Keeping baby cool during a heatwave (or holiday!)
by Folk & Thread
When the weather heats up, whether you're in the midst of a British heatwave or heading off on a long-awaited family getaway, it’s natural to worry about how to keep baby comfortable and safe. But here’s the golden rule: it’s the room temperature, not the weather outside, that really matters.
Babies can’t regulate their temperature as easily as adults, which makes it even more important to dress them for the room they sleep in, not the season, destination, or how hot you feel. That’s why every Folk & Thread order includes a free room thermometer, and why we always recommend bookmarking our handy What to Wear guide for peace of mind all year round.
The lowdown on hot-weather sleep
If the room is 22°C or warmer, you’ll want to keep baby’s sleepwear light. A short-sleeved bodysuit or just a nappy will be all they need, especially when paired with a 0.5 tog sleep bag. Ours are made with soft, organic cotton and designed to allow airflow while still offering that snug, sleep-friendly feel. The new Whitby design is perfect for summer holidays - crisp, coastal, and cool in every sense.
Our 0.5 tog sleep bag isn’t just for nighttime either—it’s ideal for afternoon naps in the stroller or those dreamy early evening strolls when the day is still warm. Just make sure baby is in full shade when you’re out and about—a proper sunshade is essential, and their arms and legs should be covered to avoid exposure.
Other tips to help keep baby cool:
- Keep blinds or curtains closed during the day to block out direct sunlight and keep the room from overheating
- Use a fan to circulate air, but make sure it’s not pointed directly at the cot
- Offer a lukewarm bath before bedtime—cooler than usual, but not cold. It helps bring their body temperature down gently
- Stick to natural fibres like cotton for both sleepwear and bedding. Synthetics can trap heat and make baby feel sweaty or uncomfortable
Heading on holiday?
If you're away from home, check if your accommodation has air conditioning, a fan, or blackout blinds. Pop your room thermometer in the travel bag so you can set up a safe, comfy sleep space wherever you are. Many hotels and rentals are geared up for families these days, but it’s always worth sending over a quick checklist to confirm the essentials—travel cot, mattress, sheets, and all.
And if bedtime routines go a bit wobbly while you’re away? That’s okay too. A new space means new sounds, smells, and surroundings to get used to. You can still keep things familiar with your usual sleep bag, storybook, or lullaby—but don’t stress if it takes a couple of nights for everyone to settle in. Holidays are about relaxing, after all.
You’ve got this
When it’s warm outside, you might notice that naps tend to be a little shorter and bedtime can be a bit fussier. But the good news is that babies are really great at adapting! With just a few easy changes and a little awareness of the room temperature, you can keep everyone safe and cozy, helping them sleep well, even when the temperatures are up.
Hot days can be sticky and sleep can feel like a struggle, but summer nights can still be calm, cool, and comforting with the right sleepwear and a few simple tweaks. Wherever you are, we’re here to help you keep bedtime safe, gentle, and just a little bit breezier.
