How to Dress a Baby for Winter Weather

Going outdoors in the winter can be great for both parents and babies, but how do you protect your little one from the chill? Babies can’t tell you that they’re hot or cold, so even a simple winter outing turns into a guessing game. Learn how to tell if your baby is cold, which items to use in each layer, and other helpful tips to stay cozy while outside or at bedtime. 

Baby Winter Dressing Basics

As long as you don’t live in the Arctic tundra, it’s usually safe to take a healthy baby outside in the winter. The key is dressing your baby properly for the weather, since little ones can’t regulate their body temperature the way adults can. 

Soft, breathable fabrics might seem like a summertime staple, but they also keep babies warm in winter without overheating. Cozy sleepers, TOG-rated sleep bags, and swaddles are part of a layering system that’s warm without being bulky. And of course, practical clothes needn’t be boring. Loulou Lollipop’s She Shoots, She Scores collection bring a playful winter-sports energy to everyday essentials, nodding to the growing popularity of women’s hockey while keeping babies warm and cozy. 

How To Tell When Your Baby Is Cold

Babies can’t tell you when they’re chilly, but their bodies can. Your baby is likely too cold if you notice these signs: 

• Shivering

• A cool neck, chest, or back

• Blotchy or very red skin

• Pale skin

• Low energy

• Fussiness

• Slow breathing

If your baby’s clothes are wet from rain or snow, change them right away. When in doubt, trust your instincts and head indoors. It’s always better to take a break than to push it. If you notice your baby’s face or lips turning blue, seek medical attention immediately. 

How Many Layers Does a Baby Need in Winter?

A good rule of thumb is one more layer than you’re wearing yourself. Babies need a base layer, a middle layer, and an outer layer of clothing. Layers are especially helpful because you can easily add or remove them. Of course, this depends on whether you’re indoors or not. You can get away with fewer layers inside, especially if you opt for a warm, winter-rated sleep bag like those at Loulou Lollipop.

However, you can’t keep your baby in all three layers during your entire outing. You should always remove bulky layers, like coats, before strapping a baby into a car seat. Puffy clothing can create extra space between your baby and the harness, which is a safety issue.

Don’t be afraid to add a little personality, either: For a touch of style, Loulou Lollipop’s Winter Games collection captures the spirit of winter sports with athletic prints and cozy fits galore.

TOG Explained

So, are your baby’s winter clothes actually warm enough? The easiest way to tell if clothes are appropriate for the weather is by looking at their Thermal Overall Grade (TOG). This rating tells you how warm clothing is. The lower the TOG, the lighter it is, and vice versa. 

How to Dress a Baby for Winter: Layer by Layer

Layering is the key to dressing babies in the winter. Follow these rules of thumb for each layer to keep your little one warm (without turning them into a giant marshmallow).

Base Layers for Babies

The base layer sits right next to your baby’s skin, so comfort is everything. This layer helps wick moisture while regulating your baby’s temperature. Look for soft, breathable fibres like wool, cotton, or bamboo that feel gentle on sensitive skin. 

Middle Layers for Babies

The middle layer is where you focus on insulating your baby from the elements. High-quality clothing traps heat while still allowing airflow, which keeps your baby from overheating. 

For this layer, consider options like: 

• Fleece onesies or sleepers

• Cozy overalls

• Hoodie-and-pant fleece sets

Outer Layers for Babies

The outer layer protects your baby from wind, snow, and damp winter weather. These items should be durable and easy to remove. Outerwear can be pricey—and babies outgrow it fast—so buying secondhand is a smart, sustainable option.

Popular outerwear options include:

• Hat

• Mittens

• Windproof and waterproof snowsuits or jackets

• Insulated booties or boots

Remember, you should never strap a baby into a car seat with bulky outer layers. Always remove jackets before travelling.

How to Dress a Baby for Winter Sleep

Winter nights can get chilly even indoors, so it’s crucial to properly dress your baby for sleep. As a general rule, dress your baby slightly warmer than you’d dress yourself. Babies lose heat more quickly, especially overnight, so cozy layers matter. 

For newborns and young babies, swaddling can add warmth and comfort—just be sure to stop swaddling once your baby shows signs of rolling over. Lightweight, breathable options like muslin swaddles are ideal for layering over their sleepwear.

For older babies and toddlers, cozy sleepers and two-piece PJ sets are winter staples. Look for soft, breathable fabrics that keep warmth in without trapping heat, which is perfect for long winter nights (and early-morning snuggles).

Winter bath time can get extra chilly, so it helps to plan ahead. Wrapping your baby in a hooded towel right after bath time locks in warmth and makes the transition to pyjamas smoother.

3 Tips for Dressing a Newborn in Winter

Newborns need more support than older babies when exploring the great outdoors. Follow these simple tips to keep your baby warm on chilly days. 

Monitor Your Baby’s Temperature

Regularly check in on your newborn while you’re outside in the winter. It’s tempting to feel their hands or feet to see if they’re cold, but that won’t give you an accurate gauge of their temperature. Instead, feel the back of their neck, chest, or tummy. If these areas are cold, it’s time to head back inside. If your baby feels hot and sweaty, consider removing a layer so they don’t overheat.  

Dress Differently for Outings and Sleep

Newborns will need way more layers while outside, but they still need coverage during sleep. For going outside, layer up and then remove the layers when you’re back inside. For sleep, stick to swaddles and sleep bags with appropriate TOG ratings. Never dress a baby in a large jacket or snowsuit for sleep. 

Always Dress for Safety

Warmth should never come at the expense of safety. Protect your baby by: 

• Removing bulky layers before placing them in a car seat

• Keeping them away from direct heat sources, like space heaters or fireplaces

• Choosing snug-fitting sleepwear instead of items that shift or bunch

Frequently Asked Questions

How Cold Is Too Cold for Baby?

With the right layers, babies can be outside in weather as cold as -4 degrees Celsius (-25 degrees Fahrenheit). However, this really depends on where you live, the conditions, and your baby’s tolerance for cold. Always dress them appropriately for the cold and pay close attention to their cues. If your baby seems uncomfortable, it’s time to head indoors.

What Should Babies Wear in the Winter?

To go outside in the winter, babies need a base layer that wicks moisture, a middle layer for insulation, and an outer layer to keep out moisture. For sleep, skip bulky items and opt for cozy sleepers, swaddles (for non-rolling babies), or sleep bags with an appropriate TOG rating.

What Winter Clothes Should I Avoid for My Baby?

It depends on your area and your baby’s age. For example, you may not need insulated snow boots if your baby isn’t walking yet. Sometimes new parents dress their babies in too many heat-trapping items, which can cause your baby to overheat, so go with natural, breathable fibres like wool or fleece. 

Smart Winter Clothing Choices Protect Babies From Cold and Overheating

Dressing a baby for winter weather doesn’t require much; you just need the proper layers for your environment. As always, listen to your baby’s body and other cues to see if they’re too hot or cold. 

Whether you’re heading out for fresh air or settling in for sleep, choosing well-made essentials that balance warmth and comfort makes all the difference. If you’re refreshing your baby’s winter sleepwear, thoughtfully designed pieces simplify bedtime all winter long. Explore our pyjama collection for winter-ready options that are as comfortable as they are playful.