With the UK's fifth heatwave set to arrive on Thursday, bringing temperatures up to 37°C in some areas and 32°C in parts of Merseyside, parents are being urged to learn the warning signs of baby overheating. Overheating can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), and the NHS advises all parents to know these signs before it's too late.
Keeping the nursery cool
The recommended temperature range for a baby's bedroom is between 16°C and 20°C. To keep the room cool, the NHS recommends closing the blinds and using a fan to circulate air, but ensuring the fan isn't aimed directly at the baby as it can dehydrate them.
It's also advisable to keep nightclothes to a minimum; putting a baby to sleep in just a nappy is acceptable in hot weather. Keeping a thermometer in the nursery helps monitor the temperature.
How to check your baby's temperature
Parents can check their baby's temperature by placing a hand on their tummy, back, or chest. Avoid checking hands and feet, as these naturally run cooler and can give an inaccurate reading.
It's crucial to learn the signs of overheating in babies, which can differ from adults.
Seven signs of overheating in babies
- Sweating or damp hair – check the hairline, neck, and scalp.
- Flushed, red cheeks.
- A hot chest or back – compare with your own temperature; if hot and sweaty, they're likely too hot.
- Rapid breathing – faster breathing indicates attempts to cool down.
- Heat rash – small pink or red bumps on the neck, back, and chest.
- Restless or disrupted sleep – difficulty settling down.
- Unusual drowsiness or lethargy – if limp, extremely sleepy, or hard to wake, seek urgent medical attention.
