How to Keep Babies Sleeping Safely When It’s 85° at Night

When the summer heat lingers into the evening and your baby’s room feels more like a sauna than a sanctuary, it’s normal to worry about how to keep them cool and safe.

As a postpartum doula, we hear this concern often, especially during heat waves or when air conditioning isn’t available. The good news? There are simple, effective ways to keep your baby comfortable and lower the risk of overheating while following safe sleep practices.

Here are our favorite tips for keeping your baby safe and sleeping soundly (even on 85° nights).

• Skip the Swaddle and Keep it Light

In hot weather, ditch the layers. A single breathable layer, like a short-sleeved cotton onesie or just a diaper is often enough. You can skip the swaddle altogether when temperatures are high, especially if your baby is already showing signs of rolling. Shop for fabrics labeled as “lightweight,” “muslin,” or “organic cotton.”

Tip: A good rule of thumb is to dress your baby in one layer less than what you're wearing comfortably.

• Use a Fan ( safely)

Set a fan on low, pointed away from your baby but toward a wall to create indirect airflow. Ceiling fans work great too, so whichever you and your baby prefer. Fans provide a bonus as the gentle hum acts as a soothing background noise that can help your baby sleep peacefully in a cooler environment. 

• Cool the Room Before Bedtime

If you don’t have AC, try cooling the room naturally before bedtime. Open windows once the outside air cools down and use blackout curtains during the day to block heat. You can even place a bowl of ice in front of a fan for a makeshift air cooler.

Hydration tip: If you’re breastfeeding, you may notice your baby feeds more often during warm nights — this is normal! They’re staying hydrated.

• Check for Signs of Overheating

Babies can’t regulate their body temperature like adults do. Check the back of your baby’s neck or chest and  if it feels hot, damp, or sweaty, they might be too warm. Your baby may show other signs, such as flushed cheeks or rapid breathing.

• Trust Your Instincts and Ask for Help When Needed

You’re the expert on your baby. If something feels off, trust that instinct. It’s okay to ask questions, to make changes, and to seek help. Whether it’s from your doula, pediatrician, or parent village, you’re not alone in navigating those sweaty summer nights. 

Navigating the Heat with Care

With the help of these tips and a prepared mindset, your baby can sleep safely and soundly in the Summer heat and so can you. We are here to make every season (no matter the temperature!) easy and stress-free for you and your baby. 

Always remember that you have a doula to lean on for guidance, reassurance, and support through the highs and lows of every time of the year.