You can travel with your baby when it is cold outside, provided that you take extra measures to keep your little one warm and dry. One rule is to make sure you dress your baby with one more layer than you when going out in the cold. Here are some of the things you need to keep in mind.
Remember to Layer
Make sure to layer clothing for your baby. This allows heat to be trapped in various layers, helping keep your baby warm for a longer time. You can start with a thin onesie, and then add a long-sleeved shirt and pants, or a snowsuit if the temperature is very low.
Always ensure that your little one is entirely covered from head to toe. If you will need more protection, add gloves, mittens, a hat, snow boots and very thick socks. There are plenty of comfortable options that you can shop at a baby boutique in Phoenix, AZ.
Use a Blanket
If you are heading outside on a stroller, make sure you have a thick blanket or your stroller’s cover. This will keep the harsh elements out and offer more warmth to your baby.
Follow Car Safety Rules
When you get to your vehicle, remove your baby’s bulky coat. Babies can keep wearing various thin layers of clothing, hat and mittens while harnessed in the baby car seat.
Avoid Overheating
Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) can happen if babies have too many layers of clothing on them. If you have been out in cold weather, you can remove your little one’s winter ensemble as soon as you come inside your home.
Then, dress your baby in a warm sleeper or sleep sack, but let loose the blankets to avoid SIDS. Newborns are still unable to regulate temperature fully, so you will need to be extra cautious on how much or how little clothing your baby has.
Keep Your Baby Dry
Make sure your baby is always dry, as damp clothing is one of the leading causes for hypothermia, even when the weather is simply cool, like over 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Make it a point to check on your baby’s diaper regularly, especially when outside. Additionally, protect your little one from the harmful rays of the sun by making use of the stroller’s canopy or having them wear a hat or a beanie.
Know the Perfect Temperature
Regardless of the weather outside, your little one’s temperature must always remain anywhere between 98 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit. When it is above that, it can be an indicator that your baby is sick.
As much as possible, keep your baby’s nursery temperature to at least 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. If the baby is a preemie, you can turn the thermostat higher to 72 degrees. If it is very hot, it can increase the baby’s risk of SIDS, and if it is too cold, your baby can run the risk of hypothermia.
Keep your baby’s room at the right temperature at all times and always physically check if your little one is too warm or getting cold.