Dressing baby’s for winter days to bed can be tricky—after all, they can’t tell you if they’re comfortable, and we as adults tend to overdo it.
Here are some tips on how to dress that tiny baby in the “just right” spot between too hot and too cold.
1. Cover up
Make sure that your baby is completely covered up from head-to-toe. If you need mittens, gloves, a hat, thick socks, and snow boots, make sure your baby is wearing them too to be warm in the chilly weather.
2. Beware of overheating
Babies dressed in too many layers of clothing are at great risk for overheating and sudden infant death syndrome. If you’ve been outside, remove your baby’s winter clothes as soon as you come in.
3. Touch the Toes
To make sure if your baby is warm enough is to feel her toes and belly. You want his toes to be on the cool side, but not too cold, but his belly should feel warm. If he’s warm toes and a warm belly then he’s overdressed. A cool belly means your baby is not able to warm himself and needs another layer.
4. Hats and Mittens and Hoods
Your baby’s head and hands need to be protected from the cold. A cozy and warm hat that covers the ears and has a chin strap is a smart choice. Tug mittens over your little one’s hands if they’re exposed.
5. Keep the room temperature cool
In the winter or summer, try to keep the room temperature between 68 and 72 degrees F. To make sure your baby is comfortable, check his neck to see if he’s too sweaty.