New guidelines suggest keeping babies cool for better sleep and health, with ideal room temps between 18-20°C.
Ideal room temperature for babies
The ideal temperature for a baby's room is between 18 and 20 degrees Celsius, according to Chloé Haddad Halimi. This range helps the baby regulate their body temperature better and supports better sleep quality.Risks of overheating
A room that is too warm can cause discomfort for the baby, leading to sweating, frequent awakenings, and less restful sleep. Babies are especially vulnerable to overheating, which can be dangerous.Cooling strategies for hot weather
To keep the baby's room at a comfortable temperature in hot weather, parents can close blinds and curtains during the day, air out the room in the early morning and late evening, and use a fan without pointing it directly at the baby. Limiting heat sources and dressing the baby in light, breathable clothing can also help.Choosing the right clothing
Parents should dress the baby according to the room's temperature. For example, at 24 degrees Celsius or higher, a short-sleeved onesie or diaper may be enough. As the temperature decreases, appropriate clothing and sleeping bags with the right TOG rating should be used to ensure comfort without overheating.Checking the baby's temperature
To check if a baby is at the correct temperature, parents should touch the back of the baby's neck rather than the hands or feet. A warm and dry neck indicates the baby is comfortable and not too hot or cold.Sleeping bag guidelines
Sleeping bags come with a TOG rating, which indicates how warm they are. The higher the TOG, the warmer the sleeping bag. Parents should choose a sleeping bag with a TOG rating that matches the room's temperature. It is also important to avoid adding blankets, comforters, or pillows in the baby's bed to reduce the risk of sudden unexpected death in infants.