The Complete Guide on How to Dress Toddler for Sleep

For parents, few things are as cherished as a good night’s sleep. If you’ve ever struggled to get your fussy babies to snooze through the night, you’re not alone.

Besides the sleep environment, your choice of sleepwear can affect your child’s comfort level and sleep quality.

Keep reading and learn how to dress toddler for sleep so both you and your child can get your much-needed Zs.

Best Fabric for Toddlers’ Pajamas

Some fabrics are breathable, soft, and loose around the body, making it easier to sleep in them. Tight or rigid fabrics make it harder for your toddler to move around in bed, and they’ll cause some discomfort that may wake your babies from their precious snooze.

With that in mind, here are the best fabrics for toddlers’ pajamas:

• Cotton: It’s a soft, absorbent, and breathable material.
• Bamboo: Pajamas made from bamboo are perfect if your kid has allergies. They’re soft and gentle on the skin.
• Knit: Because of its interlooping yarns, knit fabric is stretchy and feels like a warm hug.
• Polyester: It’s flame-resistant, so it follows the safety regulations of The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Plus, it’s comfortable to wear.
• Jersey Knit: It’s stretchy and light, good for casual sleepwear.
• Fleece: This synthetic fiber is cozy, but not too heavy.
• Flannel: It’s warm and fuzzy, perfect when it’s cold outside.

How to Dress Toddlers for Sleep During Winter Months

The American Academy of Pediatrics says you shouldn’t allow babies to sleep with a blanket to lower the risk of suffocation and sleep-related infant deaths.

But once they turn one year old, it’s okay for them to have one. What’s important then is what they wear under the covers.

Experts agree that the ideal temperature for sleep is 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. But when the cold weather months roll in, you might wonder how to keep your baby warm and cozy while sleeping. Check out these tips:

• For younger toddlers, sleep sacks are a safe alternative to blankets and sheets.
• If you can’t keep your little one tucked in beneath the sheets, consider using a weighted sleep sack (more on this later).
• Dress your toddler in an additional layer of clothing, like socks or sweaters.
• Footed pajamas can help keep your toddler’s feet warm without the need for separate socks.
• Switch from cotton jammies to flannel or fleece pajamas.
• Like adults, children pee more when it’s cold. So, opt for overnight diapers designed to handle extra moisture.

How to Dress Toddlers for Sleep During Summer Months

Dressing your toddlers for summer is all about keeping them cool and comfortable.

The best clothing for toddlers to wear to sleep during those hot days should be made of breathable fabrics.

If you don’t have air-conditioning at home, choose loose-fitting clothes. While you’re at it, consider swapping out your thick comforter for a light blanket.

How to Dress Toddlers for Sleep When They’re Sick

Is your little one down with a fever? Are they having night terrors?

There’s nothing more concerning than a sick child. To help them get a comfortable sleep while they’re recovering, give these tips a try:

• Choose pajamas made from breathable materials like cotton and flannel to help them regulate their core body temperature.
• If your toddler has a cold or a cough, choose clothes that cover their chest adequately.
• Add a soft, lightweight sleep sack or wearable blanket to provide an extra layer of warmth in colder months.
• Dress your child in footed pajamas or put socks on them to trap the heat in their tiny feet.
• Your kid will sweat out a fever, so have a fresh set of cozy pajamas ready.
• You don’t want your kid to get too hot or too cold when they’re ill. You can layer clothing if needed, but be cautious not to overdress your baby, as this can lead to overheating.
• If your child is unusually warm or sweaty, remove a layer of clothing.

Do Sleep Sacks Work for Toddlers?

When those days of using a 3-way adjustable swaddle are over, you can rely on a sleep sack for your restless sleepers.

Sleep sacks or wearable blankets are fantastic for toddlers whose tangled sheets always end up on the floor in the morning. As long as your child feels comfortable in a sleep sack, it’s totally fine for them to wear one until they outgrow the largest size available.

Traditional sleep sacks resemble a bag with holes for a baby’s arms and neck. They fasten around the shoulders or chest with snaps or zippers. Depending on their height and weight, these sleep sacks can accommodate children up to two years old.

Sleep sacks specifically designed for toddlers are footless and have pant-style legs. Some brands offer sizes up to 5T.

Additionally, cold weather sleep sacks are extra thick and cozy, making them perfect for night sleep during winter months.

More Tips on How to Dress Your Child for Sleep

Here’s our quick guide to help your toddler sleep soundly, no matter the season:

• Make sure your tiny tot wears clean pajamas to bed.
• If your child has sensitive skin, avoid synthetic clothing and irritating fabrics. The same goes for bedding materials.
• Look for pajamas with flat or soft seams that won’t rub against your toddler’s skin.
• Steer clear of sleepwear that has scratchy tags, zippers, and badly placed fasteners.
• Let your child pick out their favorite pajamas for some bedtime fun.
• Dress your toddler appropriately based on the room temperature.
• When shopping for your kid’s PJs, consider factors like fit, style, fabric, and allergies your tot might have.

Wrapping Up: How to Dress Toddler for Sleep

Learning how to dress toddler for sleep is more than just picking out cute outfits.

The best sleepwear for children includes breathable clothing and wearable blankets. And to complete their bedtime routine, give them a comfortable sleep space, a warm bath, and a good bedtime story.

If your child still struggles to sleep through the night, don’t hesitate to ask for medical advice or sleep recommendations from a certified pediatric sleep consultant.