Winter means cuddles under the blanket, wrapped-up walks… but also the risk of hypothermia for our little ones. Yes, their temperature regulation system isn't quite up to speed yet. So how do you avoid the chills? And how can keeping baby close become your best ally? We tell you everything.
Understanding hypothermia in babies
What is hypothermia?
Hypothermia is when baby's body temperature drops below 36.5°C (as defined by the WHO). Basically, their little body loses more heat than it produces, and it can happen quickly, especially in very young babies who cannot yet regulate their temperature like we can.
Signs and symptoms of hypothermia in infants
What to watch for:
- Rectal temperature below 36.5°C
- Pale and cold skin to the touch, especially on the extremities (feet and hands), but their face will alert you
- Shivering (not always present)
- Slower and irregular breathing, as if they are pausing between breaths
- Unusual lethargy, baby less responsive to stimuli
- Baby cries less or seems "absent"
- Baby refuses to feed or has difficulty suckling
???? Quick tip: hands and feet can be cold without it being a concern. What we mainly check is the temperature of the torso.
What to do in case of hypothermia? When should you worry?
- Head straight inside away from drafts.
- Do skin-to-skin with baby using a blanket over both of you (so remove their clothes and yours).
- Breastfeeding or bottle feeding can also help warm baby up.
- Do not use a hot water bottle directly on the skin.
In case of doubt or persistent symptoms: go see a doctor or call emergency services and maintain skin-to-skin contact.
What to do to protect baby from the cold and prevent hypothermia?
Prevention is the watchword. We avoid long outings, dress baby accordingly (more details below) and above all… think babywearing!
Babywearing as a solution to keep baby warm
Thermal benefits of carrying baby in winter
Front babywearing in winter is magical:
- You share your body heat with baby
- You create a cozy microclimate
- You can easily monitor their condition (temperature, breathing…)
A baby carried against you is a baby reassured, warmed, and naturally regulated. It's a real baby thermoregulation tool! Skin-to-skin contact is in fact the method recommended by the WHO to warm a newborn with hypothermia (kangaroo care).
Choosing between a baby wrap and a baby carrier in cold weather
Both are great and offer that closeness that naturally regulates temperature:
- The baby wrap in winter (especially knitted wraps): soft, warm cocoon, "second skin" effect.
- The winter baby carrier (such as the HoodieCarrier 2 or the PhysioCarrier 2): easy to put on, well-covering and adaptable.
What matters is comfort… for you AND for baby.
Ease of use
In winter, the less fuss, the better. A baby carrier that's quick to put on, or a pre-tied wrap, saves many a chilly morning. The winning combo: baby in a comfy onesie, carried in a few minutes, and off you go with your hot coffee on the walk.
Tips for dressing baby when babywearing in winter
Layering principle for clothing
Let's use the layering technique ????:
- Base layer: cotton or merino wool bodysuit
- Middle layer: thick pajamas, fleece all-in-one
- Outer layer: your babywearing coat or a babywearing blanket
???? Baby doesn't need a puffer jacket if they're under your coat. Too warm = risk of sweating = getting cold.
Protecting extremities: head, hands and feet
A lot of heat loss happens there.
- Well-fitted hat (not too thick, not too loose)
- Fleece or wool booties or mittens
- Light neck warmer, be careful not to obstruct 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 both you and baby without added bulk
- The babywearing cover, to clip onto your favorite babywearing carrier
???? Tip: always adapt baby's outfit to the environment AND the babywearing method.
Precautions to take when babywearing in winter
Ensuring good ventilation and visibility of baby's face
- Always keep the nose and mouth clear.
- A hat that's too big, a wrap put on wrong, and suddenly breathing is blocked.
- Check regularly, especially if baby falls asleep.
Limiting the duration of outings in cold weather
Even well dressed, a baby remains sensitive.
When it's freezing or the wind is biting, avoid long walks and favor short but frequent outings.
Warning signs during babywearing in winter
Stay attuned to baby.
Signs to watch for:
- Pale or mottled skin
- Hypotonia (floppy baby)
- Slowed breathing
- Refusal to feed or move
In that case: head inside, warm up gently, and consult if needed.
Conclusion
Summary of best practices
✅ Cover baby well by layering clothing
✅ Use a suitable babywearing garment
✅ Check their temperature regularly
✅ Carry to share your warmth
✅ Always keep baby's face clear
Encouragement to stay vigilant and attentive to baby's needs
Every baby is unique. What matters is to observe, feel, and adapt. Babywearing in winter is as much about technique… as it is about instinct. And you already know a lot, because you're paying attention. And that's the most important thing ❤️
Sources
- World Health Organization (WHO) — Thermal protection of the newborn: a practical guide
- MSD Manual, professional edition — Hypothermia in newborns
- mpedia.fr — Hypothermia in babies