The birth of a baby comes with love, laughter, and a lot of advice. If you are a mother, we are sure you must have heard, don't put the newborn in AC, or just use the fan on low.
These beliefs have been passed down from grandmothers to mothers and have literally shaped how we care for our little ones. But over the years, summers have grown harsher and the nights have grown hotter. So the tender
debate of using a fan or AC for a baby has also evolved. In this blog, we shall explore whether it is truly safe to use a fan or AC for your baby's sleep.
Wondering how long your baby should sleep in the first place? Here is how much sleep is normal for baby by age.
Is It Safe To Use a Fan Or AC for Babies?
It is absolutely safe to use a fan and an AC to regulate the room temperature for newborn babies. What matters most isn't your choice of using a fan or an AC, but how you use them is what makes all the difference.
Air Circulation Recommendation For Babies
Air circulation is very crucial for newborn sleep. Research has shown that good airflow can reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) by a significant degree. Here are some stats to support the study [1].
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A fan in the room can reduce SIDS risk by up to 72%.
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An open window can reduce the risk of SIDS by 36%.
Besides managing newborn sleep with AC or a fan, it is very important to maintain safe air quality for newborns. Ensure proper airflow, monitor the sleeping position and regulate the room temperature to reduce the risk of SIDS or any other kind of discomfort, your little bundle of joy.
Which Is Better For Newborns? AC or Fan?
Here is a quick side-by-side comparison of AC and Fan for babies:
|
Factor |
AC |
Fan |
|
Temperature control |
ACs allow you to set the ideal room temperature for a newborn, which is somewhere between 24 to 26 degrees. It can be precisely controlled and helps in maintaining a safe temperature zone for newborn sleep. |
The temperature in this case relies a lot on ambient conditions. Therefore, it is not a very reliable source of temperature control during extreme heat or cold. |
|
Comfort |
Consistent cooling promotes uninterrupted sleep. Therefore, it is easier to manage newborn sleep with AC. |
Fans provide gentle air circulation for the baby's sleep. However, fans might be insufficient in hot or humid weather. |
|
Air quality |
ACs require regular maintenance to ensure safe air quality for newborns. You can use a humidifier to keep the air in your room moist for your little one. |
Fans circulate natural air, but they can also spread dust if not cleaned properly. |
|
Energy efficiency |
Higher energy consumption. |
More energy efficient |
|
Noise level |
ACs are quieter than fans and ideal for babies who are sensitive to sound. |
The mild white noise from fans works like a calming sound that can lull some babies into sleep. |
|
Usage |
Using AC and fan at the same time can improve airflow. However, it would be a good idea to avoid direct draft on the baby. |
It can work well alone in cool climates. |
Your baby’s age can influence how sensitive they are to temperature. Check out baby sleep patterns by age to adjust accordingly.
How to set room temperature for newborn sleep: Real mothers weigh in on the debate
We use the air conditioner to keep the room steady at 25 degrees. It gives me peace because I know that the temperature won't spike during the night. -Shaina, mum of two.
I cool the room with the AC early in the evening, then switch to a fan overnight for gentle air circulation. It keeps the baby comfy without the chill.- Tia, Mum of a little girl
Our nursery has the AC temperature for my newborn set to 24 degrees Celsius. I dress my baby in comfortable sleep suits or put her in a sleep pod to keep her snug without overheating- Shazia, mum of a 3-month-old baby girl
Precautions When Using a Fan Or AC for Newborns
Both fans and ACs can be a blessing for keeping your baby cool during Indian summers, provided you use them with care. To that end, you can take note of these tips:
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Do not keep directly under the fan or AC
No matter if you are using a ceiling fan or an air conditioner, please make sure that the air flow isn't hitting the baby directly. Direct cold drafts can cause discomfort and even colds.
-
Set the correct temperature
The ideal room temperature for a newborn ranges from 24 to 26 degrees Celsius. Too hot or too cold can cause discomfort and even pose a risk to their health.
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Dress the baby appropriately
Avoid overdressing or underdressing your baby. Use breathable baby sleepwear like organic baby clothes, sleep suits, sleeping bags or sleep pods made from summer-friendly materials like bamboo muslin or cotton. For winter, try layering instead of one thick piece.
If your baby falls asleep right after feeding, you might still need to burp them. Here is how to burp a sleeping baby without waking them
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Service the AC / Clean the fan regularly
ACs and fans can circulate dust and allergens. Regular cleaning and servicing are essential for maintaining safe air quality for newborns.
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Avoid sudden temperature change
Moving your baby from a cool room to a hot environment or vice versa can shock their tiny system. When you want to take your baby out of your room, turn the AC off a few minutes before stepping out. Breathable baby vests and lightweight baby clothes can help in regulating your baby's body temperature gradually.
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Humidifier for dry Air
ACs can dry the air out, which can irritate your baby's skin. A humidifier can help maintain the moisture levels to keep your baby comfortable.
Conclusion
It is no secret that when your baby sleeps peacefully, so do you. The soft sighs that signal a sound sleep are the kind of comfort that every parent dreams of. But we can also empathise with that anxiety that creeps in when your little one cries in the night. Is it too warm? Too cold? Is the AC too much?
Cocoon care is here to take some of that worry off your shoulders with our curated range of breathable baby swaddles, sleep suits, sleep pods, etc. So go ahead, parents, let the AC and the fan work their magic because we have your baby wrapped in love and comfort for the whole season.
Creating the right environment is one part. Establishing a routine is another. Learn which sleep training method is right for your baby
FAQs On Using Fan Or Ac For Baby
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Which Is Better For a Baby, an AC or a Fan?
Both are safe, but ACs offer more control over the temperature, and fans provide gentle air circulation. A mix of both is usually ideal.
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Can We Use AC and a Fan Together For the Baby?
Yes, using the AC and the fan at the same time can promote airflow while helping you keep a check on the room temperature.
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Can AC Cause Cough In Babies?
Dry air from the AC can irritate your baby's throat, but using a humidifier can easily prevent this.
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What Should My Baby Wear When Sleeping With AC On?
Dress your child in breathable sleep suits or a cozy sleep pod, which is made from organic cotton, muslin, or bamboo.
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Is Ceiling Fan Air Harmful For Newborns?
If the air from the ceiling fan is not directly aimed at the baby and the fan blades are clean, it can be a safe option for newborns.
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What AC Temperature Is Good For Babies?
Setting the temperature between 24 to 26 degrees Celsius can provide optimal comfort for babies in the Indian climate.
References
[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18838649/
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With Love, from Cocoon Care
Dear Parent,
No matter where you are, your baby deserves gentle beginnings and comforting care. At Cocoon Care, we pour love into every stitch. From soft baby bath towels to cozy sleep pods and thoughtfully made newborn baby clothing, our essentials hold your baby with the same tenderness as you do. You can find baby essentials on our website and also on Amazon, Firstcry, Myntra, Nykaa Fashion and DuckDuck baby.
Because every baby deserves to be cocooned in care.
About the Author: The Cocoon Care Editorial Team works with pediatric consultants and experienced parents to bring you baby care tips you can trust.
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