10 Winter Weather Tips for Bundling Up Baby

10 Winter Weather Tips for Bundling Up Baby

Confused about how to find the balance between keeping your little ones warm and dry, yet not over-bundled or overheated? Stop stressing and enjoy this season's crisp winter air with these 10 easy tips:

1. Check in with your child: Like their moms and dads, all little boys and girls are different, so it's important to check in with your baby. He can't tell you if he's hot or cold, so feel his skin, notice the coloring of his cheeks and consider his temperament.
    
2. Use your instincts: What are you wearing? Consider how you might dress for the weather and add one extra layer for your little one if he or she is under six months.
    
3. Use layers: Do you wear the same outfit when you're walking outside as when you're sitting in a heated car? Make sure you adjust your baby's layers accordingly as well. Plus, bulky jackets can make it difficult to buckle the car seat, so instead try a car seat cover instead.
    
4. Add a hat: In cold weather, it's important to cover your child's head and ears to keep heat from escaping her body, which can happen more easily than for grown-ups.
    
5. Cover those little piggies: When the temperatures dip, make sure to add mittens and warm shoes or socks to cover vulnerable extremities. Consider opting for a one-piece suit with feet if baby's socks keep slipping off.
    
6. Pack a blanket: This is a simple way to add or take away some extra warmth when traveling outdoors or in the car with your baby.
    
7. Waterproof gear: If it's raining or snowing, add a waterproof layer to keep your little one dry.
    
8. Bring a change of clothes: No one wants to be wet in the winter. From the threat of bathroom accidents to snow or sweat, it's important to have extra outfits (and diapers) on hand.
    
9. Cuddle: By keeping your baby close to you in a sling or other carrier, you'll be able to share body heat and use fewer layers.
    
10. Wondering what temperature will keep your home baby-friendly this winter? Keeping your heat at a comfortable temperature of between 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit should do the trick.
     

Bottom line: Use common sense and check in with your baby. And don't stay cooped up inside this winter—get outside and enjoy the fresh air!

© 2012. National Women's Health Resource Center, Inc. All rights reserved. All content provided in this guide is for information purposes only. Any information herein relating to specific medical conditions, preventive care and/or healthy lifestyles does not suggest individual diagnosis or treatment and is not a substitute for medical attention.