What should babies sleep in

What should babies sleep in

It can be confusing for parents to decide what should babies sleep in.  This is particularly so with the change of seasons.


As a general rule keep in mind that babies cannot regulate their temperature like adults can. Babies have an immature nervous system when born.   One of the trade offs is that they cannot easily cool down or warm up.  I see it as another indicator that newborns are meant to be with their mother or caregiver bodily in the early weeks of life.

When a baby is against your body they generally get enough heat to stay warm.  This is often why babies settle really well against someone’s chest. Of course it is more complex than that.  There is also smell, the feeling of security, safety and comfort.

When we need to warm up consider what we do.  Our bodies will shiver as a means to increase warmth from our muscles.  We could move more- do some exercise etc.  We could put on more clothing or have a warm shower or bath.

To cool down we can remove layers, use a fan, have a swim or cool shower or have a cool drink. We can also choose to do nothing on those really hot days.  We also have the privilege of air conditioning if not in your home then at shopping centres and for many on a very hot summer day that is exactly what many choose to do to get out of the heat.

When deciding what babies should sleep in a general guide is think about what you are comfortable in and then either add or remove one layer.  For example when it is warm- dress your baby in one less layer of clothing than you.  Always keep chest covered with a singlet at least.

When it is colder, dress  your baby in at least one more layer of clothing than you. Sometimes you may need to add a number of layers when it is really cold.  Remember your baby is not moving when asleep.  Often when babies are not setting well particularly at night it is because they may be just a little bit cooler than comfortable. Adding a layer may make all the difference.

Sleeping bags and swaddling are also a layer.  It is safer to have a number of thin layers than one really thin layer in most instances.   In places where the temperature is well below zero- then more and thicker layers will be necessary.

So consider the temperature and what you feel like in relation to temperature when deciding what  should babies sleep in.