As a new parent, watching your little one drift off to sleep is one of the most precious moments you’ll experience. However, with so many safety concerns surrounding infant bedding and blankets, it can be difficult to know when it’s safe for your baby to snuggle up under a cozy quilt. In this blog, we’ll explore the guidelines When can baby sleep with blanket?and to introducing blankets into your baby’s sleep routine – helping you ensure that they nap soundly while staying safe and comfortable.
When Can Your Baby Sleep With a Blanket?
Most experts agree that you can start introducing a blanket to your baby’s sleep routine once they’re around 6 months old. Before that, babies are at a higher risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Once they’re old enough to roll over on their own, they’re also less likely to suffocate if they end up face-down under a blanket.
You can start slowly by simply draping a lightweight blanket over your baby’s legs during naps and nighttime sleep. You can also try using a lovey, which is a small, soft toy that’s attached to a blanket. This can provide comfort and security for your little one as they adjust to sleeping with a blanket.
As always, be sure to talk to your child’s pediatrician before making any changes to their sleep routine.
How to pick the right blanket for your baby?
If you’re wondering when you can introduce a blanket to your baby’s sleep routine, the answer is usually around the 6-month mark. But before you tuck them in with a new comforter, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, consider the climate you live in and whether your home is typically warm or cool. If it’s on the cooler side, you’ll want to opt for a thicker blanket that will provide more warmth. A lightweight cotton or muslin option might be best for homes that tend to be warmer.
Next, think about what type of sleep surface your baby usually sleeps on. If they typically sleep in a crib with a firm mattress, you’ll want to avoid anything too bulky that could pose a suffocation risk. A thin cotton or bamboo blanket should suffice.
Finally, take into account your baby’s own sleep habits and preferences. If they tend to move around a lot in their sleep, a smaller blanket that’s less likely to bunch up or get tangled could be ideal. Or if they seem to prefer snuggling up under something heavy, go ahead and choose a cozier option.
The most important thing is to make sure the blanket you choose is breathable and won’t increase your baby’s risk of overheating during the night. With those factors in mind, you should be able to find the perfect pick for your little one!
What are the benefits of using a blanket?
There are a few benefits of using a blanket with your baby. One is that it can help your baby feel more secure and cozy. It can also be helpful in keeping your baby warm, since babies tend to lose heat more quickly than adults. Additionally, using a blanket can help to create a boundary between you and your baby, which can be helpful in preventing you from accidentally rolling over on top of them during the night.
How to safely use a blanket with your baby?
When can your baby sleep with a blanket? It’s a question that many parents ask, and for good reason.
Blankets can be dangerous for babies if they’re not used correctly. That’s why it’s important to follow some simple safety guidelines when using a blanket with your baby.
Here are some tips for safely using a blanket with your baby:
Make sure the blanket is the right size. A baby blanket should be no bigger than 30 inches by 36 inches.
Choose a lightweight blanket. A heavy blanket can be too much for a young baby to handle.
Avoid using blankets with strings or other attached items. These can be choking hazards for babies.
Place the blanket securely over the mattress, tucking it in around the edges. This will help prevent it from coming loose during the night and becoming a danger to your baby.
Check on your baby regularly during the night to make sure the blanket is still in place and hasn’t become a hazard.
When to stop using a blanket with your baby?
As your baby grows, they will become more mobile and will be able to move around their crib or bed more. This means that they could potentially kick off their blankets in the middle of the night. If this happens frequently, it might be time to stop using a blanket with your baby.
If your baby is old enough to sit up on their own, they might also try to pull their blanket over their head. This can be a suffocation hazard, so it’s important to monitor your baby closely if they are using a blanket. If you notice them trying to pull the blanket over their head, it’s time to stop using a blanket with them.
Ultimately, you know your baby best and you will be able to determine when it’s time for them to stop using a blanket at night. Trust your instincts and don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about whether or not your baby should continue using a blanket at night.
Conclusion
Putting a blanket in your baby’s crib is an exciting milestone for both parents and children alike. Knowing when it’s safe to do so can be confusing though, but understanding the risks involved will give you greater peace of mind. We’ve outlined some basic guidelines here so that you can make an educated decision on when your baby should start sleeping with a blanket. As always, if you have any specific concerns or questions regarding your infant’s sleep habits, consult with your pediatrician for personalized advice on whether a blanket would be advisable at this time.
