As the temperatures dip, ensuring your kids stay warm and snug at night becomes a top priority. Whether you’re dealing with the chill of winter, a drafty home, or a family camping trip, a warm night’s sleep is essential for their health, comfort, and a good mood the next day. Here are some practical, parent-approved tips for keeping your kids cozy when the nights get cold.

1. Dress Them in Layers

The key to warmth is layering. Start with a snug base layer made of breathable materials like cotton or merino wool. Add a pair of fleece pajamas or a onesie for extra insulation. Avoid overdressing, though—kids can overheat just as easily as they can get cold. If you’re not sure how many layers are enough, think of it as one more than what you’d wear to bed.

2. Choose the Right Bedding

Invest in good-quality bedding suited for colder weather. A warm, lightweight duvet or comforter, paired with flannel sheets, can make a world of difference. Weighted blankets can also provide extra warmth and comfort, but ensure they are age-appropriate and not too heavy for younger children.

For toddlers and babies, use wearable blankets or sleep sacks instead of loose blankets, which can be a safety hazard. Look for ones with a TOG (Thermal Overall Grade) rating suitable for the temperature of their room.

3. Create a Cozy Sleeping Environment

Keep the chill out of their bedroom by ensuring windows are properly sealed and curtains or thermal blinds are drawn. If their room tends to be cooler, consider using a small, child-safe space heater with a thermostat to regulate the temperature. A draft stopper at the bottom of the door can help, too.

If heating the room isn’t an option, a hot water bottle or a microwavable heat pack tucked into their bed (placed safely to avoid burns) can warm things up before they climb in. Just be sure to remove it once they’re settled.

4. Set the Ideal Room Temperature

The ideal room temperature for kids’ sleep is between 65–70°F (18–21°C). Use a room thermometer to monitor this, as it can be hard to judge by feel alone. If their room feels too cold, adjust accordingly, but resist the urge to overheat—it’s best to aim for a balance.

5. Warm Up Before Bedtime

A warm bath before bed not only helps relax your little ones but also raises their core temperature, making it easier for them to stay warm under the covers. Follow this with cozy slippers, a fleece robe, and a bedtime routine that helps them wind down in a warm and comfortable setting.

6. Keep Feet Toasty

Cold feet can make it harder for kids to stay warm overall. Make sure they wear socks to bed—preferably ones made from wool or thermal materials. Avoid tight socks, as these can restrict circulation and make feet colder.

7. Monitor and Adjust as Needed

Every child’s needs are different, so take note of how they sleep on colder nights. If they wake up complaining about being cold, consider adding a layer or switching to heavier bedding. On the flip side, if they seem sweaty or flushed, you may need to scale back.

8. Encourage Cuddly Companions

For younger kids, stuffed animals or soft blankets can provide not only emotional comfort but also a bit of extra warmth. Make sure these items are safe and age-appropriate.

9. Camp-In Comfort for Adventures

If you’re camping or staying somewhere particularly cold, consider a high-quality sleeping bag designed for kids. Opt for one rated for the expected temperature and ensure it’s the right size to trap warmth effectively.

Keeping kids warm at night doesn’t have to be a challenge. With a little preparation and thoughtful layering, you can create a cozy sleep environment that ensures they stay comfortable no matter how cold it gets. After all, a well-rested child is a happy child—and a happy parent, too!

How do you keep your little ones warm at night? Share your favorite tips in the comments below!