5 Tips to Help Your Baby Sleep in Winter

Getting your little one to sleep can be tough at the best of times, and while the thought of baby bedtimes at this time of year can give many parents a case of the winter blues, we’re here to remind you to breathe. This is totally manageable, and after reading our winter bedtime tips, you’ll be a pro in no time!

Monitor the Mercury

It’s good practice to monitor the temperature of the room your baby sleeps in. The ideal sleeping temperature for babies is between 16-20 degrees. Keep a thermometer close at hand, and be sure to keep your little one away from any space heaters or radiators, as babies under 12 months are particularly vulnerable to overheating.

Babies can’t regulate their temperature in the same way an adult can which means it’s easy for them to overheat, so it’s important to monitor the room temperature throughout the night. For this reason, it’s also important to make sure your baby’s cot is away from any windows as this can lower your baby’s temperature, particularly in the colder months.

Layers Are Your New Best Friend

You’re unlikely to need your heating on throughout the night, but if you’re worried about the temperature being lower than your little one would like, consider wrapping them up in extra layers. That way, as you check on them during the night, you can easily add or remove layers as needed. A good rule of thumb is to bundle your baby up in one more layer than the amount you’re wearing (NCT.org).

Sleep Fact: Remember, duvets of any kind should be avoided for babies under 12 months due to increased risks of suffocation and SIDS. So instead, try layering using breathable cellular knitted blankets or long-sleeved baby grows.

A heavier weight of sleeping bag such as 2.5 tog is also handy. Available in sizes for 0-6 months and 6-18 months in a range of stylish prints, SnuzPouch is perfect for keeping toasty during the cooler months.

For infants 12 months and older, consider bundling them up in breathable cotton and fleece blankets for extra comfort and warmth.

Hold off on Hats

We’re a big fan of hats as outdoor accessories to keep little noggins snug, not to mention they can make your baby look cute as a button.

However, no matter how cute they look in headwear, avoid kitting little ones out in hats when indoors or at bedtimes, as it can disrupt your baby’s natural temperature regulation in the night, which can keep them from sleeping soundly. Babies heads are important for maintaining body temperature and releasing heat, covering their heads can lead to overheating so it’s always best to avoid hats when indoors.

Dry Skin Who?

If you do anything for your little one this winter, invest in a humidifier! Keep it close by wherever your baby sleeps, as it can help keep their skin soft and moisturised.

As much as we love bath times, we suggest cutting these down to a couple of times a week, as too many can dry your baby’s delicate skin, stripping it of natural oils that keep it soft and healthy. This can cause itchy skin that will keep your little one up, wriggling and scratching. When you do bathe your little one, be sure to apply gentle, skin-sensitive moisturisers once they’ve dried off to keep their skin silky smooth and itch-free.

Regular Check-ins

As the mercury begins to drop, it’s extra important to keep a close eye on your sleepy peep. Regularly check your baby’s temperature by gently placing a hand on the back of their neck. If it feels at all damp, or warmer than usual, consider removing layers to cool them down.

Placing a thermometer beneath your baby’s armpit and gently, but firmly holding their arm down should give you a more accurate reading that can make you aware of whether or not they’re too cold or too hot.

Ready to Nap?

Remember, baby’s bedtimes should get easier with time. In the meantime, follow these tips and be aware of any non-verbal cues your little one might make to signal their discomfort, as they could be trying to tell you they’re too hot or cold. Bedtimes in the winter months are all about striking the right balance to make sure your little one is cosy without the risk of overheating.

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