Gina Johnson
When it comes to putting your baby to sleep, it's important to make sure they're dressed appropriately to maintain a comfortable temperature. Overheating is a significant risk factor for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), so while you want your baby to be cosy, it's crucial to avoid over-bundling them. A good rule of thumb is to dress your baby in one more layer than you would wear in the same temperature. For example, if you're wearing a shirt to sleep, your baby should wear a shirt and a long-sleeved onesie. If the room is between 68° and 72°F, your baby could wear a diaper, comfy long-sleeved pyjamas, and a lightweight swaddle or sleep sack. On warmer nights, lightweight, breathable sleepwear is recommended, while in colder weather, you can opt for footed pyjamas and a sleep sack or wearable blanket.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of layers | One or two fitted layers, one more layer than an adult would wear |
| Type of clothing | Onesie, baby gown, long-sleeved pyjamas, footed pyjamas, sleep sack, swaddle, wearable blanket |
| Temperature | 68-72 °F, avoid overheating and too cold |
| Room-sharing | Recommended for the first 6-12 months, in a separate sleeping surface |
| Sleeping position | On their back, on a firm and flat surface |
| Safety | No loose items, hats, weighted sleep sacks, soft objects, blankets, pillows, stuffed animals, pacifiers, electrical cords |
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What You'll Learn
Dress your baby in one more layer than you are wearing
When deciding what to dress your 7-month-old in for sleep, it's important to maintain an ideal temperature for your baby. Too-hot environments can lead to overheating, which is especially dangerous for babies as it has been linked to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). On the other hand, too-cold temperatures can also be dangerous and uncomfortable.
A good rule of thumb is to dress your baby in one more layer than you would wear yourself. So, if you're wearing a t-shirt and a sheet, your baby might wear a onesie and a lightweight swaddle or sleep sack. If you're wearing flannel pyjamas under a heavy comforter, your baby might need fleece-footed pyjamas and a sleep sack or swaddle.
The ideal room temperature for a baby should be between 68° and 72°F. If your house tends to run cool or warm, you can adjust by adding or removing a layer. It's better to have your baby slightly underdressed than heavily overdressed. Overheating has been linked to a greater risk of SIDS, so avoid loose articles such as hats, which can slip off your baby's head and cover their face, inhibiting free breathing.
In summer, a lightweight onesie is usually enough, and in winter, most babies are comfortable in whatever adults are wearing, plus another layer. You can add a tee on top of the onesie, or a soft sweater over the onesie and tee. Cardigans with snaps make it easy to shed layers when needed.
You can also feel your baby's core (their chest, neck, back, and tummy) to assess their temperature. If their core feels warm but not sweaty, and not cold, then the temperature is good. If they feel too cold, add an extra layer, and if they feel too hot, remove a layer.
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Avoid loose items, hats, and head coverings
It is important to avoid loose items, hats, and head coverings when putting a 7-month-old baby to sleep. This is because loose items can pose a risk of suffocation or strangulation. Hats and head coverings, such as bonnets, beanies, and hoodies, can slip off a baby's head during sleep and cover their face, inhibiting free breathing and increasing the risk of SIDS.
Research has linked the risk of SIDS to overheating, which can be caused by high body temperature and excessive clothing or bedding. A baby's head is crucial for self-regulating body temperature, as heat is released through the head. Therefore, a hat or head covering can lead to overheating, especially in a warm room or with excessive bedding.
To create a safe sleep environment for your 7-month-old, ensure that their head and face remain uncovered. Remove any hats, beanies, bonnets, or hooded clothing before placing them in their crib or bassinet. It is recommended to place your baby on their back, with their feet at the bottom of the cot, to prevent them from wriggling down under the blankets and reducing the risk of accidental suffocation.
Additionally, loose items in the cot, such as quilts, loose bedding, pillows, lamb's wool, bumpers, and soft toys, should be avoided. These items can pose a risk of suffocation or entanglement. Instead, opt for a safe sleeping bag or a well-secured swaddle if needed. It is also recommended to share a room with your baby for the first 6 to 12 months to help reduce the risk of SIDS.
While it may be tempting to dress your baby in cute hats and matching outfits, especially in colder weather, it is crucial to prioritize their safety during sleep. By avoiding loose items, hats, and head coverings, you can help create a safer sleep environment and reduce the risk of SIDS, accidental suffocation, and overheating.
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Check for overheating and adjust layers
Overheating is a significant concern for babies, as it has been linked to an increased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Therefore, it is essential to check for overheating and adjust your baby's layers accordingly.
Firstly, it is important to note that the ideal room temperature for a baby is between 68° and 72°F. If your home is outside this temperature range, you should adjust your baby's clothing accordingly. For example, if your home is on the colder side, you may need to add an extra layer, such as a sleep sack or wearable blanket. On the other hand, if your home is on the warmer side, you may need to remove a layer to prevent overheating.
To check if your baby is overheating, you can feel their core, including their chest, neck, back, and tummy. If your baby's core feels warm but not sweaty, they are likely comfortable. However, if your baby feels too hot to the touch, you should remove one or more layers to cool them down. Additionally, be mindful of the symptoms of overheating, such as sweating, redness on the face, and fussiness. If you notice any of these symptoms, take action to cool down your baby.
It is generally recommended to dress your baby in one more layer than you would wear yourself. For example, if you are wearing a shirt to sleep, your baby should wear a shirt and a long-sleeved onesie. However, it is important not to over-bundle your baby, as this can lead to overheating. Instead, opt for lightweight clothing such as a onesie and a sleep sack to help your baby feel secure and comfortable.
Finally, it is important to avoid loose articles of clothing and anything that covers your baby's head, such as hats or hoods. These can lead to overheating and increase the risk of suffocation. Instead, opt for snug-fitting clothing to ensure your baby's safety and comfort.
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Use a sleep sack or swaddle for warmth
When it comes to putting your baby to sleep, it's essential to prioritise their comfort and safety. A sleep sack or swaddle can be an excellent way to achieve both.
Sleep sacks, also known as wearable blankets, are a safe alternative to loose blankets, which can pose a risk of suffocation or strangulation. They are designed with armholes that allow for freedom of movement, promoting healthy hip development and making them a good option for older babies and toddlers who are exploring movement. Sleep sacks come in various sizes and TOG ratings, making them adaptable to different seasons and ages. They are generally safer than swaddles for older babies who are starting to roll and move around more.
Swaddling, on the other hand, involves snugly wrapping your baby's arms and torso to mimic the secure and cosy feeling of being in the womb. This technique is particularly effective for newborns and young infants, helping to prevent the startle reflex and promoting better sleep. Swaddles can be made from lightweight materials, making them suitable for summer, and they can also help regulate body temperature. However, it's important to note that swaddling should be discontinued once your baby starts showing signs of rolling over, as it can then become a suffocation risk.
When deciding between a sleep sack and a swaddle, consider your baby's age, developmental stage, sleep preferences, and the season. Both options have their merits, and many parents choose to use a combination of both, depending on their baby's needs.
To ensure your baby maintains a comfortable body temperature throughout the night, it's recommended to dress them in one additional layer than you would wear yourself. However, it's important to avoid overdressing, as overheating has been linked to an increased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
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Dress your baby in breathable materials in warm weather
When it comes to putting your baby to sleep, it's important to ensure that they are dressed in clothing that helps them maintain the proper temperature throughout the night. Overheating has been linked to a greater risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), so it's crucial to avoid bundling your baby in too many layers. As a general rule of thumb, you can dress your baby in one additional layer than you would wear yourself to sleep. For example, if you're wearing a t-shirt and a sheet, your baby might wear a onesie and a lightweight swaddle or sleep sack.
In warm weather, it's essential to dress your baby in breathable materials to prevent overheating. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Opt for natural, breathable fabrics: Natural fibres are often more breathable and comfortable for your baby. Cotton is a popular choice for sleepwear as it is hypoallergenic, easy to care for, and can withstand high temperatures during washing. Cotton jersey, which includes a small percentage of elastane, offers ease of movement. However, cotton may not be the most durable choice, so look for good-quality products.
- Consider other breathable options: Bamboo fabric is highly absorbent and has thermo-regulation abilities. It is also hypoallergenic, making it a safe choice for your baby's delicate skin. Linen is another breathable fabric that can help keep your baby cool and comfortable. Muslin, a lightweight cotton fabric, is also suitable for warm weather and is commonly used for swaddles and summer clothes.
- Avoid certain materials: Polyester, while durable and practical for everyday baby clothes, may not be ideal for sleepwear or warm weather clothing due to its lower breathability compared to natural fibres. Fleece, a synthetic material, can be excellent for winter clothes, but it may cause overheating if not used properly.
- Dress your baby in lightweight clothing: In warm weather, choose lightweight and breathable sleep clothes for your baby. Opt for soft, comfortable fabrics that suit the temperature. Ultra-light jersey fabric, for example, is 30% lighter than original jersey knit fabric and is designed for warmer climates.
- Assess your baby's comfort: Feel your baby's core, including their chest, neck, back, and tummy, to determine if they are too hot or too cold. A slightly cool chest or neck is a sign that the temperature is good. Their body should feel warm, but not sweaty.
- Adjust according to your baby's sleeping environment: The ideal room temperature for a baby's sleeping environment is between 68° and 72°F. If your home is on the cooler side, consider adding an extra layer, such as a lightweight sleep sack. Conversely, if your home is warm, you may need to remove a layer to prevent overheating.
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Frequently asked questions
In the summer, a 7-month-old baby should wear a onesie or baby pyjamas made of breathable materials such as muslin. If it's a very warm night, your baby may be comfortable in just a diaper and a lightweight swaddle, as long as they are not in an air-conditioned room.
In the winter, a 7-month-old baby can wear footed pyjamas and a wearable blanket, also known as a sleep sack. You may want to combine multiple layers, such as a long-sleeved onesie together with a sleep sack.
To determine if your 7-month-old is too hot or cold, check their face for redness and feel their body temperature. If they feel too cold, add an extra layer. If they feel too hot, remove a layer. It's normal for a baby's hands and feet to be cold, so check their chest, neck, back, and tummy instead.
You should avoid dressing your 7-month-old in hats, hoods, or any type of head covering for sleep, as this can increase the risk of suffocation and overheating. You should also avoid loose clothing, as this may become a fire hazard, and clothing with small objects like buttons or zipper pulls, as these can become choking hazards.
