Cold weather can make bedtime a little more stressful for parents — you want your baby to stay warm, but not overheat. Striking the right balance between comfort and safety is key to helping your baby sleep soundly through the winter months. This guide offers practical advice on how to dress your baby for sleep, what to avoid, and how to create a safe and cosy sleeping environment during chilly nights.
Why Heavy Blankets Should Be Avoided
It might be tempting to use heavy blankets or duvets when the temperature drops, but this is not recommended for babies. Overheating is a known risk factor for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), and thick blankets can increase that risk.
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Heavy bedding can trap heat and restrict movement
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Loose covers may pose a suffocation risk
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Babies can’t regulate temperature or remove covers on their own
Instead, opt for baby sleeping bags, which are designed to regulate temperature while ensuring your baby stays safely covered throughout the night.
Dress Your Baby for Warmth and Safety
Layering is the safest and most effective way to keep your baby warm at night without the risks associated with loose blankets.
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Start with a long sleeve bodysuit
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Add a long sleeve sleepsuit or pyjamas
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Choose a baby sleeping bag with the correct TOG rating for your room temperature
This setup keeps your baby warm and allows you to easily add or remove a layer if needed. For more detailed advice, refer to our Tog Guide, which includes suggested clothing combinations for different temperatures.
Understanding TOG Ratings for Winter
TOG ratings help you choose the right baby sleeping bag based on room temperature:
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2.5 TOG: Suitable for rooms between 15–21°C
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3.5 TOG: Ideal for rooms below 18°C during cold weather
You can also opt for sleeping bags with feet in these TOG ratings for toddlers who like to move around before bed.
How to Check if Your Baby Is Too Warm or Too Cold
Babies can't regulate their temperature like adults, so it’s important to monitor how they feel during the night:
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Touch the back of their neck or chest – it should feel warm, not hot or sweaty
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Cold hands and feet are normal – they’re not a reliable sign your baby is cold
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If your baby feels hot or clammy, remove a layer
Keep the Room at the Ideal Temperature
A baby's room should be kept between 16–20°C for safe and comfortable sleep. Use a room thermometer to keep track, and adjust clothing and TOG levels accordingly.
Why Choose Slumbersac for Winter Sleeping Bags?
At Slumbersac, we offer sleeping bags specifically designed to keep babies warm without overheating. Our winter sleep solutions feature:
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2.5 and 3.5 TOG options for different room temperatures
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Breathable fabrics like cotton and modal that prevent moisture build-up
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Long sleeve and footed styles for extra warmth and mobility
Our sleeping bags are made with safety and comfort in mind - helping your little one stay snug all night long.
When it comes to dressing your baby for cold nights, the key is combining the right layers with a TOG-rated sleeping bag. By avoiding loose blankets and checking your baby’s temperature regularly, you can help them sleep comfortably and safely through the winter season.
Ensure your baby sleeps soundly this winter. Shop our 2.5 and 3.5 TOG baby sleeping bags, including footed and long sleeve styles for extra cosiness and safety.
