A newborn should wear soft, breathable clothing like a cotton onesie to bed, which helps keep them comfortable and safe. Avoid loose blankets or pillows in the crib, as these can be a suffocation risk. Instead, use a sleep sack or swaddle to keep your baby warm without the dangers of loose bedding.
If temperature is colder, you can dress your baby in one extra layer than you’d wear to bed. Always check their neck or back to make sure they’re not too hot or cold, and adjust layers as needed for a safe, cozy night’s sleep.
As a new mom, one of the first questions you’ll probably ask is, "What should I dress my baby for sleep?" “What should my newborn wear to bed to help them sleep safely?” I remember asking myself that exact question in the early days when I was trying to figure out everything—from feeding to sleeping.
It’s not something that’s talked about enough, but it’s really important. You want your little one to be comfy and cozy, but also safe. And let’s be honest, that’s a lot to juggle! So, let’s break down exactly what your newborn should wear to sleep.
How to Dress a Baby for Sleep?
Here’s a more detailed list:
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Choose soft, breathable fabrics like cotton to keep your baby comfortable.
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Dress in a snug-fitting onesie to avoid discomfort from loose clothing.
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Use a sleep sack or swaddle instead of loose blankets for safety.
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Avoid using blankets, pillows, and stuffed animals in the crib to reduce suffocation risks.
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Keep the room temperature between 68°F and 72°F (20°C to 22°C) to maintain comfort.
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Dress your baby in one more layer than you would wear to sleep.
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Check the baby’s neck or back to ensure they’re not too hot or cold.
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Adjust the layers if needed based on the room temperature.
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Make sure the crib mattress is firm and free of any soft bedding.
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Place your baby on their back to sleep for safety and to reduce SIDS risk.
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Use a breathable fabric swaddle to help your baby feel secure without overheating.
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Opt for sleep sacks with appropriate TOG ratings based on the season.
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Make sure the sleep sack is snug around the arms, but allows leg movement.
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Avoid sleep positioners or wedges to prevent safety hazards in the crib.
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Feel your baby’s skin to check temperature, especially on their neck or back.
When you’re choosing what your baby should wear to bed, the most important thing to keep in mind is comfort and safety. I totally understand the stress of trying to figure out what will keep them comfortable for sleep without overheating or getting too cold.
But honestly, it’s easier than you think once you know the basics!
The general rule? Dress your baby in one more layer than you’d wear. If you’re cozy in a t-shirt and a blanket, your baby might be comfortable in a onesie and a sleep bag.
And as tempting as it is to pile on all the cute blankets, no blankets or pillows in the crib—they’re just not safe for newborns. A firm mattress with a fitted sheet is all they need for a good night’s sleep.
What About Swaddling vs. Sleep Sacks?
One of the first decisions you'll make when your baby is born is Swaddle or sleep bag for baby sleep? I won’t lie—swaddling was a game-changer for us in the beginning. It helped my little one sleep longer by keeping them cozy and snug, like when they were in the womb. But, you’ve got to do it right!
The swaddle should be snug around the arms but leave room for their hips to move. This is super important for healthy hip development (learned that one the hard way!).
Once your baby starts rolling over (trust me, it happens faster than you think), it’s time to switch to a sleep sack. Sleep bags are awesome because they still keep your baby warm and snug without the risk of them getting tangled up in a blanket, promoting safe sleep. Plus, it lets them move around freely, which is a bonus as they grow.
Swaddle, Sleep Sack, or Both?
By now, you’ve probably heard about swaddles and sleep sacks—and the big question is, Which one is best for your baby to sleep? Here’s how I saw it: swaddling worked great in the first few months for helping my baby to sleep. It kept my baby cozy and helped them feel secure.
But once they started rolling (around 3-4 months), it was time for a sleep sack. Swaddles are snug, but they don’t allow much movement. A sleep sack lets your baby stretch and move around more while still feeling secure and warm.
What to Look for in a Sleep Sack or Swaddle?
When you're picking a sleep sack or swaddle, check the TOG rating. It’s basically a measure of warmth. It can make all the difference depending on the time of year.
I learned this the hard way when I first used a sleep sack that was too warm for summer. My baby woke up all sweaty, and I was like, “Oops, sorry about that!” But seriously, get the right TOG rating to keep your baby comfy.
Nightwear and Bedclothes Fabric Matters for Baby
Okay, let’s talk fabrics. I didn’t realize how big of a deal this is until I noticed how my baby would get too hot or too cold if the fabric wasn’t right. The key is to pick breathable, soft fabrics—cotton is your best friend here. It's gentle on their sensitive skin and doesn’t trap heat like some other materials.
I remember trying a few different types of fabrics when my little one was first born, and cotton onesies always seemed to work best for baby sleep.
Tip: Make sure the sleepwear is fitted properly. Too loose, and it can ride up during the night, making your baby uncomfortable. Too tight, and it can cause restricted movement. A snug onesie or sleeper is usually a good bet for that reason when you dress your baby for sleep!
Keep the Crib and the Nursery Environment Safe
Another thing I had to get used to? Keeping the crib safe. This means no loose blankets, pillows, stuffed animals, or bumper pads. Sounds like common sense, but when you’re sleep-deprived, it’s easy to forget the importance of dressing your baby for sleep.
For a safe sleep environment for baby, make sure your baby’s mattress is firm, and the sheet is tight, reducing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome. It really is that simple. I also made sure the crib was free from cords or anything that could be a safety hazard.
What’s the Right Room Temperature for Infants?
I used to stress so much about room temperature. Is it too hot? Too cold? Here’s a tip: keep your baby’s room between 68°F and 72°F (20°C to 22°C). This is the ideal temperature range to help reduce the risk of overheating (a risk factor for SIDS) while keeping them comfortable. I also got a little room thermometer, which helped me feel a lot more relaxed about the temperature.
Pro Tip: Dress your baby for sleep with appropriate clothing to ensure comfort and safety. Always check your baby’s neck or back for warmth—not their hands or feet (those are always cold!). If their neck is warm but not sweaty, you know they’re just the right temperature. If they feel sweaty or flushed, they might be too hot. If their skin feels cool to the touch, they might need a bit more warmth.
Signs Your Baby is Too Hot or Too Cold
Let’s talk about temperature. If your baby is too hot, they’ll be fussy and might even sweat a little. If they’re too cold, their hands and feet might feel cool especially in winter. You know your baby best, but here’s a good trick I used: feel the back of their neck or their back to check their temperature. If it’s warm and comfy, you’re golden. If it’s too hot, take off a layer, and if it’s too cold, add one more.
Nighttime Takeaway for New Parents
So, what should your newborn wear to bed? Keep it simple! Dress them in soft, breathable fabrics like cotton to help your baby sleep better. Layer them up according to the room temperature, and remember to use a swaddle or sleep sack, depending on their age.
Most importantly, make sure their sleep environment is safe—no pillows or loose blankets in the crib! It’s all about keeping your baby cozy and safe so they (and you!) can get some much-needed rest.
