Choosing the Best Winter Blanket for Kids
As the chilly winter season approaches, ensuring the warmth and comfort of our little ones becomes a top priority for parents. There are different types and materials to choose from, such as fleece, cotton, weighted blankets, and duvets, each offering unique benefits.
This guide will help you make an informed choice to keep your child snug and cozy during winter nights.
Types of Blankets
Fleece Blankets
Fleece is a popular choice for children's blankets due to its softness and warmth. It's lightweight yet insulating, making it ideal for keeping kids warm without overheating. Fleece is also easy to wash and dries quickly, which is convenient for parents.
Cotton Blankets
Cotton blankets can be a good option for kids who tend to sleep warm or live in milder climates. They are breathable and less insulating than fleece, reducing the risk of overheating.
Wool Blankets
Wool is known for its natural warmth and moisture-wicking properties. It can keep children warm even when damp and is naturally flame-resistant. However, wool blankets are heavier and may not be as soft as fleece or cotton.
Weighted Blankets
Some children find comfort in weighted blankets, which can provide security and improve sleep quality. These blankets should be chosen carefully, with the weight appropriate for the child's size. Weighted blankets are not recommended for babies and toddlers.
Duvets or Quilts
Duvets are a popular choice for winter bed linens due to their warmth and comfort. They come in various togs, which measure thermal insulation and indicate how warm the duvet will be. For children, a duvet with a tog rating of around 7 is ideal for cold nights, providing coziness without the risk of overheating. Select a machine-washable duvet, especially for little ones prone to nighttime accidents.
Considerations for Choosing a Child's Winter Blanket
Warmth - Look for materials that offer good insulation.
Weight- A blanket should be cozy but not too heavy, as excessive weight can be uncomfortable for a child
Breathability - To prevent overheating, choose a blanket that allows air to circulate.
Ease of Cleaning—Children's blankets often require frequent washing, so opt for durable and easy-to-clean materials.
Safety—Ensure that the blanket is the right size for the child and free of loose threads or buttons that could pose a choking hazard. Note that experts advise against using blankets for babies under one-year-old.
Keeping Kids Warm at Night: Essential Tips for Comfortable Slumbers
Here are some tips to help keep your kids snug and cozy all night long.
Maintain a Comfortable Room Temperature
The first step in ensuring a warm night's sleep is keeping the room comfortable. The World Health Organization recommends maintaining a room temperature of at least 18°C (64°F) or 20°C (68°F) for homes with young children. Using a programmable thermostat can help regulate the temperature throughout the night and reduce heating costs.
Choose the Right Nightwear
For infants, sleeping bag-type nightwear can be a practical choice, as it's difficult to kick off, ensuring they stay covered throughout the night. For older children, onesies with feet can be a great option to keep them warm from head to toe. If your child is toilet training, opt for PJs with cuffs to prevent sleeves and legs from riding up.
Layer Bedding
Just like dressing in layers for the daytime, layering bedding can provide adjustable warmth for your child. Start with a fitted sheet, add a soft blanket, and top it off with a heavier quilt or comforter. This allows children to add or remove layers as needed without fully uncovering themselves.
Seal Out the Cold
Ensure that windows and doors are properly sealed to prevent drafts. Heavy curtains can also help insulate the room and keep the warmth in. If there are gaps under the door, consider using a draft stopper.
Use a Sleep Sack or Swaddle for Babies
For babies, a sleep sack or swaddle can provide extra warmth without the risks associated with loose blankets. Choose one that's appropriate for the season and ensure it fits your baby correctly to prevent any dangers of suffocation or overheating.
Monitor for Overheating
While keeping your child warm is essential, be careful not to overheat them. Signs of overheating include sweating, damp hair, flushed cheeks, heat rash, and rapid breathing. Adjust the room temperature, bedding, or your child's nightwear if you notice any of these signs.
Explore Kidz Bedding Products
Kidz Bedding offers bedding in various fun and vibrant designs that can stimulate your child's imagination and make bedtime more appealing.
We offer kids' cotton quilt covers, bed sets, and sheet sets in various sizes, including single, king single, double, and queen.
All our products are made from 100% sustainable and breathable cotton and guaranteed to last without piling or losing shape.