EXPERTS at a leading baby charity have advised how to safely keep your baby warm in the colder months, particularly when they are asleep.

As the cost of living soars, many parents are looking for ways to save money on their heating bills without compromising on their little ones’ health. 

A YouGov survey found that six in ten – or 61% – Brits can’t have their heating on for as long or as high as they want.  

A further 15% say they did not have the heating on at all.

Experts at The Lullaby Trust – a charity working to prevent unexpected deaths in infancy – advised that “it’s better for babies to be cooler rather than too hot”. 

That means you shouldn’t be tempted to reach for thick blankets when the heating is off and your little one is snoozing.

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Instead, there are other things you can do to ensure your baby is cosy and sleeping safely.

How should you keep your baby warm at night and when they are asleep?

It is particularly important to manage your baby's temperature when they are asleep. 

Kate Holmes, Head of Support and Information, said: “We know that the colder months can be difficult for families and we understand it can be tempting to wrap your baby up to keep them warm while they sleep. 

“However, we know that overheating increases the chances of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and research shows that it’s better for babies to be cooler rather than too hot.”

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The charity advised that a babies’ sleeping environment should be between 16 and 20 degrees.

Ms Holmes continued: “This may be difficult to maintain in the colder months, however the key is ensuring babies don't get too hot. 

“To reduce the risk of overheating, avoid using thick bedding and duvets and remove any outdoor clothing and hats when you are indoors. 

“During the winter, firmly tucked in sheets and blankets (not above shoulder height) or a well-fitted baby sleeping bag are fine for babies to sleep in.”

“If your baby is still too cold, you can add a layer of bedclothes.” 

Ms Holmes explicitly warned against the use of hot water bottles, microwavable wheat bags or electric blankets in any baby's sleep space as these could cause them to overheat.

How should you keep your baby warm during the day?

Layers and appropriate outdoor clothing are the best ways to keep your baby warm during the day.

Doctors recommend a multi-layered approach to clothing so that you can add and remove them when appropriate.

Your baby will of course need more layers outside and less inside, with accessories like woolly hats and mittens being good for when you’re out and about.  

However, it is important to remove your baby's cosy accessories inside.

The Lullaby Trust advised that "babies lose heat through their heads, so it's important to remove hats or hoods when indoors or in the car so your baby doesn't get too hot."

How can you tell if your baby is too hot or too cold?

The best way to monitor your baby’s temperature is to place a hand on the back of their neck or their chest.

It might seem plausible to check their hands and feet to monitor their temperature, but these parts of their body will always be colder than the rest.

Ms Holmes said: “Every baby is different, and it’s important to regularly check your baby for signs they are getting too hot or too cold. 

“If your baby is too hot, the back of their neck or their chest will feel sweaty or clammy and a layer of bedclothes or bedding should be removed to try and cool them down. 

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“Feeling your baby's hands or feet is not a reliable way to monitor their temperature, as they will always feel colder than the rest of their body. 

“If you notice that your baby is too cool, then add an extra layer of clothing.”

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