Are you trying to figure out the safest way for your baby to get some comfortable sleep this winter?
Who wouldn’t love a little more shut-eye after months of a different sleep schedule for feedings and diaper changes? So, we’ve written down a few tips about things like what a newborn should wear to sleep, how to set up their bed, how to keep them healthier, etc.
Understanding the Basics of Safe Sleep
So, to start off, let’s talk about the basics of safe sleep. It’s as easy as ABC:
- Alone – Baby needs to sleep alone in a bassinet or crib. While bed-sharing can seem tempting, it’s not the safest option for your baby. You can certainly have them sleep in your room for a few months, but it needs to be on their own sleeping surface.
- Back – Always put your baby on their back when you put them down to sleep. Putting them on their side or their stomach can be a risk since they might not be able to roll over—and they need an unrestricted way to breathe.
- Crib – Your baby should not only be in their own sleeping space, but the space should be totally empty. No pillows, blankets or stuffed animals.
Also, steer clear of space heaters, heated pads or electric blankets in the nursery. These can create uneven heat or even become fire hazards. These guidelines must be followed no matter what season it is. However, it might seem tricky in the winter months when you’re trying to keep your baby warm. You need to stand firm for your baby’s safety, though. We’ll talk about ways to keep them warm and safe below.
What Should Your Newborn Wear to Sleep?
So, how can you keep your sleeping baby safe and warm in the winter? Well, a big part of it is choosing the right sleepwear. Baby pajamas come in many different fabrics and styles. So, in the colder months, opt for long sleeves, long pants and even footies. This will keep the baby’s skin safely covered. Cotton is always a great go-to fabric, but if it’s especially cold, consider getting your baby fleece pajamas. They’re not as breathable, but they are warmer.
While blankets are a no-no, there is a great alternative—a baby sleeping bag of sorts. A wearable blanket. Wearable blankets are a safer blanket for newborns and toddlers. These special baby blankets cover your little one up, but it zips or snaps up, so that your baby is less likely to get tangled in it. It offers a way to give them a type of blanket without them having loose blankets in their crib. You can also use a baby swaddle blanket if your little one hasn’t learned to roll over yet. You’ll need to swaddle them properly for this to be considered safe. So, make sure you understand that before using a swaddle. This offers your baby warmth and comfort. However, for their safety, you need to stop swaddling them once they can roll.
A Good Room Temp for a Newborn
Keeping your baby’s room at the right temperature is really important for safe sleep and comfort. So, what’s the ideal room temperature for a baby? Most sources say 68-72°F. This range is warm enough without being too hot for your baby. You don’t want them to be too cold, but overheating can be bad as well.
Winter air can be especially dry, too, which might make your baby uncomfortable. A nursery humidifier is a great way to add some moisture back into the air. This can make it a little easier for your baby to breathe and help prevent issues like dry skin or nasal congestion. It can also help them if they end up getting the sniffles.
Preparing the Crib for Winter Sleep
It’s important to prepare your crib for safe sleep no matter the season. So, make sure the crib has the following:
- A firm and flat mattress that fits in the crib.
- Fitted crib sheet that has been secured properly.
- No other items in the crib.
As a bonus tip, having 2-3 fitted crib sheets on hand can be helpful in case of spit-up or a blowout. So, keep them where they are easily accessible to parents, but not children. Making sure your crib is properly set up ensures a much more safe and comfortable experience for your baby.
Being Prepared in Case Your Baby Gets Sick
There’s not much sadder than a sick baby. However, getting sick seems to come along a lot more often in the winter. There isn’t much you can do for a sick baby other than call the pediatrician and to be a little prepared. Having the following things on hand can make a huge difference when your baby is sick in the winter:
- A thermometer – to keep an eye on your baby’s temperature.
- A humidifier – by keeping the air moist, you can help with nasal congestion.
- An air purifier – keeping the air free of particles and allergens can be helpful.
- Saline – under the direction of a doctor, this can help moisten your baby’s nose.
- A nasal bulb – these usually come home in your hospital bag and can help you get mucus out of your baby’s nose.
If your baby is sick, you should always consult a pediatrician before using any of these commonly recommended items. Having them on hand can help prevent more stress and means that you’re able to help your baby as soon as possible.
Winter can make bedtime feel a little trickier, but with the right approach, you can create a safe, cozy space where your baby can sleep soundly. Sticking to the ABCs of safe sleep, choosing the right sleepwear, keeping the room at a comfortable temperature and prepping their crib the right way will help your baby stay safe and warm through the chilly months.
And let’s be real—when your baby sleeps better, you sleep better, too. A well-rested family is a happier family, even in the middle of those long winter nights.