Bringing a baby home is an exciting and nerve-wracking experience, especially when it comes to making sure they are safe and comfortable while sleeping. One of the biggest concerns parents face is how to keep their baby warm in the crib without the risk of overheating. Babies are much more sensitive to temperature changes than adults, and striking the right balance can feel overwhelming.
If you have ever woken up in the middle of the night worrying whether your baby is too cold, you’re not alone. I remember feeling this way with my first child, constantly adjusting blankets and checking the room temperature, only to second-guess myself moments later. If you’re struggling with the same concern, there are practical and safe ways to ensure your little one stays cozy without compromising their safety.
Dress Your Baby in Layers
One of the best ways to keep your baby warm without overheating is by dressing them in layers. Instead of relying on heavy blankets, which can be a suffocation hazard, focus on breathable, snug-fitting sleepwear.
A good rule of thumb is to dress your baby in one more layer than what you would wear to feel comfortable in the room. For example, if you’re sleeping in a light pajama set, your baby might need a long-sleeve onesie with a sleep sack over it.
Some great options include:
- Onesies and footed pajamas – These provide full coverage without being too bulky.
- Sleep sacks – These wearable blankets keep babies warm while preventing loose fabric in the crib.
- Swaddles (for younger infants) – If your baby isn’t rolling over yet, a swaddle can help them feel secure while maintaining warmth.
Avoid thick fabrics like fleece or heavy knit materials, as they can trap heat and cause your baby to overheat. Always check their neck and back for signs of sweating, which indicates they may be too warm.
Maintain a Comfortable Room Temperature
The room temperature plays a huge role in keeping your baby comfortable while sleeping. The ideal temperature for a baby’s room is between 68-72°F (20-22°C). This might feel cooler than expected, but it helps prevent the risk of overheating, which has been linked to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
If you find that your baby’s nursery is too cold, consider these adjustments:
- Use a space heater (safely) – If your baby’s room tends to be drafty, a space heater with an automatic shutoff feature can help regulate warmth. Never place it too close to the crib.
- Adjust the thermostat – Keeping the house at a consistent temperature, especially in winter, helps maintain comfort.
- Use thermal curtains – These can block cold drafts and keep the room insulated.
Checking your baby’s body temperature is more accurate than relying on how their hands or feet feel. Babies often have cool extremities due to poor circulation, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they are cold. Feel their chest or back to determine if they are at a comfortable temperature.
Choose the Right Crib Bedding
Keeping the crib warm isn’t about piling on blankets—it’s about using the right materials. Since loose bedding increases the risk of suffocation, the safest approach is to create a warm sleep environment without extra blankets.
- Use a firm crib mattress with a fitted sheet – A firm mattress prevents heat from escaping too quickly.
- Opt for flannel or jersey sheets – These are softer and retain heat better than standard cotton sheets.
- Place a warm water bottle in the crib before bedtime – Removing it before placing your baby down can create a cozy sleeping surface without adding loose items.
Avoid using quilts, pillows, or plush mattress toppers, as they pose a suffocation risk.
Keep Drafts Away From the Crib
A well-positioned crib can make a big difference in keeping your baby warm. If the crib is near a drafty window or vent, your baby might be exposed to fluctuating temperatures throughout the night.
- Move the crib away from windows, doors, and air vents – This prevents direct exposure to cold air.
- Use a crib skirt – While mostly decorative, it can help block drafts from coming up through the bottom of the crib.
- Seal windows and doors – If you feel cold air seeping in, using weather stripping or a draft stopper can help maintain a stable temperature.
Monitor Your Baby’s Comfort Level
Every baby is different, so paying attention to their cues is the best way to ensure they are warm enough. Some signs that your baby may be too cold include:
- Cool chest or back
- Shivering (though rare in newborns)
- Fussiness that improves when bundled up more
On the other hand, signs of overheating include:
- Sweaty neck or damp hair
- Flushed skin
- Rapid breathing
If you’re ever unsure, err on the side of dressing your baby in light layers. You can always add more, but it’s much harder to cool them down once they are overheated.
Consider a Humidifier in Cold Weather
Winter air can be incredibly dry, making it feel colder than it actually is. A humidifier can help keep the room comfortable by adding moisture to the air, which makes it feel warmer without needing to increase the heat. It also helps prevent dry skin and congestion, which are common in babies during colder months.
Trust Your Instincts and Find What Works for You
As a parent, you know your baby best. It’s natural to worry about whether they’re too cold at night, but with a few adjustments, you’ll find a routine that keeps them cozy and safe. I remember feeling anxious every winter, constantly checking on my baby to make sure they were warm enough. Over time, I realized that small tweaks—like using a sleep sack and adjusting the room temperature—made a huge difference.
You’ll develop your own strategies, too. Maybe your baby prefers an extra layer or sleeps better with a slightly cooler room. Trust your instincts, observe their comfort level, and remember that a safely warm crib is all about balance.
By dressing your baby appropriately, maintaining a comfortable nursery temperature, and eliminating unnecessary blankets, you can create a sleep space that is both cozy and safe. Rest assured, you are doing a great job in keeping your little one comfortable through the night.