Ah, the sweet lullabies of a sleeping baby – every parent's cherished melody. As we revel in the joy of our little ones dozing off into dreamland, there's a crucial aspect to consider: the ABCs of baby sleepwear. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering ‘what do babies sleep in?’, we’re here to answer that question for you, and help you understand the best way on how to dress a baby for sleep.

Dressing your precious bundle for bedtime is not just about style; it's about ensuring a cosy, safe, and restful night for your little sleepyhead. Join us as we navigate the world of baby sleepwear, discussing what to avoid and what's best for those peaceful nights. And, of course, we'll sprinkle in some tips to help you create a bedtime routine that will have your baby drifting off to sleep in no time.

 

 

Safety First  — What to Avoid

When it comes to your baby's sleep environment, safety should be the top priority. So, what do newborns sleep in, and what should you avoid? Here are our top three tips on what to avoid to ensure your baby has a peaceful night’s sleep:

• Don’t overdress: While you might be tempted to wrap your little one in layers, overheating can pose a safety risk. Overheated babies are more prone to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Red Nose advises to ensure that you lay your baby on their back and remove any head coverings.
• Ensure your baby’s bedding is tight: Make sure to position your baby’s feet towards the bottom of the cot and ensure that any sheets or blankets are firmly tucked in so that your little one can’t wriggle down and overheat. Use a nice firm mattress and avoid having any loose pillows or accessories such as blankets that might interfere with your baby’s breathing. 
• Have the appropriate room temperature: We recommend that you dress your baby to suit the temperature of the room. Don’t feel the need to keep the heating or cooling on all night, although an oscillating fan can be a good idea for warmer nights (and research shows this may even help keep your baby safer). 

 

Dressing Your Little One for a Restful Night

Now that we've covered what to avoid, you’re likely wondering what should a newborn sleep in, and how many layers should a newborn wear? Let's now dive into what to dress your baby in at night. The golden rule here is to keep it simple and safe. When deciding how to dress your newborn for sleep, consider the ambient temperature of the room. In warmer weather, light pyjamas with short legs and sleeves are a good choice for your boy or girl.  For colder nights, a full length baby suit will help keep them warm and snug, without the risk of overheating (and will keep your little lady or gentleman looking stylish to boot). 

Look for breathable materials, and avoid anything that might irritate your baby’s skin. Anything with convent features like snaps or zippers can make for much easier nappy changes during those midnight wake-ups as well. If you keep these tips in mind, you’ll know how to dress your baby at night with confidence 100% of the time.

 

 

Establishing a Bedtime Routine for Restful Nights

You’re up to date with all the safety advice, and you can definitely answer ‘what do newborns sleep in?’, so let's talk about creating a bedtime routine that sets the stage for restful nights. Consistency is key when establishing a routine, and it can include activities like a warm bath, a gentle lullaby, or a bedtime story. These cues signal to your baby that it's time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Over time, your baby will understand these signals, reducing the time it takes for them to settle into sleep.

Getting your baby ready for sleep within your bedtime routine involves making it a calm and soothing process. Pick a time that suits your own schedule (especially if it means you can leave some time to wind down yourself after looking after your little one), and avoid stimulating activities or bright lights in the hour leading up to bedtime. Dim the lights, keep the noise level low and create a peaceful environment for your little one. These tips will all help signal to your baby's body that it's time to sleep.

Everyone’s bedtime routine will be different, but by following these few simple steps it will help your baby have a restful night’s sleep, as well as you!

 

 

Choosing the Perfect Sleepwear—Who You Can Trust

As you embark on this journey of parenthood, ensuring your baby gets a good night's sleep is a top priority, not only for your baby but also for you as a parent. By understanding what to avoid and what newborns sleep in, you're not only promoting safety but also creating a cosy and comfortable sleep environment. Whether it's a warm summer evening or you need to know how to dress a newborn in winter, the right sleepwear plays a crucial role in your baby's sleep routine.

For adorable and functional sleepwear that ticks all of the boxes, Minihaha has you covered. Minihaha offers a wide selection of sleepwear for newborns, including knitwear, bodysuits, and rompers. They have great options for both summer and winter, designed with your baby’s comfort and safety in mind. We believe that dressing your baby for sleep shouldn't be a hassle – it should be a joy, so be sure to take a look at the terrific options available.