When the temperatures drop and the nights get chilly, one of the top concerns for parents is how to keep their baby warm and safe during sleep. Over-bundling can lead to overheating, while underdressing may leave your little one cold and uncomfortable. So, how do you find that cozy middle ground?
Here’s your complete guide on how to dress a baby for sleep in winter, safely, warmly, and comfortably.
Why the Right Winter Sleepwear Matters
Babies can’t regulate their body temperature as efficiently as adults, especially newborns. That’s why dressing them appropriately for sleep is essential in the colder months. You want to ensure they’re warm enough to sleep soundly without overheating, which has been linked to an increased risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
General Guidelines for Dressing a Baby for Winter Sleep
Think of it like this: your baby should wear one more layer than you would need to be comfortable in the same room.
1. Start with a Base Layer
A snug-fitting, breathable onesie or footed sleeper made from 100% cotton is a great first layer. Cotton is soft, gentle on baby skin, and helps regulate body temperature.
2. Add a Long Sleeve Sack or Pajamas
For extra warmth, layer a long-sleeved footie pajama or a long sleeve sack over the base layer. This adds warmth without being bulky.
3. Use a Winter Sleep Sack with Sleeves
Instead of loose blankets, which can be unsafe in cribs, use a winter sleep sack with sleeves or an infant sleeping bag for winter. These wearable blankets come in various TOG (Thermal Overall Grade) ratings — a 2.5 or 3.5 TOG is ideal for cold winter nights.
For babies 12-18 months, a winter sleep sack 12 18 months offers freedom of movement while keeping them cozy through the night.
What is TOG and Why It Matters
TOG stands for “Thermal Overall Grade”, a measure of insulation in fabrics. Higher TOG means more warmth.
Here’s a quick TOG guide for winter:
- 1.0 TOG – for mild winter nights or heated homes
- 2.5 TOG – suitable for most cold nights
- 3.5 TOG – ideal for very cold climates or rooms below 61°F (16°C)
Pair the TOG rating with the room temperature to decide how many layers to dress your baby in.
Room Temperature Tips
Keep your baby’s room between 68–72°F (20–22°C) for safe sleep. Use a baby monitor with a built-in thermometer or a room thermometer to monitor the temperature.
Signs Baby is Too Hot or Too Cold
Check the back of your baby’s neck or chest, it should feel warm, not sweaty or cold. Cold hands or feet are normal, but if your baby’s torso feels chilly, consider adding a layer.
- Too hot? Remove a layer and check for sweating or flushed cheeks.
- Too cold? Add a lightweight layer or increase the TOG of the sleep sack.
Final Tips for Safe Winter Sleep
- Avoid hats or hoods during sleep, they pose a suffocation risk.
- Skip loose blankets, always opt for a wearable blanket like a sleep sack.
- Use fitted crib sheets only and keep the crib clutter-free.
To dress a baby for sleep in winter, use breathable base layers, add a warm sleep sack, and monitor the room temperature. With the right clothing and environment, your baby will sleep safely and soundly all winter long.