How to Dress Baby at Night?

Picking the right attire for your little one before they drift off to sleep—whether it's pyjamas, bodysuits, or sleeping bags—can sometimes be a challenging task.

Generally speaking, a baby's body temperature naturally drops once night falls. But this drop depends on other factors, such as the seasons and the level of heating in the room. So it's a question of adapting your child's outfit to the surrounding conditions so that they’re neither too hot nor too cold. 

For their comfort and safety, we explain how to dress your baby at night.

What is a Baby’s Normal Body Temperature?

In regions characterized by moderate or temperate climates, such as those found in many parts of Europe, North America, and parts of Asia, a healthy baby typically maintains a normal body temperature between 36.5°C and 37.5°C.

It's important to remember, however, that in the early stages of life (especially the first two months), your baby has more difficulty regulating their temperature. The slightest change in temperature is likely to be felt by their little body, forcing them to compensate by expending more energy.

As the baby's body adapts to the ambient temperature, their extremities (hands, feet) tend to be colder.

To make sure your baby doesn't get too cold or too hot and start sweating excessively, it's important to dress them in the right clothes (see below).

What Temperature Should Your Baby’s Room Be?

Sources on this subject differ somewhat, but most agree that 20°C is a comfortable temperature for a newborn (or young baby). The INSPQ indicates that between 20 and 22°C is ideal.

How do you know if your baby's room is at the right temperature? Trust your own sensations. If you're comfortable, your baby should be too.

Remember, though, that over-covering your baby can cause heatstroke.

How Do I Check the Temperature in My Baby’s Room?

A simple thermometer is all you need to check the temperature in your little one's room. You'll be able to check regularly that the room temperature is at the right level. 

Another option is to invest in a baby monitor with a built-in thermometer. This practical device warns you if the temperature is too low or too high, enabling you to react quickly to ensure your baby's comfort.

Choosing the Right Outfit for the Temperature

Your child's nightwear should be selected according to the ambient temperature. Start by installing a thermometer in your baby's room. Then refer to this little guide to find out what is the ideal outfit for your little angel!

Between 16°C and 18°C

When temperatures are low, it's a good idea to pack a warm outfit such as socks, a hat, a long-sleeved bodysuit, and a sleeping bag. This will keep your baby warm all night long.

Between 18°C and 19°C 

Choose a warm but breathable outfit consisting of organic cotton pyjamas, a long-sleeved bodysuit, and a sleeping bag. In autumn or winter, consider a sleeper to cover your baby at night, until around they are around 18–24 months old.

Between 20°C and 21°C 

With the temperature slightly higher, put them in a short-sleeved bodysuit, light pyjamas, and a sleeping bag. This combo will keep their body at the ideal temperature while keeping their little arms cool. 

Between 22°C and 23°C

As it starts getting warmer, in spring, for example, a short-sleeved bodysuit and a sleeping bag are great choices. 

Between 24°C and 25°C

In summer, when temperatures are higher, dress your baby in a lightweight short-sleeved bodysuit and a light sleeping bag. 

25°C and Over

Above 25°C, depending on weather conditions, you can simply let your baby sleep in a diaper. Choose an absorbent, natural-fabric diaper for maximum comfort and to protect their delicate skin.

When temperatures are high, depending on weather conditions, you can also leave the window open to let in some fresh air.

How Can You Tell if Your Baby Is Hot or Cold?

To adapt your baby's outfit to their needs, it's important to recognize the signs of discomfort. 

To find out if your baby is too hot, slide your hand under their neck: if it's damp, their body temperature is probably too high. Breathlessness, restlessness, clammy hands, hot spots, or a bad temper can also indicate a little "overheating". 

To find out if your little one is too cold, put the back of your hand on his chest, or touch their hands and feet. If these areas are cold, your child is not sufficiently covered. 

In any case, if your baby shows unusual signs such as shivering or an abnormally high temperature, consult a doctor as soon as possible.

What to Do if Your Baby Is Too Hot or Too Cold?

My Baby Is Too Hot

If he's too hot, the first step is to remove a layer of clothing. Above 24-25°C, replace the cotton pyjamas with a short-sleeved diaper cover. 

And if it starts to get very hot (over 27°C), don't hesitate to remove all their clothing (except their absorbent layer) or leave them with a very light T-shirt to absorb perspiration.

My Baby Is Too Cold

If your baby is too cold, you can have them wear thicker, long-sleeved pyjamas, as well as a pair of stockings and a small hat. Add a sleeper if necessary.

Additional tips for baby's comfort and safety at night

To ensure that your baby sleeps comfortably and safely, here are a few additional tips: 

• Choose clothes adapted to your baby's size to avoid any discomfort or risk of suffocation. When putting your baby to bed, check that their clothes fit properly; 
• Avoid blankets, comforters, and pillows, which could present a risk, especially for small children;
• Always lay baby on their back, not on their side or stomach;
• Use a firm mattress in a deep bed with bars; 
• Keep bedroom shutters closed in summer to minimize heat gain;
• When airing out, make sure you leave the window ajar to avoid draughts;
• Give baby a drink during the night in summer;
• In hot weather, if necessary, invest in a small fan or air-conditioning unit to prevent heatstroke;
• In autumn and winter, don't overheat the baby's room;
• As a general rule, room temperature should ideally be kept at around 20°C.

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Now you know how to dress your baby for the night. And to maintain the energy throughout the day, explore our article on dressing your child for daytime activities!