Bedding

Babies sleep better when they are warm. But babies of under four months old are less able to adapt to swings in temperature than the rest of us and need help to keep a steady temperature. So don’t use any bedclothes that may make your baby overheat:

• Do not use duvets or pillows for babies under one year (see Cot death)

• Your baby’s room temperature needs to be about 18°C

• Babies regulate their temperature by losing heat from their heads so don’t dress him in a hat to sleep

• A cot bumper can restrict the flow or air to the cot, so if you use one, check your baby doesn't get too warm

When he has a long sleep you may feel reassured if you check his temperature now and again. You can do this by putting your hand inside his stretch suit and feeling his stomach or the back of his neck. If he’s warm that’s fine. If he feels cold, add another blanket. If he feels hot and sweaty, take one blanket off. Don’t worry if his hands and feet are cold - this is normal for a young baby.