Dressing Your Baby for Winter: A Cozy and Safe Guide

Since moving from Arizona to Virginia I've learned a thing or two about winter and baby sleep!!

When it gets chilly, keeping your newborn or baby warm and comfortable can feel tricky. Between holiday festivities, cold snaps, and the risk of overheating, many mums wonder: How should I dress my baby in winter safely?

This blog breaks it all down so you can do it confidently!! So let's get into it:

Why Winter Baby Clothing Matters

Babies, especially newborns, can’t regulate their body temperature as effectively as adults. Being too cold can make them fussy or uncomfortable, while being too warm increases the risk of overheating, which we also don't want due to the risk of SIDS.

Winter is the season where finding the balance matters most: cozy layers, safe sleepwear, and attention to your baby’s core temperature can make a big difference.

Layering

Instead of relying on one thick garment, layering is your friend. Multiple light layers trap heat while allowing for adjustment if the temperature fluctuates.

Winter layering basics:

1. Base layer – Long sleeved rompers for warmth.

2. Outer layer – Sleep sack/wearable blanket

3. Optional layer (under vest) if it's extra cold! 

Understanding TOG Ratings for Winter Sleep

Sleep sacks with TOG (Thermal Overall Grade) ratings are winter essentials:

• 0.5 TOG: Lightweight – summer or mild indoor use

• 1.0 TOG: Medium – autumn or mild winter days

• 2.5+ TOG: Heavy – cold winter nights

For most indoor winter settings (around 68–72°F / 20–22°C), a 1.0–2.5 TOG sleep sack paired with a onesie is ideal for newborns and infants.

Daytime Winter Clothing Tips

• Hands and Feet: Mittens, socks, or soft booties prevent heat loss.

• Hats: A snug hat helps keep body heat from escaping, especially outdoors.

• Avoid Overheating: If you’re layering your baby with coats and hats etc, always remove one layer when indoors to prevent sweating.

Remember, your baby’s tummy, chest, and back are better indicators of comfort than cold fingers or toes, which are normal in newborns.

Signs Your Baby May Be Too Hot or Too Cold

• Too hot: Baby feels flushed, sweaty, or restless

• Too cold: Core body feels cool, skin may appear pale

Trust your instincts — if you’re chilly in your own clothes, your baby may need an extra layer, and vice versa!! Your mum gut is meaningful and you can trust it!

Safe Sleepwear for Winter

Sleep sacks are a winter game changer. They provide warmth without the risks of loose blankets in the crib. Features to look for:

• TOG rating suited for your room temperature

• Easy zipper or snap access for diaper changes

• Breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo

Investing in a few high-quality sleep sacks means your baby can stay snug while maintaining a safe sleep environment.

Extra Winter Tips for Newborns

• Keep rooms at a safe temperature: 68–72°F (20–22°C) is ideal.

• Avoid hats in the crib: Only for short-term outdoor use.

• Monitor frequently: Feel your baby’s chest or back to ensure they’re comfortably warm.

Winter can be daunting with a brand new baby,  but dressing them safely is the first step to enjoying it all stress-free. With layers, TOG-rated sleepwear, and careful monitoring, your baby can stay cozy and safe all season long.

Need More Help With Baby Sleep?

If winter nights feel long and you’re struggling with nighttime wake-ups or short naps, I can help. My Cozy Baby Sleep Courses are designed to teach you how to:

• Build consistent sleep patterns

• Understand your baby’s sleep needs at every stage

• Guide them toward longer stretches of independent sleep

Whether your baby is a newborn or toddler, I provide practical, step-by-step guidance so you can get more rest and help your little one sleep safely and soundly.

Click here to explore the Cozy Baby Sleep Courses and start getting better sleep tonight!