How to Dress Your Newborn for Every Season

One minute it’s chilly and the next it’s warm,and if you're a new parent, you've probably found yourself staring at your baby’s closet wondering what’s actually appropriate. Figuring out how to dress your newborn for each season can feel like a guessing game. You want them cozy but not sweaty. Warm but not overheated. Because babies can’t regulate their body temperature like adults, they need a little extra help from us. With soft, breathable layers and a little seasonal know‑how, your baby can stay safe and snug year round.

Newborns are still developing their own thermoregulation. That means they’re more vulnerable to both overheating and getting chilled. Dressing them in layers allows you to adjust quickly as the environment changes whether you’re stepping outside for a walk or tucking them into bed.

Start with a breathable base layer. Natural fibers like organic cotton or TENCEL™ wick away moisture and provide light warmth without trapping heat. Over this, add a second layer such as footed pants or a cozy sweater depending on the season. Hats and mittens help protect tiny fingers and ears outdoors, but indoors it’s usually best to leave the head uncovered so baby can release excess heat.

When in doubt, remember this rule of thumb: your baby usually needs one more layer than you. Thin layers trap warmth more effectively than a single thick garment, and they’re easier to peel off if baby gets too warm.

A quick way to check if your baby is dressed just right is to feel the back of their neck. It should feel warm but not sweaty. Hands and feet often feel cooler, so they’re not a reliable indicator of overall comfort.

Spring and fall are those tricky in‑between seasons,cool mornings, warm afternoons, and unpredictable breezes. The key? Flexible layering that can go with the flow of your day. Imagine heading out for a crisp early walk in a cozy bodysuit and knit layer, only to return by noon with sunshine warming the stroller. Removing that extra layer as your baby naps keeps them just right, not too hot, not too cold.

What to wear in spring & fall:

• A breathable bodysuit (short or long sleeve depending on the weather)

• Footed leggings or joggers

• A light cardigan or knit sweater 

• A sleep sack for naps or bedtime

• A soft beanie or bonnet for outdoor strolls

Stick to easy-to-swap layers that won't disturb your baby's rhythm. If you’re heading out, always keep a change of clothes and a light blanket in your diaper bag. Transitional weather loves to surprise us. Keep a backup outfit in the car or stroller pouch, your future self will thank you!

Warm days mean more sunshine, more skin exposure, and higher risk of overheating. Babies can’t sweat efficiently, so they’re more susceptible to heat exhaustion.

What to wear in summer:

• You could use a sleeveless or short‑sleeve bodysuit, footies,  two piece sets or dresses made from breathable organic cotton or TENCEL™ Lyocell.

• No socks or mittens indoors

• A wide-brimmed sun hat for outdoor play

• A lightweight, breathable sleep sack for naptime or bedtime

Avoid synthetic materials, thick layers, or dark colors that trap heat. And if you're outside, keep baby shaded, hydrated, and close by. Breastfed babies may nurse more frequently in the heat. Watch for signs of overheating like flushed cheeks, damp skin, or irritability.

Winter dressing is all about balance. Babies need to stay warm, but overheating is just as risky as getting too cold.

What should a baby wear in winter:

• A long-sleeve bodysuit or full footie sleeper

• leggings or joggers layered over the bodysuit

• A knit pullover, sweater, or zip-up layer.

• A warm, breathable sleep sack for bedtime or naps. Learn more about choosing the right sleep sack in our Baby Sleep Sack Buying Guide.

• For outside: a bunting suit or stroller blanket, plus a cozy hat, mittens, and booties

As soon as you’re indoors, shed the outer layers to avoid heat buildup. If baby’s chest feels warm and dry, they’re just right, even if hands or feet feel cool.

No matter the season, safety should guide every clothing choice, especially for sleep. Overheating is a known risk factor for SIDS, and bulky layers or loose blankets can pose suffocation hazards.

Smart safety tips:

• Avoid thick quilts or comforters for babies under 12 months

• Use TOG-rated sleep sacks instead of loose blankets

• Keep hats off during naps and bedtime; covering baby’s head during sleep can trap heat and increase the risk of overheating

• Choose breathable fabrics for all layers

• Watch for signs of overheating: rapid breathing, redness, or dampness

Quick TOG guide:

• 0.5 TOG = hot weather (75°F and up)

• 1.0 TOG = mild temps (68–75°F) — can be used year-round if you adjust the layers underneath

• 2.5 TOG = cold weather (under 68°F)

Tip: Safe sleep = back is best, no extras in the crib, and breathable layers only.