Having a winter baby sounds dreamy in theory. Cosy blankets, cute little knitted hats and baby snuggles by the fire. But let’s be honest, it’s also the season of frozen fingers, dry skin and bronchiolitis. There are also endless layers of laundry because every outfit changed somehow involves at least one soggy mitten. Parenting a newborn is an adventurer as it is, and winter adds an entirely new level of how many socks can one baby wear? One of the biggest cold weather worries that most people have is how do you know if your baby is too cold?
One of the signs baby is cold at night can be cool hands, a chilly chest, or fussiness even after feeding. But hands and feet aren’t always the easiest measures of temperature. If your baby feels more like a popsicle than a person, it’s time to visit your bedtime layering strategy over again. Now we’ve got that out of the way, let’s get on with 10 tips to make parenting in the cold easier.
- Master the art of layering. You can do this without creating a tiny Michelin Man. The rule of thumb is dress your baby in one more layer than what you’re comfortable in. If you have a layer of your pyjamas and two blankets, then your baby will need 2 layers of pyjamas and two blankets. Of course, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need to do 6 pairs of pants and a parka jacket because nobody wants to wrestle a marshmallow shaped infant during diaper changes, but you want to opt for breathable layers like cotton or merino wool that trap warmth without overheating. Sleep sacks are the unsung heroes of winter nights, but no loose blankets, just snugly safe comfort.
- Don’t fear the fresh air. It’s super tempting to hibernate all season long, but babies actually benefit from short trips outside, even in the chilly weather. Fresh air can boost mood, regulate sleep, and help you both to avoid cabin fever. Bundling your little one in a warm stroller suit, adding a cozy hat that covers the ears, and popping a weatherproof cover over the strollers to block the wind will help. 10-15 minutes outside is plenty, especially in the snow. Plus you’ll feel like you’ve accomplished something besides washing bottles for the 100th time that day.
- Hydrate more than you think. Winter air is dry. That affects babies, not just you. Even if they’re not sweating, they still lose moisture. Breastfed babies may feed more often and formula fed babies may need a little extra. Do not give a newborn water unless your paediatrician has recommended it. For your baby’s skin, stick to fragrance free moisturizers and apply right after a bath to lock in that hydration.
- Except that laundry is a lifestyle. Winter means more layers, which means more targets for split up. Those adorable fleecy onesies are basically dribble magnets. Keep a rotation of easy to wash outfits and bibs already, and don’t stress about keeping things Pinterest perfect. A clean onesie is a win for the day, and matching socks are optional. Drying racks will also be your new best friend because waiting for a onesie to dry in the dryer can take a while.
- Be aware of overheating. It’s very easy to assume that warmer is better. It’s not. Overheating can actually be risky for babies, and so you need to check your baby’s neck or chest. If they feel sweaty or clammy, it’s time to peel back a layer. The goal is to be snug and warm, not sweaty and sleepy in a sauna. You got to remember, and as horrible as it may sound, a hot baby is in danger. You are aiming for safe sleep and safe comfort.
- Upgrade your diaper bag. Your diaper bag should evolve with the seasons. In winter you’re going to need extra socks and extra blankets and a small hand warmer for yourself. You may even need some baby safe lotion for chapped cheeks. Plastic bags or waterproof pouches are also lifesavers for soggy clothes and leaky bottles. Also pack an extra hat because somehow no matter how secure you put it on, baby hats are the first thing to vanish into the winter wind.
- Cut back on the baths. Two to three baths a week is plenty for newborns, especially in the winter, because overbathing can strip their skin of natural oils, which leaves them irritated and flaky. When you bathe them, use lukewarm water and gentle, unscented products. If you’re lucky, they’ll drift off into that adorable post bath coma and you’ll have 5 minutes to sip on something hot before reality returns.
- Protect the nap schedule. Between the shorter days, the holiday madness, and potential time zone changes, you need to remember that you have to keep your baby in a routine. Keeping nap time and bedtime consistent is important, even when you’re visiting family over the holidays.
- Document the cosy moments. Winter babies make for some of the most heart melting photos imaginable. Those rosy cheeks, fuzzy hats and wide eyed stares at the first snowflake are just amazing. Document it. You’ll want proof later when your toddler refuses to wear a coat because I don’t like the crunchy sound. Just be realistic about outdoor shoots. Frostbite is never a good look, even on Instagram.
- Cut yourself a little slack. Winter parenting can be a lot. You’re running on minimal sleep, trying to juggle the heating bills and the holiday chaos, and keeping your baby comfortable without turning your house into a sauna. Lower the bar. You don’t need to do elaborate winter crafts or bake snowflake shaped cookies while your baby supervises. If you’ve got through the day fed, warm and clean, that’s a success.
Winter is tough enough on parents, but now you know how to make it easier on all of you. Your baby is going to be comfortable and now you know how to do it.
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