How to keep the baby warm
The normal body temperature for a baby is between 36.5 and 37.5 degrees Celsius. Newborns need to be kept warm, especially in cold weather. Dressing your baby in layers can be the easiest way to manage their temperature, allowing you to remove layers when you’re in warmer places.
Body
If your baby seems cold, you can take the following steps:
- Ensure that your baby’s room is warm
- Keep your baby and their crib away from windows, drafts, and outer walls of the house
- Dress your baby in 1-2 more layers of clothing or covers than adults
- Cover your baby’s head with a hat, especially when going outside. Put socks on the baby’s feet
- Check your baby’s skin, such as feet and hands
If they look blue or white and feel cold to the touch, and if your baby’s temperature is below 36.5 degrees Celsius, you should:
- Remove any wet diapers or wet clothing
- Place your baby next to you
- Cover yourself and your baby with warm blankets
- Call your baby’s doctor
- Breastfeed regularly to provide your baby with calories, energy and enough fluids that prevent dehydration
- Use sponge baths instead of full baths, uncovering only the body parts that need cleaning
While it’s important to keep newborns warm, it’s equally important that your baby doesn’t overheat, especially during sleep.
If your baby looks flushed, red, or sweaty and has a temperature above 38 degrees Celsius, you should remove a layer of clothing and call the doctor.
