Tips for Having a Baby in the Winter
Jun 12, 2023
If you’re expecting a baby in the winter, you might be wondering if there is anything different you need to do compared to having a baby at any other time of the year. The winter temperatures vary significantly depending on where you live; in this article, we take a look at how to prepare for having a winter baby, what you need to consider and if you need to buy any extra items to keep your baby safe.
Invest in a room thermometer
If you don’t already have a thermometer in your room, before your baby arrives is a good time to purchase one. This will let you know the room's temperature and if it is suitable for your baby to sleep in. Many child thermometers include lights which indicate if the temperature is too high, too low or just right. You will only need to glance over at the thermometer to see if the temperature is ok for your baby. For many new parents, this can put their minds at rest, providing the reassurance they need to relax and go back to sleep.
Prevent dry skin
Babies are more prone to dry skin in the winter month; the lack of moisture in the air can cause dry skin and leave your baby irritated and sore. To help prevent dry skin, make sure you buy a good sensitive moisturizer that’s suitable for newborn babies; this should be applied after changing your baby and can be applied to their skin multiple times per day if needed. In addition, keeping bathtimes short and ensuring your baby is properly dry before dressing them will help to prevent dry skin. A humidifier can also help stop your baby’s skin from drying in the cold, harsh winter months.
Avoid anyone with illnesses
Your friends and family will likely want to visit your baby as soon as they’re born. However, this can be dangerous if anyone has a common cold or another winter illness. Limit contact between your baby and others with winter illnesses; this will help to protect your little one from picking up any unwanted germs. It is also a good idea to ask everyone to wash their hands before handling your baby and to practice good hand hygiene yourself. You should do everything possible to prevent your household from picking up any winter illnesses.
Baby blankets
If you’re heading out in the day with your baby, baby blankets can help to keep them warm when they’re in their pram. Make sure you choose blankets that are suitable for newborn babies. Cellular blankets are often recommended as they have large holes that allow your baby to breathe if they do end up near their face. However, to avoid this tuck your baby in with their arms out and keep an eye on them when they have a blanket. Blankets are great for daytime walks with your baby, as you’ll be constantly looking at them in their pram.
Use layers to keep your baby warm
Layers will help keep your baby warm and allow you to take off clothing if you go inside or they become too hot. As a general rule, babies should wear one additional layer than adults. So if you’re wearing a jumper, t-shirt and coat, your baby should be wearing this plus one extra layer. Don’t forget the extras to keep their hands, feet and head warm; warm booties, a hat, and mittens are essential wear for babies in the winter months.
Remove coats in the car
Car seats are designed to keep your baby safe and secure; they can only do this if the straps are tight enough to keep your baby in place. When a baby is wearing a coat, it adds too much material between the straps and the baby, leaving them vulnerable and not properly protected. Remove all coats when your baby is traveling in the car, this might not feel like a nice thing to do when it's cold, but it's the safest option. You can add a blanket to your baby on top of the straps to keep them warm; a cellular blanket is recommended for children.