One of the most common questions new parents ask is how warm (or cool) their baby’s room should be. Newborns can’t regulate their body temperature in the same way adults can, so creating a safe and comfortable sleep environment is important.
In this UK-focused guide, we explain the recommended room temperature for a newborn, why it matters, and how to manage it throughout the year.
What is the ideal room temperature for a newborn?
In the UK, the commonly recommended room temperature for a newborn is between 16°C and 20°C. This range is considered comfortable and safe for babies, particularly during sleep.
This guidance is widely used by UK healthcare professionals and safe sleep organisations. Keeping a room within this range helps reduce the risk of overheating, which is associated with unsafe sleep.
Why room temperature matters for newborns
Newborns are still developing the ability to regulate their body temperature. If they become too warm or too cold, they may not be able to adjust as easily as an adult.
Overheating is a particular concern during sleep. Research has shown that babies who get too hot are at a higher risk of sleep-related complications. That’s why maintaining a suitable room temperature is considered just as important as safe sleep positioning.
How to check if your baby is too hot or too cold
Rather than relying only on how warm the room feels to you, it’s helpful to check your baby directly.
A good rule of thumb is to feel the back of your baby’s neck or their chest:
- If their skin feels warm and comfortable, they’re likely fine.
- If they feel hot or sweaty, they may be too warm.
- If they feel cool to the touch, they may need an extra layer.
Hands and feet often feel cooler than the rest of the body, so they’re not always a reliable indicator of overall temperature.
Using a room thermometer
Many parents find it reassuring to use a room thermometer in their baby’s sleeping area. This allows you to monitor the temperature accurately, particularly during the night or in changing weather.
Try to place the thermometer away from direct heat sources such as radiators or windows, as this can give misleading readings.
Managing room temperature in different seasons
Winter
During colder months, it can be tempting to keep the heating on high overnight. However, overheating is still a risk in winter.
If the room temperature drops below 16°C, consider adding an extra clothing layer or adjusting bedding rather than dramatically increasing the heating. A steady, moderate temperature is usually best.
Summer
Hot weather can make it harder to keep a baby’s room within the recommended range. In summer:
- Use blackout blinds or curtains to block daytime heat
- Open windows during cooler parts of the day
- Use a fan to circulate air (but not directed at the baby)
On particularly warm nights, lighter sleepwear and bedding may help prevent overheating.
Safe sleep guidance and temperature
UK safe sleep guidance recommends placing babies on their backs to sleep in a clear, uncluttered sleep space. Room temperature is part of this wider safe sleep picture.
You can read more about safe sleep and temperature guidance from the NHS here:
NHS safe sleep advice for babies
Do different babies need different temperatures?
Every baby is slightly different, but the 16–20°C guideline works well for most newborns. Premature babies or those with specific medical needs may require individual advice from a healthcare professional.
If you’re ever unsure, your midwife or health visitor can offer guidance tailored to your baby and your home environment.
Final thoughts
Keeping your newborn’s room at a comfortable temperature doesn’t need to be complicated. Aiming for 16–20°C, checking your baby’s warmth directly, and making small seasonal adjustments can help create a safe and calm sleep environment.
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