Appropriate temperature for baby: Overheating can increase the risk of cot death. Babies can overheat because of too much bedding or clothing, or because the room is too hot. Remember, a folded blanket counts as two blankets. When you check your baby, make sure they are not too hot. If your baby is sweating or their tummy feels hot to the touch, take off some of the bedding. Don’t worry if your baby’s hands or feet feel cool – this is normal.
• It is easier to adjust the temperature with changes of lightweight blankets.
Remember, a folded blanket counts as two blankets.
• Babies do not need hot rooms; all-night heating is rarely necessary. Keep the room at a temperature that is comfortable for you at night. About 18°C (65°F) is comfortable.
• If it is very warm, your baby may not need any bedclothes other than a sheet.
• Even in winter, most babies who are unwell or feverish do not need extra clothes.
• Babies should never sleep with a hot-water bottle or electric blanket, next to a radiator, heater or fire, or in direct sunshine.
• Babies lose excess heat from their heads, so make sure their heads cannot be covered by bedclothes during sleep periods.
How to prevent baby from overheating
Remove hats and extra clothing as soon as you come indoors or enter a warm car, bus or train, even if it means waking your baby.
Don’t let your baby’s head become covered
Babies whose heads are covered with bedding are at an increased risk of cot death. To prevent your baby wriggling down under the covers, place your baby feet to foot in the crib, cot or pram.
Make the covers up so that they reach no higher than the shoulders. Covers should be securely tucked in so they cannot slip over your baby’s head. Use one or more layers of lightweight blankets.
Sleep your baby on a mattress that is firm, flat, well fitting and clean. The outside of the mattress should be waterproof. Cover the mattress with a single sheet.
Remember, do not use duvets, quilts, baby nests, wedges, bedding rolls or pillows.
