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What is the Best AC Temperature for a Baby to Sleep?

Published in Baby Sleep Temperature 3 mins read

Keeping your baby comfortable during sleep is essential for their safety and well-being. The best AC temperature for a baby to sleep is typically within a specific range to ensure a safe sleep environment.

Based on recommendations, babies should sleep in a temperature maintained between 68° and 72°F (20° to 22.2°C). This temperature range, recommended as of February 21, 2020, helps keep the baby's room cool but comfortable, contributing to a safe sleep space.

Why Temperature Matters for Baby Sleep

Maintaining the correct room temperature is crucial for infants because they are not as efficient at regulating their body temperature as adults.

  • Preventing Overheating: Overheating is a risk factor for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). A room that is too warm can cause a baby's body temperature to rise too high.
  • Ensuring Comfort: A room that is too cold can make a baby uncomfortable and wake them up.
  • Creating a Safe Environment: The recommended temperature range helps strike a balance between keeping the baby warm enough and preventing overheating.

Recommended Temperature Zone

Here's a quick look at the ideal temperature range:

Setting Fahrenheit Celsius
Recommended 68°F to 72°F 20°C to 22.2°C

This zone is generally considered cool and comfortable, similar to what many adults prefer for sleeping.

Practical Tips for Maintaining Room Temperature

Achieving and maintaining the ideal temperature involves more than just setting the thermostat. Consider these practical tips:

  • Monitor the Room: Use a room thermometer to get an accurate reading of the temperature in the baby's sleep area. The thermostat setting might not reflect the exact temperature where the crib is located.
  • Dress Appropriately: Dress your baby in lightweight sleep clothing. A sleep sack or wearable blanket appropriate for the room temperature is often sufficient. Avoid heavy blankets, which can pose a suffocation risk.
  • Check Your Baby: Feel your baby's neck or stomach (not their hands or feet, which can feel cool even if they are warm) to check their temperature. Signs of overheating include sweating, flushed cheeks, or a heat rash. Signs of being too cold might include feeling cold to the touch or being fussy.
  • Ensure Air Circulation: Use a fan to circulate air, which can help maintain a consistent temperature and has also been associated with a reduced risk of SIDS. Position the fan so it is not blowing directly on the baby.
  • Adjust for Season and Climate: You may need to adjust clothing or use the AC/heater more depending on the weather outside and your home's insulation.

Keeping the room within the 68°F to 72°F (20°C to 22.2°C) range, combined with appropriate sleepwear, helps create a safe and comfortable sleep environment for your baby.