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, hot or just right.

Becoming more aware of the weather and planning ahead can make a huge difference in how your outing goes! Here are some things to keep in mind as you prep to babywearing in the cold:

• Check local weather forecasts (temperature, wind chill, precipitation) before going out so you can plan clothes and accessories appropriately.

• Early mornings / evenings tend to be colder, even if midday is mild; dressing in layers is great for this change in temperature.

• Conditions like wind or dampness make a big difference in how cold it feels, so waterproof or windproof layers are helpful.

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.

• I personally love a wool base layer for baby and I and fleece is a thin and warm layer for both of us. I usually keep my little one in wool socks and wool booties, even once they are walking I have loved using Padraigs to keep their feed warm and can layer some stonz booties on top of them for ultimate warmth and waterproof protection.

• If it isn't raining I like using a long wool blend sweater coat that can easily stretch over both of us, it's breathable but also very warm and cozy. A hooded fleece sweater has been essential for all five of my kids for ultimate protection against wind and for breatheability. The one you see in most of these photos is from The North Face and was used by all 5 of my little ones!

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. 

• There are many brands to choose from and a great Canadian option is from Make my Belly Fit.

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.

• For not so cold weather a sweater like the Gustine Carrying Cape is a great cover all for both baby and mommy.

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.

• I really enjoyed the jolly jumper cover, although not waterproof it did a great job of keeping my newborn cozy in the snowy weather: Here's a short video of us enjoying the snowfall shortly after her birth

10. Use DIY Cover

• A DIY solution could include a blanket or scarf tucked around the carrier for extra warmth on mildly cold days. Depending on the fiber content and thickness a scarf can work on even the chilliest winter day. You can even layer two of them together for extra warmth and they are easy to remove if you are going indoors while bundled up.

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 for yourself and your temperature raising will help keep baby warm.

12. A Perfect Time for Cozy Carriers

• Cooler months are ideal for carriers with thicker, cushier fibers like wool for extra comfort and warmth.

• Any carrier type can work well in cold weather as long as you are both comfortable and supported.

• Woven wraps: use multi-layer carries for added warmth.

• Stretchy wraps: naturally require 3 layers over baby, making them especially cozy in cooler months when overheating is less likely.

• Soft structured carriers: tweed or thick canvas fabrics provide durability and added warmth.

• Remember the carrier counts as a layer of clothing—avoid overdressing yourself or your baby.

Safety Reminders Specific to Cold Weather

• Ensure your baby’s airway is clear: avoid scarves or cloth covering your baby's face.

• Monitor baby’s temperature (especially hands, feet, cheeks) often—babies can’t tell you they’re cold.

• Be cautious with heat sources like hot packs: make sure they don’t create overheating or burns.

• Slippery walk surfaces: when you're carrying a child and wearing bulky/flexible layers, gloves, boots, etc., footing is more precarious—non-slip footwear is important!

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

If you're wondering how to babywearing with a toddler that no longer fits under your jacket, be sure to check out my other blog post: Babywearing in the Winter with a Toddler

Stay cozy out there and Happy Wearing!!