Dressing your newborn for comfort can be challenging, especially when bringing them home from the hospital. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to help make this process less stressful for both you and your baby. Newborns should wear soft, comfortable clothing made from cotton. It will keep them cool in hot weather and gently against their sensitive skin.
Layers of Clothing
In the winter, it’s essential to dress your baby in layers. Layers help trap heat, prevent sweating, and can be removed as needed to keep you and your baby at the optimal temperature. The best way to determine if your baby is too warm or cold is to touch their back or belly. If they feel slightly warm but not sweaty, they’re likely okay. Newborns will typically be more comfortable in thin layers, so start with a cotton onesie or bodysuit as a base. Add a sweater or cardigan as necessary, and remember to add socks.
Socks
Newborns can quickly get their feet cold, so socks are essential for their comfort. It also helps them regulate their body temperature, which is necessary for sleep. Another reason that socks are crucial is that they protect from bumps. Babies may bump into things while rolling or crawling, which can lead to severe injuries. Socks can also make your baby more comfortable during car rides or sleeping. They are usually light, breathable material and keep your baby’s feet warm without overheating them.
Mittens
One of the most important things you can do to dress your newborn for comfort is to ensure that they have mittens on their hands. Mittens keep your baby’s fingers warm and help prevent them from scratching their face or putting their hands in their mouth. Besides, they keep your baby’s hands clean from the dirt and dust around them. Moreover, baby mittens are also very cheap and come in many colors and designs. Although baby mittens aren’t necessary for every baby, they can be a lifesaver in certain situations. Infants tend to make restless, jerky hand movements as they develop their motor skills.
Hats
When it comes to dressing your newborn for comfort, hats are one of the essential pieces of clothing you’ll need. Babies lose heat much more quickly than adults, and a cap prevents this. When babies get too cold, they often become irritable or fussy. This is a sign that they cannot regulate their body temperature like adults, which is why it’s so important to dress your newborn for comfort.
Blankets
The blankets your baby sleeps under need to be safe and supportive. They should be fitted to the bed and cover the tummy area so your little one cannot move around in their sleep. Alternatively, you may opt for a sleeping bag or sleep-sack, designed to keep your baby covered and secure no matter how wriggly they are in their bed. They can be purchased in different fabrics, from fleece to cotton. Babies mustn’t get too hot or cold during sleep as this could lead to overheating and SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). When deciding on the proper blankets for your newborn, it is a good idea to check the weight, warmth, and fabric to ensure they are at the correct temperature.
Resources:
https://www.janieandjack.com/home?lang=en_US
https://raisingchildren.net.au/newborns/health-daily-care/dressing-newborns/dressing-a-newborn#:~:text=As%20a%20guide%2C%20dress%20your,dressing%20your%20baby%20for%20bed.
https://www.thebump.com/a/how-to-dress-a-newborn