Clothing
Babies born at full term generally require 1 to 2 more layers of clothing than an adult. Premature infants will require another layer or so.
How to check if baby is wearing enough
Slip a finger down the back of the neck between the shoulder blades.
If the skin feels warm, your pēpi is warm enough (even if hands and feet are cool).
If your pēpi feels hot, remove a layer.
Hats must be worn for going out, especially on cold days. They are not usually needed indoors, unless the room is cold or you have been advised by a healthcare professional.
Tips for choosing and checking clothes
- Blankets and clothes made of natural fabric, such as cotton or wool, are more suitable than synthetic fabric — especially close to the skin.
- Woollen clothes are generally warmer. Try putting socks over woollen booties — they stay on better.
- Look for clothes that are easy to put on and take off.
- Make sure there is room to grow, or clothes will not fit for long.
- Look for 'low fire risk' labels.
- Avoid clothes with cords, ribbons and loose ends. These can strangle your pēpi. Long loose ends on booties can cut off circulation.