Wondering what to dress your baby in at night? For first-time parents, this decision can feel overwhelming, especially in those early weeks when every choice matters. The good news is that once you understand a few simple principles, night-time dressing becomes much more straightforward.
In this article, the experts at Silver Cross explain what your baby should wear to bed and how to dress your baby for sleep based on room temperature. We also share tips for how to know when your baby is too hot or too cold, so you can approach bedtime with confidence.
Why does dressing a baby carefully matter?
Dressing your baby for sleep isn’t just about keeping them cosy. Babies aren’t yet able to regulate their body temperature in the same way adults can, so ensuring they’re wearing the right clothing is an important part of creating a safe sleep environment.
UK health guidance, including HSE focuses on keeping babies comfortable without overheating, as overheating has been linked to an increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Although this is rare, parents should still take every precaution when dressing their baby - especially at night time when signs of discomfort can’t be spotted as easily.
What should your baby wear to bed?
Most babies are comfortable sleeping in a nappy, a vest or bodysuit, and a sleepsuit (also known as a babygrow or onesie), with either a lightweight sleeping bag or a swaddle for younger babies. As a general rule, babies usually need one more light layer than an adult sleeping comfortably in the same room - though the exact number of layers will depend on the room temperature, which we’ll cover next.
When dressing your baby for bed, these simple do’s and don’ts can help you keep things safe, comfortable and reassuring.
Do:
- Dress your baby in light, breathable layers that are easy to add or remove
- Use the one extra layer rule as a starting point
- Choose well-fitting sleepwear that isn’t too tight or too loose
- Opt for a sleeping bag or swaddle instead of loose bedding
- Check your baby’s chest or the back of their neck to gauge comfort
Don’t:
- Don’t overdress your baby or use heavy bedding
- Don’t use duvets, pillows or loose blankets in the cot
- Don’t put your baby to sleep wearing hats or hoods indoors
- Don’t rely on cold hands or feet alone as a sign your baby is cold
- Don’t layer clothing so heavily that it can’t be easily adjusted
How to dress baby for sleep based on room temperature
As a general guide, a room temperature of 16–20°C is considered comfortable and safe for sleeping babies. Because indoor temperatures can change from night to night, checking the temperature where your baby sleeps can help you choose the right layers with confidence.
Under 16°C
If the room feels cooler than recommended, layering is key - without overdoing it.
- Start with a vest and sleepsuit
- Add a well-fitting baby sleeping bag with an appropriate tog rating
- Avoid piling on blankets or using thick, padded bedding
16–20°C (ideal range)
This is the most comfortable temperature range for baby sleep.
- A sleepsuit with a sleeping bag is often all that’s needed
- Adjust layers rather than adding extra bedding
- Choose breathable fabrics to support temperature regulation
Over 20°C
When the room is warmer, less really is more.
- Opt for minimal layers, such as a lightweight sleepsuit or vest
- Choose breathable, natural fabrics
- Avoid unnecessary bedding or additional layers
If there’s a heatwave and you can’t control the room temperature easily, it’s fine for a baby to sleep in just a nappy.
For practical temperature regulation tips in any season, see our guide to creating and maintaining the ideal sleep temperature for your baby.
Dressing newborns vs. older babies for sleep
As babies grow, their sleepwear needs naturally change.
For newborns, simple layers work best. Clothing should fit well without being restrictive. Swaddling can help younger babies to feel more secure. If you’re considering swaddling, see our guide on how to swaddle your baby safely.
For older babies, night-time dressing may need adjusting as they become more active. As your little one moves and wriggles a lot more, consider switching to a sleepsuit with a sleeping bag. This will ensure that they have freedom of movement while remaining at a comfortable temperature.
How can I tell if my baby is too hot or too cold at night
Although every baby is different, there are a few signs that might mean they’re uncomfortable. Here’s what to look out for:
Signs your baby may be too hot
- Sweating or damp hair
- Flushed cheeks
- Rapid breathing
- Chest or neck feeling hot to the touch
Signs your baby may be too cold
- Pale skin
- Unsettled sleep
- Chest or neck feeling cool
To check your baby’s temperature, always feel their chest or the back of their neck. Hands and feet often feel cooler and aren’t a reliable indicator on their own.
What fabrics are best for baby sleepwear?
The fabrics your baby sleeps in can make a big difference to comfort, as the right materials can help to support natural temperature regulation.
Natural, breathable fibres are often the best choice for baby sleepwear. Fabrics such as cotton and bamboo allow air to circulate more easily, helping excess heat to escape while still providing gentle warmth. They also tend to feel softer against delicate skin, which can be especially reassuring for babies with sensitive or easily irritated skin.
Moisture-absorbing materials are another important consideration. Babies can become warm during sleep, and fabrics that wick moisture away from the skin help keep them feeling dry and comfortable, rather than clammy.
Some synthetic fabrics can trap heat and moisture, which may make babies feel too warm or uncomfortable during the night. While blends can sometimes add durability, it’s worth prioritising sleepwear that feels breathable and lightweight, particularly for overnight use.
Choosing well made sleepwear crafted from soft, breathable materials helps create a calmer, more comfortable sleep environment and makes it easier to adapt layers as the temperature changes.
