Winter means snuggles under the blanket, cozy walks outside… but also the risk of hypothermia for our little ones. That’s right — their temperature regulation system isn’t quite top-notch yet. So how can we prevent the chills? And how can keeping baby close become your best ally? Let’s break it down.
Understanding Hypothermia in Babies
What is hypothermia?
Hypothermia happens when a 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 fast, especially since infants can’t regulate temperature like we can.
Signs and symptoms of hypothermia in infants
What to watch for:
- Rectal temperature below 36.5°C
- Pale, cold skin to the touch, especially hands and feet (but the face is often the best indicator)
- Shivering (not always present)
- Slower, irregular breathing — like baby pauses between breaths
- Unusual lethargy, less responsive to stimuli
- Less crying or baby seems “absent”
- Refusal to feed or difficulty sucking
????Pro tip: cold hands and feet alone aren’t necessarily alarming. Focus on trunk temperature.
What to do in case of hypothermia?
- Head indoors immediately, away from drafts.
- Do skin-to-skin under a blanket (remove both your clothes and baby’s).
- Breastfeeding or bottle feeding can help warm them up.
- Never place a hot water bottle directly on baby’s skin.
When in doubt or if symptoms persist: call a doctor or emergency services (15 in France) and keep doing skin-to-skin.
How to protect baby from the cold and prevent hypothermia?
Prevention is key. Avoid long outings, dress baby appropriately (see below), and above all… think babywearing!
Babywearing as a Solution to Keep Baby Warm
Thermal benefits of babywearing in winter
Front-carrying in winter is magical:
- You share your body heat with baby
- You create a cozy microclimate
- You can easily monitor baby’s condition (temp, breathing, etc.)
A baby held close is a baby that feels safe, warm, and naturally regulated. It’s a true thermoregulation tool!
Choosing between a wrap and a baby carrier for winter
Both offer closeness and warmth:
- Wraps (especially knit ones): soft and warm, like a second skin.
- Baby carriers (like HoodieCarrier 2 or PhysioCarrier 2): easy to use, covering, and adjustable.
???? What matters is comfort — for both you and baby.
Ease of use
In winter, the easier, the better. A quick-to-put-on baby carrier or pre-tied wrap saves chilly mornings. Ideal combo: baby in a cozy onesie, worn in minutes — and voilà, hot coffee walk incoming.
How to Dress Baby for Babywearing in Winter
Layering principle
Think onion technique ????:
- Base layer: cotton or merino wool bodysuit
- Middle layer: thick onesie or fleece outfit
- Outer layer: your babywearing coat or a cover
???? No need for a puffy coat if baby is under yours. Too hot = sweat = cooling down = risk.
Protecting extremities: head, hands, and feet
Heat loss often happens here.
- Fitted hat (not too thick, not too loose)
- Fleece/wool booties or mittens
- Light neck warmer — don’t block breathing
Babywearing coats and covers: warmth and protection
Two great options for warm and stylish babywearing:
- Babywearing coat — covers both you and baby without bulk
- Babywearing cover — clips onto your favorite carrier
???? Tip: always adapt baby’s outfit to both the weather AND the baby carrier.
Winter Babywearing Precautions
Ensure proper airflow and baby’s face visibility
- Keep nose and mouth clear at all times
- Oversized hat or misaligned wrap = breathing risk
- Check regularly, especially if baby falls asleep
Limit time outdoors in cold weather
Even well dressed, babies are sensitive.
When it’s freezing or windy, avoid long outings. Go for short, frequent ones instead.
Warning signs while babywearing in winter
Stay attuned to baby:
- Pale or mottled skin
- Low muscle tone (limp baby)
- Slowed breathing
- Refusal to feed or move
If any of these show up: get inside, warm gently, and consult a doctor if needed.
Conclusion
Best practices summary
✅ Dress baby in layers
✅ Use appropriate babywearing clothing
✅ Check baby’s temperature regularly
✅ Babywear to share your warmth
✅ Always keep baby’s face clear
Stay alert and listen to your baby’s needs
Every baby is unique. What matters most is watching, feeling, adapting. Babywearing in winter is as much about instinct as it is about technique. And you’ve already got that instinct — because you’re tuned in. And that’s what really counts ❤️