Whoever coined the phrase “sleep like a baby” never actually had a baby.  Getting your baby to sleep at night is no easy feat.  Getting them to stay asleep can be even harder.  There are so many factors that impact a baby’s sleep patterns, but one of them is often overlooked: the temperature and air quality of their sleep environment.    It’s natural as parents to want to ensure our babies are warm enough.  But overheating is a common culprit for restless nights.

Did you Know?

In Finland, parents have a unique approach to baby sleep – they let their babies nap outdoors in the winter! The cold air is believed to help babies sleep longer and more deeply, contributing to better body temperature regulation. Ok, so we’re not pushing our baby’s bassinet outside anytime soon and aren’t necessarily recommending you do so either.  But incorporating elements of this practice might help you and your baby catch more zzz’s at night. 

Tips for Creating a Comfortable Sleep Environment for your Baby

• Maintain the Ideal Room Temperature: Set the temperature between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. This range is considered optimal for creating a cozy sleep environment without the risk of overheating.
• Enhance Air Circulation with a Fan: Set up a fan on low to improve air circulation in the room. No need to point the fan at your baby – just having it in the room can help regulate the temperature and create a comfortable sleeping atmosphere for your them.
• Use a Sleep Sack: Buckle Me Baby Sleep Everywhere Sacks are designed to keep your little one warm without the risk of overheating or the safety hazards of blankets.  Bonus: they can be worn in the car seat for those times baby dozes off on the ride home. 

• Humidify the Air: Use a cool-mist humidifier to maintain an ideal humidity level in the room. This can be particularly beneficial during dry seasons to prevent discomfort.
• Block Out Excessive Sunlight: If your baby's room receives a lot of sunlight, consider using blackout curtains or blinds. These not only create a soothing sleep environment but also help keep the room cool during warmer days.
• Hydration Matters: For babies old enough to drink water, ensure they are well-hydrated before bedtime. This simple step can contribute to their overall comfort during the night.
• Safety First with Single Fitted Sheets: For babies under one year old, stick to a single fitted sheet in the crib. This minimizes the risk of entanglement and ensures a safe sleeping environment for your little one.

There is nothing we parents covet more than a good night’s sleep.  And with good reason – it’s essential for our well-being and our baby’s.  Try these tips to find the right environment that works best for you and your baby.  Here’s to a restful night!

*This is not considered medically-approved safe sleep advice.  Always consult your child's pediatrician or a certified sleep coach for questions specific to your baby.