As winter approaches, I’m hearing from more and more families asking:

“How do I know what to dress my baby in at night now that it’s getting colder?”
“What’s the ideal room temperature for sleep?”

These are important questions—and they’re not always easy to answer.

All babies are different.
Some sleep better with more layers, others feel more settled when slightly cooler.

There’s no single “perfect” temperature.
What matters is that your baby is comfortable.

How to Know If Your Baby Is Comfortable

keeping baby warm at night for sleep

You can’t rely on their hands or feet—they’re often cooler than the rest of the body.

Instead, check:

Chest or back:

     

      • Warm and dry? That’s perfect.

      • Sweaty or clammy? Remove a layer.

      • Cool to touch? Add one.

    You can also learn a lot from sleep posture:

       

        • Arms stretched up? Often a sign they’re too hot.

        • Hands tucked under chest or body curled up? They may be cold.

        • Relaxed limbs beside the body or face? Likely just right.

      What’s the Ideal Room Temperature?

      is your baby too hot or cold for sleep ideal temperature for sleep

      Generally, aim for 18–22°C, but this will feel different depending on:

         

          • Where you live (dry or humid)

          • The insulation and airflow in your home

          • Whether you’re using heating, and if it’s consistent or fluctuating

        Use a room thermometer to track your baby’s sleep space overnight, not just the outside temperature. It helps you to learn how the outside affects the inside temperature, and then prepare and dress them accordingly before the room cools.

        So What Should You Dress Your Baby In?

        baby all layerd up to keep warm

        I’ve made it easy for you. Download my free visual guide on how to dress your baby for sleep based on temperature and TOG rating:

        What should my baby Wear (1)Download

        This guide includes:

           

            • A quick-reference chart for TOG ratings

            • Layering suggestions by room temperature

            • Tips for what to add or remove to keep your baby comfortable and safe

          General Overnight Dressing Tips

           

           

          Stick to cotton-only layers (no synthetics at night)

           

          Use the rule: what you’re wearing + one layer

           

          If your arms are covered, so should theirs be

           

          Avoid blankets and cot bumpers

           

          Use a breathable mattress protector and safe comforters

           

          If using a heater, choose one with a thermostat, and keep air flowing

          You don’t need a dozen different sleep suits.

          You just need to learn how your baby responds to changes—and trust yourself.

          Start with the guide. Then observe, feel, adjust.

          You’re doing beautifully.