Do baby’s arms get cold in a sleeping bag? The answer to this intriguing question is discussed in this article in great depth!
As parents, the comfort and safety of our babies are of prime importance. Many a time, we have some basic doubts as to whether we are doing the right thing or not? Putting our baby to sleep in a sleeping bag is very convenient for us. However, is it convenient for our babies too? Is it warm enough for them in there? Find out more by reading further.
Babies and Body Temperature
Babies feel snug and warm inside the womb. After birth, they feel safe and secure when they are kept comfortably warm and tucked in. However, body temperature regulation is not well developed in babies. Consequently, when the outside temperature drops, they lose body heat very quickly, primarily through their head and hands, and their need for oxygen increases.
Your baby’s core temperature will be higher than his limbs’ temperature, and hence, it is expected that your baby’s feet and hands feel colder than their body. When your baby is three months or older, his/her body is better able to regulate temperature.
Using a Sleeping Bag for your Baby
The ideal room temperature for a baby to sleep comfortably is 18 degrees C. When your baby is a few weeks old, you can help them sleep comfortably in a sleeping bag.
Sleeping bags come in various sizes, and you can choose one appropriate for your baby’s age and weight. Sleeping bags help ensure a constant temperature and keep your baby comfortable. Avoid using extra blankets when your baby is sleeping inside a sleeping bag, as it can cause his/her little body to overheat.
Do Baby’s Arms Get Cold in a Sleeping Bag?
Sleeping bags are designed with armholes to maintain good air circulation and allow your baby to move their arms freely. It also protects your baby’s body from getting overheated. Overheating can sometimes lead to SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).
While your baby’s body is encased and kept warm by the sleeping bag, his/her arms can feel cold. This is normal and should not cause any discomfort or problem to your baby. If your baby’s room is cold, you can consider dressing your baby in a lightweight, long-sleeved dress or vest. Another alternative is to make them wera mittens. The best way to ascertain if your baby is uncomfortably cold is to touch his/her chest and feel if it is warm or cold.
The NHS has advised that if your baby wakes at night, it could be that s/he is either cold or too warm. The best way is to check the back of the neck or tummy of your child and if it feels warm, they are fine. If it is damp, then they may be too hot. You are not to worry if his/her arms and hands feel cool as this is normal, and it helps the body maintain a regular temperature.
We hope this article helped answer some of the questions regarding putting your baby to sleep in a sleeping bag. Next time you use a sleeping bag for your baby, you can assured that your baby is warm and cozy in there!
