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What's The Optimal Temperature For A Baby's Room?

by Olivia Youngs

As a new parent, you discover a whole new set of worries that you never even knew existed in your pre-baby days. Things like whether or not you remembered to thaw breast milk, or wondering if you turned on the night light will keep you awake during the night. You'll enter a Google-induced coma of information overload from your endless researching. But it's all worth it, because as a parent, your child's wellbeing is really your ultimate concern. One major worry new parents may have is wondering what the optimal temperature for a baby's room is, especially in the early months when babies are so fragile and sensitive.

In fact, the temperature of your baby's room is not something to take lightly. According to the Baby Sleep Site, a room that's too warm for baby will increase their risk of SIDS and simply using a fan can decrease that risk by 72 percent. Parents even suggests keeping the room warmer during the day and cooler at night, since most people sleep better when rooms are slightly cooler (but not too cold.) The same article suggests that the ideal temperature for a baby's room is somewhere between 65 and 70 degrees — a bit on the cooler side of room temperature. If your baby seems too hot, feel the back of their neck or their belly, as this is the best way to feel their core temperature.

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If you're worried about your baby getting cold at night, turning up the heat isn't the best option. Instead, dress your baby in warm footie pajamas, or use a swaddle. If your baby is too old to be swaddled (once they start rolling over, generally) baby sleep sacks and wearable blankets are great options that will keep your baby warm and their room safe.

Although it can seem like a lot to keep track of, investing in a simple indoor thermometer or a baby monitor that can tell the temperature is worth the money to help both you and your little one sleep more soundly at night.