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How to bundle babies safely in the colder months

Wintertime in the Midwest raises an important question for parents of babies: How do you keep your baby warm while making sure they’re safe? It’s all about knowing the common mistakes to avoid, layering and understanding how to prioritize safety, according to Dr. Amy Silverio, DO, a pediatrician at Lurie Children’s Primary Care — Chicago Area Pediatrics.

To start, Silverio recommends a simple rule for dressing your baby in cold weather: Put them in one more layer than what you’re wearing. If you have on a sweater and a jacket, your baby might need those plus a blanket. Layers trap warmth and can be easily added or removed as needed.

Thin layers work best, as they provide warmth without bulk. Keep an eye on your baby’s comfort. If their chest feels warm or they start sweating, they might be too hot. On the flip side, cold hands or feet could mean they need an extra layer.

Additionally, keeping babies warm during winter nights is crucial, but it’s also important to follow safe sleep practices. Dr. Silverio suggests dressing your baby in an undershirt, pajamas, and a wearable blanket if your home is cooler than 75°F. Avoid loose blankets, as they can increase the risk of suffocation.

“One-piece sleepers with footies or wearable blankets are great options,” says Dr. Silverio. These items keep your baby cozy without the hazards of traditional bedding. She also advises against using hats during sleep, as they can lead to overheating or accidentally cover your baby’s face.

One area where parents often slip up is winter car seat safety. Thick coats and snowsuits, while warm, aren’t safe in car seats. The padding can compress in an accident, leaving the harness too loose to protect your baby properly.

Instead, try these tips:

• Keep the car seat carrier indoors so it’s warm before use.

• Dress your baby in thin layers and secure the harness snugly.

• Lay a blanket over the harness or put their coat on backward after buckling them in.

Remember, your baby’s face should always remain uncovered to allow proper airflow.

Babies lose a lot of heat through their heads and extremities, so hats, mittens and booties are must-haves for winter outings. However, Silverio warns that hats should not be used indoors or while your baby is sleeping. “Overheating increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS),” she explains.

When heading out, bring extras in case anything gets wet. Wet clothing can make your baby cold, so it’s important to replace these items promptly.

Silverio highlights two common mistakes parents make when dressing their babies for winter.

First, over-bundling: Too many layers can cause your baby to overheat. If you notice your baby sweating or their cheeks looking flushed, it’s time to remove a layer.

Second, covering your baby’s face with a blanket or hood: This might seem like a good way to block the cold, but it can trap air and increase the risk of suffocation. Keep their face uncovered, whether in a stroller, car seat or crib.

Winter adventures with a baby require a bit of planning. Dress them appropriately for the weather, and always carry extra clothes like mittens and hats.

Check your baby’s comfort often and remove layers when you head indoors to prevent overheating.

Children's health is a continuing series. This column was provided by Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago.

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