Infant Clothes For All Four Seasions: A Guide for Parents

Selecting the right infant clothes can be a challenge for parents. We constantly worry about our little ones' comfort and ensuring they stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer. To help you navigate this daily dilemma, we have compiled some essential information that will come in handy. Remember, every baby is different, so observe your infant to determine their clothing needs based on weather conditions and seasons and see what makes your them the most comfortable.

INFANT CLOTHES IN WINTER

During the winter, dressing your baby in layers is key to providing adequate warmth and comfort. Layering allows you to easily remove clothing if your baby feels too hot. Here are some recommendations:

1. Start with a comfortable onesie made of breathable fabrics, such as Pima Cotton. These materials help as a first base layering piece that is soft on their skin. For added layers for the bottom half, consider a lightweight jogger or thermal long-john under their jumper or pants.
2. Outerwear Suggestions:
1. For babies up to six months old, dress them in several light clothing layers. Add a soft sherpa jacket or wrap them in a blanket for extra warmth.
2. For babies aged 6-12 months, opt for coats or snowsuits. Look for a hooded option that covers their head and ears. If your baby gets too warm, simply remove a layer.
3. When outside, ensure your baby is covered from head to toe. Provide them with thick mittens, a warm hat, and socks or boots to protect their feet. Always carry extra infant clothes in your diaper bag in case it gets colder than expected or your baby is more sensitive to the cold.
   
   
3. Sleep Time in Winter: Keep your infant warm at night as well. Footie pajamas made of cotton, like our high-quality Pima cotton PJs and Rompers, are ideal. They cover the arms and legs, providing warmth and comfort. You can also use a wearable blanket or sleep sack for added warmth. IMPORTANT: Avoid using blankets, pillows, and loose bedding in the crib to prevent suffocation. Please consult with your doctor on what is best for your baby.

Additional Tips:

• Babies get cold faster than adults, so avoid keeping them outside for extended periods in very cold temperatures (below 35°F or 2°C), even with the appropriate clothing.
• If your infant appears flushed, sweaty, or warm to the touch, they might be too hot. Remove a layer or two of clothing to cool them down.
• It's better to dress your infant slightly warmer than you think necessary. Check their back or belly to feel if they are warm (not cold or sweaty). If their hair or face is sweaty, they might be too hot.

INFANT CLOTHES IN SUMMER

In the hot summer months, keeping your baby cool and comfortable in their clothes is essential. The approach is similar to winter dressing, focusing on layers and adjustments. Here are some helpful suggestions for your infant’s clothing during warm weather.

1. Dress your infant in a single layer of clothing to prevent overheating, especially when temperatures exceed 75°F (24°C). Choose infant clothes made of thin and breathable fabrics like cotton. When at home or sleeping, you can even remove layers down to the diaper. As a general rule, add one more layer than what you wear yourself.
2. Outerwear Suggestions:
1. Infants are highly sensitive to the sun, so protect their head with a lightweight hat featuring wide brims for shade. Ensure the hat is breathable and specifically designed for infants to keep their head cool and shielded from the sun.
2. Avoid knitted caps that can cause overheating and suffocation due to straps or ties around the neck.
3. Instead of socks, opt for sandals that allow their feet to breathe and stay cool. Infants can only sweat from their head, neck, arms, and legs, so covering their legs reduces their ability to regulate body temperature. If you do cover their legs, it restricts sweating and affects their ability to cool down effectively.=
4. Protect your baby's eyes from the sun with UV sunglasses. Keep an extra pair in your diaper bag in case one gets lost. Remember, their eyes need protection even when driving, on the beach, or during walks. Dress your baby minimally when using a carrier, preferably in a simple romper without socks.
3. Sleep Time in Summer: If the room temperature is above 75°F (24°C), dress your baby in a light single layer for sleep. Consider a long-sleeved footie romper or the same cotton pajamas used in winter as an extra layer. IMPORTANT: Avoid using blankets, pillows, and loose bedding in the crib to prevent suffocation. Please consult with your doctor on what is best for your baby.

Additional Tips:

• If your infant's skin appears red or they are breathing rapidly, they might be too hot. Remove a layer of clothing or bring them indoors to cool down.
• Carry extra clothing layers, especially when entering air-conditioned spaces. Add long pants, a long-sleeved top, or a jacket to your diaper bag in case the temperature drops between 65 to 70°F (18 to 21°C).
• Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to your baby's skin before going outside. However, avoid using sunscreen on babies under 6 months of age due to potential chemical risks. Always check with your physician.
• Find shaded areas when outdoors to protect your baby from direct sunlight as much as possible. Avoid going out between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., when the sun is strongest (considering your location). Even when using a stroller, raise the cover for sun protection.
• Monitor your baby's temperature by touching the back of their neck. If it feels sticky or hot, they might be too warm. If it's dry and cool or slightly warm to the touch, they are comfortable.
• Keep an eye on their temperature during feeding and diaper changes, even at night.

INFANT CLOTHES IN AUTUMN + SPRING

During these transitional seasons, it's crucial to provide your baby with appropriate clothing.

Here are some tips to consider:

1. Use layers of breathable fabric, such as cotton, to dress your baby.
2. Always carry extra clothing to adapt to changing weather conditions.
3. Monitor your infant's temperature and adjust layers accordingly.
4. For bedtime infant clothing; prioritize safety and keep monitoring your child. Avoid loose clothing, blankets, or toys in the crib that could cause suffocation.

Regardless of the season, consider adding one more layer to your infant's clothing than you would wear yourself.

Remember, understanding your baby's clothing needs and preferences will take time, but with patience and observation, you'll discover the perfect balance for each season.