What Is the Ideal Room Temperature for a Sleeping Baby?

Good sleeping habits are super important as your baby grows and develops, and supporting safe and healthy sleep really comes down to a few basic strategies. One of them is making sure your baby’s room is kept at the ideal baby sleep temperature. So, how do you know what's too high or too low? Keep reading to learn the best temperature for your sleeping baby, how to get the room to feel just right, and how to keep it that way.

Ideal Temperature for Your Baby’s Room

Did you know that temperature significantly impacts the quality of your baby’s sleep? Finding that sweet spot can seem tricky, but a general rule of thumb is to keep your baby’s room at a temperature that a lightly clothed adult would find comfortable. This means maintaining the ideal room temperature for your newborn to ensure they sleep soundly and safely. For more insights on creating a safe sleep environment, check out this guide on safe sleep for babies.

Why Setting the Ideal Temperature Is Important for Your Baby

When your baby’s room temperature is too high or too low, they might not sleep as long or as well. Keeping your baby’s room at the ideal baby sleep temperature can help foster the quantity and quality of sleep necessary for healthy development.

Maintaining the right ambient temperature for your sleeping baby also helps prevent overheating. Making sure your baby sleeps at the right temperature is crucial. It can significantly reduce the risk of SIDS and other health concerns.

5 Steps to Keep Your Baby Comfortable During Sleep

In addition to keeping a comfy room temperature, here are five steps you can take to help keep your baby safe and cozy as they sleep:

1. Put your little one down to sleep on her back up until their 1-year milestone. This is the safest sleep position for your baby, as it helps reduce the risk of SIDS. Daily tummy time is important but should only be done under your supervision and only when your baby is awake.

2. Keep your baby’s crib free of everything except for the mattress and fitted sheet. Avoid blankets, loose sheets, pillows, bumpers, and stuffed toys, as they can lead to suffocation or choking.

3. Avoid overdressing your baby at night. Too much clothing can cause your little one to overheat and may restrict breathing.

4. Place your baby’s crib in your room for the first 6 to 12 months. You’ll be better able to monitor their sleeping habits and will be close by if they need you during the night.

5. Use a thermostat to ensure the baby room temperature is just right for sleep. Certain video monitors come with built-in thermostats to help you track temperature and humidity easily.

Signs Your Baby May Be Too Hot or Too Cold

If you’re worried that your baby seems hot or feverish or is becoming overheated even when the room’s temperature is cool and comfy, contact your baby’s healthcare provider right away for expert advice.

The Bottom Line

Good sleeping habits are important for your baby’s well-being. Fortunately, if their room is kept at the ideal baby sleep temperature, they’re more likely to sleep safely and comfortably.

When your baby sleeps, so can you! That's just one of many reasons to aim for a comfortable environment that helps your little one nod off more easily and stay asleep longer.

Baby sleep temperature is just one of many important factors in supporting a healthy sleep environment. If you're looking for additional guidance on everything sleep-related, download the Smart Sleep Coach app by Pampers. It's jam-packed with expert-led classes as well as tools to help get your baby’s sleep on track. To get started, take this FREE sleep assessment.