Helping Kids with Eczema Sleep Better

If you’re a parent of a child with eczema, you know how challenging bedtime can be. The constant itching, discomfort, and flare-ups can make it difficult for your child to fall and stay asleep. Lack of sleep not only affects their mood and well-being but also impacts their overall health and immune system.

In this guide, we’ll explore why eczema disrupts sleep and share practical strategies for helping kids with eczema sleep more peacefully.

Why does eczema make sleep difficult?

Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes dryness, inflammation, and intense itching, making it particularly challenging for children, especially at night. Young children, including babies and toddlers, have delicate, sensitive skin that is more prone to moisture loss, leading to increased dryness and irritation. 

Below are a few key reasons why helping kids with eczema sleep better can be challenging:

• Increased itching at night – The body’s natural circadian rhythms cause inflammatory responses to heighten at night, making eczema symptoms feel more intense. As they sleep, their body temperature naturally rises, which can trigger excessive sweating. Since sweat contains salts that can further irritate already inflamed skin, this often leads to a vicious cycle of itching and discomfort. 
• Overheating – Warm bedding and PJs can trap heat, triggering sweating and worsening eczema flare-ups.
• Scratching in sleep – Children often scratch subconsciously, causing broken skin and discomfort that wakes them up.

It’s worth noting that the absence of daytime distractions also plays a significant role. During the day, kids play and engage with their surroundings, which can momentarily take their minds off the itch. However, at night, when their environment is calm and they are lying still, the itching sensation becomes more noticeable, making it difficult for them to fall or stay asleep.

Disrupted sleep due to eczema can also have a ripple effect on a child’s overall well-being. Poor sleep can lead to increased irritability, difficulty concentrating at school, mood swings, and even a weakened immune system. For younger children, frequent night-wakings due to eczema-related itching can also result in heightened separation anxiety and difficulty settling back to sleep without parental reassurance.

How to help kids with eczema sleep better

Helping kids with eczema sleep more peacefully requires a combination of skincare, environmental adjustments, and soothing nighttime routines. Here are some of our recommended strategies to improve the sleep quality of your child:

Establish a consistent bedtime routine

A structured bedtime routine is essential for helping kids with eczema sleep more comfortably. 

Consistency helps signal to your child’s body that it’s time to wind down, making it easier for them to relax and drift off to sleep. A well-planned evening routine promotes better sleep and provides an opportunity to care for your child’s skin, reducing the likelihood of nighttime flare-ups. 

Here are some key steps to include in a soothing bedtime routine:

• A lukewarm bath: A gentle, lukewarm bath with fragrance-free, eczema-friendly bath oils or colloidal oatmeal can help cleanse and soothe irritated skin. Avoid hot water, which can strip the skin of natural moisture and worsen dryness. Limit bath time to around 10 minutes to prevent excessive drying of the skin.
• Applying a thick layer of moisturiser or prescribed eczema treatment: Immediately after the bath, while the skin is still damp, apply a thick layer of a rich moisturiser or any prescribed eczema treatment. This helps lock in hydration and create a protective barrier against irritants.
• Dress in breathable, eczema-friendly sleepwear: Choose soft, loose-fitting pajamas made from cotton or bamboo, which are gentle on sensitive skin and help regulate body temperature. Avoid synthetic fabrics, wool, or tight clothing that may cause overheating or irritation. 
• Engage in a relaxing activity: Help your child transition to sleep by incorporating calming pre-bedtime activities, such as reading a bedtime story, listening to soothing music, or practicing gentle breathing exercises. Avoid screens at least an hour before bedtime, as blue light can interfere with the body’s natural sleep cycle.
• Create a comfortable sleep environment: Ensure their bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet, with minimal distractions. Use a humidifier to maintain moisture in the air and prevent skin from drying out overnight.

Following this consistent bedtime routine can help reduce eczema-related discomfort at night, making it easier for your child to relax and get the restful sleep they need.

Choosing eczema-friendly bedding and sleepwear

The right bedding and clothing play a crucial role in helping kids with eczema sleep more comfortably by minimising irritation, overheating, and moisture buildup. Since children with eczema have highly sensitive skin, choosing materials that are soft, breathable, and non-irritating to reduce the risk of flare-ups is essential.

Here are some important considerations when selecting bedding and sleepwear for children with eczema:

• Use 100% cotton or bamboo sheets: Opt for natural, breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo, which allow air circulation and help regulate body temperature. Bamboo, in particular, is naturally moisture-wicking and hypoallergenic, making it an excellent choice for children with sensitive skin. Avoid rough textures or materials with added chemicals, dyes, or finishes that could trigger irritation.
• Avoid wool or synthetic fabrics: Wool and synthetic materials, such as polyester and fleece, can trap heat and moisture, leading to excessive sweating and discomfort. These materials can also feel rough against the skin, potentially aggravating eczema-prone areas. Instead, choose soft, lightweight, and loose-fitting fabrics that minimise friction and irritation.
• Choose lightweight, breathable pyjamas: As mentioned above, dress your child in loose-fitting, eczema-friendly sleepwear made of cotton or bamboo. Tight clothing can rub against the skin and cause further irritation, while overly warm pyjamas can lead to overheating and night sweats, worsening eczema symptoms. Look for tag-free or seam-free designs to prevent unnecessary scratching and discomfort. Several brands, like Bamboo Bubby and Honey & Stitch, specialise in eczema-friendly sleepwear. 

• Wash bedding and pyjamas weekly in a fragrance-free detergent: Washing bedding, sleepwear, and soft toys regularly helps remove allergens, dust mites, and irritants that can worsen eczema. Use a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic detergent without harsh chemicals or dyes. Avoid fabric softeners and dryer sheets, which often contain irritants that can trigger flare-ups. Washing new sheets and pyjamas before their first use can also help remove residual chemicals from manufacturing.
• Consider silk or bamboo pillowcases: Switching to a silk or bamboo pillowcase for children prone to facial eczema can help reduce friction and irritation. These fabrics are smooth and gentle against the skin, helping to maintain hydration overnight.

By making thoughtful choices about bedding and sleepwear, you can create a comfortable, eczema-friendly sleep environment that minimises irritation, keeps your child cool, and promotes restful sleep.

Control room temperature and humidity

Maintaining a cool and comfortable bedroom environment is essential for helping kids with eczema sleep without excessive itching or night sweats. 

Since eczema-prone skin is highly sensitive to temperature and humidity changes, an overheated or overly dry room can trigger discomfort, making it harder for your child to fall and stay asleep. 

Here are some ways to create an ideal sleep environment:

• Set the room temperature to 18-22°C: Keeping the bedroom at a moderate temperature helps prevent overheating, which can cause excessive sweating and worsen itching. A room that is too warm can lead to increased scratching, while a room that is too cold may cause the skin to dry out further. If possible, adjust the thermostat or use a fan to help circulate air and maintain a stable temperature throughout the night.
• Use a humidifier to maintain moisture levels: Dry air, especially during colder months when heaters are used, can strip moisture from the skin, leading to increased dryness and irritation. A humidifier can help maintain optimal humidity levels (around 40-50%) to hydrate your child’s skin. Be sure to clean the humidifier regularly to prevent mould and bacteria build up, which could worsen eczema symptoms.
• Ensure proper ventilation – Fresh air circulation can help prevent stuffiness and reduce allergens that may trigger eczema flare-ups. Keeping a window slightly open (weather permitting) or using an air purifier can help improve air quality and reduce irritants such as dust mites, pet dander, and pollen.

By keeping the bedroom cool, well-ventilated, and at an optimal humidity level, you can create a soothing sleep environment that reduces nighttime itching and makes it easier for your child to rest comfortably.

Managing eczema flare-ups at night

Even with the best bedtime routine, flare-ups can still happen. Here’s how to minimise discomfort and continue helping kids with eczema sleep more peacefully.

Apply a soothing skincare routine before bed

• Use a gentle cleanser to remove sweat and allergens before moisturising.
• Apply a thick moisturiser or eczema-friendly balm to lock in hydration.
• Trim your child’s nails or use cotton mittens to prevent scratching during sleep.

Try natural remedies for eczema itching

Some natural approaches can help calm itching and irritation:

• Oatmeal baths – Colloidal oatmeal can soothe inflamed skin.
• Coconut oil – A natural moisturiser with antimicrobial properties.
• Chamomile or lavender essential oil (diluted) – Known for their calming effects.

Address underlying allergies and triggers

Allergens can exacerbate eczema, making helping kids with eczema sleep better more challenging. 

Consider:

• Identifying potential food triggers (dairy, eggs, nuts).
• Ensuring plush toys and rugs are dust-free.
• Using an air purifier to filter out allergens.

When to seek medical help

If your child’s eczema is causing severe sleep deprivation, frequent infections from scratching, or is not responding to treatments, consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend:

• Prescription-strength creams or medications.
• Wet wrap therapy to provide intense hydration overnight.
• Allergy testing to identify hidden triggers.

Helping kids with eczema sleep better

Helping kids with eczema sleep can be challenging, but with the right strategies, your child can enjoy more restful nights. A consistent bedtime routine, eczema-friendly bedding, and a cool, comfortable sleep environment can help minimise itching and discomfort. Keeping their skin well-moisturised and addressing triggers supports better sleep.

Every child’s eczema is unique, so if sleep disturbances persist, consulting a healthcare professional for personalised advice can help.

At the Eczema Association of Australasia, we’re here to support you with expert resources, guidance, and a caring community. If you need more advice on helping kids with eczema sleep, explore our website for trusted eczema management tips or contact us for personalised support. You’re not alone – let’s work together to help your child sleep better and feel more comfortable every night. Contact us today