Winter often poses a challenge for parents with a newborn. When cold weather is upon us, keeping them cozy with jackets, blankets, clothing layers, hats and mittens become an essential everyday task. Unlike adults, babies can’t regulate their body temperature just yet, making them vulnerable, so they need help to stay warm. Here’s how you can protect them from the cold.
Dress in Layers
Layers keep your little one warm and give you the flexibility to add or remove them if you are going in and out, so they don’t overheat. A general rule of thumb is to dress them in one layer more than what you’re wearing. Fussiness is a good indication that they might be getting too hot or cold, but it’s always a good idea to check them often to make sure they’re ok before reaching discomfort.
Keep Car Rides Coat-Free
While removing their coat in the car may seem counterintuitive, they are much safer with it off. Puffy coats can cause overheating and interfere with the effectiveness of the safety straps on the car seat. If you’re worried that they might get chilly, place a coat or blanket over them once they’re strapped in. Additionally, keep the carrier in the house until you’re ready to bring it outside so it stays warm.
Avoid Freezing Weather
Getting fresh air and sunlight regularly is beneficial for you and your baby, even during the winter. Dress them in clothing that is wind and water-resistant to keep them snug and dry. Keep an eye on the temperature, though – anything less than 20°F means you and your little one should hunker down inside except for making trips to and from the car.
Use an Ideal Temperature Inside
When adults get cold, we don’t think twice about bumping up the thermostat. If you have a newborn in the house, you have to be mindful about setting a temperature that's right for them. A room that is too warm can dry out a baby’s delicate skin and make them too hot. It’s recommended to keep the thermostat between 68 and 72°F.
Dress Them Appropriately at Night
When it’s cold outside, it’s tempting to want to bundle your baby up in blankets and heavy clothes, but doing so is dangerous. All they need to stay comfortable when sleeping is lightweight pajamas, a footed onesie, or a sleep sack.
Keeping your little one warm during winter doesn’t have to be a challenge. Knowing how to dress them appropriately will give you peace of mind that they are happy and cozy whether you’re venturing outside or staying inside this winter.
Disclaimer: PerkinElmer and ViaCord do not endorse or make recommendations with respect to research, medications or treatment. All information is provided for informational purposes only.
Resources:
Stanford Children’s Health. Keeping Your Baby Warm. https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=warmth-and-temperature-regulation-90-P02425
Healthy Children. Tips for Dressing Your Baby. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/diapers-clothing/Pages/Dressing-Your-Newborn.aspx
Healthy Children. Winter Car Seat Safety Tips from the AAP. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/on-the-go/Pages/Winter-Car-Seat-Safety-Tips.aspx
Very Well Family. When Can Your Newborn Go Outside? https://www.verywellfamily.com/when-can-my-newborn-go-outside-289876
Safe Sleep Academy. How do I keep my baby safe and warm? https://www.safesleepacademy.org/how-do-i-keep-my-baby-safe-and-warm/
