Sleep Tips for Cold Weather

How to ensure warm and safe winter nights

Winter has arrived! The days are getting shorter, but... does that also apply to your nights? Low temperatures can make it harder for little ones to fall asleep, especially since they can't yet regulate their body temperature properly. Falling asleep and staying asleep can become more difficult, leading to short, restless naps. Here are some handy tips to ensure your baby can still dream sweetly, despite the cold. 

The ideal temperature for a baby’s room is between 16°C and 20°C, but during cold winter nights, this can be quite a challenge. Make sure the windows are properly sealed and no drafts are coming through. Draft strips, thick curtains, and a soft rug will help keep the warmth in and make the room cozy. 

But it's not just about temperature! Proper humidity is essential for a comfortable sleep environment; between 40% and 60% is ideal. However, the air tends to be drier in winter. To increase humidity, you can use a humidifier or simply place a bowl of water on the radiator. Small adjustments can make a big difference for sweet dreams! 

Tip: Unsure about the temperature and humidity in the baby’s room? A hygrometer allows you to easily monitor both values!

Choosing the right sleepwear for your little one starts with understanding TOG values. This value indicates how warm a garment is and helps you determine which items are best suited for the temperature in the baby’s room. At a room temperature of 16-18°C, a TOG value of 2.5 is perfect. This keeps your baby warm without the risk of overheating.

A good sleep environment is crucial for a comfortable and safe night’s rest for your baby. During cold nights, you naturally want to keep your little one warm. Choose to dress your baby in multiple layers or use a thicker teddy sleeping bag instead of a loose blanket. 

Want to warm up the crib? A hot water bottle can help, but always remove it before your baby goes to sleep. Also, make sure the crib is free of blankets, loose pillows, and stuffed animals so that your baby can sleep safely. 

Sleeping Position Advice: Try to have your baby sleep on their back as much as possible. This position keeps the airways clear and promotes healthy sleep.

When it’s cold, your baby’s hands might feel cold, even though they might not actually be cold. To properly assess whether your little one is comfortable, it’s best to feel their neck. If the neck feels warm or damp, your baby is probably dressed too warmly and you can remove a layer. If the neck feels cold, it’s time to add a layer. 

Signs that your baby is too cold during the night: 

• Sleeping with their bottom in the air & arms tucked under their body 

• Cuddling up in a corner of the crib 

• Waking up early (between 04:00 and 06:00) 

Pay close attention to these signs so you can quickly respond to your baby’s needs.

With these tips, you’re well-prepared to provide your little one with a warm and safe night’s rest, even during the coldest winter nights. Keep an eye on the temperature, choose the right sleeping bag, and ensure a comfortable sleeping environment. That way, your baby can safely and cozily dream while you sleep with peace of mind.