For new parents, that winter chill in the air ushers in a new season and a whole lot of internet searches
How to keep baby warm, but not too warm
Warm baby sleep without blankets or other bulky crib items
How to tell if baby is too hot
How to tell if baby is too cold
Do babies in Iceland really nap outside
Sound familiar?
If there’s a little too much winter wondering in your winter wonderland, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with a few of our favorite, easy-to-remember tips for helping baby stay comfy and cozy all winter long!
The Plus One Tip:
A lot of new parents, often following the well-meant advice of grandparents, err on the side of over-bundling baby when the weather takes a turn for the colder. A simple way to steer clear of this good-intentioned sweat-fest is to remember Plus One – dress baby in one more layer than you’re wearing yourself.
Stick to thin, warm fabrics that don’t add bulk and are easy to layer. If you’re comfy in a sweater, dress baby in one, too, then throw a light stroller blanket or sleepsack on top. Feeling okay in a long-sleeved t-shirt? That’s sweater weather for your little one! Need to pull out your parka? Make sure baby is equally bundled up, then add a hat and some mittens.
The Perfect Day Nursery Tip:
The ideal nursery temperature is not too hot, not too cold – for little ones, that’s between 60-68 degrees Fahrenheit. Set your thermostat to keep the nursery in this comfortable, Perfect Day temperature range, and make sure that baby’s sleeping spot is away from draft windows, poorly insulated walls, and air vents or fans.
Babies tend to sleep well in cooler temperatures, so don’t be surprised if they nap a little better than usual! If you live in a dry climate, try warming the nursery with a warm mist humidifier instead of the heater to help everyone breathe easy.
The Better Bedtime Routine Tip:
In the coldest winter months, skip the nighttime bath. Doing so can help baby maintain a more regular body temperature. If it’s particularly chilly, you can preheat the crib with a warm water bottle or heating pad – just make sure to remove it several minutes before you lay baby down so nothing is too hot.
And remember – babies DON’T need crib blankets to sleep! Instead, invest in a few lightweight, warm sleepsacks and layer them over a long-sleeved onesie. Wool socks or legwarmers are a great way to add a little extra cozy, but remember the Plus One guidelines – just one more layer than you need yourself. In general, choose natural fibers like cotton or thin wool layers when you can – they breathe better than synthetic fibers, and help baby’s temperature regulate.
Fresh air is good for everybody, so we hope these three simple tips will help you feel a bit more confident as you head out on winter days, and sleep a little easier on cold winter nights. Here’s to a cozy winter for all!