Winter is a magical time with crisp air, cosy nights, and twinkling lights but it can also be tough on your baby’s delicate skin. As midwives, we see many parents struggle with dry skin, chapped cheeks, and keeping little ones comfortable in colder months. Here’s our guide to help you care for your newborn safely this winter, with a few trusted products to help along the way.
1. Preventing Dry Skin
Baby skin is delicate and can lose moisture quickly in cold, dry air. Common areas affected include the cheeks, hands, and scalp.
Midwife Tips:
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Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturisers suitable for newborns, like our All Better Balm to soothe dry patches.
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Apply moisturiser after baths while the skin is slightly damp to lock in hydration.
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Avoid over-bathing, which can strip natural oils.
2. Safe Bath Routines
Warm baths can be soothing, but in winter, temperature, and duration matter more than ever.
Midwife Tips:
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Keep bath water around 37°C (98.6°F). Test with your elbow or a bath thermometer.
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Limit baths to 5–10 minutes to prevent drying out the skin.
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Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers like our Baby Wash. Avoid harsh soaps.
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Pat skin dry gently, don’t rub and moisturise immediately after.
3. Protecting Special Areas
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Dribble & teething: Saliva can irritate the chin and neck. Our Dribble Defence creates a protective barrier to prevent soreness.
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Nappy area: Cold, wet conditions can exacerbate nappy rash. Use our Bum Balm to soothe and protect the delicate skin.
4. Dressing Your Newborn for Winter
Keeping your baby warm is essential, but overheating can be risky too.
Midwife Tips:
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Dress babies in layers: a vest, sleepsuit, and a blanket or sleep sack.
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Use hats and mittens when going outdoors but remove them indoors to avoid overheating.
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Check the back of the neck or tummy, if it feels sweaty, remove a layer.
Final Thoughts
Winter can be a lovely season for newborns, but their skin and comfort require a little extra attention. Gentle moisturising, safe bath routines, and careful layering combined with trusted products like keep your baby happy, healthy, and cozy.
