Ever wondered if your one-year-old can sleep with a blanket? I get it – the bedtime puzzle! Imagine your little one all snuggled up for sleep while being so safe. This article dives into the cozy world of blankets and safety for our tiny sleepers.
Safety guidelines
Until your kiddo hits the one-year mark, the AAP suggests skipping the blankie in the crib scene to keep things SIDS-free
According to AAP, “Babies up to 1-year-old should sleep alone in their own crib, play yard or bassinet on a firm, flat mattress with a taut sheet. Keep their sleep surface clutter-free, with no blankets, pillows, crib bumpers, stuffed animals, or other objects.”
Developmental milestones of 1-year-old
At the one-year mark, our little adventurers are mastering the art of pulling and pushing objects.
Pushing a toy cart across the room? Absolutely! These newfound skills are not just cute milestones; they’re crucial building blocks for their physical development.
So, let’s tie it back to safety – especially when it comes to bedtime. Imagine your little mover and shaker in the crib. The same pulling and pushing action applies to their bedding.
That’s why it’s essential to choose a snug, secure fit for sheets and blankets.
Can a 1-year-old sleep with a blanket?
Yes, a 1-year-old can sleep with a lightweight and small blanket. After the age of one, the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) decreases, making it safer to introduce an age-appropriate blanket for added comfort. However, it is best to avoid a blanket for another 6 to 8 months, to be on the safe side. Meanwhile, look for an alternative to a blanket. (I’ll share later in this article)
Always ensure the blanket doesn’t pose any suffocation hazards, providing a secure and cozy sleep environment for your little one.
Pros:
- Provides additional warmth and comfort for the child.
- A familiar blanket can offer a sense of security and comfort during sleep.
- Introducing a blanket can be a transitional step toward independent sleep.
Cons:
- Before the age of one, blankets in the crib may increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
- Loose blankets can pose a suffocation risk or become tangled around the child.
- There’s a risk of the child overheating, so it’s crucial to choose lightweight and breathable blankets.
Tips to keep the child safe:
Follow these simple things to ensure your little one stays safe and comfortable.
1- Snuggle Safely:
Go for a cozy, lightweight blanket that’s like a warm hug without the risk of overheating.
2- Tuck-in Tight:
Imagine you’re creating a cozy crib burrito! Tuck that blanket snugly around the mattress, leaving no room for it to sneak up.
3- No Frills, No Thrills:
Choose blankets with no loose threads or fancy add-ons. We learned this the hard way – a simple, clean design ensures there are no midnight entanglements or unexpected choking hazards.
4- Temperature Tango:
Adjust the room temperature so your munchkin is comfy without needing a blanket the size of a comforter. Our thermostat became our sleep ally in this adventure.
5- Keep an Eye, Oh My!:
Peek in during naptime to make sure the blanket is behaving. It’s like a quick check-in on your little dreamer’s cozy kingdom.
6- Wear the Warmth:
Consider cute sleep sacks or wearable blankets – a lifesaver for both warmth and safety. Our kiddo loved feeling like a bedtime superhero in their little sleep sack.
Choosing the right blanket:
Consider the following factors while choosing the right blanket for a 1-year-old.
- Size: Choose an appropriately sized blanket for a 1-year-old, avoiding oversized options.
- Material: Opt for a soft, hypoallergenic fabric that is gentle on a toddler’s sensitive skin.
- Breathability: Select a blanket with breathable material to prevent overheating and ensure proper airflow.
- Weight: Choose a lightweight blanket to provide warmth without being too heavy for a young child.
- Safety Features: Look for blankets with no loose threads, buttons, or embellishments that could pose a choking hazard.
- Easy to Wash: Consider blankets that are easy to clean and maintain for regular use.
- Snug Fit: Ensure the blanket fits snugly around the mattress or the child, preventing entanglement.
- Versatility: Opt for blankets suitable for different seasons, providing warmth in winter and breathability in summer.
- Durability: Choose a durable blanket that can withstand regular washing and the wear and tear of daily use.
- Age-Appropriate Designs: Select blankets with age-appropriate designs or characters that your child may find visually appealing and comforting.
The blanket I recommend:
For the winter season, I recommend Hudson Baby Unisex Baby Plush Mink Blanket. It’s made with 100% polyester and is as small as 30×40 inches while the average length of a 1-year-old is around 29 inches.
For the summer season, it’s best not to use a blanket but if you want to Burt’s Bees Baby Blankets can be a good option as they are small and made up of cotton.
Alternatives of blankets for little kids:
While blankets are generally considered safe for babies over 12 months, it’s always a good idea to err on the side of caution. So, what are the alternatives?
1- Sleep Sacks or Wearable Blankets:
These are like magic sleeping bags for babies. We discovered these gems when my little one hit the one-year mark. They keep them warm without the risk of loose bedding. Plus, it’s like dressing them up in the cutest bedtime outfits!
I highly recommend getting a sleep sack instead of a blanket for a 1-year-old.
2- Footed Pajamas:
Think of it as a two-in-one deal – comfy sleepwear with built-in foot warmth.
3- Cotton Pajamas and Layers:
On warmer nights, opt for breathable cotton pajamas and layer up if needed.
4- Heating the Room:
Another trick we picked up – adjusting the room temperature. It’s like creating a comfy cocoon without the need for heavy blankets. A win-win for both safety and warmth.
Must get a sleep sack:
A sleep sack is essentially a wearable blanket that provides a secure alternative to loose bedding in cribs. Instead of placing it directly on the baby, you dress them in it like a shirt, offering the same cozy warmth without the safety concerns of traditional blankets.
I highly suggest sleep sacks instead of blankets for young children. Seriously, these things are a lifesaver!
Picture this: it’s like wrapping your little one in the coziest hug imaginable.
Sleep sacks are the perfect combo of snug and comfy, creating a bedtime cocoon that’s just heavenly.
Plus, safety is a breeze – no more worrying about loose blankets in the crib.
Consider checking out HALO SleepSacks. These sleep sacks are designed to provide a safe and cozy sleep environment for your little one.
With easy-to-use zippers and a wearable design, it eliminates the need for loose blankets.
The HALO SleepSack is a practical choice that prioritizes both comfort and safety during your baby’s bedtime routine.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, while it’s generally safe for a 1-year-old to sleep with a blanket, careful consideration of safety guidelines is crucial.
Choosing a lightweight, breathable blanket and exploring alternatives like sleep sacks ensures a cozy and secure sleep environment.
Always prioritize your little one’s safety for a peaceful night’s rest.
