Babywearing through the seasons

Jacinta Gartner
Jun 1, 2015
2 min read

Winter is coming...

And so are the babywearing coats and ponchos! Although there are new challenges, carrying your baby in winter is possible. Here are a few tips on how to stay dry, warm and close to your baby.

Safety: The temperatures in Australia do not warrant increasing the risk of suffocation by covering babies face with extra clothing and materials. In some countries this is necessary due to risk of exposure. Make sure your babies airways are never restricted.

Ponchos

Ponchos are a great way to cover both you and baby from the cold. Waterproof ponchos roll up easily and provide quick relief from a surprise shower. A DIY poncho allows you to cut an extra scoop to go around your babies neck too when back carrying.

Blankets

Blankets can be halved on the diagonal and tucked in to the sides of your carrier.

Purpose made Coats and Jackets

Some commercial purpose made babywearing coats include:

Suse's Kinder

Mama coat by Liliputi

Mamaway

If you have a sewing machine and creativity, you can sew an extra panel onto a regular coat. Finding one with an existing seam and no lining is best.

Clothing

Remember your baby needs one extra layer of clothing than you. Your carrier is that extra layer.

All-in-one suits can place pressure on baby feet and ankles when in a carrier, make sure it's loose enough or use baby leggings, leg warmers or knee high socks.

Burn, baby, burn!

Baby-carrying can make summer beach trips and family outings a breeze, if only there were more breezes when you're covered in sweat from the heat of another body on you!

Yes summer wearing also has it's challenges but cool it, we also have some tips for you to make the most of that brand new summery wrap!

Materials

Linen blends are lightweight and breathe easier in warm temperatures.

Cool cloths

Cool cloth is a high performance cooling material that can be placed between you and baby and act as an air conditioner. Be mindful of your babies core temperature and restricted skin to skin. Not recommended for newborns

Clothing

In most summer situations, baby can wear just a nappy while being carried. The carrier acts as a layer of clothing. A lightweight hat or bonnet that can be tied on securely will provide skin and eye protection. Do not place anything over your baby that will cover their face.

Sun Protection

Please remember to wear sunscreen, hats, protective clothing and stay in the shade when possible. For more information on sun protection in Australia, please go to the Cancer Council site.

Water carriers

Mesh ringslings are available for use in water. These should only be used in water though and not for everday use. We do not recommend using your everyday carrier in saltwater or chlorine as the fibres may weaken and the carrier may become unsafe.