When Can Babies Sleep With a Blanket? Safety Tips for Newborn Sleep

For parents, nothing is more important than ensuring their baby always has the safest environment. But as your newborn grows, you may wonder when it’s safe for them to sleep with a blanket in the crib. In this post, we’ll cover the safety guidelines for baby blankets and advise you on what kind of blanket is best for newborns.

We’ll also discuss what parents should look for when choosing the right bedding and pillow for their baby. Read on to learn everything you need to know about baby sleep and bedding safety.

What Age Is Safe To Introduce a Blanket?

Parents may wonder when the baby will start using a blanket in the crib or bassinet. The American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines recommend keeping soft objects, including pillows and blankets, out of the baby’s sleep area during the first 12 months, ideally the first 18 months. Blankets should not be used until the baby is at least one year old. Crib safety standards also dictate that blankets should not have any loose or extra fabric that can cover the baby’s head or face. The safest way to meet these standards is by using fitted crib sheets around the mattress.

Benefits of Co-Sleeping With a Blanket

You might try co-sleeping with a blanket to start off. Co-sleeping with a blanket may help babies feel secure and linked to their parents, especially if the baby smells mom or dad’s scent on the blanket. For the parents, having a lightweight blanket available can help them keep track of the baby’s movements and position while they sleep together in bed.

Types of Blankets to Consider

When choosing a baby blanket, there’s no shortage of options. Cotton blankets are lightweight and breathable, which makes them an ideal option for warmer months. Wool or synthetic fiber-filled blankets are better suited for winter as they offer an extra layer of warmth by retaining body heat. Another great option for newborns is lightweight muslin swaddle blankets, which come in various colors and patterns and offer enough warmth without restricting movement or airflow during sleep.

Steps To Safeguard Baby’s Sleep

When it comes to ensuring a safe sleep environment for your baby, it’s crucial to take a few precautions when introducing sleeping items such as pillows, blankets, stuffed animals or bumpers. To start, remove any toys or objects that could pose a suffocation risk or create unsafe sleeping positions by blocking airways. Ideally, you’ll only use a fitted crib sheet without extra covers like comforters or quilts until your baby reaches the age of one.

In addition to the bedding, you should consider how many layers of clothing your baby needs. Balance keeping them warm and preventing overheating. A cotton onesie and light cotton socks can suit many seasons.

Swaddling can help your baby sleep peacefully and feel secure, especially when sleeping with parents. Whether you use an individual swaddle wrap or a lightweight cotton muslin blanket, it can prevent them from waking themselves up due to sudden jerky movements. However, never leave your baby unattended while they’re swaddled.

If you choose to use a small “lovey” such as a lightweight baby blanket, make sure it’s no bigger than the size of your baby’s torso. This can provide additional comfort during overnight sleep. However, monitor your baby’s temperature closely to determine if they need extra layers to stay warm or if the layers are causing overheating.

Signs Baby Is Too Hot or Too Cold

It’s important to stay vigilant and observe your baby for signs of being too hot or cold during sleep. By watching for these signs, you can ensure their comfort all night long.

If your baby is too hot, you may notice a sweaty forehead with damp hair and flushed cheeks. When you touch their armpits, they may feel warm or hot. Additionally, their skin may feel overly warm or hot to the touch. These signs suggest that your baby may be overheating, and it’s important to adjust their clothing or bedding to help them cool down and maintain a comfortable body temperature.

On the other hand, if your baby is too cold, you might observe them curling up into a tight fetal position with their hands tucked between their legs or their knees tucked under their chest. They may also show visible shivering or shaking. When you touch their skin, it may feel slightly cool. These signs indicate that your baby may be feeling chilly, and it’s essential to provide them with additional layers of warmth to ensure they stay cozy throughout their sleep.

Conclusion

A good night’s sleep is important to all of us, but especially babies. Make sure they are old enough to have a baby blanket. Remove other hazards from the crib. And ensure they aren’t too hot or cold. By familiarizing yourself with infants’ safe sleeping needs and understanding which types of blankets best suit them, you can provide your little one with an optimal environment that offers comfort and protection as they slumber.