There’s a distinct chill in the air, brought on by the shift in seasons. As we approach the winter months, you may be thinking about how to keep your baby cosy in colder weather - whether out and about, or tucked up in bed. Worry not: we’ve got you covered with our guide to how to keep your baby warm in winter.
Wrap up warm
It’s all about layers when it comes to dressing your little one for the winter months. When you’re out and about, think multiple layers such as mittens plus a hat to keep them warm and snug. You can also add layers to your little one’s pram, with cellular blankets or pram footmuffs too for extra warmth.
Been out in the fresh, crisp, cold air? When you get inside, make sure to remove a layer of your baby’s clothing to avoid them overheating.
When it comes to dressing your baby for bed time, it’s important to keep their head free to allow them to safely release heat - which means no hats in bed! A sleepsuit, possibly with a vest underneath if it’s extra cold, should do the trick. As a general rule, babies should sleep in one more layer than an adult.
Pick the right bedding
As well as dressing your baby for bedtime, choosing the right bedding will help them to stay cosy, warm, and safe - think a waterproof mattress cover, well fitted sheet and light bedding.
Babies shouldn’t sleep beneath a duvet or quilt; instead, opt for a sleeping bag. From the age of 0 to 6 months, it’s the safest form of bedding for your baby, and can often be more comfortable too as they can’t kick them off while they’re asleep! Make sure to choose the right tog (2.5 tog is usually enough) - we’ve got a brilliant selection of British made sleeping bags for babies, so you’ll be spoilt for choice!
Monitor the room temperature
As babies are unable to regulate their own body temperature, keeping their bedroom at a comfortable temperature is important for keeping them happy and healthy. According to the Lullaby Trust, the right temperature for a baby’s room is around 16 - 20 degrees. It’s a good idea to use a room thermometer to double check, and avoid placing their bed near to air vents or draughty spots so they don’t get too cold.
Rather than switching the heaters on in your baby’s room in winter, an extra layer of clothing can often be a better option. If your home runs extra cold, heating can be an option when used with caution - make sure to keep it on a low temperature setting below 20 degrees.
Avoid overheating
While it’s important to keep your baby warm in winter, it’s also vital to avoid overheating, as this can lead to SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Babies are unable to regulate their own body temperature, so it’s important for us to make sure they’re not too hot at night.
A few things to avoid include placing your baby’s bed near to a heat source, like a heater or direct sunlight; and resisting the urge to give them a hot water bottle or electric blanket. We may appreciate these extra warm touches, but for your little one they’re more hazard than help, and can lead to overheating.
How can you tell if your baby is too hot or cold?
Worried your baby may be too hot or cold? To check, feel their chest, tummy, or the back of their neck. If they feel hot and sweaty, they may be too warm and you can remove a layer of bedclothes or bedding.
If you’re worried your baby might be the wrong temperature, take their temperature using a thermometer to be sure. They should be around 36.4C, although this can vary slightly. If they’re running a temperature or fever, the reading will come back at 38C or higher. When in doubt, your doctor is always the best port of call to put your mind at ease.
Stay comfortable this winter with our selection of British made blankets and bedding - perfect for the colder months!
