How to Keep Your Baby Warm at Night
For your baby to have good health, development, and well-being, he or she needs quality sleep—and lots of it. Comfort is a top priority if you want to encourage the best sleep possible.
Because babies are especially vulnerable to temperature fluctuations, you need to make sure they’re warm enough. But you also need to make sure your baby doesn’t get uncomfortably hot. You can find a comfortable balance by creating a safe, cozy sleep environment.
To learn how to keep your baby warm at night and ensure enough restful sleep for your little one, keep reading.
Understand Your Baby's Temperature Needs
Achieving the right temperature in your baby's sleep environment is important for their comfort and safety. The optimal room temperature for babies' sleep typically ranges between 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 22 degrees Celsius).
Babies have a limited ability to regulate their body temperature compared to adults, making them more sensitive to environmental changes. During sleep, their metabolic rate decreases, which can lead to a drop in overall body temperature. They may require extra warmth to feel comfortable.
At the same time, be mindful of the risks of your baby overheating. Signs of discomfort and overheating in babies can include:
Sweating
Flushed skin
Rapid breathing
Overly-warm skin
Constant crying
Fussiness
By understanding your baby’s temperature needs and being vigilant for signs of discomfort, you can effectively regulate your baby's sleep environment and sleep cycles.
How to Keep Your Baby Warm Without Blankets
Up until about 12 to 18 months of age, blankets are considered dangerous to babies during sleep. Sheets, blankets, pillows, and other types of bedding can strangle or smother your baby’s airways. This could lead to overheating, choking, or suffocation, which is why parents often don’t put blankets in their baby’s crib.
Therefore, here are a few ways to keep your baby warm without blankets.
Baby Sleepwear
Dress your baby in snug but breathable sleepwear made of materials like cotton or fleece. Opt for long-sleeved onesies and footed pajamas to provide extra warmth without the need for blankets.
Sleep Sacks and Wearable Blankets
Invest in sleep sacks or wearable blankets of several different materials. These are secure garments designed specifically for babies and provide warmth without the risk of suffocation or entanglement, promoting safe sleep.
Layers for Warmth
You can layer your baby’s clothing with more than one garment for added warmth. Avoid heavy materials that can pose suffocation hazards. Instead, opt for breathable, lightweight options that can be easily adjusted or removed as needed. You can also consider winter baby onesies made of fabrics like fleece, flannel, and merino wool.
Temperature Control
Maintain a comfortable room temperature in your baby's nursery using central heating, room humidifiers, or space heaters. Be sure to follow safety guidelines and keep heaters away from cribs or other objects that could pose fire hazards. Regularly monitor the temperature to ensure it remains within the recommended range for your baby's comfort and safety.
Alternatives to Swaddling for Keeping Baby Warm
Swaddling your baby is a sleep practice that can help them feel secure and warm. Whether your baby is growing out of the need for swaddling or won’t tolerate it, here’s how to keep your baby warm without swaddling.
Swaddle Transition Techniques
As babies outgrow swaddling, gradually transition them to sleeping without swaddles. Try using swaddle transition products like sleep sacks with arms-out options, allowing babies to have freedom of movement while still feeling secure.
Sleep Positioners
Use sleep positioners or lightweight cushions strategically placed around your baby to provide a sense of security that mimics the feeling of being swaddled. Ensure these items are placed safely to avoid suffocation risks.
Soothing Bedtime Routines
Establish calming bedtime routines, such as gentle rocking or singing lullabies, to help your baby relax and settle into sleep comfortably. Use soothing techniques like white noise machines or gentle massages to create a cozy environment conducive to sleep. These methods can help your baby feel warm and secure without the need for swaddling.
Safe Practices for Using Blankets in the Crib
As your baby grows, you can introduce blankets to encourage their autonomy and comfort. Learn a few tips on how to safely use blankets in a crib.
Baby Blanket Guidelines and Age Recommendation
Follow recommendations from pediatricians and organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) regarding when it's safe to introduce blankets into the crib. Typically, blankets are not recommended for babies under 12 months old due to the risk of suffocation or entanglement. When introducing blankets, ensure they are lightweight and breathable.
Securing Your Baby’s Blankets
Place the blanket securely around the baby's chest so it doesn't cover their face. Use a tight-fitting crib sheet to prevent the blanket from coming loose during sleep. Avoid placing blankets near the baby's head or tucking them in tightly around the crib rails, as this can increase the risk of suffocation.
Types of Blankets That Are Safe for Babies
Choose blankets made of breathable materials like cotton or muslin to reduce the risk of overheating. Opt for lightweight blankets that allow air circulation and prevent the baby from becoming too hot. Avoid blankets with loose or fluffy material that could pose suffocation hazards. Always inspect blankets for any signs of wear or damage before use.
Track Your Baby’s Sleep, Temperature, and Comfort for Optimal Health
Your baby's warmth and comfort during sleep are essential for their well-being and development. By dressing your baby in appropriate sleepwear, using sleep sacks, and maintaining a comfortable room temperature, you can keep your baby warm at night without compromising their safety.
For additional tips on baby care, sleep tracking, and parenting, turn to Baby Connect. Access helpful tools and guidance that support you on your parenting journey, and start tracking your baby's sleep with the Baby Connect app today!
