Evie Summers
It can be challenging for new parents to determine how to layer their newborn's clothing for sleep. The temperature of the room, the season, and the baby's age are all factors that influence the number of layers a newborn should wear. The general rule is to dress a baby in one extra layer than what an adult would wear in the same environment. However, it is crucial to avoid overheating the baby, as it increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Therefore, it is recommended to use breathable fabrics like cotton and merino wool and to keep the room temperature between 68°F and 72°F.
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What You'll Learn
The ideal room temperature for a newborn is between 68°F and 72°F
Keeping your newborn comfortable while they sleep is a priority for new parents. The ideal room temperature for a newborn is between 68°F and 72°F (20°C and 22°C). This is a good range to aim for in both summer and winter. If the room is too hot, it can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and cause discomfort. If the room is too cold, your baby may wake up due to feeling chilly.
It is important to remember that different homes have different temperatures, and you should dress your baby appropriately for the temperature in your home. As a general rule, your baby should wear one more layer than you do. If you are worried about your baby being cold, you can add one extra layer of clothing, but no more. You can also put socks on your baby if your feet are cold, but only if the room is relatively cool. In warmer weather, it is better to skip the socks.
It is important to avoid overdressing your baby, as this can cause them to overheat and may restrict their breathing. Babies should sleep in thin layers of clothing to prevent them from becoming too cold or overheating. Breathable fabrics such as cotton are recommended to keep your baby cool and comfortable throughout the night.
It is also important to remember that loose items and clothing are not considered safe for your baby to sleep in. This includes hats, mittens, hair bows, and pacifier clips. These items can pose a suffocation or strangulation risk.
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Newborns should wear one extra layer of clothing than adults
When putting a newborn to sleep, it is important to ensure that they are dressed appropriately to maintain a comfortable temperature. Overheating is one of the risk factors for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), so it is crucial to be mindful of how to ensure your baby doesn't overheat.
The general rule recommended by The Sleep Foundation and The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is to dress your baby in one additional layer of clothing than an adult in the same environment. This means that if you are comfortable in a T-shirt, your baby might need a thin onesie or sleeper as an extra layer. If you are wearing a sweater, your baby might need a long-sleeved onesie or a pair of merino wool socks.
It is important to remember that the number of layers your baby needs will depend on the temperature of their sleeping environment. Keep your baby's room temperature between 68°F and 72°F (20°C-22°C). If the room is relatively warm and your baby is dressed in enough layers, skip the socks. However, if the room is cooler, you may want to add a pair of socks or an extra layer of clothing, such as a long-sleeved bodysuit or a pair of footed pajamas.
Additionally, it is recommended to use a sleep sack or swaddle instead of loose blankets to reduce the risk of SIDS and ensure safe sleep. When choosing clothing for your newborn, opt for breathable fabrics like cotton, which will help keep your baby cool and comfortable throughout the night. Remember to always put your newborn baby to sleep on their back, as placing them on their belly or side increases the risk of suffocation and SIDS.
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Avoid loose blankets, hats, and swaddles
To keep your newborn warm while they sleep, it's recommended to layer their clothing instead of using loose blankets. The ideal sleep temperature for a baby is between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. To achieve this, it is generally recommended to dress your baby in one additional layer than an adult. For premature babies, experts recommend two additional layers until they reach a normal weight, as they lack the body fat to keep themselves warm.
Loose blankets can pose a risk to newborns as they can affect their breathing and increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Instead of a loose blanket, you can use a swaddle or a sleep sack. However, it is important to note that swaddling is only recommended until your baby starts trying to roll over, which usually happens around 2 to 4 months. Make sure not to layer a blanket over a swaddled baby, as this can increase the risk of suffocation.
Hats can also increase the risk of overheating for babies since they are unable to regulate their temperature as effectively as adults. Therefore, it is not safe for babies to wear hats indoors. If your baby's hands, feet, and nose feel cold, you can help them stay warm by layering their clothes or using a sleep sack.
In addition to loose blankets and hats, it is important to avoid swaddling a newborn once they start rolling over. A swaddled baby who can roll over might end up face down and unable to turn onto their back, which can be dangerous. Instead of swaddling, you can consider dressing your baby in lightweight, breathable clothing made of natural fibers such as cotton.
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Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton
When it comes to putting your newborn to sleep, it's essential to focus on their comfort and safety. Opting for breathable fabrics like cotton is a wise choice for several reasons. Firstly, cotton is renowned for its breathability, keeping your baby cool and comfortable throughout the night. It helps regulate body temperature, preventing your baby from overheating or becoming too cold. This is crucial, as overheating can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and cause discomfort.
Cotton is a natural fiber that is gentle and soft on a baby's delicate skin. It is hypoallergenic, reducing the risk of skin irritation, allergic reactions, and discomfort. Organic cotton, in particular, is an excellent choice as it is grown without harmful chemicals and pesticides, making it even safer and gentler on sensitive skin. Cotton is also durable and absorbent, which is beneficial for babies who tend to sweat.
In addition to cotton, other natural fabrics like linen and merino wool are recommended for breathability and comfort. Linen is lightweight and ideal for warm weather, while merino wool is excellent for temperature regulation in colder climates. These natural fabrics are preferable to synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon, which are less breathable and can cause skin irritation.
When layering your newborn for sleep, it's generally recommended to dress them in one extra layer than what you would wear to be comfortable. However, it's important not to overdo it, as too many layers can lead to overheating. A good rule of thumb is to keep your baby's room temperature between 68°F and 72°F, and always remember to put your newborn to sleep on their back to reduce the risk of suffocation and SIDS.
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Signs your newborn is too cold or too warm
Keeping your newborn comfortable while sleeping is important for their safety and your peace of mind. Here are some signs that your newborn is too cold or too warm:
Signs Your Newborn Is Too Cold:
- They are crying more than usual. Babies are more likely to cry if they are cold at night than if they are hot.
- They are fussier and more irritable.
- They are uncomfortable and may not sleep well.
- Their skin feels cool to the touch, especially on their tummy and back.
- Their skin appears pale.
- They are shivering.
- Their breathing is slow.
- Their hands or feet are blue. However, if any other part of their body turns blue, seek immediate medical attention as it could indicate a serious condition.
Signs Your Newborn Is Too Warm:
- They are unsettled, lethargic, and less responsive.
- They are not feeding or sleeping well.
- Their skin appears flushed or red, indicating they may be overheating.
- They are sweating, have damp hair, or have developed a heat rash.
- They are rapidly breathing.
General Guidelines for Newborn Sleep:
- Dress your newborn in one extra layer than you would wear to feel comfortable in the same environment.
- Use lightweight, breathable layers that can be easily removed if your baby gets too warm.
- Avoid loose blankets, hats, or any other items in the crib as they can pose a suffocation hazard and increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
- Keep the room temperature between 68°F and 72°F (20°C - 22°C). However, remember that babies can be comfortable outside this range as long as they are dressed appropriately.
- Swaddling can help calm newborns and improve their sleep, but stop once they can roll over (usually around 2-4 months).
Remember, every baby is different, so observe your newborn's behaviour and adjust their clothing and environment accordingly. If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to consult your paediatrician.
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Frequently asked questions
If your baby is cold, they may have blue-coloured hands or feet. If they are too warm, they may be crying, red and sweaty and increasingly distressed. You can also check the skin behind their neck, on their chest or the top of their back to see if they feel dry and warm (not hot) to the touch.
If your baby is cold, you can add one extra layer of clothing. You can also put socks on them and use a room thermometer to monitor the temperature.
Newborns should wear one extra layer than what an adult would wear in the same environment. It is recommended to use breathable fabrics like cotton and to avoid loose blankets, hats, hair bows, pacifier clips and other loose items.
