Sleep tips during heat

How to help your baby sleep

We’re fully enjoying the summer sun! But… how are the nights? High temperatures can make it difficult for little ones to fall asleep, especially when they can’t yet regulate their own body temperature. Falling asleep and staying asleep takes more effort, leading to short and restless naps. 

Notice your baby is struggling with the heat? Here are our 4 best tips to help your baby sleep. 

The ideal temperature for a baby’s room is between 18°C and 20°C, but during summer days, the temperature often rises higher. By keeping windows and curtains or blinds closed during the day, you can keep much of the heat out. 

Does it cool down enough in the evening? Then open windows and doors to let the room air out. You can also refresh your baby’s crib. Do this by placing a bottle of cold water with ice cubes in the bed before bedtime. That way, your baby’s sleeping area will be nice and cool by the time it’s bedtime! Remove the bottle when you lay your baby in bed. 

If you're using air conditioning or a fan, don’t turn it on while your baby is in bed. Instead, start cooling the room an hour before bedtime, so the room is at the perfect temperature when your baby is falling asleep, and to prevent them from getting too cold during the night. 

EXTRA TIP: If the room stays too warm, consider temporarily moving the crib to a cooler place, such as the downstairs or a room where the sun doesn’t shine. 

Babies are still unable to regulate their own body temperature. You can help them by giving a lukewarm bath before bed. This cools their body down and is wonderfully relaxing. Make sure the water isn’t cold, as the body of your baby will have to work hard to warm up, which could actually make them hotter after the bath. The ideal temperature for a summer bath is 1-2 degrees cooler than usual. 

EXTRA TIP: No time for a full bath? Babies lose a lot of heat through their heads. A lukewarm washcloth on their head can also offer cooling relief.

Pajamas or a bodysuit, blanket or sleeping bag? On hot days, many parents wonder how to dress their little ones for the night. TOG values can be a helpful guide. The Thermal Overall Grade (TOG) is an indicator of the insulation value of fabrics. The higher the TOG, the more heat the fabric can retain. Each piece of clothing has a TOG value that corresponds to a certain room temperature. For example, at 19°C, you should dress your baby with 2.0 TOG. This makes it much easier to choose the right sleepwear for your baby! In our blog about TOG values and warmth, you’ll find a helpful chart and tips for dressing your baby at night. 

EXTRA TIP: TOG values are an important guideline, but your baby should always be the main factor. Keep a close eye on your baby’s body temperature. Feel their body or neck—if it feels clammy or very warm, your baby is too hot.

In addition to a cool room, a relaxed baby, and the right TOG values, the materials of sleepwear play an important role. By choosing breathable and moisture-regulating fabrics, you make it easier for your baby to release heat. Avoid synthetic fabrics like nylon and opt for natural materials, as these have a lower TOG value, making them perfect for hot days. 

In our collection, you’ll find sleep sacks and pajamas made from soft cotton and airy Tencel. Although cotton and Tencel have the same TOG value, Tencel offers more comfort in warm conditions thanks to its faster moisture absorption, natural antibacterial properties, and softer, cooler feel on the skin – ideal for summer or for little ones who get warm easily!

EXTRA TIP: Baker je je kindje in? Ook bij warm weer kun je veilig inbakeren met inbakerslaapzakje Piep, een gepatenteerd ontwerp dat verkrijgbaar is in katoen en tencel.