Winter means cuddles under the duvet, bundled-up walks… but also the risk of hypothermia in our little ones. And yes, their temperature regulation system isn't quite at its best yet. So how do you avoid the shivers? And how can keeping baby close to you become your best ally? We'll tell you everything.
Understanding hypothermia in babies
What is hypothermia?
Hypothermia is when baby's body temperature drops below 36.5°C (defined by WHO). Basically, their little body loses more heat than it produces, and it can happen quickly, especially in very young ones who can't yet regulate their temperature like we do.
Signs and symptoms of hypothermia in infants
What to watch for:
- Rectal temperature below 36.5°C
- Pale skin, cold to the touch, especially on extremities (feet and hands) but their face will alert you
- Shivering (not always present)
- Slower and irregular breathing, as if they're pausing in their breathing
- Unusual lethargy, baby less responsive to stimuli
- Baby cries less or seems "absent"
- baby refuses to feed or has difficulty sucking
???? Little tip: hands and feet can be cold without it being serious. We mainly check the trunk temperature.
What to do in case of hypothermia? When to worry?
- Get back inside to warmth, away from drafts.
- Put baby skin-to-skin with a blanket over both of you (so remove their clothes and yours).
- Breastfeeding or bottle feeding can also help warm up.
- Do not use a hot water bottle directly on the skin.
In case of doubt or persistent symptoms: head to the doctor or call emergency services and maintain skin-to-skin.
What to do to protect baby from the cold and avoid hypothermia?
Prevention = watchword. We avoid long outings, we dress baby accordingly (we'll explain below) and above all… we think babywearing!
Babywearing as a solution to keep baby warm
Thermal benefits of wearing baby in winter
Front carrying in winter is magical:
- You share your body heat with baby
- You create a cozy microclimate
- You easily monitor their condition (temperature, breathing…)
A baby carried against you is a reassured baby, warmed up, and naturally regulated. It's a real baby thermoregulation tool!
Choosing between baby wrap and baby carrier in cold season
Both are great and offer that closeness that helps regulate temperature:
- The winter baby wrap (especially knitted wraps): soft and warm cocoon, "second skin" effect.
- The winter baby carrier (like the HoodieCarrier 2 or the PhysioCarrier 2): easy to put on, well-covering and versatile.
???? What's important is comfort… for you AND for baby.
Ease of use
In winter, the less hassle, the better. A quick-to-put-on baby carrier, or a pre-tied wrap, saves chilly mornings. The winning combo: baby in comfy pajamas, carried in a few minutes, and off you go for a hot coffee on your walk.
Tips for dressing baby when babywearing in winter
Principle of layering clothes
We apply the onion technique ???? :
- Base layer: cotton or merino wool bodysuit
- Middle layer: thick pajamas, fleece romper
- Outer layer: your babywearing coat or a babywearing cover
???? Baby doesn't need a down jacket if they're under your coat. Too warm = risk of sweating = cooling down.
Protection of extremities: head, hands and feet
Heat loss happens a lot through there.
- Well-fitted hat (not too thick, not too loose)
- Fleece/wool booties or mittens
- Light neck warmer, be careful not to interfere with breathing
Babywearing coats and covers: warmth and protection for baby
Two top options for carrying baby with style and safety:
- The babywearing coat, which covers you + baby without extra bulk
- The babywearing cover, to clip onto your favorite babywearing method
???? Tip: always adapt baby's outfit to the environment AND the babywearing method.
Precautions to take when babywearing in winter
Ensure good ventilation and visibility of baby's face
- Always keep the nose and mouth clear.
- A hat that's too big, a scarf poorly positioned, and oops, we block breathing.
- Check regularly, especially if baby falls asleep.
Limit the duration of outings in cold weather
Even well-dressed, a baby remains sensitive.
When it's freezing or the wind is biting, we avoid long walks and favor short but frequent moments.
Warning signs during winter babywearing
Stay attuned to baby.
Warning signs to watch for:
- Pale or mottled skin
- Hypotonia (floppy baby)
- Slowed breathing
- Refusal to feed or move
In this case: go inside, warm up gently, and consult if needed.
Conclusion
Summary of best practices
✅ Cover baby well by layering
✅ Use an appropriate babywearing garment
✅ Check their temperature regularly
✅ Wear to share your warmth
✅ Always keep baby's face clear
Encouragement to be vigilant and listen to baby's needs
Each baby is unique. What matters is observing, feeling, adapting. Winter babywearing is as much about technique… as instinct. And you already know plenty, because you're attentive. And that's the most important thing ❤️