Baby showers often feature adorable crib gifts, such as sheet sets, comforters, hand-stitched quilts, and knitted afghans. With these cozy items on hand, you might wonder: when can babies sleep with a blanket? It’s crucial to understand the risks associated with blankets and how to keep your baby warm safely until the right time.

Is It Safe for Babies to Sleep with Blankets?

In short, no. The question of when can babies sleep with a blanket involves understanding potential hazards. Each year, around 3,600 infants in the U.S. die unexpectedly during sleep, often due to risks like sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), suffocation, entrapment, or strangulation. Blankets can increase the likelihood of these dangers.

The safest sleep environment for your baby is a bare crib, free of comforters, bumpers, pillows, fleece, sheepskin, and stuffed toys. The only essential item is a fitted sheet that is snugly tucked on all sides. For more on safe sleep environments, visit the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Avoid using positioners, wedges, or special mattresses marketed to reduce SIDS risk, as these products have not been proven effective and could potentially be unsafe.

When Can I Introduce a Blanket?

So, when can babies sleep with a blanket safely? The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) does not specify an exact age for blanket use. However, most experts agree that soft bedding poses less risk for healthy babies after 12 months, with a preference for waiting until 18 months or older.

Until your baby reaches around 18 months, it’s safest to refrain from using a blanket during sleep. Even after this age, ensure that the blanket is thin and small to minimize entanglement risks. A special lovey or small blanket can become a comforting part of your baby’s bedtime routine.

Be cautious even if you plan to place your baby on top of the blanket rather than underneath it. The blanket can still protect your baby as she moves in her sleep or get caught in the crib corners.

Swaddling and Blankets: When Is It No Longer Safe?

Swaddling with a blanket is different from using loose bedding. It is safe to swaddle a newborn to help calm them and promote good sleep. Use a properly wrapped swaddle blanket or a sleep sack from birth until your baby starts attempting to roll over, usually around 3 or 4 months. Avoid layering additional blankets over a swaddled baby to prevent the risk of suffocation.

How Can I Keep My Baby Warm Without a Blanket?

A baby can sleep comfortably without a blanket. For babies under 12 to 18 months, consider using a sleep sack or a wearable blanket sleeper. These one-piece outfits are designed to cover the body without covering the head, offering warmth without the risks associated with loose bedding.

If your baby’s room is very warm, she might not need extra layers. The ideal room temperature for sleep is between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid overheating by not over-bundling and adjusting the thermostat as needed.

To check if your baby is warm enough, feel the nape of her neck. If her skin is cold, she may need another layer; if she feels very warm or is sweating, she might be too hot. Your own comfort level can also guide you—if you’re chilly under the covers, your baby probably is too.

Conclusion

Navigating baby bedding rules can seem complicated, but they are designed to prioritize safety. If your child is old enough for a blanket, it’s fine to introduce one, or you might opt for a sleep sack instead. Either way, your baby will stay cozy and safe throughout the night.

When can babies sleep with a blanket is an important question for ensuring safe sleep practices. Follow these guidelines to keep your baby warm and safe as they grow.