Your Baby’s First Winter: The Essentials
Brrrr, baby! The winter months may be here, but that’s no reason to stay indoors with an infant. Fresh air is beneficial no matter how old you are! You can still enjoy winter walks, hikes, and travel with your newborn if dressed correctly. It’s all about sticking to the basics.
Layer Up
The general rule of thumb in dressing an infant for the outdoors is to add one more layer than you would wear. Parents can add a thin bodysuit layer underneath a sweater and coat. For those days when you and your baby are popping in and out of the car, it will be simple enough to shed a layer to accommodate the temperature change.
We’ve all been taught to keep our heads covered to stay warm. Finding a suitable beanie or hat is essential. One that fits appropriately and covers the ears. But most importantly, one that your baby won’t try to yank off. Sacrifice style, if need be. But these days, the options for combining cuteness and comfort are endless.
Tip: Don’t forget to take off your baby’s winter coat before strapping them into the car seat. Although this may seem counterintuitive, it prevents overheating and allows car seat straps to fit more snugly and safely around your baby.
Written by Jamie Edwards
Jamie is an avid traveler, travel writer, and photographer. She launched I am Lost and Found, her adventure/luxury travel website after 25 years of living and traveling around the globe. She has lived in both NYC and Tokyo. Today she resides in Washington DC with her husband, two kids, and two black labs. Jamie’s goal is simple: to inspire travel.
Material Matters
When considering layers, especially those closest to your baby’s skin, put comfort first. What feels scratchy and uncomfortable against your skin will undoubtedly be amplified on your newborns. Soft, breathable, and natural fabrics like cotton are a good choice. Fleece, muslin, and jersey knits are equally suitable for layers when the temperature falls. The same applies to mittens and blankets.
Tip: Avoid polyester for clothing, as it is less breathable than cotton. Polyester also has chemicals that may irritate your baby’s skin. Polyester is a better option for blankets or items that don’t directly touch the skin. Overall, since it doesn’t absorb moisture and has the potential to trap heat, nylon is not recommended.
Winter Travels
Whether you are road-tripping or taking to the skies, dressing your baby for cold weather travel, in a word, is bulky. So grab that extra suitcase and prepare for lift-off. As mentioned earlier, layers are essential, but parents should consider clothing easy to put on and take off. Snaps and velcro are a sure bet for quick changes in not-so-pleasant environments.
One sure way to keep your baby warm on a cold day is to wear them. A snuggly baby carrier keeps them toasty and allows you to be hands-free while fumbling for an airline ticket. Baby carriers are great for a nice winter walk as well. Not only will you benefit from the fresh air and get exercise, but the constant movement will lull your little one to sleep.
Tip: Pack an extra blanket (or two, if space allows) for travel. You never know when one might get soiled with no washing machine opportunities in the foreseeable future.
Hitting The Sack
The winter months naturally bring colder nights for sleeping. Many studies show people sleep better in cooler weather. That goes for babies, too. But it’s essential to keep a close eye on the thermometer and read your baby’s body for signs of extreme cold.
Sleep sacks are a great alternative to blankets for babies. They are made of cozy materials like fleece or organic cotton and allow for movement while keeping your baby safe and warm. A footed sleeper will ensure your baby is warm from neck to toe. Consider a flannel fitted sheet for the crib on the coldest nights.
Tip: If out for a walk, a stroller bunting bag serve a similar purpose as the nighttime sleep sack. A winter essential for newborns, indeed.
Skin Check
While keeping your baby warm in cold weather months is vital, let’s not forget about delicate newborn skin. Winter not only brings cold— it also brings wind. Be proactive in keeping skin from getting dry by using a gentle non-scented lotion.
Ask your pediatrician if you have questions about which lotions are best for your baby’s skin. Generally, a small amount of mild, non-greasy baby lotion will go a long way to help prevent itchy, dry skin. This is also the time to pay attention to your baby’s scalp. If you notice dry, flaky skin, you might want to ask about products that can help.
Tip: Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean the sun isn’t intense. Be sure to use sunscreen products to protect any exposed skin while outside.
Take It Outside
The winter months are a fun-filled time of year. There’s no need to miss out on winter adventures because of a newborn baby. Whether you live in a place where you can build snowmen and create snow angels or if you live someplace where the thermometer rarely dips below 50 degrees, taking care of your baby in the winter is essential.
Even if you aren’t a cold-weather lover, the benefits of being outside are vast. Being outside allows us to breathe the crisp air, clear our minds, and spend some peaceful time with our newborns. Enjoy it! See you in the spring.
Written by Jamie Edwards
Jamie is an avid traveler, travel writer, and photographer. She launched I am Lost and Found, her adventure/luxury travel website after 25 years of living and traveling around the globe. She has lived in both NYC and Tokyo. Today she resides in Washington DC with her husband, two kids, and two black labs. Jamie’s goal is simple: to inspire travel.