Hot weather Vs cold weather nap tips - Sleep by Alexandra
Day naps can be so important to your little ones' routine, especially if they are not typically the best sleeper at night. Getting the timings right can be a challenge so to add another challenge like weather, can make them nearly impossible. Here are a few ways to help get those important day naps in, whether it’s hot or cold.
Warm weather
Hydration
This one is key. Keeping baby well hydrated during the day will help improve naps as they will be less likely to wake due to thirst.
Shade
An obvious one, however sometimes just under an umbrella isn’t enough. If at home, keep your blackout blinds up during the day to keep their room cool or if out, using a Snooze Shade will help keep baby cool.
Ventilation
If using a blackout blind to keep babies room cool, still try and have a window open to help ventilate. Whether it’s a window in their room or a room adjacent, it all helps.
Bath temp
Keep the bath temperature cool, add diluted lavender oil if possible as the smell can help release melatonin, the sleep hormone. Never add essential oils without diluting first.
Sleep wear
Again, this is a very important one. Be sure that baby is in the correct sleep wear as being too hot or too cold can really affect their sleep. Check your countries guidelines for Safe Sleep wear.
Cold weather
Ventilation
Even when it’s cold out, it is still good for baby to get some fresh air. Even a quick 15min walk can help both you & baby feel better and may even help get baby to sleep.
Bath temp
Keep the bath temperature warm but never over 38°C, check with your elbow and always mix well. Also try adding diluted lavender oil if possible as the smell helps release melatonin, the sleep hormone. Never add essential oils without diluting first.
Sleep wear
Again, this is a very important one. Be sure that baby is in the correct sleep wear as being too hot can really affect their sleep. Check your countries guidelines for Safe Sleep wear.
Different children need different amounts of sleep. Getting those crucial naps in place, can really help encourage better night time sleep.
Of the best travel cots
When you’re travelling with your baby, you may wonder, where is the best place for your baby to sleep on holiday? Here’s how to choose the best travel cot for you and we show you some of our favourites…
How do I choose a travel cot?
There are lots of choices available, so think about your lifestyle; will you often visit friends and family with your baby? Do you travel a lot, or just occasionally? Do you love camping or a festival? Do you need it to double as a playpen? Travelling with baby becomes simpler if you invest in a good quality, portable travel cot that is right for you.
There are three kinds: pop-up travel cots, ideal for small spaces and occasional use, small travel cots if space is a problem in your hotel or holiday room and larger travel cots that can be used for a couple of years, may have changing facilities and can be used for playtime as well as sleep.
What features are useful when choosing a travel cot?
Some features come as standard but what extras are handy?
- Wheels: to move it across the room or, when folded, to transport it to the car or through the airport.
- Travel case:most come with their own case to keep all the pieces together and to keep it clean.
- Bassinet:this is a cosy little bed for newborns that is fixed to the top of the travel cot. It is useful to prevent backache, as it’s easier to put your baby down to sleep.
- Changing unit: a useful feature, as you don’t need a separate changing outfit.
- Toys:look for toy arches, mobiles, or music units. This can help with settling your baby for naps.
- Mesh sides: easy for you and your baby to see each other.
- Mattress:it should be supportive and firm. If you use it a lot, it’s worth buying an additional mattress and fitted sheets.
Sleep safety: you should have your baby in the same room as you during their first six months
To make the most of your trips away, make sure your baby's nap schedules are maintained and stop them waking up early due to early morning sun by packing a SnoozeShade for Travel Cots. Air permeable and easy to use, it allows fresh air through and blocks 94% of light and distractions. It will help your little one get good sleep without you needing to black out the whole room- ideal when you're on holiday.