How should I dress my child for sleep in summer?

Do you often worry that your little one tosses and turns and keeps kicking off the covers?

One of the best solutions for sleep is a baby sleeping bag, as it helps maintain a more even temperature throughout the night, even if your child wriggles in their sleep.

Smiling baby in a pink headband lying on her tummy against a white background

As summer weather can be quite changeable, I have put together a guide that also helps on slightly cooler nights. This way, if you have already bought a summer sleeping bag, you do not necessarily need to buy another one.

When getting your child ready for sleep, it is worth choosing light, breathable fabrics, such as LiaaBébé’s bamboo pieces.

These soft, lightweight materials help prevent overheating and support natural airflow and ventilation.

A few helpful tips for a summer bedtime routine

Air the room around 30 minutes before bath time, as long as it is not still very hot outside.
Lukewarm bathwater is best in summer, as it helps gently lower your child’s body temperature. Do not use cold bathwater, even if your child seems overheated, as it may be too much of a shock for their body.
Offering breast milk or formula can also help your baby settle and cool down.
After airing the room in the morning, it is worth darkening it fully. This helps keep out not only the light, but also some of the heat. If possible, keep the blinds down or the blackout curtains drawn throughout the day.
Your child may sleep with the window open if it is safe and the outside temperature is pleasant, but it is a good idea to close it in the early morning hours.
You can leave the door open at night to allow airflow, but it may be worth closing it around 4 a.m., as early morning light can shine in and wake your child sooner.
Always check the room temperature before dressing your child for sleep.

Always check, either before bedtime or during night wakings, whether your child feels too warm, is sweating, or may be cold. Do not check their hands, face or feet to judge whether they are warm enough during sleep. Instead, check their chest or the area between the shoulder blades, as this gives a more accurate idea of their overall warmth.

Three toddlers in light bamboo summer sleep bags, airy layers that stay on and keep naps comfy on warm evenings.

What to put under a 0.5 TOG sleeping bag, depending on room temperature…

Remember every child is unique, so this is only a guide for you.

If you’re traveling, be sure to take your sleeping bag with you, because it provides not only the right sleepwear but also the familiar scent of home.

Toddler in a lightweight bamboo footed sleep bag, breathable snug layer allowing free movement and cool, calm summer bedtimes.