Winter Newborn Essentials for a Warm & Healthy Baby

Find a scene more joyful than parents cuddling with their newborn inside on a frosty day — we’ll wait. But for all the cozy magic that comes with bringing a baby home during the winter, there are also some practicalities to tend to. Cold weather means bundling up, keeping your baby’s delicate skin protected, and ensuring your home is warm and cozy. 

If you’re preparing for a winter-born baby, this checklist will help you gather the newborn winter essentials you need for a warm and healthy season with your little one.

Have a winter baby shower to plan? Check out these 5 Winter Baby Shower Themes for a Cozy Celebration! 

Winter Newborn Checklist

Warm Newborn Clothes

When thinking about what should newborns wear in winter, layering with natural fibers is key. Start with a soft, breathable base layer like a cotton onesie or bodysuit, then add layers of cotton or wool for warmth. Footed sleepers, baby mittens, hats, and socks are essential to keep your newborn’s extremities warm. 

A snug, weather-appropriate baby jacket or bunting bag is a must for outings. Just remember: avoid bulky layers in car seats, as they can interfere with the straps’ fit. 

As a general rule, if you’re cold, your baby is probably cold. Bundle them up in one extra layer than you’re wearing to keep them comfortable.

Swaddles and Sleep Sacks

To ensure your baby sleeps soundly and safely in winter, choose fleece or quilted swaddles and sleep sacks. These provide warmth without the need for loose blankets, which can pose a safety hazard. Look for options with TOG (thermal overall grade) ratings to match the room temperature.

Winter-Ready Diaper Bag

Prepare your diaper bag for cold weather by including extra layers, like a backup hat, mittens, and socks. Add insulated bottle holders to keep milk or formula warm while you’re out and about. 

Don’t forget to pack a wet bag for soiled clothes and cloth diapers if you’re using them.

Moisturizing Skincare

Winter air can be harsh on your newborn’s delicate skin, causing and triggering rashes and eczema. But you don’t need to stock up on an arsenal of products just for your baby’s winter skin care. 

NOLEO 3-in-1 Diaper Care is a multi-purpose cream that cleanses, moisturizes, and protects against diaper rash — all without harmful chemicals. 

Not only is NOLEO 3-in-1 ideal for winter diaper changes, but you can use it as a lotion, too! It’s such a great moisturizer that we made a version for adults to use for general skin care. 

Car Seat Cover

For safe winter outings, a car seat cover is a must. These fit snugly over your car seat and keep your baby warm without adding extra layers underneath the straps. Look for breathable, weather-resistant designs to protect your baby from cold winds.

Humidifier

Heating systems can dry out the air in your home, which can make your newborn’s skin and nasal passages more sensitive. That’s why pediatricians recommend using a humidifier during the winter months. 

"The humidified air keeps the nasal passages moist and mucus less sticky," pediatrician Jennifer Foersterling, MD told Parents. 

Be sure to clean and maintain the humidifier properly to avoid introducing mold into your home. 

Baby Thermometer and Cold Essentials

All new parents quickly learn that winter means cold season — and cold season means stocking up on a few key items. Have a reliable baby thermometer on hand, along with baby-safe saline drops and a nasal aspirator to help with stuffy noses. Keep your baby’s pediatrician contact information handy just in case you need to make an appointment. 

Getting Ready for Your Winter Baby

When choosing winter products for your baby, focus on quality, safety, and comfort:

❄️ Choose natural fibers such as cotton and wool whenever possible to keep your newborn warm and cozy.

❄️ Look for trusted certifications such as GOTS-certified organic, EWG Verified, or Oeko-Tex.

❄️ Avoid items containing toxins such as PFAS, BPA, and phthalates.

❄️ Ask other parents for their recommendations.

❄️ Read reviews to find the best products for your little one.

With these tips, you can confidently prepare for a safe and snuggly winter season with your baby.