Keeping Baby Warm During Cold Weather - But Not too Warm!

Keeping a baby warm during cold weather is important, but it's equally crucial to ensure they don't overheat. There is so much to consider when dressing your baby for cold weather. Is your baby naturally warm? Does your home get drafty with colder weather? Here are some guidelines for dressing a baby for sleep in cold weather:

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1. Start with a Onesie or Bodysuit:

   • Begin with a lightweight, long-sleeved onesie or bodysuit as the base layer. This provides a comfortable foundation for additional layers and helps to keep babies core warm.

2. Add a Sleep Sack or Wearable Blanket:

   • Instead of using loose blankets, which can pose a suffocation risk, consider using a sleep sack or wearable blanket. These are designed to keep the baby warm without covering their face. This wearable blanket by Burts Bees is one of my favorites. It has so many cute patterns and is so soft for baby! 

3. Layer with a Footed Sleeper or Pajamas:

   • Over the onesie, add footed sleepers or pajamas made of a warm, breathable fabric like cotton. Make sure the sleepwear is appropriate for the room temperature. While we're talking Burt's Bees if you haven't tried their footed sleepers, your baby will love them! They are so soft and fit babies so well!

4. Adjust Based on Room Temperature:

   • Consider the ambient room temperature when dressing your baby. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends keeping the room between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit (20-22.2 degrees Celsius).

5. Check for Overheating:

   • Feel the baby's neck or the back of their neck to check for signs of overheating. If the baby feels sweaty or hot, remove a layer. It's normal for a baby's hands and feet to feel cooler, so they are not the best indicators of body temperature.

6. Avoid Loose Bedding:

   • Avoid using loose bedding, soft toys, or pillows in the crib, as these can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

7. Consider the TOG Rating:

   • TOG (Thermal Overall Grade) is a measure of the insulation of a fabric. When using a sleep sack or wearable blanket, check the TOG rating to ensure it's suitable for the room temperature.

Remember, it's important to monitor your baby and adjust their clothing based on their comfort. Every baby is different, and you may need to experiment to find the right combination of layers for your baby in cold weather. Always prioritize safety and comfort to ensure a good night's sleep for your little one.