Discover what kit your baby will need to survive their first chilly season, from cosy head to toasty toes.
The preparation process might take a long time. In addition, trying to add even one more layer might cause all manner of fuss. Nothing could be cuter than your new baby all bundled up for winter. Keep warm this winter with these tips.
1. Taking a multi-layered approach
It's literally true. A full-on snowsuit is handy for prolonged periods of freezing cold temperatures, but layered clothing works best most of the time. This is especially important if you will be nipping in and out of houses, shops or cafes.
Consider adding one more layer to what you're wearing. If you're wearing a shirt, sweater, and jacket, your baby might need a vest, sleepsuit, jumper, and coat (plus a hat and gloves if necessary). You won't have to spend a fortune on winter woollies either with your local babybambinos Nearly New Sale. It's cozy.
Remember, just as it's important to layer up outside, you'll also need to layer down indoors.
Your baby will be just as happy to cool off in a warm, toasty house or cafe as they were to stay warm in the cold."
The babybambinos advice is to remove your baby's hat and extra clothing as soon as you get inside or enter a warm vehicle. It doesn't matter if you have to wake your baby. It may seem counterintuitive, but it is critical to prevent them from overheating.
2. Hands and heads
Here's where it gets really cute. Winter is a perfect time to dress your baby in a woolly or insulated hat to keep their heads warm. To maximize warmth and adorability, choose ones that cover their ears and cheeks.
A pair of gloves for your hands is also a good idea, although keeping them on can be a challenge. Keeping little hands tucked under a blanket is worth persevering for, but remember they can also be kept warm. Your baby's head and body should be well wrapped up to keep the heat in.
3. Taking the natural route
No, not starkers - that would be a bad idea. Winter baby clothes made from natural fibres, such as cotton and wool, keep babies warm. In addition to being comfy, warm, and gentle on the skin, they allow the skin to breathe as well.
4. Getting around
No matter what the weather, it's always a good idea to get outside for some fresh air and a change of scenery with your baby - even if it's just for a short walk. It's actually beneficial for babies to get fresh air during the day so they sleep better at night.
It's true that walking helps you stay warm, but it doesn't do the same for your baby. There are snuggly bags available for most buggies and strollers during these winter months - what a great idea!
In addition, if you're using a sling or carrier, your baby will have an additional source of warmth - your body. Just check
Fresh air while sleeping
A Scandinavian method catching on in the UK is letting babies nap outside in the fresh air. It's not a good idea to wheel your baby out in a blizzard. As long as they're suitably wrapped up, getting out for a walk and napping al fresco could be of real benefit to them.
5. Comfortable living
Think comfort over adorability when considering the cutest little woollen coat. Your baby should wear clothes that allow them to move their arms and legs easily. Keep an eye out for potentially irritating zips right up near their necks. Rather than a big stiff coat, they might prefer a couple of soft, lined cardigans.
6. Keeping dry
In winter, rain covers for buggies and strollers are invaluable. In addition to keeping your baby dry, they also provide extra warmth. You can also use an umbrella if you're using a sling or carrier.
You can let your crawling baby explore the snow for the first time if they're at the crawling stage. Snowsuits and puddle suits are perfect for this - just make sure your baby isn't overdressed underneath to avoid overheating.
7. What is the best place to go?
See what babybambinos activities are happening near you to meet other new parents for support and friendship. Soon, you'll know which cafes, shops and restaurants welcome you, your new friends, and your buggies (and babies).
8. Cold cars
When driving, keep layers to a minimum. A car seat that has too much padding between the straps and your baby will not be as safe.
In the winter, cars can be icy cold to get into, but they warm up quickly. If you're still concerned about your baby being cold, place a blanket over them once they're strapped in. Make sure they don't overheat as well.
9. Check if you are unsure
The majority of your baby's wintertime is spent adjusting to the different temperatures inside and outside. Rather than checking their hands, check their tummy to see if the number of layers is right.
It is perfectly normal for tiny hands and feet to feel cold in cold weather. Put on gloves or extra socks if they look blue or blotchy. Holding them close will make them warm again if you're worried.
10. Nights in winter
In the colder months, we all like to wrap ourselves in an extra blanket. However, you should err on the side of a cooler, not warmer, bedroom for your baby. Babies can overheat if their room temperature is too hot or if there is too much bedding or clothing in their room (babybambinos. Sheffield, n.d.). Temperatures between 16°C and 20°C are ideal.
Most of the time, you can dress your baby in their usual sleep suit. Make sure you check the manufacturer's recommendations for winter tog thickness if you're using a sleeping bag. When you put them to sleep, remember to place a blanket at the bottom of their cots if necessary. As a result, they won't wriggle down underneath.
It's important to keep in mind that if you're co-sleeping, they'll also have the warmth of your body.
