Dressing an Infant for Winter
Winter is coming and it’s time to build a cosy and stylish winter wardrobe for your child. In this article, we breakdown how to dress your baby in winter. We’ve listed what you need to know about building your little one’s winter wardrobe–from choosing the right pieces to finding the best winter baby clothes.
How to Build Your Baby’s Winter Wardrobe
Since your child can quickly outgrow their clothes, we suggest having several key pieces you can mix, match, and layer for the cooler months.
If you’re not sure how to fill your bub’s winter closet, here are a few considerations to keep in mind during your winter preparations:
Temperature and Heating
When selecting your baby’s winter clothes, consider the temperature indoors (with heating) compared to the temperature in the outdoors. We suggest suitable layers of clothing that are appropriate for indoor activities compared to outdoor activities.
Activity Level
Is your baby a newborn or an energetic toddler? Choose clothes that fit their activity level to avoid overheating. Bubs that can roll over, crawl, or even walk require clothing that’s not restrictive and won’t get in the way during playtime.
Comfort and Safety
The final consideration is your little one’s comfort and safety. Clothing that irritates or endangers them should be a definite no-no. Whether you’re dressing for winter or dressing for summer, your bub’s clothes should be free of irritants and any hazards such as loose buttons or hard edges.
Dressing Your Baby for Winter
It’s no surprise that layers are your best friend for winter. Dressing your baby for winter involves layering to insulate warmth while allowing for easy adjustment as temperatures fluctuate.
Dressing for Outdoor Activities
When venturing outdoors, dress your baby in layers, including a warm base layer, insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer if it's wet or windy. Don't forget hats, mittens, and warm socks to protect extremities.
Dressing for Indoor Activities
Indoor heating means you can opt for lighter layers inside. Avoid overdressing to prevent overheating in these settings.
Dressing for Sleep
For sleep, choose sleepwear that keeps your baby warm without overheating. A suitable TOG rated swaddle or sleeping bag is ideal.
Dressing a Newborn for the Colder Months
Compared to older infants and toddlers, newborns are unable to regulate their temperature yet, which is why dressing them requires special consideration.
Some factors to consider when dressing a newborn for winter include:
TOG rated sleepwear
Breathable material, (e.g., cotton, bamboo)
Sizing (i.e., a comfortable fit that is suitable to their age and size)
Newborn Winter Clothes and Sizing
A good rule of thumb is to be minimal about your newborn's clothes. Babies, especially newborns, tend to develop rather quickly and will outgrow their clothes in a few months.
Generally speaking as it depends on the size of your bub at birth, babies from 0-3 months typically fit into size 000, while those in between 3-6 months generally wear size 00. Depending on how fast your child grows, you might need to size up to 00 even if they are 0-3 months old. It's also important to note that there might be some differences between sizes depending on the type of clothes, brands, and manufacturers.
Temperature Checking: Is your baby too hot or too cold?
The tricky thing about layers is that it’s easy for your child to feel hot or cold in them depending on the temperature. During these instances, it’s important to monitor your little one’s body temperature. Observe your little one’s cues and behaviour as this may indicate signs of overheating or becoming too cold.
Placing your hand on your baby's chest, tummy, or the back of their neck is the most effective way to check their body temperature. Their skin should neither feel too hot nor too cold. Don't use this method with their hands or feet though since extremities tend to run cooler than the rest of the body.
Essential Winter Clothes for Your Baby’s Wardrobe
There’s a whole array of baby clothes for you to choose from, so it can get overwhelming to select pieces for your little one’s wardrobe. But before you shop for every item that tickles your fancy, make sure you’ve got these essential winter clothes for your baby:
Baby Hats and Beanies
A warm and snug-fitting beanie or hat is a must-have accessory for your baby during outdoor activities. Babies lose heat rapidly through their heads, making hats essential for keeping them warm and comfortable, especially when venturing outside. Opt for hats made from soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or fleece, with a secure fit that covers your baby's ears and forehead–like the Snugtime Fancy Knit Earmuff Beanie. Look for features like adjustable straps or chin ties to ensure a snug and secure fit that stays in place during active play.
Bodysuits and Singlets
Bodysuits and singlets are versatile base layers that provide warmth and insulation without adding bulk. Choose long-sleeved options like the Purebaby Rib Zip Growsuit Biscuit Melange made from soft, stretchy fabrics that allow for ease of movement and breathability. Look for bodysuits with envelope necklines or snap closures for easy dressing and diaper changes.
Socks and Booties
Keep your baby's feet warm and cosy with soft, breathable socks or booties designed specifically for winter wear. Look for socks made from natural fibres like cotton or bamboo, which provide insulation while allowing moisture to escape to keep your baby's feet dry. Opt for booties with non-slip soles for traction on slippery surfaces and adjustable closures to ensure a secure fit that stays in place. Consider layering socks or booties over footed pants or onesies for added warmth and protection against cold drafts. One of our suggestions is Playette Cable Knitted Bootie, which seamlessly combines comfort and style for your newborn.
Mittens
Protect your baby's delicate hands from the cold with a pair of soft, insulated mittens. Mittens help retain heat and prevent chapping or irritation caused by exposure to cold temperatures and dry air. Look for mittens made from warm, breathable fabrics like fleece or knit, with elasticized cuffs to keep them securely in place, like the Snugtime Cottan Cable Knitted Mittens.
Knitted Outerwear
Knitted outerwear, such as sweaters, cardigans, and vests, add an extra layer of warmth and style to your baby's winter wardrobe. Choose knitted garments made from soft, natural fibres like wool or cotton, which provide insulation while allowing for breathability and comfort. Look for designs with button or zipper closures for easy dressing and removal and opt for styles with ribbed cuffs and hems to help retain heat and keep cold air out. Knitted outerwear can be layered over bodysuits or shirts and paired with pants or leggings for a cosy yet fashionable winter look. If you’re looking for something for your older babies, try out the Walnut Melbourne Sutton Knit Jumper!
Jackets and Outerwear
A quality jacket or snowsuit is essential for keeping your baby warm and protected from the elements during outdoor adventures in the winter months. Look for jackets or outerwear with water-resistant or waterproof materials to shield your baby from rain, snow, and wind. Choose insulated options with cosy lining and adjustable features like hoods, cuffs, and waistbands for a customised fit that provides maximum warmth and comfort, such as the Bilbi Essentials Matinee Jacket Star. Don't forget to layer jackets over sweaters or hoodies and add hats, mittens, and scarves for complete winter protection.
Get ready this Winter with Baby Bunting!
Dressing your baby for winter is all about finding the right balance between warmth and comfort. Choose clothing for your little one that fits well and provides the right warmth and comfort. By layering appropriately and choosing quality clothing, your little one can stay snug and happy throughout the colder months. Remember to monitor their temperature regularly and adjust their clothing as needed, and most importantly, enjoy the winter season together, creating precious memories that will last a lifetime.