Over 5,000 Google Searches a Month: How to Dress Baby for Bed – Experts Tell All

Unicef.org.uk reports that up to 44% of UK parents are most worried about their children’s health and development, which can be significantly heightened for newer parents.

September is ‘Baby Safety Month’, and as we transition into cooler autumn weather, parents may wonder how to keep their babies warm and comfortable during sleep without compromising safety.

With a focus on safe sleep practices, Baboodle https://baboodle.co.uk/, a leader in innovative parenting solutions, has produced baby sleep tips every parent needs to know for Autumn. 

While the instinct might be to bundle the baby up with extra blankets and cosy accessories, experts warn that this approach can increase the risk to the baby – and even increase the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome), according to Kubanych Takyrbashev, MD, whom Baboodle asked for advice on the topic.

Tip one: Skip the extra blankets – go for layered sleepwear instead

It might feel natural to add extra blankets when the temperature drops, but it’s safer to use layered sleepwear. Opt for a base layer under a baby sleeping bag rather than piling on the covers, as this helps to keep your baby cosy without the risk of loose bedding. Kubanych Takyrbashev, MD, adds:

“As the weather begins to cool off, parents are tempted to put extra pillows and blankets into their infant’s cot, which can greatly increase the risk of SIDS. The safest approach is to dress babies in proper sleepers rather than having free-standing bedding.”

As the weather gets cooler, parents might consider changing their baby from wearing a vest to a vest and baby grow, or even a long-sleeve vest and baby grow in a baby sleeping bag with a suitable TOG (Thermal Overall Grade) rating.

Tip two: Use a TOG chart like a pro

Not all parents know that baby sleeping bags generally have a TOG rating (ranging from 0.5 TOG to 2.5 TOG), like a secret code for perfect sleep. A 2.5 TOG sleeping bag usually does the trick for cooler nights. The best part? You can find TOG charts online that offer simple guidance on how to dress your baby based on the specific conditions of their sleep space; no guesswork is needed. Takyrbashev adds:

“With traditionally cooler weather, a tog of 2.5 is generally sufficient. Just remember that if the baby seems cold, don’t put more blankets on the sleeping bag; add another loose layer underneath the sleeping bag.”

Tip three: Ditch the hat indoors

Avoid using a hat indoors, even if you’re tempted to keep your baby’s head warm with a cute accessory. Babies regulate their temperature through their heads, so leaving it uncovered helps prevent overheating. Hats are best reserved for outdoor strolls in crisp air.

Tip four: The chest check – the go-to temperature gauge 

Wondering if the baby feels too hot or cold? Forget checking hands or feet – they’re usually cooler anyway. Instead, feel your baby’s chest or the back of their neck. If the skin feels clammy, your baby might be overheating, and it’s time to adjust their layers. Takyrbashev adds:

“The ideal room temperature for a baby’s sleep environment is 16-20 Degrees Celsius (oC). Parents can check this using a room thermometer and then use clothing layers as appropriate.”

Tip five: Embrace the “minimalist cot” philosophy

Autumn brings the urge to create a cosy, nest-like environment, but it’s vital to stick to safe sleep guidelines. Less is more when it comes to cot safety. Keep it clutter-free with no pillows, stuffed toys, or heavy blankets. Not only does this reduce suffocation risks, but it also creates a simpler, distraction-free zone that promotes better rest.

Baboodle also spoke with Dr Rupa Parmar, Private GP and Medical Director of Midland Health, who adds:

“As autumn sets in, you may want to reposition your baby’s cot away from windows and drafty areas, placing it in the centre of the room. Sometimes, walls can feel cold and damp, so avoid placing the cot next to cold external walls, as they can emit cold air. 

You might also want to change the sheets and mattresses you use. Circulating-type mattresses, like some spring-cushioned ones, offer better airflow, while memory foam and sponge-based mattresses are warmer, which may be more suitable during cooler seasons.”

Katie Hanton, co-founder of Baboodle, comments: 

“With the autumn chill setting in, it’s more important than ever to dress your little one just right for bedtime. It’s all about finding that balance—layering for warmth, knowing your TOG ratings, and keeping the sleep space simple and safe. Following these steps will help your baby stay cosy and sleep soundly all season long.”