Winter Warmth Without Worry: Layering Tips for Tiny Sleepers

As winter settles in, it's only natural to want to keep your baby as warm and snug as possible. But while layering for chilly weather feels instinctive, it's especially important to approach it with care during sleep. Infants can't regulate their body temperature the way adults can-so dressing them for sleep in a baby bassinet or crib requires balance: cozy enough to stay warm, but never so warm that it becomes unsafe.

Here's how to layer your little one safely during the colder months-so everyone in the house can sleep a little better.

1. Start with Safe, Snug Layers

Forget the fluffy blankets and quilts (no matter how tempting they look). Loose bedding isn't safe for sleep, especially in a baby bassinet or compact crib. Instead, opt for snug-fitting clothing and wearable blankets that stay in place through the night. Sleep sacks with TOG ratings (Thermal Overall Grade) are a parent's best friend-higher TOG numbers mean more warmth, which is especially helpful in drafty or colder homes.

2. Build in Breathability

Layering is most effective when it's breathable. Start with a lightweight cotton onesie or footed sleeper as a base layer. Depending on the room temperature, you can then add a fleece sleep sack or long-sleeve wearable blanket. In a bedside bassinet, where your baby sleeps close to you but still needs a separate space, breathable layers are even more essential-since temperature regulation can shift with your own body heat nearby.

Avoid adding extra padding, bumpers, or plush blankets to the baby bassinet itself-the warmth should come from what your baby wears, not what surrounds them.

3. Check for Warmth the Right Way

A quick hand-check won't always tell you if your baby is too cold or too warm. Instead of feeling their hands or feet (which tend to run cooler), gently touch their chest or the back of their neck. If their skin feels sweaty or hot, remove a layer. If it feels cool to the touch, you might need to add one.

According to Smart Sleep Coach by Pampers, a general rule of thumb from healthcare professionals is to dress your baby in one more layer than you're wearing to bed. If you're in a long-sleeve pajama set with a blanket, your baby might need a footed sleeper plus a sleep sack to match.

4. Mind the Room Temperature

The ideal sleeping environment for babies is between 68-72°F (20-22°C). Newborns are especially vulnerable to temperature swings and aren't great at self-regulating just yet. A digital nursery thermometer is a great tool to have on hand-especially when heating systems fluctuate or windows let in cold air. Resist the urge to use space heaters, which can overheat a small room or dry out the air, making it harder for your baby to breathe comfortably.

If you're using a portable bassinet or a bassinet stroller while visiting family or traveling for the holidays, bring along breathable, natural-fiber bassinet sheets to help maintain consistent warmth and comfort across different spaces.

5. Snug, Safe, and Sweet Dreams

Winter sleep doesn't have to be complicated. By dressing your baby in breathable layers, checking for comfort (not just cold toes!), and using a well-ventilated baby bassinet or crib setup, you're giving your little one the best start to a safe night's rest.