Sleep is one of the top priorities for new parents. There’s a lot to be said for going with the flow during the first few days and weeks, particularly as a baby’s circadian rhythm (their 24 hour body clock) doesn’t start developing until around 6 weeks old.
Here are our top tips to make life easier in the early days.
We highly recommend reading the fantastic info from The Lullaby Trust on safe sleep, to reduce the risk of SIDS.
1. Consider the Room Temperature
Young babies cannot regulate their own body temperatures, so preparing them for sleep is a critical step. Before you even choose clothes for your baby, check the temperature in the room where they’ll sleep. A nursery thermometer is a great tool, such as the very popular Gro Egg.
Sleeping bag brands typically also provide guidance on the size and tog that will be suitable, like this handy chart below from Kite. Check out our range of cute and soft sleep bags here.
You’ll notice that the chart starts from 4kg, yet many babies are under this weight at birth. The 0-6 month size also tends to be very bulky in the first few weeks. Many parents choose a product specifically designed for newborns, such as a swaddle sack, to get them started. New parents may find themselves wondering if their baby is too hot or cold during the night, a good way to test if your baby is the right temperature is to feel the back of their neck or tummy. If they’re hot, remove a layer; if they’re cold, add one. Having different togs of sleep bag can allow you to easily make a change if needed. There are other togs available for temperature extremes – such as a 0.5 tog for hot weather, 3.5 tog, sometimes with padded arms, for very cold nights.
2. Layering is Key
When dressing a baby for the night, layering is essential. Layers allow you to adjust based on how warm or cool they feel during the night, rather than worrying about changing their entire outfit.
- Base Layer: A soft, breathable onesie made from cotton is a perfect base. It keeps your baby comfortable without causing overheating. Our cotton bodysuits are incredibly soft on newborn skin.
- Mid Layer: If it’s chilly, a sleepsuit adds warmth without being too bulky.
- Outer Layer: For added warmth, a sleeping bag is a popular choice with parents. These provide coverage without the need for loose blankets that could pose a safety risk.
Always avoid overdressing your baby. Overheating can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
3. Choosing the Right Fabrics
The fabric you choose for your baby’s nightwear can significantly impact their comfort. Soft, breathable fabrics that wick away moisture and keep your baby cool are essential for good sleep.
- Cotton is the go-to fabric for most of your baby’s clothing. It’s gentle on their skin and highly breathable.
- Bamboo fabrics are also a good choice because they’re soft, lightweight, and moisture-wicking.
- Merino wool is a natural fabric that can regulate body temperature, keeping your baby warm in colder months and cool in warmer seasons.
Avoid synthetic fabrics like polyester, as they don’t breathe well and may cause your baby to overheat.
4. Sleep Bags/ Sacks and Swaddles
While it may seem tempting to use blankets to keep your baby warm, they can be a suffocation hazard. Instead, opt for sleep bags or swaddles, which are safer alternatives.
- Swaddling can help calm babies and improve their sleep by mimicking the cosiness of the womb. But be sure not to swaddle too tightly, especially around the hips, to allow for healthy development.
- Sleep bags are wearable blankets that provide warmth while leaving the arms free. They are perfect for older babies who no longer need swaddling but still need warmth during the night.
These options help your baby sleep safely without the risk of loose blankets that could cover their face.
5. Double zip sleepsuits for easy changes
Night time nappy changes are an unavoidable part of parenthood for the first weeks of your babies life. Set yourself up with all the essentials to hand (including changes of clothing and bedding). Babies often do not like the temperature change being unzipped from their sleeping bag sleepsuit. Double zip sleepsuits are a gamechanger – allowing you to keep their top half warm and cosy, and for speed and ease.
6. Monitor Your Baby’s Comfort
Babies can’t tell you if they’re too hot or too cold, so it’s important to monitor their comfort. Check on them periodically to ensure they’re not flushed/ sweating or shivering.
- If your baby wakes up frequently during the night or seems restless, it could be due to discomfort from being too hot or cold. Experiment with different clothing options to see what works best for your baby’s sleep needs.
7. Safety First: Avoid Loose Clothing and Blankets
To ensure your baby sleeps safely, keep their cot clear of loose items such as blankets, pillows, and stuffed animals. A firm mattress with a fitted sheet is all they need. Loose items in the cot can increase the risk of suffocation or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Additionally, avoid dressing your baby in loose clothing that could slide over their face. Choose snug-fitting clothing that won’t shift as they sleep.
8. Pay Attention to the Season
Dressing your baby for the night should change with the seasons to ensure they stay comfortable.
- In warmer weather: Opt for lighter fabrics like cotton onesies or short-sleeved pyjamas. Consider a lightweight sleep sack to prevent overheating while providing some coverage.
- In colder weather: Layer up with a long-sleeved onesie, a soft sleeper, and a warm sleep sack or wearable blanket. Ensure that their feet are covered with footed pyjamas or socks.
9. Use a Baby Monitor
For added peace of mind, consider using a baby monitor with a temperature sensor. This way, you can remotely track the temperature of the room and make adjustments to your baby’s clothing as needed without disturbing their sleep.
Conclusion
Dressing your baby for the night involves a delicate balance of comfort, warmth, and safety. By choosing breathable fabrics, layering appropriately, and using safe sleep solutions like swaddles and sleep sacks, you can ensure your baby sleeps soundly and safely through the night. Keep an eye on the room temperature and always check on your baby’s comfort level to make adjustments as needed. With these tips, you’ll help create an environment where both you and your baby can rest easy.
