Canadian Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths

Bringing Hope and Life to Canadian Families

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Overheating
Overheating presents a risk for SIDS.  Babies can overheat because of too much bedding or clothing, or because the room temperature is too hot. When you check your baby, if he or she is sweating or their tummy feels hot to the touch, take off some of the bedding.  Don't worry if the baby's hands or feet feel cold, this is normal.  It is easier to adjust for the temperature with changes of lightweight blankets. Remember, a folded blanket counts as two blankets. 

Babies may be smaller but they feel temperature just like we do
Babies do not need hot rooms.  Keep the room at a temperature comfortable for an adult.  About 20°C to 22°C is comfortable.  In the summer, if it is warm, your baby may not need any bedclothes other than a sheet. 


Overheating - Reducing the Risk

  • Babies who are ill or feverish need fewer clothes and blankets
  • Babies lose excess heat from their heads, so make sure their head cannot be covered with bedclothes
  • Babies should never sleep with a hot water bottle, electric blanket or heating pad, or next to a radiator, heater or in direct sunlight
  • Remove hats and extra clothing as soon as you come indoors or enter a warm car, bus or train, even if it means waking your baby

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