What Should a Baby Wear to Sleep? A Guide to Baby Sleepwear

One of the most common questions new parents have is: what should my baby wear to sleep?

It can be surprisingly difficult to know how many layers your baby actually needs, particularly with temperature changes. You want your baby to be warm and comfortable, but you also don't want them to overheat.

The good news is that baby sleepwear doesn't need to be complicated. The most important things to consider are the temperature of the room, layers and how warm they feels.

Here is a simple guide to choosing what your baby should wear to sleep, including what to wear in warmer and cooler weather, how sleeping bags work and how to tell if your baby is too hot.

What should a newborn wear to sleep?

For most babies, a simple combination of a nappy, vest and babygrow is enough as a starting point. The exact layers your baby needs will depend on the temperature of the room.

The HSE recommends keeping the room where your baby sleeps between 16°C and 20°C and advises against overdressing babies for sleep.

Rather than adding lots of layers, keep the baby's sleepwear simple and adjust depending on the temperature.

A good rule is to check your baby rather than relying entirely on how the room feels to you.

What should my baby wear to sleep at 16–20°C?

If your baby's room is between 16°C and 20°C, a babygrow or sleepsuit combined with an appropriately fitted baby sleeping bag can be a comfortable option.

You can also use a lightweight, firmly tucked-in blanket where appropriate.

If you are using a baby sleeping bag, always follow the manufacturer's guidance for the particular sleeping bag, including its tog rating and recommended clothing underneath. Different materials and designs can provide different levels of warmth.

The important thing is not to keep adding layers simply because your baby's hands or feet feel cool. Cool hands and feet are normal for babies and aren't necessarily a sign that they are cold.

What should a baby wear to sleep in winter?

It is easy to assume that babies need lots of extra layers during winter, especially on a cold Irish night.

But more isn't always better.

If your baby's room is cooler, you can add a layer of clothing or choose a warmer sleeping bag according to the manufacturer's guidance. If you are using a sleeping bag, don't simply add blankets on top without checking the manufacturer's instructions.

The aim is to keep your baby comfortably warm without overheating them.

You should also avoid placing your baby's cot directly beside a radiator, heater or fire.

What should a baby wear to sleep in summer?

Warm nights can be just as confusing as cold ones.

When the room is warmer, your baby generally needs fewer layers. In particularly warm weather, a lightweight short-sleeved bodysuit or even just a nappy may be enough, depending on the temperature and your baby.

Don't be tempted to add extra blankets because your baby normally sleeps in more layers. Instead, adjust their clothing to suit the temperature of the room.

And remember: babies should not wear hats while sleeping indoors unless a doctor or midwife has specifically advised it.

How do I know if my baby is too hot at night?

This is one of the most useful things for new parents to know.

You don't need to keep checking your baby's hands and feet. These can naturally feel quite cool.

Instead, check your baby's tummy, chest or the back of their neck.

If their skin feels hot or sweaty, they may be too warm and you should remove a layer of clothing or bedding. Flushed or red cheeks can also be a sign that your baby is too warm.

If you're unsure, it's better to check your baby rather than simply adding another layer.

What is a TOG rating on a baby sleeping bag?

If you've been shopping for baby sleepwear, you've probably come across the term TOG.

TOG is a measurement of thermal insulation. In simple terms, the higher the TOG rating, the warmer the sleeping bag.

However, there isn't one TOG rating that is right for every baby or every room. Different sleeping bags use different materials and designs, so always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific product you're using.

This is also why it's important not to assume that two different 1.0 TOG sleeping bags will necessarily feel exactly the same.

Do babies need a hat to sleep?

No. Babies should not normally sleep wearing a hat indoors.

The HSE advises that babies should not go to sleep wearing a hat unless a doctor or midwife has specifically advised it. Hats are used immediately after birth to help regulate a newborn's temperature, but they are not needed for routine sleep afterwards.

Keeping your baby's head uncovered is an important part of helping them stay at a comfortable temperature while sleeping.

What about baby sleeping bags?

Baby sleeping bags can be a useful alternative to blankets because they stay in place while your baby sleeps.

If you choose one, make sure it is the correct size and fits securely around your baby's neck and shoulders. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions about the appropriate TOG rating and what your baby should wear underneath.

You don't need to combine multiple sleeping bags or add lots of extra layers to make your baby warmer.

A simple baby sleepwear checklist

When getting your baby ready for bed, keep these things in mind:

• Check the room temperature rather than guessing.

• Keep the room comfortably cool, with the HSE recommending 16°C–20°C.

• Choose lightweight, breathable layers.

• Follow the manufacturer's instructions if using a baby sleeping bag.

• Check your baby's tummy, chest or neck if you're unsure whether they are too warm.

• Don't worry if your baby's hands and feet feel cool.

• Remove hats before sleep.

• Don't overdress your baby.

• Avoid heavy duvets, quilts and pillows in the cot.

• Keep your baby's head uncovered.

The HSE recommends using either cellular blankets or a sleeveless baby sleeping bag, and advises against duvets, quilts and pillows for babies.

Choosing comfortable baby sleepwear

When you're buying clothes for a newborn, it's easy to focus on how cute something looks. But practicality matters too, particularly when you're changing your baby during the night.

Soft, breathable fabrics and simple designs can make those middle-of-the-night changes much easier.

Organic cotton is a popular choice for baby clothing because it is soft, lightweight and breathable. Look for comfortable fits and easy openings that make changing your baby as straightforward as possible.

Our Millie and Me babywear is made from 100% organic cotton, with simple styles designed for everyday wear. Our zip rompers, for example, have a full-length zip and fold-over cuffs, making them easy to get on and off during those frequent newborn changes.

For sleep, always make sure that any clothing or sleepwear you choose is appropriate for your baby's age, size and the temperature of their sleeping environment.

The most important thing to remember

There isn't one perfect outfit that every baby should wear to bed every night.

The right baby sleepwear will depend on the temperature of the room, the clothing or sleeping bag you're using and, most importantly, how warm your baby actually feels.

If your baby feels warm but not hot or sweaty, they're likely comfortable. If you're unsure, check their tummy, chest or neck and adjust their layers if needed.

Once you get into the habit of checking the room temperature and your baby's temperature, choosing what your baby should wear to sleep becomes much less complicated.

For more guidance on safer sleep, always follow current advice from the HSE and your baby's healthcare professional.