What to dress baby in for bed in different temperatures.
As a parent, it can be nerve-wracking to decide how to dress your baby for bed, especially during different temperatures. But rest assured, you know your baby best and your instincts are your best guide.
Here are some tips to help you make informed decisions:
- For colder nights, dress your baby in layers. Start with a long-sleeved vest and a sleepsuit. You can also use a tog sleeping bag for added warmth.
- Avoid using fluffy or fleecy items for your baby at night. They may seem warm and cosy but babies can easily overheat with these items. A few lighter layers will be much safer and still keep your baby cosy.
- If you’re concerned your baby might still be cold with their pjs and sleeping bag, you can add an extra blanket, but make sure it’s not too thick or heavy, a cellular blanket works well. Blankets should be tucked into the bottom of the bed to avoid covering baby’s face.
- In hot weather, dress your baby in lighter clothing such as a short-sleeved vest or onesie. You can also use a thin cotton sleeping bag or just a sheet to keep them covered. Remember, overheating can be dangerous for babies, so avoid dressing them in too many layers or using heavy blankets.
It’s important to pay attention to your baby’s cues. If they seem too hot or too cold, adjust their clothing accordingly. Trust your instincts and remember that you’ve got this!
Placing a hand on your baby’s chest should help you to know whether your baby is too warm, too cold or just right. Your baby may feel like they have cold hands but this doesn’t mean that they are cold and need more layers, baby’s just often have cool hands!
Remember, your baby will let you know if they’re too cold, so don’t stress too much. And if you’re concerned about the temperature, consider using a monitor that displays the room temperature. You’ve got this! Follow your gut and listen to your instincts.
It’s not just about what your baby wears to bed, but also the environment in which they sleep. Here are a few more tips to help create a safe and comfortable sleep space for your little one:
- Keep the room cool and well-ventilated. A stuffy room can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The ideal temperature for a baby’s room is between 16-20°C.
- Avoid using loose bedding, such as blankets and pillows, as they can increase the risk of suffocation. Instead, use fitted sheets and sleeping bags. If using blankets, tick them in as mentioned above.
- Make sure your baby’s cot or Moses basket is free from any potential hazards, such as toys or cords. Babies under 1 should have no pillow and a clear cot.
- Place your baby to sleep on their back, as this is the safest position for reducing the risk of SIDS.
- If cosleeping with your baby, make sure that your pillows and duvet are well out of the way of baby. This may mean you wearing more clothes and tucking your duvet under you at the waist. You may need to add a sweatshirt to keep your upper body warm in cooler weather!
By taking these precautions, you can rest assured that your baby is sleeping safely and comfortably. Remember, always trust your instincts and pay attention to your baby’s cues.
In summary, don’t overthink it, stick with layers rather than fleecy items, keep their cot clear and listen to your instinct. You know your baby best and with these tips, you can confidently dress them for bed in any temperature.
For more safe sleep tips, check out www.thelullabytrust.org.uk
