We all find it harder to sleep on hot summer days. During the day, we cope better by taking a dip in the pool or at the beach, cooling off with a nice shower or a cold beer, or simply turning on the air conditioning. Along with eating lighter meals, these are some tips. with which we manage to regulate our body temperature.
While it is true that heat affects us all to a greater or lesser extent, those who suffer most and whom we must care for and protect are our elderly and children. That is why it is necessary to help your baby sleep in the heat.
Tips to help your baby sleep in hot weather
Keep your baby well hydrated
It is essential to keep your baby hydrated and give them frequent drinks, both day and night.
Ventilated crib space
Using cotton sheets—which are cooler than synthetic ones—helps prevent the child from sweating, although they are not necessary. Of course, no blankets, no stuffed animals or pillows, and no crib protectors, as these do not allow the crib to ventilate properly and our baby will get hotter, sweat more, and wake up more often.
When choosing a mattress, make sure it is breathable. At ECUS Kids, all our crib mattresses are breathable and certified with different quality seals that care for and ensure your baby's rest.
The right temperature
In addition to the importance of frequent hydration and the quality of bedding and mattresses, there are a number of recommendations that help our babies fall asleep when it is hot.
The room temperature should be just right. Not too cold or too hot, but an average temperature of around 20 degrees.
You can use air conditioning or a fan.
We can turn on the air conditioning or a fan a little while before putting the baby to bed to cool the room, or leave it on all night if necessary, but we must avoid directing the airflow directly towards the crib, as this cold air could cause the baby to catch a cold and dry out their nostrils and throat.
Adjusting baby clothing for the heat
In summer, use very thin pajamas made of natural fabrics such as 100% cotton, so that they are as breathable as possible. If summer pajamas seem too much, you can leave your baby in just a bodysuit or, on very hot days, you can put them to bed wearing only a diaper.
A warm bath
A bath before bedtime relaxes them and helps them rest. A warm bath is best, not too cold or too hot, because this will lower their body temperature and they will not feel as warm when they get out. If we use colder water, the feeling of warmth will increase when we take them out of the bathtub.
Short and frequent naps
On hot days, your baby may have difficulty sleeping for long periods. Opt for shorter, more frequent naps.
Watch for signs of overheating in your baby, such as reddened skin, excessive sweating, irritability, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these signs, act quickly to cool your baby down and make sure they are comfortable and safe.
