Congratulations on the birth of your new little one! Such a joyous occasion! But October is here and that means that the cold blustery days of winter are coming soon. One of the most common questions we see on new parent forums is, “How do I dress a newborn in the winter?”. It’s a delicate balance between ensuring they stay all cozy and snuggled up vs them overheating. Below we’ll provide newborn winter dressing tips, we’ll delve into the science of newborn temperature regulation and finally the art of layering. We’ll also discuss the importance of fabric selection and the ‘one more layer’ rule. By the end of this post, you’ll feel more confident in dressing your new little one for winter and you’ll be equipped with practical advice for moving through the blustery Ontario seasons!
Babies are not as adaptable to temperature change as adults. Their body surface area to weight ratio is about three times greater than that of an adult. This means that babies can lose heat very rapidly. Premature and low-birthweight babies are at even more risk due to their decreased amounts of body fat. When little ones are cold-stressed, they use energy and oxygen to generate warmth. By keeping babies at optimal temperatures they do not use up their reserves. We ideally do not want babies spending energy on keeping their body warm! The way to keep them warm and comfortable is by dressing them in layers.
Layering is a fundamental principle for winter dressing, even for newborns. For your little one, start with a base layer that sits close to the skin. This should be a soft, breathable fabric like cotton or bamboo which will absorb moisture and keep the baby dry. Over this, add a middle layer for insulation, such as a fleece or wool sweater. Ensure that these are not directly touching the baby’s skin as they can feel rough. The outermost layer should be weather-resistant to protect against wind, rain, or snow. Fabrics like polyester and wool are a good choice for this layer.
Here are some key points to remember when layering:
- Adjust layers as needed based on the baby’s activity and environment.
- Avoid tight clothing that can restrict movement or circulation.
- To be safe, if baby is going in the car seat, do not dress in a snowsuit, or bulky clothing for several important safety reasons:
- Compromised Harness Fit: A snowsuit adds bulk between the baby and the car seat harness. This bulk compresses in the event of an accident, creating space that can allow the baby to slip out of the harness, leading to severe injuries.
- Reduced Crash Protection: Car seat harnesses are designed to fit snugly against the body to properly distribute forces in a crash. Bulky clothing like snowsuits prevents the harness from doing its job effectively, reducing the seat’s ability to protect your baby in a collision.
- Overheating Risk: Snowsuits trap heat, and when inside a car, especially with the heater on, babies can overheat easily. Overheating increases the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) and general discomfort.
Car seat-safe covers that fit over the seat itself (not under the baby) are also a good option for keeping your baby warm while ensuring safety.
A common rule of thumb when dressing newborns in winter is the ‘one more layer’ rule. This means that your baby should generally have one more layer of clothing than you. If you’re comfortable in a sweater and jeans indoors, your baby might need a long-sleeved onesie, a sweater, and a pair of warm pants. However, remember that this rule is a guideline, not a strict standard. Always check your baby’s temperature by feeling their nape, back or tummy. If their skin feels hot, that’s their signal that you should remove a layer.
Dressing your newborn for winter can seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can feel secure stepping outside with your little one. Having a newborn can be a stressful time, and outdoor time is good for you and for your baby. With these tips here, you can feel more secure stepping out with your baby. Stay informed, trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to consult your pediatrician if you have any concerns. Congratulations again and we hope you enjoy this winter season with your new addition.
Works Cited
Philadelphia, The Children’s Hospital of. “Warmth and Temperature Regulation.” Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, www.chop.edu/pages/warmth-and-temperatureregulation#:~:text=Even%20full%2Dterm%20and%20healthy,can%20increase%20by%2010%20. Accessed 30 Sept. 2024.
