With parts of the UK set to experience temperatures upwards of 36°C in the coming days, keeping babies cool while they sleep is crucial. The Lullaby Trust, a charity focused on preventing sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), has shared guidance on maintaining a safe sleeping environment.
Ideal room temperature for baby sleep
The Lullaby Trust recommends that the room where a baby sleeps should be kept at a fairly cool temperature of 16°C to 20°C. They said: “One of the most important parts of baby summer safety is keeping your baby cool in hot weather. Babies who get too hot have a greater risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), so it’s essential to keep them cool enough.”
“We recommend the room your baby sleeps in at a fairly cool temperature of 16°C to 20°C.”
Practical tips to keep the room cool
Keeping the room this cool in summer can be challenging, but several measures can help. Using lighter bedding and clothing with fewer layers is advised, as is opening the bedroom door and window if it is safe to do so.
The Lullaby Trust also suggests checking baby sleep bag guidance for the appropriate tog for each season. Using a fan to cool the room is acceptable, but it should never be pointed directly at the baby. Keeping curtains and blinds closed during the day can prevent the room from heating up as much.
Recognising overheating and extra precautions
Parents should watch for signs that a baby is too hot. Feeling the baby’s chest or the back of their neck can help; if they feel clammy or sweaty, it’s a sign they’re getting too hot. In that case, remove a layer of clothing and adjust the room temperature using the tips above.
The Lullaby Trust added: “You might find that even after doing all of the above, you still struggle to keep your baby’s room between 16°C and 20°C when it’s particularly hot outside. This can be frustrating. In really hot weather, it’s fine to have your baby in a short-sleeved vest or even just a nappy.”
They also recommend sharing a room with your baby for at least the first six months to help keep them safe and comfortable while they sleep. Ensuring the baby has plenty of fluids is crucial, as they may feed more than usual during hot weather.
