Must-Have Baby Fall Clothes: Layering Tips & Top Picks

The key to keeping your baby cozy and comfortable on chilly fall days is to master the art of layering. Dressing your baby in layers makes it easy to adapt to the temperature fluctuations throughout the day. Whether you’re running errands, going for a stroll, or heading to a fall festival, layers will be your best friend.

Here are a few tips to help you layer your baby’s fall clothing most effectively:

1. Start with a breathable base layer: Start with a soft, breathable bodysuit or footie . This is the layer that will be closest to your baby’s skin, so choose fabrics that are comfortable yet gentle on skin, like TENCEL™ Lyocell or organic cotton. Thanks to their breathable and moisture-wicking properties, these fabrics are perfect for base layers.

2. Opt for a lightweight mid-layer: Add a long-sleeve shirt or a light sweater for extra warmth. This is perfect for when the air starts to cool down but isn’t freezing. Choose styles that are easy to take on and off so you can easily adjust to the changing temperature as needed. 

3. Use an outer layer for additional warmth: Complete their fall outfit with a jacket or pullover sweatshirt, especially during outdoor adventures. A lightweight jacket or a cozy pullover will help block the wind and keep your baby snug when you step outside. Convenient pullover designs or zippers are best, allowing for quick adjustments without fumbling with frustrating buttons or snaps.

4. Outer layer: Remember, babies generally need one more layer than adults to stay comfortable ( 1 ). A good rule of thumb is to feel their chest or the back of their neck to make sure they aren’t too hot or cold. Their hands and feet might feel cool, but that’s normal—focus on their core temperature.

Ultimately, the number of layers you should dress your baby in during the fall will depend on two things: the temperature and your planned activities for the day. As you plan your baby’s fall outfit, here are a few guidelines to consider:

• For indoor temperatures between 68-72°F : Opt for one layer, such as a cozy two-piece pajama set  or a footie, for maximum comfort.

• For cool indoor or mild outdoor temperatures between 60-67°F: Two layers, such as a bodysuit or footie paired with a light sweater or long-sleeve shirt, will keep your little one cozy without overheating.

• For chilly outdoor temperatures between 50-59°F: Dress your baby in three layers, such as a bodysuit layered with a long-sleeve shirt and pullover sweatshirt to provide ample warmth. Simply remove the outer layer when you head inside!

• For cold outdoor temperatures below 50°F: Three to four layers should do the trick, such as pairing with a bodysuit or footie with a long-sleeve shirt, pullover sweatshirt, and warm jacket.

Since the fall temperatures can change quickly, it’s important to check your baby’s temperature regularly and adjust layers accordingly. Don’t be afraid to peel off a layer if you’re going from outside into a warmer indoor space or add a layer if the temperature starts to drop in the evening.

Follow this simple tip that will give you peace of mind as you’re out and about: Stay prepared by packing an extra layer. Toss an additional sweatshirt, long-sleeve top, or jacket in your diaper bag or car. Simply add it over your baby’s outfit in the event of a sudden drop in temperature. Another idea? If you’re out and about in the stroller, consider tossing a cozy blanket in your bag or stroller storage for additional warmth in a pinch. That way, you can always be prepared for unpredictable weather. 

Merino wool is a warm and cozy option for cooler weather, helping your baby retain body heat for additional warmth. It is considered a performance fabric, as it wicks moisture away from the skin. This helps maintain warmth, even if the material gets wet, making it a great option for unpredictable weather and drizzly fall days. It's also naturally soft and less itchy than traditional wool, making it a great choice for layering during fall outings.

When dressing your baby for the fall, avoid synthetic materials like nylon and polyester. These synthetic fabrics are the opposite of breathable. Instead, they trap heat and increase the chances of sweating, discomfort, and overheating. This lack of airflow becomes even more of a concern when layering clothing. Additionally, these fabrics are often processed with harsh chemicals that can lead to irritation of delicate baby skin.

Overall, it’s best to stick to soft, breathable fabrics made from natural fibers that will keep your baby comfortable no matter the weather.

Fall nights can provide a cool relief after the heat and humidity of the summer months. However, as temperatures dip at night, making sure your baby is warm and comfortable during sleep is crucial for a good night’s rest. That means you may need to adjust how you dress your little one for bed.

Looking for cozy sleepwear options for fall? The following products will keep your infant safe and warm:

• Sleep sacks: A sleep sack acts like a wearable blanket, keeping your baby warm without the risk of loose bedding (3 ). Opt for one made from cozy materials like TENCEL™ Lyocell for breathability and comfort.

• Footed pajamas: Perfect for cooler nights, footed pajamas keep your baby’s feet warm without the need for socks, which can sometimes fall off during the night. Our convertible footie is a perfect option that allows you to easily adapt from warm summer evenings to cooler fall nights.

• Swaddles: Ideal for newborns, swaddles made from natural fibers like TENCEL™ Lyocell are hypoallergenic and breathable, keeping your baby snug and cozy all through the night.

• Fitted crib sheets: Fitted crib sheets provide a snug, secure fit, reducing the risk of bunching or loose fabric in the crib, which helps create a safer sleep environment. Look for ones made with soft, breathable materials for ultimate comfort and sweet dreams.

• Cozy blankets: While your little one’s sleep environment should remain free from loose blankets and bedding for the first year, cozy blankets are perfect for before-bedtime reading and snuggles.

Keeping your baby’s room temperature between 68-72°F is best for sleep. As the fall progresses and evening temperatures continue to drop, it may be time to kick on the heat in your baby’s nursery. If needed, consider dressing your baby in breathable layers or using warmer (but still breathable) fabrics for sleepwear. Whatever you do, avoid turning to loose blankets or hats in the crib for warmth, as both can increase the risk of overheating and suffocation during sleep. 

These months are about more than adorable fall fashion—they’re also the perfect time for family outings, from visiting pumpkin patches and apple orchards to enjoying a leisurely fall hike or leaf-peeping stroll. But let’s be honest: we all know these fall activities are the perfect opportunities for photo ops and family fun. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to dress your little one to optimize comfort, warmth, and style during these cooler months.

Here are some tips and outfit ideas to help keep your baby comfortable and warm during popular autumn activities:

1. Pumpkin patch visits and apple picking: Layer a long-sleeve bodysuit under a warm pullover sweatshirt and jogger pants. Be prepared with a light jacket and hat for extra warmth as the day cools down.

2. Fall hikes: Dress your baby in moisture-wicking base layers like footies or bodysuits made from TENCEL™ Lyocell. Add a mid-layer like a light sweater or, if it’s a bit cooler, a pullover sweatshirt. Top it off with a waterproof jacket just in case of unexpected rain.

3. Leisurely strolls : Opt for lightweight yet warm layers. Consider pairing a breathable bodysuit with a warm jogger set made from organic cotton. If you’re taking a stroller, you may be able to swap a jacket for a baby blanket that your little one can snuggle with for additional warmth.

Always pack an extra set of clothes and additional layers, especially for longer outings. Fall weather can be unpredictable — as can babies and toddlers — and it’s always better to be prepared! In the event of an unexpected drop in temps (or an unexpected accident or spill), you’ll be thankful to have some extra clothing options on hand. 

There are plenty of ways to keep your baby cozy and comfortable this fall—despite the unpredictable weather that comes with any transitional season.

By focusing on layering, choosing the right fabrics, and investing in versatile pieces, you can keep your little one comfortable, stylish, and safe during various fun fall activities and fluctuating temperatures all season long. Don’t be afraid to mix and match outfits, adjust layers as needed, and, most importantly, enjoy all the cozy moments that come with the fall season.

With these tips and product recommendations, you’re well-equipped to tackle fall fashion for your baby. So go out and enjoy the crisp air, colorful leaves, and the beautiful memories this autumn will bring!

Reference Links:

1. Penn Medicine Health Hub, “Tips on Dressing Your Baby for Every Season”

2. Baby Center “Do newborns have to wear hats?”

3. American Academy of Pediatrics, “Tips for Keeping Infants Safe During Sleep From the American Academy of Pediatrics”