If you notice that your child is having trouble sleeping due to the heat, here are some tips to optimize sleep, especially during hot summer months or while traveling to hot destinations:
-
Choose cotton: Use cotton sheets, sleeping bags and pajamas because these materials retain much less heat than synthetic fabrics. For babies, sometimes just a diaper can be enough to keep them comfortable.
-
Cool down at bedtime: Give your child a lukewarm shower or a cooling bath before bed. A lukewarm bottle instead of a hot one can also help lower body temperature.
-
Create a breeze: At night, open two windows or doors opposite each other to create an airflow. Wait until the sun is gone to prevent heat transfer.
-
Use cooling elements: Place a cooling element from the freezer wrapped in a cloth with your child in bed. An ice-cold cherry pit pillow or cool pack for injuries can also provide relief.
-
Sufficient hydration: Make sure your child drinks enough during the day. Feel free to give an extra bottle of water. This will prevent them from getting thirsty at night and possibly having a headache.
-
Cooling mats: Cooling mats normally used for pets can also be placed under the fitted sheet in a child's bed to lower the temperature.
-
Cool favorite stuffed toys: If your child has a favorite stuffed toy, consider putting it in the freezer for a while before bedtime. This can help provide some cooling when they are in bed.
With these tips, you can improve your child's sleeping conditions during hot weather, allowing them to sleep more comfortably and rest better.
