How To Dress Your Child For Sleep

The weather is getting colder and your child needs to be dressed appropriately for bedtime. You can add a blanket to your child’s bed or even a set of warm pajamas. The big question is how to dress your baby to sleep. Your baby cannot tell the difference between hot and cold.

Layered Clothing

One of the best ways to keep your baby warm at night is by wearing multiple layers of clothing. This method allows you to regulate your baby’s body temperature, activity level, and comfort. Always take all layers with you on outings. If it gets too warm, you can easily take it off. It is better to have more layers than less, but you don’t want to be caught without something to wear on the coldest nights of the year.

Avoiding A Hat

While it’s tempting to put a hat on a sleeping child, this may not be the best choice. Hats can easily slip off babies’ faces and cause choking hazards. Baby’s internal temperature regulation is different from that of adults. Hats can also cause overheating and cover the baby’s head.

Another safety issue is the risk of exposure to air conditioning vents. Many hats are made to protect from the cold but not the heat. Because babies lose over one third of their body heat through the head, they are most vulnerable to overheating. Avoid putting a hat on your child when you’re home, or use extra layers of clothing while traveling.

Room Temperature

It is important to consider the temperature of the room when dressing your child for bed. Ideal room temperature is 16 to 20 degrees Celsius. Your child should be dressed accordingly, including a vest, sleep suit, or lightweight sleeping bag. A baby room thermometer can help you choose the right sleepwear for your child if you aren’t sure of the temperature. There are also thermometers in the form of nightlights, like the Tommee Tippee GroEgg2, which glows in different colours according to the room temperature.

If the room temperature is too warm, your child may have a difficult time sleeping. If the temperature is too low, add a layer of clothing. Moreover, infants are not very good at regulating their own body temperature, so cold hands and feet can disrupt their sleep.

Checking For Signs Of Overheating

It is a serious health risk to overheat a child or baby. It has been linked to increased risk of SIDS. You should look out for signs that could indicate possible overheating. These symptoms include a reddened face, rapid breathing, and a damp neck or head. These symptoms should be reported immediately to a healthcare professional.

First, ensure your child is appropriately dressed for the weather. A baby is more susceptible to overheating than an adult. Make sure your baby is dressed appropriately for the weather, and keep the house cool.

You Should Be Looking For Signs Of Chilling

If your child’s skin is feeling cold, they may be suffering from a chilling episode. It is important to look out for signs of chilling such as a rapid pulse, pale skin or swelling of the hands and feet. If you notice any of these signs, get them to the doctor immediately. To increase their body temperature, you can use warm water and blankets.