Being a parent is one of life’s greatest joys. Showering your little ones with love fills you to the brim with happiness. We also understand that it can be one of the scariest responsibilities to carry, especially when it comes to keeping your kids healthy.
As the winter months approach, we’re here to equip you with the knowledge you need to properly dress your baby so they’ll stay nice and cozy all winter long.
Read on to learn more about how to dress your baby for the winter months and best practices to nurture their whole health.
Baby Clothing Basics
Dressing your baby in proper clothing is important to keep them safe and comfortable in the winter months.
Babies don’t regulate their body temperature as well as adults, so paying extra attention to their cues is important. They lose most body heat through their heads, so having a head covering, like a hat or beanie, is a good idea. Don’t forget about their little hands, feet and ears, too. Covering their extremities is one of the most important factors for keeping your baby warm.
So, you may be wondering, how many layers does my baby need? The general rule of thumb is to add one layer to what you find physically comfortable. Doing so helps keep your baby nice and warm. It’s important to layer your baby in thin clothing rather than bulky clothes. Thin clothing allows for more layers, and more heat stays in each one. Bulky clothing can become too hot for your baby and compromise safety in car seats and strollers.
What Should My Baby Wear Indoors?
When dressing your baby for the indoors, you may only need one long-sleeve shirt rather than layers. While the ideal indoor temperature for babies is between 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit, every baby is different. It’s important to know the warning signs that your baby is either too hot, or too cold.
Warning signs that your baby is too cold include:
- Cold belly
- Cold hands and feet
- Low energy
- Pale skin
- Slow breathing
If you notice any of these signs in your baby, add more layers or cover them with a blanket.
Warning signs that your baby is too hot include:
- Fast breathing
- Flushed cheeks
- Heat rash
- Sweating
Keeping your baby at the optimal temperature is easier indoors because you have control over the environment. But keep these warning signs in mind so you’re prepared to make any necessary adjustments.
What Should My Baby Wear Outdoors?
When it’s time to venture outside in the cold with your baby, being prepared is essential. Start with thermal clothing touching your baby’s skin. You may need to add subsequent layers depending on how cold it is outside. Thin layers allow for greater flexibility in adjusting your baby's temperature, as they’re easier to take on and off.
Water-resistant clothing is important, so your baby's clothes don’t get damp. If it’s below 20 degrees Fahrenheit or there’s heavy snowfall, you should dress your baby in a heavy winter coat. The most important detail to remember is to add one layer of clothing to what you would be comfortable wearing.
Pay close attention to your baby’s cues to ensure they’re not too hot or too cold. Having plenty of extra clothing in case your baby gets especially cold while outside is also a good idea.
How to Dress Your Baby for Sleep
It can be challenging to dress your baby for sleep in the winter months. You want to ensure they’re warm enough, but don’t want them to overheat either. The key is to layer lightweight, breathable clothing as it allows you to add or remove it as the temperature changes while they sleep.
Rompers are a good choice for sleep because they provide a lightweight, comfortable layer of clothing that can go under a sleep sack or swaddle. A bodysuit or long-sleeve top with leggings is a good alternative, too. The key is to ensure your baby is warm enough, but not too warm. Again, monitoring your baby’s temperature at night by paying attention to their cues is crucial to their ability to sleep safely and comfortably.
The Support You Deserve
At AdventHealth, we care for all of you — body, mind and spirit. Our expert mother and baby care teams understand the importance of keeping your baby warm during the winter months. We’re here to ensure your growing family has access to the best experts for all of life’s milestone moments.
Click here to learn more about our world-class pediatric primary care or schedule an appointment. You and your little ones are safe with us.
