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Confused about how to dress your child for sleep? How many layers? Sleep sack or swaddle? Many first-time parents are not aware of the appropriate sleepwear for babies. Something as mundane as choosing the right clothing is quite daunting for new parents.
They end up overdressing or underdressing the little one. Right clothing and bedding are the key to quality sleep for newly born babies.
If you do not know how to dress your pint-size peanut for bedtime, some basic guidelines will help the baby have uninterrupted, quality sleep.
How to Dress Your Baby For Sleep?
As per a general rule of thumb, dress the infant in one more layer than what you would wear in the same sleeping environment. Rely on layers, onesie, sleep sack, or lightweight swaddle for summer.
Consider a long-sleeved onesie or a heavier sleep sack or swaddle to keep the baby warm in colder months. Baby girl pajamas are best for the night.
This is just a general rule and it may or may not apply depending on the baby’s sleeping environment. Check the temperature of the room (ideally 68° and 72°F) and dress the child accordingly by adding or removing a layer.
It is tempting for grandmas to over bundle the baby which could result in a greater risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Appropriate Sleepwear For Babies
The Baby’s sleeping outfit should be loose, stretchy, and made out of natural materials to not cause any irritation. Here’s how you should dress baby for warm and cool nights
Dressing Up For Summer Night
Opt for something light and breezy with a Thermal Overall Grade (TOG) rating of 0.5-2 or below. Sleeping sacks or clothes with the aforementioned rating are without padding or lightly padded for summer/spring use.
Some common sleeping outfits include a short-sleeve cotton bodysuit, T-shirt with a muslin, cotton swaddle, or sleep sack. In an air-conditioned room, choose cotton long-sleeve pajamas with footies.
Layer Up For Winter Chill
Stick to appropriate sleeping gear with a 2-3.5 TOG rating for autumn/winter use. Avoid loose blankets and instead, prepare the baby for a chilly winter night with a pair of snuggly fleece pajamas or heavier microfleece swaddles.
To combat winter chill, opt for warmly padded sleep sacks layered on top of standard cotton jammies or footed sleepwear made out of slightly warmer fabrics.
Accessories
Save hats, caps, and other accessories for photoshoots or when going out. Avoid loose articles as they can slip off and inhibit breathing.
Opt for snug PJs instead of loose clothing or materials that can accidentally cover a baby’s face.
Design
Prefer functionality over fashion, therefore, buy baby sleepwear with strategically placed snaps and zippers that can facilitate diaper changing.
Key Takeaway
Take age into consideration as the baby grows, the sleepwear that was suitable at 3 months may not be any more at 6 months. Choosing the right sleeping outfits is one of the important decisions new parents have to make daily. Prioritize safety and comfort instead of fashion for a restful night of sleep for the baby.
