
Most people believe that children who wet at night should participate in their own bed care. If your child is young it is unrealistic to expect changing and cleaning the sheets. Even older children should not be expected to do all of the work since it will come across as a form of punishment. Under no circumstances should your child be forced to do all or most of the laundry as a form of punishment.
Dr. Smith is board certified and he has authored or co-authored many articles, papers, chapters, and books in Urology and Pediatric Urology. His research has been presented throughout the world. Dr. Smith’s dedication to helping children with urologic problems inspired him to establish PottyMD.