Cold Weather Babywearing: Your Complete Guide
A really common question we get asked as the weather starts turning cooler is what to wear when babywearing outdoors. The good news? With the right approach and a few thoughtful choices, you and your little one can stay cosy and comfortable all winter long.
The Golden Rule: Think Layers
The fundamental principle of cold weather babywearing is layering. Your sling or carrier counts as a layer, you count as a layer, and if you're walking briskly you'll be generating more heat, so that can count as an extra layer too. Baby will probably need a hat and booties as well.
Layers make it easier to regulate temperature throughout your outing, but they're also incredibly helpful when you pop inside a café or supermarket, as you can simply shed what you don't need. This flexibility prevents overheating whilst ensuring everyone stays comfortable when you venture back outside.
Dressing Baby for Cold Weather Babywearing
Think cardigans, hats, booties and hoodies rather than thick snowsuits. Bulky snowsuits can compromise the safe positioning of your baby in the carrier and make it difficult to achieve a snug, supportive fit. Instead, opt for thinner, flexible layers that allow you to maintain proper positioning whilst keeping baby warm.
One of the layers is absolutely fine to be a sleepsuit – just make sure those tiny toes have lots of space to wiggle! Booties are brilliant for keeping toes warm, and here's a handy tip: older siblings' socks work wonderfully as they can be pulled up to baby's knees like little legwarmers.
What Baby Needs:
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A base layer (vest - long or short-sleeved)
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A sleepsuit or t-shirt and leggings
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A cardigan or thin fleece
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A hat that covers their ears
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Booties or thick socks
Keeping Parents Warm and Comfortable
For parents, the key is maintaining your own warmth without adding so much bulk that you can't wear your baby safely and comfortably. Consider zip-front hoodies or cardigans, which are easy to adjust and remove as needed. Babywearing or oversized coats and babywearing covers like the BundleBean or babywearing cosy are excellent options that cover your carrier or sling whilst allowing freedom of movement.
Important Safety Tips
When babywearing in cold weather, safety must always come first. Keep these crucial points in mind:
Check Baby's Temperature Regularly
Feel the back of baby's neck or their chest to gauge their temperature. These areas give you a more accurate reading than their hands or feet, which naturally feel cooler. If baby feels sweaty or clammy, remove a layer.
Maintain the TICKS Guidelines
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Tight - The carrier or sling should be tight enough to hold baby close to you
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In view at all times - You should always be able to see baby's face
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Close enough to kiss - Baby's head should be close enough for you to kiss easily
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Keep chin off chest - Ensure baby's chin isn't pressed against their chest, allowing clear airways
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Supported back - Baby's back should be supported in a natural position
Avoid Overheating
Overheating is a genuine risk, particularly when moving between cold outdoor spaces and warm indoor environments. Be vigilant about removing layers when you go inside, and never leave baby in bulky outdoor clothing whilst indoors.
No Bulky Clothing Under the Carrier
Snowsuits, puffy coats and thick clothing should never be worn under a carrier or sling. They compress in the carrier, creating a false sense of snugness, and can prevent you from achieving a safe, supportive position. They also make it very difficult to monitor baby's positioning and breathing. Always dress baby in thin, flexible layers and add warmth over the carrier instead.
Cover Both of You, Not Just Baby
Use a coat that fits over both of you or a babywearing cover. This is much safer than bundling baby separately, as it allows you to monitor them easily and ensures they benefit from your body heat.
Keep Airways Clear
Make sure scarves, coat collars and babywearing covers aren't covering baby's face. Fresh air should always be able to circulate around their nose and mouth.
Be Mindful of Wind Chill
Even if the temperature seems manageable, wind chill can make it feel much colder. On particularly blustery days, a babywearing cover provides excellent protection for both of you.
Final Thoughts
Cold weather shouldn't stop you from enjoying the closeness and convenience of babywearing. With thoughtful layering, the right accessories and attention to safety, you can continue babywearing comfortably right through the winter months.
Remember: every baby is different, and what works for one family might not work for another. Pay attention to your baby's cues, check their temperature regularly, and adjust your approach as needed. Before you know it, you'll have your cold weather babywearing routine perfected.
Stay warm, stay safe, and happy babywearing!
