A newborn's winter can be a difficult balance task: too many layers and babies overheat; not enough and you're concerned about frostbite. Be assured that you're not all alone! Particularly for parents who are new in figuring out the best mix of clothing can be like a maze.
We'll start with something easy yet extremely important: newborn socks and mittens. These little accessories do much more than create a cute look for your child. They can help regulate temperatures and keep little fingers and toes from becoming cold. Additionally, they prevent the baby from scratching his faces with their surprisingly nail tips!
This book is a must-read to dress your child smartly and safely during the winter seasons without stress.
Understanding Newborn Temperature Regulation
Infants don't have the best of luck managing their body temperatures. In contrast to older children and adults infants shed heat at a rate four times faster in particular through their heads and hands. So the proper attire for them in winter's cold weather isn't just about fashion but also health-related.
How Cold Is Too Cold for a Newborn?
An excellent guideline is that If you're feeling cold the baby is likely to feel cold too. Be on the lookout for signs of the appearance of pale skin or feet, hands or fingers that are cold and unusual crying. However, excessive heat can be equally risky. A sweaty neck, skin that is flushed or rapid breathing are all signs to look out for.
Winter Clothing Essentials for Newborns
In terms of dressing your infant for cold temperatures, layering is key. It lets you adjust quickly based on ambient temperature, or when you're going out in the cold.
Onesies and Base Layers
Begin with a comfortable fabric, such as soft cotton or merino wool onesie. The long sleeves and envelope necklines allow dressing to be easy. Beware of synthetic fibers, which can keep moisture in and can cause irritation for the baby's skin.
Sleepwear and Sleep Sacks
Instead of a blanket make use of instead of blankets, use a sleep bag to keep your child cozy and secure. You should look for the TOG rating of 2.5-3.5 for winter. This will depend on the temperature in your home. Sleep sacks made of Woolbabe can be a great option as they're cozy and breathable. They're also constructed from Merino Wool that we'll get deeper into in the coming days.
Hats, Socks, and Mittens
The baby's body loses lots of warmth through their heads and limbs. An oversized beanie with a soft hood and cozy baby socks and non-scratch gloves are a must-have during the winter. Also, they make changing diapers much easier as you're no longer changing your baby's layers.
The Power of Merino Wool for Winter Wear
If you're in search of the top quality in infant winter wear, merino wool is the best choice. It's breathable, soft, and thermoregulating. This ensures that your child stays comfortable without being overheated.
Merino is also naturally antibacterial (so fewer funky odors), and it's moisture-wicking--pulling sweat away from the body so baby stays dry and cozy.
Merino vs Synthetic: Why Natural Wins
In contrast to synthetic materials like acrylic and polyester Merino wool is a living material. It adjusts to the baby's temperatures and won't hold the moisture. Additionally, it's biodegradable which means it's more sustainable for the earth!
How to Layer a Newborn for Indoor Settings
For indoors, you should aim for the temperature of a room that is comfortable, which should be 20-22 degrees Celsius (68-72degF). An excellent rule of thumb: dress baby in another layer in addition to what the one you're currently wearing.
A typical indoor winter outfit might include:
- Onesie made of cotton or merino
- Sleepsuits with feet
- Socks, mittens, and gloves
- Light cardigans or vests should be worn if required.
Managing Overheating Indoors
Take a look at your baby's chest and back. If it's hot, it's because they're getting too hot. Don't set the temperature to a high level. If you're making use of a space heater, be sure that it's equipped with an auto shut-off thermostat as well as a thermostat.
Dressing a Newborn for Outdoor Winter Trips
For outdoor activities, layers + a warmer cover is the best option. Begin with a comfortable base layer, such as a fleece jacket or onesie then finish off with a t-shirt or a warmer stroller blanket.
Blanket or Jacket? What's Safer in a Car Seat
The truth is: puffy jackets in carseats are not allowed. They may compress during the event of a crash, leaving straps unsecure and dangerous. So, instead of putting baby's clothes on in layers of thin clothing and put a blanket to the buckled-in harness to keep warm.
Bath Time and Post-Bath Warmth
After bathing, infants may be prone to a rapid chill. Make sure you use an oversized, hooded and thick towel and let your baby dry quickly. Put them into pre-heated clothes or wrap them up in warm blankets for some post-bath time snuggles. These onesies make great post-bathwear as they quickly warm and remove dry, sweaty skin.
Sleep Time Dressing Tips
Babies sleep best at cooler temps--around 18-20degC. Choose a onesie with a long-sleeved design and a comfortable TOG sleeping bag as well as avoiding the open blankets. Cover their hands if it's cold in the room.
Signs of Cold Stress and Overheating
Signs of stress in cold weather:
- Cool chest or stomach
- Pale, blotchy skin
- Thermophobia or Irritability
Overheating signs:
- Sweating
- Hair that is damp
- Red face
If you're not sure, look at the nape of their necks--it's the most precise spot.
Best Winter Fabrics for Babies
Here's how popular fabric types rank:
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