The Baby Sleep Guide

Safe and healthy sleep for your child is a topic that interests all parents but also raises many questions.

Where and how do babies and toddlers sleep well and safely?

How do I protect my child from sudden infant death syndrome?

What is the best sleeping environment for my baby?

What is a good bedtime routine?

This guide is intended to give you tips on what you can do to ensure that your baby sleeps well and safely.

With our tips, you can successfully get your baby to fall asleep and sleep through the night.

Everything About Baby Sleep - An Introduction

Hardly any other topic is discussed as much as a baby's sleep. In the first few months, they sleep a lot, as they collect a lot of information during the day and develop incredibly quickly. That takes energy. However, there is no such thing as “normal” baby sleep because infants sleep differently to adults.

It is like a little miracle when you wake up and notice that your child has slept through the night for the first time. Many parents long for it. However, it can take a while before this point in time occurs. So don't be unsettled if your friends ask you: "Has your child not slept through the night yet?"

Every child is different and has to get used to the day-night rhythm first. So, it stands to reason that a whole series of questions arise. For example, how much sleep is normal or from what point in time the baby will sleep through ... We will answer the most important questions about baby sleep in our Baby Sleep Guide. It should hopefully make it easier to your your little one to get used to their sleeping times.

Baby Sleeping Bag or Sleeping Bag with Feet?

Both versions - baby sleeping bags and sleeping bags with feet - are good options and safe. You don't have to decide for or against one of the two versions.

Both sleeping bag options protect your child from overheating / hypothermia while sleeping and prevent sudden infant death.

In general, baby sleeping bags are recommended up to 12 months of age. If your little one feels comfortable in it, then you can still continue to use a baby sleeping bag and there is no reason to change to anything else. Slumbersac offers baby sleeping bags for older children.

A sleeping bag with feet is just as comfortable as a baby sleeping bag, but it also has leg covers and openings for their little feet. Since the legs are not covered by the sleeping bag, your child can move around and kick freely in it. At night you don't have to worry about them “losing” their blanket while sleeping.

The sleeping bag with feet for older children is also particularly comfortable in the morning. They can then move around in it and, for example, crawl or walk without any problems.

A sleeping bag with feet is a great alternative or addition to the baby sleeping bag for children who love a lot of freedom of movement. The majority of our sleeping bags with feet are also equipped with foldable feet covers that you can simply put over your feet. This way, your little one can leave their feet “outside” at night without freezing.

Many of our models have practical non-slip dots under the soles so that your little one can also find a secure footing in the slumbersac.

Depending on the season, you should have summer, winter and year-round sleeping bags at home so that your baby doesn't sweat or freeze in hot or cold temperatures.

Baby Sleeping Bag or Sleeping Bag with Feet Choosing the Right Baby Sleeping Bag

Slumbersac Products Overview Why Use a Baby Sleeping Bag

Why Does My Baby Wake Up at Night?

The fact that your child wakes up at night is due to two factors. One reason is that they have not yet got used to the day-night rhythm that adults have, because there was neither day nor night in mum's tummy.

The other reason is that the nocturnal awakening comes from the times when our ancestors slept in the open air or in caves. As a result, there was always the risk of being attacked by a wild animal. It is therefore normal for babies to wake up regularly at night and make sure that they are not alone and defenceless.

The more secure your little one feels while sleeping and the further their day-night rhythm develops, the better they will be able to relax and sleep through the night.

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What Is the Difference in Baby Sleep Compared to Adult Sleep?

Baby sleep differs from adult sleep in many ways, because babies develop and grow very quickly in those first few months - including their brain, which doubles in size within the first 12 months of life.

That's why it's only natural that your little one has to process so much while sleeping.

In contrast to adults, babies do not sleep peacefully in deep sleep. The little brain arranges experiences, emotions, and information and tries to process them. The body also remains very active, which is why your little one is very easy to wake up during these sleep phases.

Differences Between Baby and Adult Sleep How Much Sleep Does Your Child Need?

Are Sleeping Bags with Feet Good for Co-Sleeping?

Sleeping bags with feet for adults are a great solution for both comfort and functionality, especially for those who practice co-sleeping with their baby or toddler. Co-sleeping is known for promoting safer sleep for babies, and the adult sleeping bag with feet from Slumbersac eliminates the need for blankets, which can pose a risk to babies. The adult sleeping bag provides warmth without overheating, and its footed design allows parents to move freely during the night without the risk of kicking off a duvet and getting cold.

For breastfeeding mothers, the sleeping bag features a front zip, making night feeds more convenient without having to get up. This design ensures that both baby and parent remain warm and comfortable throughout the night. By removing the need for blankets, the sleeping bag helps reduce the risk of a blanket accidentally covering the baby’s face, creating a safer sleep environment for everyone.

In addition to co-sleeping, adult sleeping bags with feet are perfect for lounging around the house. Whether you're having a cosy night in or spending a relaxing day on the sofa, the soft, breathable fabric keeps you comfortable while offering freedom to move. With foldable feet covers, your feet can stay cosy or be uncovered when needed.

These sleeping bags are not only great for home use but also ideal for camping, festivals, or sleepovers. The easy-care fabric is machine washable and tumble dryer-safe, making it practical for everyday use. Slumbersac offers a range of sizes and colours to fit everyone in the family, allowing parents and children to match for ultimate comfort.

Have You Heard of Adult Sleeping Bags with Legs?

How Do Children Experience Dreams?

Children's dreams are often vibrant and filled with imagination, reflecting their developing minds and emotions. From a young age, their dreams tend to involve elements of their daily lives, such as family, friends, and school, but with a fantastical twist. For example, they may dream of flying or having magical powers, mirroring their creative and playful nature.

Studies show that young children, especially toddlers, experience dreams that are less structured and tend to be more like snapshots of feelings or brief scenes. As they grow older, their dreams become more complex, often involving narratives similar to adult dreams. Emotional experiences, like fear or excitement, play a key role in shaping their dream content.

Nightmares are also common in children, particularly between the ages of three and six. These can be triggered by anxieties or insecurities they encounter during the day. However, dreams can also serve as a safe space for them to process these emotions. Over time, children learn to differentiate between dreams and reality, which helps them to navigate both their inner and outer worlds.

How Children Dream

The Science of Sleep

Why Does Sleep Help Babies Fight Infections?

Sleep plays a crucial role in helping your baby fight off infections. During sleep, the body works to restore and strengthen the immune system. For babies, whose immune systems are still developing, this is especially important. When your baby sleeps, their body produces proteins that help combat infections, inflammation, and stress. These are essential for fighting off common illnesses such as colds and flu.

Adequate sleep also allows the immune system to form antibodies, which are necessary for recognising and attacking harmful germs. A lack of sleep can weaken this defence mechanism, making your baby more susceptible to infections. In fact, studies show that sleep-deprived babies are more prone to catching illnesses and tend to take longer to recover.

Additionally, proper sleep helps regulate your baby’s body temperature, which can be helpful in fighting off infections that cause fevers. Ensuring your baby gets enough rest, therefore, is a key factor in maintaining their overall health and helping them to recover more quickly from illnesses.

Why Does Sleep Help My Baby with Infections?

Tips for My Child's First Night Away from Home

The first overnight stay for your child can be an exciting yet emotional milestone. It’s important to prepare both yourself and your child for this new experience. Begin by choosing a familiar and trusted place, such as a grandparent’s or close friend’s house, where your child feels safe. Talk to them in advance, explaining the plan and what they can expect, so they feel reassured. Packing their favourite toy, blanket, or bedtime book can help provide comfort during the night.

Make sure they understand that it’s okay to feel a bit nervous or miss home, but that it will be a fun adventure. Also, try not to over-contact them, as this may increase their homesickness. Instead, encourage them to enjoy the time away. Be ready to pick them up if things don’t go smoothly, but try to give them space to work through it. Finally, when they return, ask them how it went and praise their bravery, reinforcing a positive experience for future overnight stays.

Practice short separations beforehand, such as a playdate without you, to help them adjust to time away.
Create a checklist together when packing to make them feel involved and excited about the experience.
Establish a routine, like a goodnight phone call, so they feel connected but still independent.

The First Overnight Stay for Your Child

How Do I Get Rid of Dust Mites?

House dust mites are microscopic creatures that thrive in warm, humid environments, particularly in bedding, mattresses, and upholstered furniture. To reduce dust mites, it’s essential to maintain a clean and dry environment. Washing bedding in hot water (at least 60°C) weekly can help eliminate these pests, as they can’t survive high temperatures. Regularly vacuuming carpets and furniture, especially with a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter, also helps to reduce dust mite populations.

Using allergy-proof covers on mattresses, pillows, and duvets can act as a barrier, preventing mites from settling. Keeping humidity levels below 50% by using a dehumidifier or air conditioner makes the environment less hospitable for mites. Additionally, decluttering and reducing the number of soft furnishings like curtains and rugs can minimise dust mite habitats.

Avoid using feather or down-filled bedding, as these materials can attract mites. Instead, opt for synthetic options that are easier to clean. Lastly, ensure good ventilation in your home, as proper airflow can help reduce humidity and dust accumulation. Regular cleaning and reducing dust-prone areas are key to keeping house dust mites under control.

House Dust Mites: The Enemy in the Bed

Some Practical Sleep Tips for Exhausted Parents

If you're struggling with sleep as a parent, here are some practical tips that can help. Firstly, if possible, take turns with your partner for night shifts, so both of you get some extended sleep. You could also set up a ‘sleep shift’ during the day, where one of you rests undisturbed while the other looks after the baby.

Use Technology: use white noise machines or apps to help your baby sleep, and smart baby monitors that track your sleep and wake you up gently during lighter sleep phases.

Prepare everything you’ll need for the night in advance—bottles, nappies, and a change of clothes—so you can avoid unnecessary disruptions. Also, try to minimise phone use at night, as the blue light can keep you more awake.

Don’t hesitate to ask for help, whether it’s from friends, family, or professional support like a nanny or midwife. A full night’s sleep, even once a week, can make a huge difference!

Tips for Sleep-Deprived Parents Tips to Help Your Baby Sleep Longer

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How Can I Help My Baby Adjust to the Clocks Going Back?

When the clocks go back, it can feel challenging to manage your baby’s bedtime routine, but with some planning, you can help make the transition smoother. The key is to adjust your baby's schedule gradually. In the week leading up to the clock change, begin shifting their bedtime by 10-15 minutes later each night. This way, by the time the clocks change, your baby’s routine will have already adapted to the new time.

You can also try adjusting daytime naps and meal times to align with the new schedule, ensuring your baby doesn’t become overtired. Darken the room during naps or bedtime to help signal sleep, especially since it may be lighter earlier in the day after the clocks go back. Exposure to natural light during the day can also help regulate their internal body clock.

It’s important to remain flexible, as some babies may take a few days to fully adjust. Keeping the bedtime routine consistent, such as with a bath, stories, or calming music, can provide comfort during this change. Lastly, be patient with yourself and your baby; it’s normal for sleep to be disrupted briefly after the clocks change.

When the Clocks Go Back

How to Create the Perfect Sleep Environment?

First, ensure the room is kept at a comfortable temperature, ideally between 16 and 20 degrees Celsius, to avoid overheating. A firm, flat mattress in the cot is crucial, with no pillows or loose bedding that could pose a suffocation risk. It’s best to dress your baby in layers rather than using thick blankets, and always place them on their back to sleep.

Blackout curtains can help keep the room dark, promoting better sleep, especially during nap times. A white noise machine or soft lullabies may also soothe your baby and drown out external noise. It's essential to maintain a quiet, calm environment around bedtime to help your baby associate sleep with relaxation.

Additionally, keep the cot free from toys, bumpers, or decorative cushions to ensure the safest space. Lastly, a consistent bedtime routine can be beneficial, such as a warm bath, storytime, or a gentle cuddle, as it helps signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep.

The Perfect Sleeping Environment for Your Baby How To Keep Your Baby Safe When Sleeping

Ensuring Your Baby Sleeps Safely in Cold Weather

Does the Room Need to be Dark for Sleep?

It's not strictly necessary for your child's room to be completely dark for them to sleep well, but darkness can help promote better sleep. Melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep, is produced in greater amounts when the room is dark. For babies and young children, a dim or softly lit room can create a calming environment and signal that it’s time to wind down.

Some children, however, may feel anxious in complete darkness. In these cases, a nightlight can be useful. Choose a nightlight with a warm, soft glow, as bright or blue-toned lights can interfere with sleep. You might also want to consider blackout curtains if outside light disrupts your child’s sleep.

Establishing a consistent bedtime routine in a dimly lit room can signal to your child that bedtime is approaching. However, it’s equally important to ensure the room feels safe and comfortable, especially if your child expresses fear of the dark. Ultimately, the key is to find the right balance between comfort and darkness to support your child's sleep patterns.

Does It Have to Be Dark in My Child’s Room?

Here you can find more blog articles on the topic of Safe and Healthy Sleep:

Top 5 Tips for Moving Your Toddler from Cot to Bed

Ensuring a Good Night's Sleep for Your Baby

Regulating Baby's Body Temperature

Mastering the Bed Time Routine