What should a baby wear at night?

What Should Baby Wear to Bed? A Cosy Guide for New Moms

Hello! Congratulations on the arrival of your little one! Bringing home a new baby is a beautiful and life-changing experience, and as a new mom, you may find yourself wondering about all the little details that will help keep your baby safe, warm, and comfortable. One of those details is what your baby should wear at night.

With safety as the top priority, there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure that your little one is not only cosy and snug but also safely dressed for a sound sleep.

1. Why Layering Matters

Newborns are still learning to regulate their body temperature, so the clothing they wear to bed plays a big role in keeping them comfortable. A common rule of thumb is to dress them in one additional layer compared to what an adult would feel comfortable wearing at the same room temperature.

Layering is helpful because it allows you to easily add or remove layers depending on how warm or cool the room feels. This makes sure that your baby isn’t too hot or too cold and can sleep soundly.

2. Start with a Base Layer

The base layer is the foundation of your baby’s bedtime outfit. For cooler rooms (under 68°F or 20°C), a long-sleeved onesie made from a soft, breathable fabric like cotton is a great option. If it’s warmer (above 68°F or 20°C), a short-sleeved onesie may be more comfortable.

Top Tip: Avoid synthetic fabrics like polyester for the base layer, as they can trap heat and make babies sweat. Natural fabrics, like cotton, bamboo, or organic blends, are gentler on their sensitive skin and allow for better airflow.

3. Add a Sleepsuit or Footed Pyjamas

After the onesie, adding a layer like a sleepsuit or footed pyjamas is common, especially if the room is on the cooler side. Sleepsuits that cover the baby’s arms, legs, and feet keep them warm and cosy without needing socks or additional layers, which can shift and bunch up during sleep.

Look for sleepsuits with zippers (with a protective cover at the top) or snap buttons, as these can be handy for quick diaper changes in the middle of the night. Just make sure the suit is snug but not tight, especially around the neck and chest area.

4. The Importance of Swaddling or a Sleep Sack

Swaddling or using a sleep sack can provide the warmth of a blanket without the risks of loose bedding. For babies under two months old, swaddling is generally recommended to provide them with a snug, secure feeling that helps prevent their startle reflex from waking them up.

• Swaddling: A properly wrapped swaddle can make a big difference in helping a newborn sleep more soundly. Choose a lightweight, breathable swaddle wrap or blanket. Many parents prefer swaddles with Velcro or zipper fastenings, which make it easier to wrap and keep the swaddle secure through the night.
• Sleep Sacks: Once your baby starts to roll over (typically around 2–4 months), it’s time to transition from a swaddle to a sleep sack. Sleep sacks are wearable blankets that provide warmth without constriction, giving babies the freedom to move their arms and legs safely.

Note: Avoid swaddling once your baby shows signs of rolling to keep them safe in case they roll onto their tummy.

5. Temperature Guide: Dressing for the Right Room Temperature

Here’s a quick guide to help you match the layers to the room temperature:

• Over 75°F (24°C): A lightweight, short-sleeved onesie or just a diaper and a cotton sleep sack.
• 70–74°F (21–23°C): A short-sleeved onesie with a lightweight sleep sack.
• 65–69°F (18–20°C): A long-sleeved onesie and footed pyjamas or a lightweight sleep sack.
• 60–64°F (15–17°C): A long-sleeved onesie, footed pyjamas, and a warmer sleep sack or thicker sleepsuit.

Using a room thermometer can be especially helpful for monitoring temperature.

6. Check for Signs of Overheating

Overheating can increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), so keeping an eye out for signs that your baby is too hot is important. If your baby’s chest or neck feels hot and sweaty, they may need fewer layers. Look for these signs of overheating:

• Damp hair or sweat on the neck or chest
• Flushed, red skin
• Rapid breathing

7. Final Touches: Avoid Hats and Loose Blankets

While hats may seem like a cosy addition, they aren’t recommended for babies sleeping indoors. Babies release heat through their heads, and wearing a hat indoors can lead to overheating. Similarly, avoid using loose blankets in the crib. A safe sleep environment includes a firm mattress with a fitted sheet only.

If you feel like your baby might get chilly, a sleep sack will keep them warm safely without the risk of blankets that can cover their face.

8. Trust Your Instincts and Test Their Comfort

As a mom, you’ll soon become very attuned to your baby’s comfort. Do a quick touch test—feel your baby’s chest or back to check their body temperature. Their hands and feet can feel naturally cooler, so focus on their core when checking for warmth.

If you’re still uncertain, you can use the one-layer rule as a guide, adjusting as needed based on how comfortable your baby seems.

9. Choosing the Right Fabrics

Soft, natural fabrics are your baby’s best friend. Cotton, bamboo, and merino wool are popular choices because they’re breathable, soft, and gentle on sensitive skin. If your baby has sensitive skin, look for hypoallergenic, organic fabrics free from dyes or chemicals.

Final Thoughts: A Good Night’s Sleep for Both of You

Remember, every baby is different, and it may take a bit of trial and error to find the perfect combination of layers that helps your little one sleep comfortably. Adjust based on the room temperature, and feel free to simplify or add as needed.

Above all, keep in mind that safety is the most important factor. By dressing your baby in breathable, secure, and comfortable layers, you’re helping them enjoy a restful night’s sleep—giving you peace of mind and hopefully a little more rest too!

Enjoy these special, cosy moments. Happy snuggling, and here’s to many sweet dreams for both you and your little one!