Miya Pearson
Keeping newborns comfortable in summer is a challenge for new parents. The ideal room temperature for newborns is between 68°F and 72°F. Newborns are at risk of overheating, dehydration, skin irritation, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Newborns should be dressed in a single layer of clothing, like a cotton onesie or sleeper, to prevent them from becoming too cold or overheating. Newborns generally respond well to being swaddled. However, once they start to roll over, it's time to lose the swaddle and switch to a sleep sack or wearable blanket. It's important to remember that thinner and lighter-colored clothes are less protective against the sun, and direct sun exposure should be avoided for newborns.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Room temperature | Between 68°F and 72°F |
| Clothing | Lightweight layers, breathable fabrics like cotton |
| Clothing type | Short-sleeve onesie, cotton footed sleepers, bodysuit, T-shirt, diaper |
| Accessories | No hats, hair bows, mittens, pacifier clips, or other loose items |
| Sun protection | Sun hats, protective clothing |
| Other | Babies should sleep on their back, in their own crib or bassinet |
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What You'll Learn
Room temperature
Overheating has been linked to an increased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and can cause discomfort, dehydration, skin irritation, and sleep disturbances. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure your newborn's room is not too warm. If you notice signs of overheating, such as sweaty neck or hair, flushed cheeks, or a clammy core, take measures to cool the room and reduce layers of bedding or clothing.
On the other hand, it is also important to ensure your newborn doesn't get too cold. While this is less common during summer, it can still occur. If you notice your baby's hands and feet are slightly blue, consider adding a layer of clothing or adjusting the room temperature. However, avoid using loose blankets, as these can pose a safety hazard.
Additionally, it's worth noting that newborns are still learning to regulate their body temperature during their first few days of life. As a result, you may need to adjust their clothing or the room temperature more frequently until they adapt to their new environment.
By maintaining the ideal room temperature and closely monitoring your newborn for signs of discomfort or distress, you can ensure they sleep safely and comfortably during the summer months.
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Clothing material
When it comes to newborn sleepwear in the summer, the most important thing to remember is to focus on the room's temperature rather than the outside weather. The ideal room temperature for a baby is usually between 68-72°F (20-22°C). However, it's important to note that the temperature can fluctuate during the night, and the recommended range may not always be achievable.
To ensure your newborn sleeps comfortably, choosing the right clothing material is essential. The key is to select breathable and thin fabrics that will help regulate their temperature and prevent overheating. Here are some specific fabric recommendations:
Cotton: Cotton is a natural, plant-based fabric, making it one of the best choices for hot weather. It is lightweight, breathable, and gentle on delicate skin. Cotton onesies or sleepers are ideal for newborns in the summer, providing a single layer of clothing to prevent overheating.
Bamboo: Bamboo fabric is another excellent option for summer sleepwear. It is naturally breathable, thermoregulating, and moisture-wicking, helping to keep your baby at a comfortable temperature throughout the night. Bamboo fabric is also hypoallergenic and sustainably made.
Muslin: Lightweight muslin fabric is perfect for swaddling newborns in the summer. It is super breathable and flexible, making it easy to wrap and tuck your baby comfortably. However, ensure that your baby's head remains uncovered to help them stay cool, as heat escapes from the head.
Jersey: Soft, stretchy, and durable jersey fabric can be a good choice for summer sleepwear. It provides breathability and comfort while being machine washable and easy to care for.
In addition to these specific fabrics, layering is crucial when dressing your newborn for sleep in the summer. It is recommended to dress your baby in one layer of clothing, like a vest or a short-sleeved bodysuit, and then use a swaddle or sleep sack over it. This allows for quick adjustments if your baby gets too warm or cold. Remember, the goal is to avoid overheating, as it can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
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Number of layers
The number of layers your newborn wears during summer will depend on the climate, whether you have air conditioning, and your baby's preferences. It is important to remember that overheating has been linked to a greater risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), so it is better to have your baby slightly underdressed than heavily overdressed.
As a general rule, babies should wear one more layer than you are wearing. However, this does not mean that you should project your own level of comfort onto your baby. Cool fingers and toes do not convey an accurate gauge of your baby's body temperature. Checking the back of the neck, tummy, chest, back, and core is the best indicator. Skin should be cool and dry to the touch; if the neck, tummy, chest, back, or core is hot or sticky, your baby is too warm.
If your baby is dressed too warmly, you can reduce the layers under their sleep sack or swaddle or opt for a sleep sack or swaddle with a lower TOG rating. If your baby is running warm but still needs a swaddle, you could try using only a diaper under the swaddle. If your baby's core feels cool to the touch, you could consider adding a layer by using thicker jammies, a onesie under pajamas, or switching to a sleep sack or swaddle with a higher TOG rating.
It is important to remember that babies should always sleep without blankets and should be wrapped in a thin swaddle or sleep sack instead. For this reason, it is important to dress your baby in a single layer of clothing, like a cotton onesie or sleeper, to prevent them from becoming too cold or overheating. Once your baby starts rolling, typically around the 3- or 4-month mark, swaddle them with their arms out or use a lightweight sleep sack instead.
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Sun protection
Avoid Direct Sun Exposure
The best way to protect your newborn from the sun is to avoid direct sun exposure, especially during the peak sunlight hours of 10 AM to 4 PM. Keep your newborn in the shade or indoors during these times. If you do need to take your newborn outside, try to do so early in the morning (before 10 AM) or after 4 PM.
Dress for Sun Protection
When dressing your newborn, choose lightweight and light-coloured clothing that covers the skin. Long-sleeved and light-coloured cotton clothing can be cool and comfortable while also providing protection from the sun. Clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of 30 or higher offers extra security against UV rays. You can also use an SPF-protecting blanket to shield your newborn from the sun.
Use Sun Hats and Sunglasses
Protect your newborn's head and eyes from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat that shields the face, neck, and ears. Once your child reaches six months, they should also wear sunglasses outside to protect their eyes from UV rays.
Apply Sunscreen
While some organisations advise against using sunscreen on infants below six months, others state that it is now safe to use sunscreen designated for infant skin, particularly those that are hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and will not sting your baby's eyes. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 and apply it to areas left uncovered, such as your baby's hands. Be sure to test a small amount on a limited area of your newborn's skin first to check for any allergic reactions. If you do use sunscreen, remember to apply it 30 minutes before going outside and reapply it every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
Keep Your Newborn Hydrated
Make sure your newborn is very well hydrated, especially in hot weather. If you are breastfeeding, offer milk more frequently. If your baby is bottle-fed, you can give them small amounts of cool boiled water.
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Signs of overheating
Newborns and young infants are unable to regulate their body temperature efficiently as their thermoregulatory system is still developing. This makes them vulnerable to overheating.
- Flushed skin: If your baby's skin appears red or flushed, they may be overheating.
- Sweating: Babies have a limited capacity to sweat, but if you notice sweating, it could be a sign that your baby is too warm.
- Rapid breathing: If your baby is breathing faster than usual, it could be a sign that they are trying to cool down.
- Irritability: If your baby is fussier than usual or showing signs of discomfort, it could be a result of overheating.
- Lethargy: In some cases, overheating can cause lethargy or make your baby seem more tired than usual.
- Warm ears, neck, or tummy: Touch your baby's ears, neck, or tummy. If these areas feel warm, it could indicate that your baby's body temperature is too high.
- Heat rash: Heat rash can develop on your baby's skin due to overheating.
It is important to monitor your baby's temperature and ensure they are dressed appropriately for the conditions. Keep the room well-ventilated, avoid direct sunlight, and limit the use of extra blankets and comforters to prevent overheating.
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Frequently asked questions
Newborns should sleep in lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton. This could be a short-sleeve onesie, a cotton swaddle, or a lightweight sleep sack with a onesie underneath. It is important to make sure newborns are not too cold or too warm.
If your newborn is too warm, their neck, hair, or cheeks may be sweaty, or their core (chest, neck, back, and tummy) may feel clammy or sweaty. If your newborn is dressed too warmly, reduce the number of layers or switch to lighter pajamas, swaddles, or sleep sacks.
If your newborn's hands and feet are looking slightly blue, they may be too cold. If this is the case, turn up the heat or add a layer of clothing.
It is important to remember that newborns should always sleep on their back on a firm, clear surface without any loose items or clothing in the crib.
