Safe Babywearing in Winter: Tips for Keeping Your Little One Warm

Brrr! Winter is here, and it’s tempting to wrap our babies up in layers while out and about. But babywearing in cold weather requires a few extra precautions to ensure your infant stays safe, comfortable, and warm.

LIKE YOU WOULD WITH A CARSEAT, KEEP LAYERS SEPARATE / WRAPPING AROUND, Not Under Your Sling

When dressing your baby for winter babywearing, always add layers around the carrier rather than under it. Your sling or carrier already counts as at least one layer.

Avoid thick indoor layers under the carrier—no snowsuits! Instead, try:

• A vest and top

• A thinner cardigan or jumper

• Trousers with leg warmers / adult socks over the top if extra warmth is needed on super chilly days

Alternatively, place bulkier items like a snowsuit or a star blanket over the sling, acting as a cozy carrier cover. Did you know that thick layers under the carrier can compromise the fit, you won't be able to tighten the carrier correctly, and that extra space will cause your baby to slump or overheat. Tightening your sling over chunky clothing also adds extra heat, so consider layering yourself with caution too!

Sleepsuits and Toes

Sleepsuits are perfectly fine for winter babywearing, but do make sure:

• Baby’s toes have plenty of wiggleroom (they can bunch up and pinch toes when you tighten the carrier)

• Fabric isn’t so bulky that it covers the face or restricts airflow

The goal is to keep your infant safe, snug, and well-ventilated.

Keep Heads, Hands, and Feet Warm

Babies lose heat from extremities first. For cold-weather babywearing, add:

• A warm hat

• Mittens

• Booties or thick socks

• Leg warmers if needed

These small adjustments keep your baby cozy without compromising carrier fit.

Sling Hoods and Visibility

When using a sling hood:

• Ensure one side is always open (side mouth is!)

• Keep your baby’s face fully visible

• Monitor airflow at all times

You should be able to see your baby clearly and check their core temperature by feeling the neck. Keeping baby “close enough to kiss” ensures comfort and safety.

Outerwear for Winter Babywearing

Investing in a babywearing coat if you can afford it, can be a great option. Look for ones compatible with front and back carrying to extend use, such as Wombat or Mamillia coats.

More Budget-friendly alternatives include:

• Zip-us-in universal coat extender panels

• Oversized coats that wrap around both of you

• Babywearing covers (like Bundlebean or Babywearing Cosy)

• Threading baby’s coat through carrier straps as a makeshift cover

  
  

Enjoy Winter Babywearing!

With the right layers, carrier fit, and visibility checks, babywearing in winter can be cozy, safe, and enjoyable for both you and your little one. Wrap up, check airflow, and get outside — your baby will love the fresh air as much as you do!

Want more tips on seasonal babywearing? Read this summer guide here.