Optimal Room Temperature

Keeping the nursery at a comfortable temperature is key. The ideal range is between 68-72°F (20-22°C), as this prevents overheating or chilling. A room thermometer can help parents monitor this. A good rule of thumb—if you feel comfortable in the room, your baby likely does too.

Crib Safety Guidelines

• Always place babies on their backs to sleep to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

• Use a firm mattress with a fitted sheet, and avoid loose blankets, pillows, or stuffed animals in the crib.

• Avoid overdressing, as too many layers can increase overheating risks.

Layering Principles

• Start with a fitted cotton onesie as a base layer.

• Depending on the season, add a long-sleeved pajama or footed sleeper.

• Follow the one-layer rule—dress your baby in one more layer than what you’d wear in the same environment.

Avoiding Overheating

• Instead of checking hands and feet, feel your baby’s neck or chest to determine their warmth.

• Watch for signs of overheating like sweating, damp hair, flushed cheeks, heat rash, and rapid breathing.

Swaddles and Sleep Sacks

• Swaddles are great for newborns who enjoy the snug feeling of being wrapped.

• Sleep sacks are a safer alternative to loose blankets, preventing suffocation risks.

• Make sure swaddles allow for natural hip movement to prevent hip dysplasia.

Understanding TOG Ratings for Sleepwear

• 0.5 TOG – Light sleep sack for warm temperatures.

• 1.0 TOG – Suitable for year-round use.

• 2.5 TOG – Ideal for colder weather.

Best Fabrics for Comfort

• Cotton and bamboo are breathable and help regulate body temperature.

• Avoid synthetic fabrics that trap heat and may cause sweating.

Summer

• A short-sleeved bodysuit or just a diaper under a lightweight sleep sack (0.5 TOG) works well.

• Ensure proper airflow in the room and avoid overdressing.

Winter

• Use layering, such as a long-sleeved onesie under a warmer sleep sack.

• A higher TOG-rated sleepwear (2.5 TOG) helps keep the baby warm.

Room Temperature Guide for Sleepwear

Overheating Symptoms

• Sweating, damp hair, flushed cheeks, heat rash, rapid breathing.

Being Too Cold

• Cool skin, pale appearance, fussiness, cold extremities.

How to Check Baby’s Comfort

• Feel their neck or back—if sweaty, they’re too warm; if cool, they need an extra layer.

Monitor Your Baby’s Sleep Patterns: If you want to ensure your baby is getting quality sleep, our Sleep Cycle Calculator can help you track sleep durations and understand their sleep cycles.

Avoid Hats and Hoods

• Babies regulate heat through their heads—wearing a hat while sleeping can cause overheating.

Use Breathable Bedding

• Instead of loose blankets, opt for sleep sacks or appropriate layered sleepwear.

Check Regularly

• Periodically feel the baby’s skin to ensure they’re not too hot or too cold.