One of the first things I worried about as a new mom was this exact question:
Is my baby overheating while sleeping?
Airah was always warm-natured — and with her sensitive skin and eczema flare-ups, I learned the hard way how quickly overheating could make sleep uncomfortable (for her and me!). It wasn’t just about tossing extra layers on her; it was about finding that perfect balance: breathable, cozy, and safe.
Let’s break down how to tell if your baby is too warm at night, what an ideal sleep environment looks like, and how breathable fabrics like muslin cotton can help keep your little one safe and snug.
Why Baby Overheating While Sleeping Is a Concern
Babies can’t regulate their body temperature like we can. That means baby overheating while sleeping is a real concern — not just for comfort, but for safety.
The American Academy of Pediatrics lists overheating as a risk factor for unsafe sleep. When babies are layered too heavily, wearing fleece, or in a warm room, their bodies may not cool down efficiently — which can lead to:
- Sweating or damp skin
- Poor sleep and restlessness
- Red, flushed cheeks or heat rash
- Increased risk of sleep-related concerns
Signs of Baby Overheating While Sleeping
Worried your baby might be too hot at night? Trust your instincts — I’ve had many 2 a.m. “is she too warm?” moments myself. Here’s what to look for:
- Damp hair, neck, or back
- Flushed or red cheeks
- Fussy behavior or frequent wake-ups
- Fast breathing
- Heat rash or small red bumps
Quick check:
Gently place your hand on their chest or back. If it’s hot or sweaty, your baby may be overheating while sleeping and likely needs a layer removed.
Safe Sleep Temperatures & Layering Tips
According to pediatricians, the ideal room temperature for baby sleep is between 68–72°F (20–22°C). I usually keep Airah’s room around 70°F, and she sleeps peacefully in a onesie and a breathable muslin blanket.
Here’s a helpful layering rule:
Dress your baby in one more layer than you would wear to sleep comfortably.
That typically looks like:
- A soft cotton onesie or footie pajamas
- A lightweight muslin blanket
- No hats, no fleece, and no extra quilts
Why We Chose Muslin for Our Baby’s Sleep
When Airah’s eczema was at its worst, even the softest-looking blankets would trap heat or irritate her skin. That’s when I started researching and testing different fabrics — and that’s how Snuggle Buds was born.
Muslin was the game-changer.
Snuggle Buds Muslin Cotton Baby Blankets:
- 100% cotton muslin — no synthetic blends
- 6 breathable layers — perfect for sleep
- 43x43” size — grows with your baby
- Machine washable & ultra-soft with every wash
Unlike fleece or polyester-blended blankets, muslin allows natural airflow, reduces baby overheating while sleeping, and is gentle on sensitive skin.
Common Mistakes That Can Cause Overheating
To keep your baby safe and cool:
🚫 Avoid doubling up on thick blankets
🚫 Avoid fleece sleepwear
🚫 Don’t use space heaters in the nursery
🚫 Skip socks, mittens, and hats indoors
Instead, stick with lightweight, breathable options like our muslin blankets — designed specifically to prevent baby overheating while sleeping.
Real-Life Tip: What I Pack When We Travel
We’ve traveled to London, Cancun, Hawaii, Jamaica, and even Pakistan — and through 28 flights, Airah’s Snuggle Buds blanket has been our must-have. I use it as:
- A lightweight nap cover
- A car seat or stroller shade
- A clean surface for changing
- Her comfort object when sleeping away from home
It’s cozy without overheating — even when she falls asleep with it over her face (which used to terrify me at first!).
FAQs About Baby Overheating While Sleeping
Q1. Can a baby overheat in cotton pajamas?
Yes — especially if they're paired with fleece swaddles or synthetic fabrics. Stick to lightweight layers and breathable cotton.
Q2. What’s better: fleece or muslin for sleep?
Muslin! Fleece traps heat. Muslin reduces the risk of baby overheating while sleeping by allowing airflow.
Q3. Is it okay to use a blanket for my baby?
Yes, for babies 12+ months or during supervised naps. For younger babies, muslin blankets are great for awake time or travel.
Q4. What’s the best temperature for baby sleep?
Aim for 68–72°F and watch for signs like sweating, flushed cheeks, or restlessness.
Final Thoughts: Trust Your Instincts & Keep It Simple
The more I’ve learned as a mom, the more I’ve realized — safe sleep doesn’t need to be complicated. You don’t need a dozen gadgets or temperature monitors.
Just breathable fabrics. A comfy sleep routine. And a whole lot of love.
At Snuggle Buds, every product is designed with that in mind — so your little one can sleep softly and safely.
