A heatwave is upon us and while we are starting to melt, new parents might be left wondering: How on earth do I dress my baby to sleep in this heat?
Should you still swaddle? What layers are safe? And how do you keep your baby sleeping comfortably when the nursery feels like a greenhouse?
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through exactly what to do, no matter how high the temperature climbs, we can keep your baby sleeping comfortably through the summer.
To Swaddle or Not to Swaddle in Hot Weather?
Yes you can still swaddle in hot weather. The key is to adjust the layers, not the technique.
I always recommend keeping sleep positions and settling methods consistent, changing too much confuses your baby more than it helps. Instead, reduce clothing and bedding as temperatures rise, but continue swaddling safely with fewer layers.
For older babies, switch to a lower TOG sleeping bag. You can also find breathable muslin sleeping bags ideal for extreme heat if your baby struggles to sleep uncovered.
My Favourite Cooling Solution: The Bionaire Fan
If you’re battling heat and humidity, a powerful fan is essential, especially if you’re in the UK where air con is rare.
My go to recommendation? The Bionaire BASF1016 pedestal fan. It’s stronger than a Dyson, costs much less, and gets real results when it comes to maintaining a comfortable baby sleep environment.
Position the fan near but not directly on your baby, and run it during the day and night if needed to circulate air and lower the room temperature.
My temperature based guide to dress your baby for safe, comfortable sleep:
Room Temperature: Up to 22°C
- Vest onesie
- Bodysuit
- Miracle Blanket swaddle
- 1 light blanket (for 20–22°C)
- 2 blankets (for 18–20°C)
Room Temperature: 23–25°C
- Vest onesie
- Miracle Blanket swaddle
- 1 cellular blanket or muslin (especially if closer to 25°C)
- Oscillating fan to circulate air (not directly on your baby but over the cot, keeping your baby’s body temperature cool below)
Room Temperature 26–35°C (Hot)
- Vest onesie
- Swaddle with legs exposed, roll the swaddle up.
- Small muslin to tucking around the upper body to secure the sleep position if needed.
- Fan day and night
- Curtains shut during the day to reduce sunlight and heat.
- Keep the windows open during the day and night to increase airflow through the house and bedroom. Because temperatures often dip over night, it’s a good idea to keep your baby’s legs covered overnight.
I hope this post helps you and your baby sleep well throughout the summer months , if you needed one to one support with sleep, I’m here to help! Have a lovely summer …
