1. The “Touch Test” ( Sweaty Neck or Back ):
Touching a baby’s hands or feet is misleading — they are supposed to feel cool because of poor circulation.

• The Check: Place two fingers on the back of your baby’s neck or chest.
• The Sign: If it feels hot, clammy, or sweaty, they are overdressed. Remove a layer immediately.

2. Red, Flushed Cheeks:
Unless they have a fever, flushed cheeks during sleep usually mean the body is trying to release excess heat. If they look like they’ve just run a marathon, unwrap them.

3. Rapid Breathing:
An overheated baby may breathe faster than normal as their body tries to cool down.

• Normal: 30 – 60 breaths per minute.
• Warning: Consistently faster breathing without other illness symptoms.

4. Heat Rash ( Prickly Heat ):
Look for small, red bumps or pinkish patches, typically found in skin folds (neck, groin, armpits) or on the chest. This means sweat ducts are blocked because the fabric isn’t letting the skin breathe.

5. Restless Sleep or Lethargy:
This is tricky. Some overheated babies become incredibly fussy and won’t settle. Others become lethargic ( unusually hard to wake up ). Both are signs of thermal stress.