Keeping baby warm in winter

On a cold winter's day we all love to be in front of a fire, or snuggled up with a hot water bottle, but babies don't have that luxury. They are unable to tell you when they are too cold and a cry or scream can mean many different things.
As a general rule a baby should have one more layer of clothing than you are wearing. You can always keep warm by moving around or exercising, but a newborn often lies in his cot in the same position for hours, so you need to keep an eye on baby's temperature. Do not feel baby's hands and feet to check his temperature as these can feel cold even if he is not. A good suggestion is to feel your baby's neck or the small of the back. If these spots are cold to the touch, your baby is probably too cool. If they are warm and sweating, your baby could be too warm. If in any doubt, always consult your midwife or doctor. Babies can lose body heat rapidly and it is better to seem like a fussy mother than someone who doesn't care.
When you take baby outside always cover his head with a hat and make sure he has socks or bootees to keep his tootsies warm. An all in one romper or sleepsuit is ideal as there won't be any gaps for the cold air to hit baby's skin. A rolled up blanket kept in a carrier bag won't take up much space but is handy to have if the weather changes whist you are out.
Kimono style clothes are brilliant for fussy babies and genuine Japanese baby items are available in our Fun, Modern Baby Clothes section.
Whenever possible try and dress baby in natural fibres like wool, cotton, bamboo or soya. Organic cotton is very popular and comes in a gorgeous choice of muted shades, ideal for a new baby. These fibres will allow the baby to perspire and are so soft against new skin.
Just remember, if baby is comfortable he will be happy and so will you !!