Extreme weather. Getting the room temperature in their nursery just right. Not knowing how many layers to dress them in.… navigating winter with a newborn can be a challenge. Here are our top tips for keeping your baby warm, safe and healthy in the colder months.
Dress them appropriately
Dress your baby in layers, starting with a soft base layer (a short or long-sleeved bodysuit, depending on whether you will be staying in or going outside); a sleepsuit or outfit and then a waterproof outer layer (such as a cosy pramsuit) if you’re going outside. Remember to always remove their pramsuit before fitting them in a car seat, to ensure a correct and safe fit. If necessary, you can layer a blanket over their car seat straps to keep them warm in the car. If you’re going outside a cosy hat is important. And don’t forget to keep little hands and feet warm.
For convenience look for sleepsuits with integrated mitts and feet, or wrap them up in separate mitts, socks and booties. When out and about in their pushchair if you need to layer up even more you can always use a blanket for extra warmth, or a cosy pushchair footmuff. At nighttime, dress them appropriately according to the temperature in their room. Check out our Sleep Expert’s guide to dressing them for bedtime, according to the temperature
Protect their skin
The combination of cold weather, indoor central heating and daily baths can dry out and upset sensitive newborn skin. To minimise this stick to lukewarm baths and avoid baths every day if necessary – remember newborns don’t need a daily bath. Stick to fragrance-free soap-free baby products when bathing and follow up with an appropriate baby moisturiser.
For babies and children with very dry or sensitive skin, stick to products that contain both water and oils but no fragrances and few chemical additives. Apply generously after bathtime, when your child’s skin is still slightly damp, to lock in moisture. For dry skin with rough patches, opt for a super-emollient ointment. If your child has really dry skin, use a cream instead of a lotion and hydrate twice daily, if necessary. Remember only ever use products that are suitable for your child’s age – always check the packaging. On a similar note, choose only baby-skin friendly laundry products for your washing too.
Avoid extreme cold and wind
Limit the time your baby spends in cold, windy, rainy or snowy conditions. Likewise don’t blast the central heating, as this can dry out their skin. The recommended room temperature for babies is 16-20 degrees. If you have the heating on and are noticing your little one’s skin is getting dry, you could consider putting a humidifier in baby's room to minimize the drying effect of the forced heat.
Keep them warm at night
Keep their room at a comfortable temperature of around 18 degrees overnight. If you’re unsure use a room thermometer (we love Angelcare Happy Seal Bath Thermometer). Don’t place their cot next to the window (which will be draughty and cooler) or next to the radiator (which will be much warmer). Dress them appropriately for bedtime, use blankets if necessary (following safe sleep guidelines, tuck the blanket in across their chest and under their arms to keep it away from their face*) but avoid the use of duvets until the recommended age of 1 years old*.
*NHS guidelines
Stay up to date with vaccinations
Keep your baby’s vaccinations up to date to help protect them from colds, flu and other illnesses.
Trust your instincts
If you’re concerned about your little one, trust your instincts and seek medical advice.
