When the British summer finally shows up, it can be a real treat — until bedtime. Babies are much more sensitive to heat than adults, and keeping their room at a comfortable temperature is crucial for their sleep and safety. If you’re struggling to keep your little one’s room cool during a heatwave, don’t worry — here are some simple, effective tips to help.
1. Keep the Sun Out During the Day
Shut the curtains or blinds in your baby’s room during the day, especially if it’s south-facing. Blackout blinds or thermal curtains work a treat, as they block out both sunlight and heat. It might make the room feel a bit gloomy, but it’ll keep it cooler come bedtime.
2. Open Windows at the Right Time
Keep windows shut during the hottest part of the day (usually between 11am and 3pm), then open them wide in the evening and early morning when it’s cooler. If it’s safe, leave the windows open overnight to let in cooler air – but make sure there’s a secure window guard or screen if your baby’s cot is nearby.
3. Use a Fan – Wisely
A fan can be really helpful, but don’t point it directly at your baby. Instead, place it in a corner of the room to circulate air. You can also put a bowl of ice or a frozen bottle of water in front of the fan – it helps to blow cooler air around the room.
🧊 Tip: Make sure the fan is on a safe surface, out of your child’s reach.
4. Keep Bedding and Clothing Light
Swap out heavy blankets for a light, cotton sheet, or let your baby sleep in just a nappy if it’s really warm. The ideal room temperature for babies is between 16–20°C.
👉 See official NHS guidance on safe sleeping:
🔗 NHS – How to dress a baby for bed
You can also buy a nursery thermometer to help monitor the room temperature easily.
5. Cool the Cot Before Bedtime
You can place a cool (not cold) hot water bottle or chilled gel pack in the cot for a few minutes before bedtime – but always remove it before putting your baby down.
❗ Never put ice packs or anything too cold in direct contact with your baby or their bedding.
6. Give a Lukewarm Bath
A lukewarm bath before bed (not cold!) can help cool your baby down and get them ready for sleep. It helps lower their body temperature gently and gives them a nice wind-down routine.
7. Make Sure Your Baby Stays Hydrated
If your baby is breastfed or bottle-fed, they may want to feed more frequently in hot weather. Offer feeds more often and, for babies over six months, cool boiled water can also be offered.
👉 Official advice:
🔗 NHS – Baby and toddler drinks
🔍 More Helpful Links:
- 🌡️ NHS Baby Sleep Safety: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/babys-sleep/safety-in-sleep/
- 👶 Lullaby Trust – Safer Sleep in Summer: https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk/safer-sleep-advice/room-temperature/
- ☀️ NHS Heatwave Advice (for everyone): https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/heatwave-how-to-cope-in-hot-weather/
Final Thoughts
Hot weather might be rare in the UK, but it can cause a lot of sleepless nights – especially for little ones. With a few simple tricks and a bit of planning, you can help keep your baby cool and comfortable all night long.
Stay cool, and don’t forget to treat yourself to an ice lolly while you’re at it! 😎
