As the weather gets warmer, the challenges of keeping your little one safe and cool begin to rise too! Here are some top tips from Midwife Pip to helping your baby sleep safer in warmer weather be that at home, or on holiday…
The temperature of baby's room
Firstly, think about the temperature of your baby’s room in warmer weather. When a baby becomes too hot, they are at an increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Aim to keep your baby’s room between 16-20° and a room thermometer can be really useful to help you to monitor this. Maintaining this cooler temperature is definitely more challenging in warmer weather. The use of lighter bedding and reduced clothing on your baby can also be useful for keeping them cooler and more comfortable. Using a fan to cool the room and opening windows or doors may also help. If you are using a sleep bag for your baby then ensure the size and tog is appropriate for the given weather and season.
Your baby's car seat
One thing to think about that often gets forgotten is your car seat. Of course, they are essential for safety but be cautious not to keep your little one in it for longer periods of time, as most are not flat and babies can therefore end up slumped over. So take regular breaks on longer journeys and get your baby out the car seat, keep your car cool and be careful with any metal parts that may get especially hot in the sun.
Safe sleep wherever you are
If you are going on holiday, it is important to continue to follow your safer sleeping routine. To reduce the risk of SIDS, babies should sleep on their back on a firm, flat, mattress. Often travel cot mattresses are thinner but it is really important not to put any extra blankets under the baby. You should also make sure that the travel cot isn’t against a radiator or in direct sunlight to help keep your little one cool.
Out and about with baby on a hot day
When you are out and about in hot weather your pram should not be covered with any blankets or covering that prevent the air being able to circulate, as this could lead to your baby overheating which is a known risk factor for SIDS.
Instead consider a sunshade or parasol, keep your baby out of direct sunlight as much as possible and check their chest or the back of their neck regularly to feel and make sure they are not getting too hot.
All about Midwife Pip
Pip is a practicing Midwifery Sister in the UK with many years of experiencing supporting new and expectant mothers. Pip has a passion for supporting pregnant women with real, honest and evidence-based information throughout pregnancy and as they prepare for birth and the postpartum. Pip has an ethos that women should be empowered to have a positive pregnancy and birth experience regardless of some of the twists and turns that may crop up along the way and this has led her to creating ‘Your Pregnancy Journey’ an exclusive course designed to support and guide mothers through every step of pregnancy right from the first trimester as well as teaching online Group and Private Antenatal Classes and founding The Pregnancy Wellness Podcast.
You can find more information about Pip’s services on her website www.midwifepip,com and check her out on Instagram @midwife_pip for more tips and expert information.You can also search for "The Pregnancy Wellness Podcast" wherever you get your podcasts.
