Babies and cold weather don't typically go hand in hand. But when you have places to be and errands to run, sometimes putting your tiny human on lock-down just isn't an option - enter the carrier! With so many benefits including bonding, convenience, and free hands for coffee/donuts/ping pong/etc., it's no wonder parents everywhere are strapping their little ones onto their chests before braving the elements.
But how do you keep said infant warm without overheating them? And how can you ensure that they're not suffocating under all those layers? Fear not, new mommas and daddies. We've got some tips & tricks to help make winters with baby bearable (and maybe even enjoyable).
Layers Are Key
When it comes to bundling up babies in a carrier, layers are going to be your best friend. Keep in mind that if there is too much bulkiness between baby's chest and your own, it could potentially create breathing problems or overheat your little one once everyone gets moving- not fun times for anyone involved.
What you're aiming for here is multiple thin layers underneath a heavy-duty outer shell. Start with long sleeves and leggings or pants (or both!) under whatever outfit of choice you're dressing him/her in for the day. Cotton-blend fabrics will give breathability by preventing air from getting trapped next to the skin while still giving warmth along veins etc.- perfect stuff for pepidaquarium!
Place an additional layer underneath; fleece jackets/blankets/rows-and-rows of scarves-to-create-a-gaggle-of-coziness will work perfectly as a middle layer because it provides insulation without adding extra weight against sensitive joints like hips/knees/elbows/fingers/toes etc.; which keeps legs quiet during movement also helps regulate body temperature!
Top it all off with a breathable, yet heavy-duty coat or jacket such as the Carhartt Arctic Coat that will shield your tot from wind/snow/ice/lake monsters/etc. If things start heating up once you get moving, simply unzip the collar or a layer to keep everyone comfortable.
Consider Wind Protection
Whether you're trekking through Manhattan in a blizzard or just taking baby for a quick spin around the block, one of the biggest discomforts for little ones is wind. It's harsh and cold and can create more fussiness than any teething episode ever could.
Investing in some wind protection like big-brimmed hats (old-school OR new-school), neck wraps/balaclavas/bandanas will help prevent chill-related meltdowns while also adding an adorable extra touch to mini-milan-fashions-as-we-once-knew-them! Plus they make great Instagram content, because who doesn't love seeing babies dressed up as cute Russian bears?
Another level of wind protection can come by way of buying heavier duty carriers that have built-in hoods/snaps/zippers to shut out nasty gusts entirely so cozy-cocoons aren't subject to harsh weather patterns when he/she gets really antsy/sneezy/tired/fun etc- which lets strangers on buses/cars/trains/streets know you've planned ahead for warmth #preparationiskey
Check Your Carrier
Speaking of carriers... not all carries are created equal when it comes to winter weather wear. Beyond just functionality and safety requirements look into getting something designed specifically with cooler climates in mind either by insulation material designs/software changes/eyeballing quality ratings online/adventures/tests - 'if it looks good chances are most parents have already figured out how helpful it is'.
In addition to keeping your tyke appropriately bundled throughout rides around town remember not every carrier gives them room to move their limbs enough to warm up efficiently so just preposterous to rush into buying the first one something with pockets/leg holes/support-structures! Check manufacturer guides and online reviews for recommended age range, size limits or other useful tips from experienced parents.
Mind Those Extremities
Just like adults, babies are most likely to be susceptible when it comes to extremities (hands/feet/noses/ears). Unfortunately (for them), they don't usually have access all five senses apparel selection making things extra challenging.
Keep their fingers/toes capped off in some booties/mittens/hybrid-lobsters as hands-together-foot-inside-things that stick together can help keep arms less still during rides particularly if you're driving/runningsucks etc./drinking coffee while strollering - this will prevent extremities getting too cold not good!
Warm hats can also neutralize being boring because there aren't many occasions where a baby dressed up like a cute little animal doesn’t steal the show; so take advantage of these moments by sheer force till your heart is content-ish-either which will protect ears/nose from chilly winter winds-and-frost on top of filling Instagram feeds with overly adorable photos. Additionally, applying gentle lotion/butter/oil/sanitizer after bath time is important as keeping skin moisturized helps conserve heat while also preventing dryness/rashes/flakiness #momhackalert
In Conclusion...
All in all, having an itty bitty living space invader doesn't mean you have say farewell forever sunshine along with picnics yada yada fairy scenes. By masterfully layering appropriately selecting carriers wardrobes blankets headwear/booties staying attentive towards those tiny joint sockets careful consideration about how weather affects digestion habits comfort levels lastly engaging in preparedness mentality no matter what kind of environment or time-period involved here survival is ALL about keeping baby bearable!