The Lullaby Trust has issued guidance on the ideal room temperature for a baby's bedroom during summer heatwaves, recommending a range of 16°C to 20°C to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The organisation stresses that babies who get too hot have a greater risk of SIDS, making it essential to keep them cool enough.
Keeping the Room Cool
To maintain this temperature, the trust advises using a room thermometer to monitor conditions. Simple measures include opting for lighter bedding and fewer clothing layers, opening the bedroom door and window if safe, and keeping curtains and blinds drawn during daylight hours to prevent overheating.
Parents are also encouraged to consult baby sleep bag guidance for the appropriate tog rating for each season. A fan can be used to reduce the room temperature, but it must never be directed straight at the baby.
Recognising Overheating
The trust notes that even after these steps, keeping the room between 16°C and 20°C may be difficult in extreme heat. In such cases, it is acceptable to dress the baby in a short-sleeved vest or even just a nappy. Parents should check the baby's chest or the back of their neck for clammy or sweaty skin, which indicates overheating; if so, remove a layer and adjust the room temperature.
Additional Safety Advice
The Lullaby Trust also recommends that parents share a room with their baby for at least the first six months to ensure safety and comfort during sleep. Ensuring adequate hydration is equally important, as babies are likely to feed more frequently than normal during hot weather.
