Winter baby gear: What to skip and what to buy
Winter baby gear
The essentials you need and what to skip this Winter
Do you wonder what should make up that “seasonal” section on your baby registry? Having an extra section like this instantly makes you feel like you need MORE based on the time of year your baby is due. Here’s the honest truth, the items you are already getting probably will cover you throughout the season. Newborns don’t need flip flops or parkas (although they are super cute!).
My first winter with my son Miles, I purchased a puffer vest for him, because CUTE! After posting a picture of my 3 month old in his carseat on FB, captioned with a Friend’s quote, I quickly received some mom shaming comment. Now, these fellow mamas were totally right, heavy coats shouldn’t be worn in the carseat. Or any safety device. They interfere with the efficacy of the device, but as a first time mom, 1.) I admit, I didn’t know that 2.) the photo was posed, we weren’t actually going anywhere 3.) those experienced moms should have sent me a private message vs a public comment. This is my very long winded way of saying, you just don’t know what you don’t know - and that’s okay!
If you’re due this winter or embarking on your first winter with your baby, it’s totally okay if you didn’t know the coat in the car rule. I’m here to help! Below you will find the top products to invest in, and a few products to skip for your winter babe.
Let’s start with the skip list:
A Winter Coat
Why it’s a skip - You probably don’t want to maneuver a new baby in and out of a coat anyway, but mostly, they aren’t safe to wear in your safety seats. If you are interested in an extra layer, a thin sweatshirt, sweater, or very light fleece will do the trick.
Winter Boots
Why it’s a skip - Shoes of any kind land on my skip list for babies. if they aren’t walking they don’t need them, and they actually may interfere with cerebral and motor development.
Mittens/Gloves
Why it’s a skip - They are just NOT going to stay on and will be a tremendous waste of money
Now for the invest list:
Stroller Footmuff
What to look for: Compatibility with your device so it doesn’t interfere with your straps or seat. Pay attention to sizing too. If you can find one that extends and can be used for multiple winters, it is a better investment. Look for those that are warm enough that you don’t need to overdress baby to go out. Check the stroller brand offering and 7am for some of the best.
Carseat blanket
What to look for: Warm material with an easy option to open or remove. A standard blanket works just fine for this or you can do double duty with an option that extends from carseat to stroller seat.
Carrier coat/cover
What to look for: Aim to select a coat that you feel comfortable wearing with or without baby. If you need a maternity coat, look for options that are roomy enough for bump and baby wearing. They also make extender panels for your coat so you can remove when not baby wearing.
Warm Hat + Fleece booties
What to look for: Body heat escapes through the head so keeping a cap on your little one while you’re out and about is a great idea. For the booties, check out Zutano or similar options with the snap or velcro ankle closure - they are more likely to stay on.
Lotion/moisture locking ointment
What to look for: You need a barrier to keep those cheeks (both in the diaper and out) protected from the elements. With heat pumping inside and windchill outside, extra application before going outside, after bath, and before bed can really help. I like basic water based Aquaphor, Tubby Todd (AOO), Mustela, and Puracy.
Humidifier
What to look for: Ease of cleaning and filter changing. I like options that can be put in the dishwasher for frequent cleaning or to prevent mold. Check out Frida, Canopy and Honeywell.