Keeping your baby warm in winter without overheating
Short answer: Use layers or a higher-tog sleeping bag, not duvets, hats indoors, hot water bottles or electric blankets.
Step by step
- Keep the cot away from radiators.
- Remove hats indoors.
- Check your baby's chest or neck, not their hands.
What the guidance says
- Never use a hot water bottle or electric blanket, and do not place the cot next to a radiator, heater or fire, or in direct sunlight.
- Pillows, duvets and quilts are not recommended for babies under 12 months because of the risk of overheating and the head being covered.
- Check your baby's temperature by feeling their chest or the back of their neck. Cool hands and feet are normal.
- Keep the room between about 16C and 20C and check it with a room thermometer.
Shop at Baby Kingdom
- 2.5 Tog Baby Sleep Bag 6-18 Months
- Muslin Swaddle Blanket - Berry Stripe
- 1.0 Tog Baby Sleep Bag 0-6 Months
- 1.0 Tog Baby Sleep Bag 6-18 Months
Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
Can I swaddle a 6 week old?Baby sleeping bag vs cot sheet: which is better?What swaddles & blankets does Baby Kingdom sell?Can I swaddle a 10 month old?How do I dress my baby for a 16C room?What tog sleeping bag for winter?All baby bedding and sleeping bags advice →
Sources
- NHS: Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) (accessed 2026-10-21)
- The Lullaby Trust: Baby mattresses and bedding (accessed 2026-10-21)
General information only, not medical advice. Always follow your product's instructions. If you are worried about your baby, contact your GP, health visitor or 111. In an emergency, call 999.