While we're wrapping up warm and snuggling down with cosy socks and jumpers, we thought it would be a good idea to share some safe baby sleeping tips with you that are suited to the colder months of the year.
It's important to keep monitoring the temperature in your baby's bedroom and to make sure that they are dressed appropriately too. So here are a few tips for safe baby sleeping in winter.
Check Baby’s Room Temperature Regularly
Keep an eye on the nursery temperature. Some baby monitors have thermometers built in but if yours doesn't, you can easily buy a room thermometer. It's important to keep an eye on the temperature of your baby's room, especially in winter when we tend to turn up the central heating. Babies cannot regulate their body temperatures in the same way that we can and of course they can't remove layers of clothing or blankets either. If the room is too hot or they are wearing too many layers, there is a risk that your baby can overheat.
The Ideal Room Temperature for Baby is Between 60 and 68oF
Some points to note:
- Too many layers in an already warm room at bedtime can prevent your baby from being able to regulate their temperature and can interrupt their natural breathing pattern.
- Keep layers to a minimum.
- Use a TOG-rated baby sleep sack to keep your baby at the right temperature.
- If you co-sleep with your baby, they don't need extra layers and should not sleep under your duvet.
- Make sure baby's crib is not next to a radiator.
- Check your baby is not too warm by feeling the back of her neck or her tummy. If she feels warm and clammy, remove a layer.
Out and About
While you're out and about this winter, chances are that your baby is going to be taking a nap in the stroller. We're all for sleeping on the go and safe sleeping advice applies here too.
Make sure your baby wears an extra layer when it's cold (that can be removed easily once you're inside again). Usually, your baby will be comfortable in the same number of layers as you are wearing, plus one extra.
Remember that babies in prams don't move as much as you, so won't be able to warm up in the same way.
Some Tips For Safe Baby Sleeping Outside This Winter
- Snow suits are fantastic for providing extra insulation while your baby is in the pram - and there's usually no need for extra blankets.
- Always make sure that your baby wears a hat when you leave the house and take it off again when you come inside. Babies can lose a lot of heat through their heads, so can become cold quickly. Never leave a hat on inside.
- If your baby has a blanket over her in the car, make sure you remove it once the car warms up.
- Don’t dress your baby in a thick coat or snowsuit for car journeys, and make sure that straps go under blankets, not over.
- Trust your instincts. If it gets really cold, check baby regularly to make sure she is warm enough and take an extra blanket with you in case you need it.
Further Reading:
How to Help You Baby Sleep Safely in Winter
Using Your SnoozeShade in Cooler Weather
A SnoozeShade is for Life, Not Just for Summer
