Babywearing in the Cold

“There is no better feeling in the world than holding your precious child.”

- Vicki Reese

Taking your precious little bundle of joy out in the cold doesn't have to be overwhelming or complicated. Keeping baby close can help ease your concerns of whether they are feeling cold or hot or just right.

Here are some effective ways to stay warm while babywearing in cooler weather:

1. Layered Clothing for Both You and Baby

• Use layers that can be adjusted as needed. For instance, start with a base layer (like a thermal shirt) and add a sweater or fleece. For your baby, dress them in layers too, such as a bodysuit, sweater, and leg warmers.

• Opt for thin, moisture-wicking layers that provide warmth without bulk.

2. Babywearing Jackets or Covers

• Babywearing jackets are designed with extra room or zip-in panels to fit over you and your baby.

• Babywearing covers attach over the baby carrier to keep your baby warm without the need for a bulky coat.

• For wetter conditions, use a carrier cover with a waterproof or water-resistant outer layer to protect your baby from rain and snow. These covers often have fleece lining for added warmth.

3. Jacket extenders

• Jacket extenders are designed to be used with your current jacket from pregnancy and beyond. The panel zips onto your jacket and offers extra room for your baby. 

4. Baby Carrier Hoodie or Sweatshirt

• Many brands offer hoodies or sweatshirts with extra space or openings to accommodate a baby in a carrier, keeping both of you cozy.

5. Oversized Coat

• Wearing an oversized coat over both you and the baby can be a quick solution, especially if you don’t have a dedicated babywearing jacket.

6. Poncho or Shawl

• A poncho or shawl can be draped over both you and your baby for extra warmth, making it easy to adjust if temperatures change.

7. Protect Extremities

• Babies lose heat quickly through their heads and feet, so hats and booties are essential for cold weather.

• Use warm hats, gloves, and scarves for yourself too.

• Baby leg warmers or fleece-lined booties can keep their legs and feet warm, especially if their legs are partially exposed in the carrier.

• Be mindful of your footwear too. Make sure you are wearing weather appropriate footwear to prevent slips and falls and to keep your feet warm and dry

8. Keep Baby Close to Your Body

• Your body heat will naturally help keep your baby warm, especially if you wear them in a front-facing position (inward). This is often enough for fall and spring.

• Keeping baby close to your body will also minimize bulky layers needed to keep them warm.

9. Baby Carrier Cover with Weatherproof Material

• For wetter conditions, use a carrier cover with a waterproof or water-resistant outer layer to protect your baby from rain and snow. These covers often have fleece lining for added warmth.

10. Use DIY Cover

• A DIY solution could include a blanket or scarf tucked around the carrier for extra warmth on mildly cold days.

11. Use a Hot Hands Packet (Carefully)

• Heat packs (Hot Hands) can provide gentle warmth but should never touch the baby directly. Place them in your coat pockets for a bit of extra warmth.

By combining these tips based on weather, you and your baby can stay comfortable and enjoy the outdoors all season long.

Stay cozy out there and Happy Wearing!!