AC and Your Baby

Given the recent extreme heat waves and deep freezes in the U.S., it only makes sense to start planning on how to stay cool before the warmer weather starts to appear again – especially if you have an infant child or one on the way. Because babies have a hard time telling us how they are feeling, their needs have to be anticipated.

Beyond mere comfort is the matter of potential overheating: According to experts, a baby’s elevated temperature can contribute to a greater risk for sudden infant death syndrome. Which makes it even more important to know that you’ve made the right air conditioning choice for you – whether a Multi-Zone Ductless Split System or Window AC Unit.

Other things to know about air conditioning and your baby:

Experts suggest that the temperature of a baby’s room should be comfortable for an adult wearing light clothing – or around 65 to 70 degrees, a range that can help to improve an infant’s sleep patterns.

However, there is the risk that air conditioning could make a room too cold, potentially resulting in hypothermia in infants. Don’t make the mistake of estimating a baby’s temperature by quickly checking extremities. Instead, take some time to feel the infant’s torso area to see whether he/she is too cold or hot.

Take care to position AC air vents so that they do not blow directly on an infant. In addition to being uncomfortable, this can also result in making the baby too cold. And pay attention to the location of air vents in places other than your home, such as restaurants, stores and indoor play areas. One other place that’s often overlooked: Your car and its venting system.

There will inevitably be places where air conditioning is not available. Be sure to dress your baby in loose fitting clothing that is made of breathable, light fabrics such as cotton. Use dehumidifiers and fans to help regulate the temperature inside your home. And if it’s simply too hot to remain at home, consider spending part of the day in an air conditioned public space such as a mall, supermarket or library.