As the temperatures rise and the nights grow warmer, it’s natural to worry about how to keep your baby cool and safe while they sleep. Overheating is a known risk factor for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), which is why it’s so important to know how to create a safe sleeping space, especially during the summer.
Here’s everything you need to know about safer sleep in warmer weather:
Keep an Eye on Room Temperature
Your baby’s room should be kept between 16°C and 20°C. This might be easier said than done during a heatwave, but there are simple ways to keep things cooler:
- Close curtains or blinds during the day to block direct sunlight.
- Open windows in the early morning or evening to allow fresh air in.
- Use a fan placed well away from your baby, not pointing directly at them, to help move air around the room. Never aim the fan at your baby.
You can use a room thermometer to check the temperature – they’re inexpensive and so reassuring.
Dress Your Baby Lightly
Less is more on warm nights. If the room is hot, dress your baby in just a short-sleeved vest or even just a nappy. Avoid hats or anything that covers their head during sleep, as babies regulate heat through their heads.
Stick to lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and avoid thick sleepwear or heavy bedding.
Safe Sleep Set-Up
The safest place for your baby to sleep is:
- On their back
- In a clear, flat, and firm sleep space
- In a separate sleep surface, such as a Moses basket or cot, in the same room as you for the first 6 months
Keep the sleep space clear of loose bedding, pillows, bumpers, and toys, even in summer.
If you use a sleeping bag, make sure it’s the right tog rating for the temperature (usually 0.5 tog or 1.0 tog in summer) and the correct size for your baby’s weight and age.
On the Move
If you’re travelling or your baby is napping in the pram, never cover the pram with a blanket or muslin, even if you’re trying to keep the sun out, this can trap heat and make the inside dangerously hot. Use a clip-on parasol or sunshade that allows for ventilation instead.
Final Thought
As a maternity nurse and sleep consultant, I’ve worked with so many families who feel overwhelmed by the little details, especially when routines change with the weather. Please know you’re not alone. These small changes can make a big difference to your baby’s comfort and safety.
If you’d like personalised support with your baby’s sleep or routine this summer, I’m here to help.
Stay cool, stay safe, and enjoy these long summer evenings with your little one.
Love,
Katie-Jane x