When winter rolls in, keeping your baby warm and cosy becomes a top priority. But finding the right balance between warmth and safety—especially during sleep—can be tricky for new mums. Overheating, dry skin, and bulky layers are just a few of the concerns parents face in the colder months.
In this blog, we’ll walk through simple, practical tips to help you keep your baby snug, safe, and comfortable through winter, both during the day and overnight.
1. Dress in Layers, Not Bulk
Instead of thick, heavy clothing, opt for lightweight layers you can easily add or remove. This makes it easier to regulate your baby’s temperature, especially when moving between indoors and outdoors.
Look for soft, breathable zipper rompers made from cotton or bamboo. These natural fibres help keep warmth in while still allowing the skin to breathe. During the day, a romper layered with a cardigan or knitted pants is usually enough if you’re indoors with heating.
Tip: You can test if your baby is warm enough by placing your hand on their chest or back—cold hands and feet aren’t always a reliable sign.
2. Swaddle or Use a Sleep Bag at Night
Swaddling can help younger babies feel secure and warm, especially in cooler weather. Choose a swaddle that allows natural movement without overheating. As your baby grows out of swaddling, transition to a baby sleep bag that keeps them safely covered throughout the night without loose blankets.
A good sleep bag acts like a wearable blanket and comes in different thicknesses (TOG ratings) depending on how cold it gets in your area.
3. Keep the Room at a Safe Temperature
For safe sleep, the ideal room temperature for babies is around 16–20°C (61–68°F). It might feel cool to adults, but it’s the safest range to reduce the risk of overheating and help your baby sleep comfortably.
If you’re using a heater, make sure it doesn’t point directly at your baby. Using a white noise machine with a night light can create a calming bedtime environment without interfering with warmth or comfort.
4. Avoid Loose Blankets or Pillows in the Cot
It’s tempting to add extra blankets on cold nights, but loose items in the cot increase the risk of suffocation or overheating. Instead, rely on warm, fitted sleepwear and a sleep bag.
For extra comfort during daytime naps or supervised rest, a soft baby blanket made from natural fabric can provide gentle warmth without overheating.
5. Protect Skin From Dry Winter Air
Cold weather and indoor heating can dry out your baby’s delicate skin. To protect against this:
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Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser after bath time.
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Avoid long, hot baths (keep them short and warm).
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Dress your baby in natural, breathable fabrics that don’t trap sweat or irritate the skin.
A baby bath towel with a hood can help keep warmth in after bath time, especially when the bathroom is chilly.
6. Keep Outdoor Trips Short and Snug
When heading out, dress your baby in a warm outer layer, hat, mittens, and socks or booties. A good rule of thumb is to dress them in one more layer than you’re wearing.
Using a multi-purpose pram cover can help block out cold wind and light rain while still giving your baby a cosy, private space. Some covers can also double as a car seat canopy or nursing cover, making them a practical winter essential.
7. Watch for Signs of Overheating
Babies can’t regulate their body temperature as well as adults. Always be alert for signs of overheating, such as:
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Sweating
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Damp hair
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Flushed cheeks
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Rapid breathing
If you notice these signs, remove a layer and ensure they’re in a cooler space.
8. Keep Essentials Organised for Quick Access
Winter means you’ll need quick access to mittens, extra onesies, swaddles, and moisturiser. A well-organised nappy wallet or cot organiser makes it easier to manage those middle-of-the-night changes or quick outings.
Winter baby care is all about layering wisely, choosing breathable materials, and avoiding overheating. You don’t need bulky outfits or piles of blankets—just soft, safe essentials that are made for comfort and warmth.
With the right winter-ready pieces—like zipper rompers, sleep bags, baby blankets, and a multi-use pram cover—you’ll feel more confident navigating the colder months, knowing your little one is safe and snug.
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