Baby sleepwear should do two things well: keep your baby comfortable and support safe sleep.
The basic rule
The AAP advises dressing babies appropriately for the environment, usually in no more than one more layer than an adult would wear to feel comfortable in that room.
That matters because overheating is associated with a higher risk of sleep-related death.
Good sleepwear choices
Light layers
A simple onesie, sleeper, or footed pajamas often works well.
Wearable blankets
The AAP says layered clothing or a wearable blanket is preferable to loose blankets, which can cover the baby’s face or become trapped around the body.
Clothing that fits well
Sleepwear should not bunch up over the face, ride up excessively, or be so tight that it restricts movement.
What to avoid
Loose blankets
These are not recommended in the infant sleep space.
Hats indoors
The AAP advises against hats indoors after the first hours of life, except in special medical settings such as the NICU, because of overheating concerns.
Weighted sleep products
Weighted sleepers, weighted swaddles, and weighted blankets are not recommended.
Over-bundling
More layers are not always better. Too much clothing can make a baby too hot.
How to tell if your baby is too warm
Check for:
- sweating
- flushed cheeks or skin
- chest that feels hot to the touch
Hands and feet may feel cooler than the rest of the body, so they are not the best guide on their own.
What about swaddling?
Swaddling is different from general sleepwear. If you swaddle, the AAP says babies should always be placed on their back, the swaddle should not be weighted, and swaddling should stop once a baby shows signs of trying to roll.
The bottom line
The right baby sleepwear is simple, breathable, and suited to the room temperature. Dress for comfort, avoid overheating, and skip any product that adds weight or unsafe loose fabric to the sleep space.
Leave a Reply