As a new parent, navigating the world of infant sleep can feel like a rollercoaster ride, especially as the seasons change. Just as you think you have a good routine down, the change of seasons — and your ever-growing and developing baby — changes everything. From ensuring the right temperature to adjusting routines for daylight shifts, there are so many factors to consider. Here, we'll explore how seasonal changes can impact your baby's sleep and provide practical tips for creating a safer and more comfortable sleep environment.

Safe sleep practices for every season

Regardless of the season, certain safe sleep practices remain constant. 

• Always place your baby on their back to sleep, as this position reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Avoid using car seats, swings, or other inclined sleep surfaces for routine sleep, as these can increase the risk of suffocation or positional asphyxia.
• Ensure that your baby's sleep environment is free from hazards, such as loose bedding, pillows, or soft toys. Use a firm mattress with a fitted sheet and remove any potential choking hazards from the crib. 
• Refrain from overdressing your baby during sleep, as overheating can increase the risk of SIDS.

One way to ensure your baby’s sleep is as safe as they can be is to use a Snuza HeroMD. Designed — and medically certified —to monitor each breath your baby takes, the Snuza Hero^MD will give you the ultimate peace of mind. It’s so effective — and so stringently tested — it’s trusted and distributed by the Lullaby Trust, a British organisation providing support to parents who have suffered baby loss in the past and are having another baby.

How can the changing seasons affect my baby’s sleep?

Babies are sensitive to changes in temperature, daylight, and outdoor activities, all of which can alter their sleep patterns. During warmer months, babies may struggle to regulate their body temperature, leading to discomfort and disrupted sleep. Conversely, colder weather can make it challenging to maintain a consistent sleep routine, especially if your baby is waking frequently due to feeling too cold or too hot.

The Snuza Pico 2 wearable baby monitor connects to an app on your phone or tablet. Alongside monitoring your baby’s abdominal movements, it also tracks skin temperature, body position, and sleep patterns, allowing you to use that data to adjust your baby’s sleep environment. 

The colder, winter months can also result in sicknesses, leaving your baby congested. Using something like the NoseFrida to clear your baby’s nasal passages before sleep can also be really helpful.

What are the best ways to adjust my baby’s sleep environment in different seasons?

During the summer months, it's essential to keep your baby cool and comfortable during sleep. Opt for lightweight, breathable bedding and dress your baby in light clothing to prevent overheating. Consider using blackout curtains to block out excess sunlight and heat, creating a darker sleep environment conducive to restful sleep.

Conversely, as the temperatures drop in winter, it's crucial to keep your baby warm without overheating. Dress your baby in layers to trap heat effectively, and use a sleep sack or swaddle to provide additional warmth without the risk of loose bedding. Keep the room comfortably cool but not cold, aiming for a temperature between 68-72 °F (20-22 °C) for optimal sleep conditions.

For some parents, there is extra anxiety when their baby is dressed warmly and they worry about smothering. This is why the American Academy of Paediatrics recommends using sleep sacks — which attach over your baby’s shoulders — and layers of clothing, rather than blankets or duvets. Use natural fibres like wool to help your baby better regulate their temperature, and clip the tiny Snuza Go!SE to their nappy to keep an eye on their abdominal movements.

Stay safe throughout the year

As the seasons change, adapting your baby's sleep routine can help ensure a safer and more restful night's sleep for the whole family. By monitoring your baby's sleep environment and implementing safe sleep practices, you can create a nurturing space where your little one can thrive year-round. Remember, each baby is unique, so don't hesitate to adjust your approach based on your baby's individual needs and preferences.

With Snuza's range of innovative baby monitors, you can rest assured knowing that your baby's safety and well-being are always a top priority. Invest in peace of mind and enjoy the journey of parenthood with confidence, knowing that you're equipped with the tools and knowledge to support your baby's sleep through every season.