Is your baby waking at 4am. The most common reason why!
Why Is My Baby Waking at 4am? It Could Be the Cold.
If your baby is suddenly waking at 4am, bright-eyed and restless, you're not alone. One of the most common reasons little ones stir during the early morning hours is simple: they’re cold.
It might surprise you to learn that the coldest part of the night is usually between 3am and 5am, when your baby’s body temperature naturally dips. If they’re not dressed warmly enough or the room temperature drops too much, it can lead to an early wakeup (and a tired start to the day for everyone!). Time to check the TOG of your winter sleeping bag to make sure it's warm enough for your baby.
Here’s how to tell if your baby is waking due to the chill and what you can do to keep them cosy, safe, and sleeping longer.
❄️ Babies can’t tell us they’re cold, but their bodies do show signs. Here’s what to look for:
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Cold chest, tummy or neck (not just hands or feet, those are usually cooler naturally)
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Frequent early waking, especially between 3am–5am
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Difficulty settling back to sleep despite not being hungry or wet
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Fussiness or restlessness in the early morning hours
What Temperature Should a Baby’s Room Be?
Experts recommend keeping your baby’s room between 20–22°C (68–72°F) for safe and comfortable sleep.
This can be tricky during the cooler months when the temperature can drop significantly overnight. We recommend using a room thermometer to keep an eye on it, especially in winter.
What Should Baby Wear to Bed?
Choosing the right sleepwear is key to helping your baby stay warm and sleep soundly, without overheating.
Here’s our go to guide for cooler nights:
Layering Guide:
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A cotton singlet or bodysuit (short or long-sleeve, depending on room temp)
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A light or mid-weight onesie
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A TOG rated sleeping bag or sleep suit
Which TOG Should You Use?
TOG stands for “Thermal Overall Grade” — it tells you how warm a sleep bag is.
| Room Temperature | Recommended TOG | Our Pick |
|---|---|---|
| 24°C+ | 0.2 – 0.5 TOG | Light-Weight Sleep Bag |
| 20–23°C | 1.0 TOG | Mid-Weight Sleep Bag |
| 16–20°C | 2.5 TOG | Winter Sleep Bag |
| Under 16°C | 3.5 TOG | Extra Warm Sleep Bag |
Anchor & Arrow sleeping bags are designed to keep your little one warm through the coldest part of the night — made with breathable, natural fibres that help regulate temperature and promote deeper, safer sleep.
