How to keep your baby warm all winter: Products that help

November 17, 2017

When winter storms in, it's your job to make sure your baby stays warm and dry. But if you're like most new moms, dealing with a squirmy baby in a bulky jacket, blankets that fall off, and a diaper bag may sound like a huge hassle. Here are tips and products that make it easy to keep your baby healthy and comfortable, whether you're going grocery shopping or tucking your child in for the night.

How can I keep my baby warm at night without piling on blankets?

You're right not to cover your baby with bedding when you put him to sleep. In fact, to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), experts recommend that you put your baby to sleep on his back without any pillows or coverings at all. They also say it's a good idea not to overheat the room. So keeping your baby warm — but not too warm — can be a little tricky.

What helps:
A cozy sleep environment. Choose a warm flannel fitted sheet for your baby's crib (and keep plenty of extras on hand for changes, too). Soft one-piece footed sleepers help your baby stay warm all night by keeping him toasty from head to toe. For an extra layer, put a bodysuit or undershirt underneath the sleeper.

A terrific alternative to a blanket is a sack or wearable blanket that zips up the front and can be worn over a sleeper. These are sleeveless, so your baby can still move his arms around while the rest of his body stays covered.

Tip: You can warm a cold bed with a hot water bottle, a heating pad, or a microwaveable bag. Be sure to remove it before putting your child down to sleep.

What should my baby wear when we leave the house?

There's no way around it — if you're planning to head out the door with your baby in tow on winter mornings, you need an early start. You have a lot to assemble, and your baby may not be the most cooperative once you start putting on that third layer. Here are some things you can use to speed up the process and make it easier for both of you.

What helps:
Easy-on, easy-off outer layers. A snowsuit or bunting provides a great buffer against the cold and snow. Once your baby is dressed in his outfit for the day, you can simply slip him into the snowsuit or bunting just before you head out the door or get out of the car. Snowsuits have form-fitting legs and arms, and most are equipped with hoods, while buntings are more like little sleeping bags, with a seam between the legs to make stroller snap-ins easier. Look for gear with a good layer of insulation and a water-repellent exterior fabric such as fleece, flannel, or fiberfill.

A hat and mittens. A soft hat will help keep out the cold. If your baby's hands are exposed, pull some mittens on them. (If he sucks on his hands, though, keep an extra pair or two handy — once they get wet they'll make him colder rather than warmer.) Make sure your baby has on very warm socks or booties, too.