NICU Tips & Parent Guide for Taking Care of Newborns This Winter

Even though winter is a lovely time with all the snow, twinkling lights, hot chocolate, and adorable onesie-wearing, it can also be a difficult time for parents as well as for the young one. The challenge is real: how to keep your infant warm in subzero temperatures. You can keep your child safe from the cold during winter in numerous ways.

When a baby is born, they’re not strong, not ready, and not “adjusted” to the world yet. And winter makes that phase more challenging. Cold air, dry weather, infections going around—all of it affects newborns faster than we expect. When a newborn is sick, has trouble breathing, or is chilly, they can't express it. The warning signals may be so subtle that parents only become aware of them after the problem has happened. This illustrates the importance of winter care, particularly for kids born prematurely or who require special care.

It's important to be aware that your baby is particularly vulnerable in the first few weeks of life and that you may shield them from developing health issues if you take extra measures, such as keeping them warm and clean and consulting a doctor when necessary.

Effect of Cold Weather on Babies

Babies are much smaller than adults and don’t have the muscle or body fat needed to hold on to warmth. For that reason, they tend to succumb to colds far more quickly than we do. When a baby feels cold, they’re usually uncomfortable, restless, and won’t sleep well—even if everything else seems fine.

Cold weather also puts babies at a higher risk of hypothermia (drop in body temperature below normal), especially in the early weeks. But too many layers can cause overheating, which is also dangerous. Finding the right balance is important.

Winter can also affect a baby’s immunity. Their immune system is still developing, and cold temperatures make it easier for infections to take hold. Common respiratory infections like coughs, colds, or the flu can become serious in newborns, and illnesses such as pneumonia can be life-threatening if not treated early.

Baby Winter Care Tips

Here are some tips for caring for a newborn in cold weather that can help you and your baby enjoy their first winter together:

Baby Winter Care Tips for Indoor Clothing

Dress your baby according to where they are and what they’ll be doing. What works indoors may not be enough outdoors, so clothing should match the situation.
Follow the “one extra layer” rule. Your baby should usually wear what feels comfortable for you, plus one additional layer.
Avoid letting your baby get too cold. Babies lose body heat faster than adults and may become uncomfortable or restless.
Don’t overdress your baby. Too many layers can make babies overheat, which can be just as risky as being cold.
Add socks or cotton mittens indoors if needed. Hands and feet lose warmth quickly, even in a warm house.
Adjust clothing based on indoor temperature. A well-heated room may only need a onesie, while cooler rooms may need footed pajamas.
Use multiple thin layers outdoors. Thin layers help keep your baby warm and dry without trapping too much heat.

Baby Winter Care Tips for Outdoor Clothing

Always cover your baby’s head in cold weather. A hat helps prevent heat loss from the head.
Use waterproof outerwear when exposed to cold or snow. This keeps your baby protected from cold air and damp conditions.
Be careful with stroller covers. They can trap heat, so remove extra clothing if the stroller becomes too warm.
Avoid bulky winter clothes in car seats. Thick coats and snowsuits prevent seat belts from fitting properly and can be unsafe.
Choose thin, close-fitting layers for car travel. These allow the car seat straps to sit securely against your baby’s body.
Place a blanket or coat over the straps after buckling. This keeps your baby warm without compromising safety.

Baby Winter Care Tips for Bedtime Clothing

Dress babies slightly lighter for sleep. Babies tend to sleep better when they are cool rather than overheated.
Use footed pajamas, swaddles, or sleep sacks for bedtime. These keep babies warm safely without loose coverings.
Avoid blankets for babies under 12 months. Blankets increase safety risks during sleep.
Baby Winter Care Tips for Room Temperature
Keep the room temperature comfortable. A temperature between 68 and 72°F helps prevent overheating.
Limit outdoor exposure during winter. Newborns should not be outside in the cold for long periods.

Baby Winter Care Tips for Baby Wearing

During the colder months, baby wearing (carrying your baby inside your big coat) might help keep them warm. This way, you may always feel their warmth and comfort. Keep their neck and face uncovered, and don't let the coats, scarves, or anything else get in the way of their air circulation.

Baby Skin Care Tips for Winter

Cold weather can dry out the delicate baby's skin. Moisturize your baby’s skin regularly in winter.
Use gentle body washes and reduce long baths.
Avoid hot baths, as they can reduce the skin’s moisture and cause irritation.

Conclusion

Winter isn't always easy to care for a newborn, but with a little planning ahead, some extra warmth, and plenty of layers, even the cutest members of your family can enjoy the season. Due to their weakened immune systems, babies are more susceptible to diseases during the winter. Newborns have a harder time keeping their core temperatures stable throughout the winter, especially when it's cold outside. As a result, they are more vulnerable to cold, flu, and cough.

Keeping your baby warm and comfortable throughout the challenging winter months is a common problem faced by all new mothers. The top neonatologists of Mumbai are here to help you at Surya Hospitals. For personalized advice, book your consultation now!

FAQs

Q1: Are preemies at greater risk during the cold months?
A: Yes. Babies born too soon are more vulnerable to illnesses and cold stress because they lose body heat more quickly and have weakened immune systems. Extra caution and observation are necessary.

Q2: How can I keep my little one safe from infections over the winter?
A: Keep the infant away from unwell people, limit visits, practice excellent hand hygiene, and adhere to your pediatrician's recommended immunization schedule.

Q3: How can I tell if my baby is too cold?
A: Warning signs of hypothermia in babies (a drop in body temperature below normal) include pale complexions, cold hands and feet, poor eating, excessive drowsiness, and feeble crying. If you see these signs, seek medical attention.