Is It Safe To Have An Air Conditioner On In Baby's Room?

It's strange how having a baby makes you reevaluate everything you thought you once knew. You'll question your everyday routine, analyzing every minute detail of your life to ensure it's as safe as possible for your brand new baby. Objects that are everyday necessities will suddenly become the subject of your scrutiny. And if your baby is born in the warmer months of the year, a question you're likely researching is whether or not it is safe to have an air conditioner on in baby's room. It's a common fixture in many homes come summertime (or maybe longer in some climates), but are they safe for babies? According to Baby Center, the answer is an unashamed yes (with a few safety precautions, of course).

Obviously, setting the temperature too low will cause your baby to get too cold. Aside from dressing your baby in enough layers, or using warm pajamas and a sleep sack or swaddle, the Baby Sleep Site deemed the ideal temperature for a baby's room between 65 and 70 degrees, regardless of how warm or cold it is outside. You'll need to monitor the temperature, to make sure it's comfortable for your baby — not too hot or too cold.

Similarly, you should never place your baby's crib (or anything they'll be occupying like a car seat or swing) next to or directly in front of the air conditioner unit. This will cause them to get too cold, as the breeze will blow directly on them, instead of into the room as a whole. Getting your A/C serviced each season will keep it in working condition and ensure no harmful fumes or dust is being blown into the nursery.

Another precaution Baby Center recommended is to ensure that you keep your baby's skin well hydrated using a baby-friendly lotion, since the cold air will dry out their room.

Like everything in parenthood, it's not as simple as plugging the A/C in and letting it do its job. But once you've taken the proper precautions, using an air conditioner can be a lifesaver in the heat of the summer.