If you’ve ever dreamed of having a portable space heater to keep you snug during frigid months, here’s some good news: babywearing comes remarkably close. By securing your delightful little bundle to your body with your preferred wrap, sling, or baby carrier, even the dreariest forecasts can feel much more pleasant.
But is your baby warm enough? Should they wear a coat or snowsuit inside the carrier? Is it safe to tuck them into your coat? Read on for essential information about babywearing in cold weather.
What should baby wear?
When preparing your baby for winter wear, prioritize layers that provide insulation without being too bulky, like fleece-lined footed pajamas.
A helpful guideline is to dress your baby in one additional layer than you have—remember that the wrap or carrier counts as one layer. Rather than wrestling with a cumbersome coat or snowsuit, focus on keeping baby’s extremities warm. Cozy socks and booties for their chubby feet, along with a snug hat for their head, are key. Babies often keep their hands tucked into the carrier, but if your child prefers their hands to be free for waving and clapping, consider mittens (or another pair of socks) to keep their hands warm.
Footed pajamas or rompers can serve as a comfortable one-piece solution for the carrier (eliminating worries about shirts riding up and leaving bellies exposed to the cold), but ensure they offer ample length for tiny toes to wiggle.
What should you wear for babywearing in the winter?
Layering up is the best way to ensure both you and your baby feel at ease. A long-sleeved shirt or lightweight sweater is ideal as a base layer under the carrier. Once you’ve strapped baby in, consider adding an open-front cardigan, unbuttoned flannel shirt, or coatigan as your next layer. An oversized coat that can zip around the carrier is another smart choice—try opting for a men’s jacket or a coat one size larger than usual.
Just remember to keep your baby’s face and head uncovered, ensuring their airways are visible. Zipping up to about halfway is generally a safe approach.
Bonus: By adding your sweater or coat over the carrier instead of underneath, it allows you to remove layers without having to take baby out—which is crucial when you pop into the coffee shop or grocery store. Nobody wants to disturb a sleeping baby!
Will they be warm enough?
Many parents wonder, “How do I keep my baby warm while babywearing in winter?” The trick lies in proper layering to avoid both overheating and chilling.
Owing to your body heat combined with theirs, along with the additional layers, your little hot pocket is actually more likely to overheat than to be underdressed. Keep an eye out for flushed cheeks and don’t hesitate to peel off layers as necessary.
This guidance applies to both outdoor and indoor settings—especially if you transition to a climate-controlled environment. Feel free to remove that hat if you both start feeling too warm.
Why babywear, anyway?
Beyond the extensive list of babywearing benefits, wearing your baby in the winter makes it simpler to monitor their comfort in outdoor settings since they are snug next to you (instead of isolated in a stroller). You’ll have a direct view of their comfort level and can better determine whether it’s time to continue enjoying the outdoors or head indoors.
Keeping your baby close can also help prevent overly affectionate (but germ-spreading!) neighbors and strangers from leaning in for unwanted kisses or pinching cheeks—particularly during cold and flu season.
Additionally, traversing snow or navigating bustling holiday markets will be easier, as you can move as a single unit instead of maneuvering a bulky stroller through crowds or around snow drifts.
What else should I keep in mind?
It’s essential to keep baby close enough to kiss (if you are wearing them on the front). Ensure that airways remain visible and unobstructed at all times, and take care to keep their chin off their chest to avoid any restriction in breathing.
Don’t forget to bring mittens or gloves for yourself, so your hands can stay warm without having to shove them in your pockets. You’ll want your hands free to catch yourself (and baby) if you slip while navigating icy surfaces or hit an unexpected bump.
If you’re using a wrap and are concerned about the ends getting wet while tying it on in a snowy parking lot, consider tying it at home before you leave, so all that’s left to do is to slip baby in when you arrive at the destination. There’s also a handy hack to keep the ends off the ground while you’re out.
A note on babywearing in winter
No matter the time of year, getting outside for a little activity and fresh air is beneficial for both you and your baby, helping to stave off cabin fever and winter blues. Whether it’s a stroll to the mailbox for some vitamin D or a leisurely walk around the neighborhood to admire festive lights, bundle up and stay warm as you enjoy your first winter together.
Image Source: Troyan / Shutterstock
