Managing your baby's temperature
Babies are unable to regulate their body temperature in the way adults do.
When adults are cold they shiver, and when hot, they sweat. It is important to
keep your baby neither to hot nor to cold. The following suggestions are given
to help you keep your baby's temperature within the normal range (36.6oC to
37.2oC):
- Use the right amount of clothing and bedding - during the day your baby
should wear the same amount of clothes as you wear plus an extra layer. For
example if you are wearing a shirt, baby should wear a babygro or t-shirt or
dress plus a cardigan. Babies should wear hats in summer to stop them becoming
sunburnt and in winter to stop then getting cold. At night babies should wear a
nappy, vest and babygro or gown plus a sheet and couple of blankets.
- If your baby seems restless or fussy and his skin is flushed and feels hot,
remove a piece of clothing or blanket. It is normal for babies to have cool
hands and feet but if they feel cold and look blue and blotchy, add mittens,
socks/bootees, a hat and a cardigan or blanket. Remember to take off baby's
outdoor clothes when you get inside.
- The cot, pram (buggy) or car seat should not be next to a
radiator, heater or fire, in direct sunshine or near to draughts - for example an
open window.. Remember, babies who are swaddled in a heated car can easily
become overheated. Never leave your baby in the car without you being there.
- Before bathing your baby, make sure the room is warm and that doors and
windows are shut.
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