When shopping for your first baby, figuring out what’s essential and what’s more of a nice-to-have can be a little confusing – but one of the most exciting parts is setting up the nursery just how you imagined it! A change table is one of those items that might leave you wondering if it’s truly necessary. While Dimples offers products that allow you to change baby safely just about anywhere, once you experience changing your newborn's nappy up to twelve times a day (yes, twelve!) you’ll quickly realise that a change table isn’t just helpful – it’s a game changer.
At Dimples, we’ve carefully selected a range of products that are both practical and stylish, making your changing routine smoother and your nursery more organised. Here are some of our top picks:
Stokke Sleepi Change Table
This is one of our favourites! If you're after a sleek, long lasting and space-smart option, the Stokke Sleepi Changing Table V3 is a beautiful addition to any nursery. With open shelving for easy access and a softly curved changing surface, it’s designed to blend functionality with modern aesthetics.
Babyrest Hague Drawers: The Complete Nursery Bundle
The Babyrest Hague Drawers offer a sleek, modern design that fits seamlessly into any nursery. With smooth-gliding drawers and ample storage, these drawers help you stay organised. What’s even better? The Hague drawers also come as part of a complete nursery bundle, including a matching cot and mattress. This all-in-one set ensures that your baby’s sleep and storage solutions are sorted right from the start. Add on the Nova change mat, and you've got the perfect combination.
Cariboo Indi Drawers: Locally Crafted with Extra Features
For a beautifully crafted, locally made option, the Cariboo Indi Drawers are a standout. Made with a warm, natural wood finish, these drawers are a perfect fit for any nursery. Included with the Indi Change Tray, these drawers double as a convenient changing station, allowing you to have everything in one spot without taking up extra room.
Babyrest Kaya Drawers: Compact and Stylish
TheBabyrest Kaya Drawersoffer a minimalist design with great storage space, perfect for those with a smaller nursery or those who prefer a sleek, compact option. These drawers are designed to pair perfectly with theBabyrest Nova Change Mat, giving you a functional changing area that fits neatly on top. Simple yet stylish, the Kaya drawers are built to last.
Soft Change Mats
We also have a range of soft, wipe-clean change pads designed to make nappy changes easier, more comfortable, and more hygienic. Free-standing & portable, they work on any bench, table or dresser,
Why Choose Dimples for Your Nursery Needs?
At Dimples, we know that preparing for your baby’s arrival can feel overwhelming – but it should also be a joyful experience. That’s why we’ve curated a trusted range of quality furniture and change-time essentials to make life easier, safer, and more comfortable for both you and your little one. Whether you’re setting up your dream nursery or looking for smart, space-saving solutions, we’re here to help with expert advice and beautiful products that are built to last. 💛
These alcohol free, 20 pack of plant based wipes gently cleanse and refresh your hands and body, while squalane and safflower oleosomes keep your skin hydrated and soft.
Textured for effective removal of dirt and impurities, they also provide long lasting hydration and nourishment. Delight your senses with the crisp citrus, herbaceous rosemary and lavender, and aromatic cedar notes.
Splat Mats by Bumkins (also known to some as a messy mat) are great for protecting floors from mealtime and playtime messes.
The Bumkins Splat Mat is super versatile and can help to reduce mess and contain spills in any area of the house. That's right.. they're not just for under your high chair!
Use it on floors, tables, even outside! Lightweight and made from the Bumkins signature easy wipe waterproof fabric, this mat makes clean up a breeze, simply wipe clean or machine wash and the mat dries in minutes.
Crafted from premium oak, this dresser combines timeless style with everyday practicality. Its sleek design features smooth lines and a warm, natural finish.
With spacious drawers with soft-close runners, this dresser offers ample storage for all your baby’s essentials. The brass pulls, sturdy construction, and attention to detail ensure that it not only looks beautiful but will stand the test of time as your family grows.
A seamless blend of function and style, this oak dresser is the ideal companion piece for your George cot, or on its own as a gorgeous compliment to any nursery.
The Cariboo Indi Dresser is where natural textures meet effortless boho charm, making it a stunning and practical centrepiece for your nursery. Featuring soft, organic Hessian fabric and warm Ash timber tones, it brings a sense of calm and earthy elegance to your baby's space. Thoughtfully designed for both beauty and utility, the Indi Dresser offers generous storage to keep baby essentials neatly organised. Its timeless style and sustainable materials ensure it blends effortlessly into any room—even long after the nursery days are over.
Whether you're styling a relaxed coastal nook or a nature-inspired retreat, the Indi Dresser is built to grow with your family - combining aesthetic appeal, practical storage, and eco-conscious craftsmanship.
The Mackenzie range is the perfect blend of comfort and style for your nursery! The thoughtfully designed pieces bring a touch of warmth with their simple, minimalistic aesthetics. Whether you're aiming for a modern or earthy vibe, the Mackenzie range has you covered.
The Mackenzie Dresser in Natural colour is made from ethically sourced Ash timber from Europe and features gorgeous brass handles. Whether paired with the matching Mackenzie Cot or seamlessly integrated with other furniture and décor in your home, its single tone versatility makes styling a breeze.
The Stokke® Home™ Dresser in White/Natural colour is designed at just the right height for changing your baby when paired with the Changer (sold separately). Its spacious, soft-closing drawers provide generous storage and easy access, so you can keep essentials within reach while keeping your baby close.
Depending on your room layout, the Dresser with Changer allows for both sideways and parent-facing positions. There's also open space beneath the Dresser for your feet, helping you stay close and comfortable during nappy changes and cuddles. With its clean Scandinavian design and durable construction, this is a timeless piece built to last
The Stokke® Sleepi™ Dresser in White colour is the perfect addition to our nursery concept, pairing beautifully with the Stokke® Sleepi™ cribs.
Versatile and beautiful, the Stokke® Sleepi™ Dresser is equipped with three spacious, push-to-open drawers that open and close with a gentle push giving parents loads of storage and easy access to their children's clothes, toys & treasures.
With open space for parents´ feet underneath, the Stokke® Sleepi™ Dresser & Changer is the ideal height for changing your baby on the included softly cushioned changing pad. Depending on how you arrange your room, the Dresser with Changer allows for both sideways and parent-facing changing positions.
Made with clean Scandinavian design, solid wooden legs and a textured front surface in beech, it combines quality and durability. The result – a classic and long-lasting piece of furniture that works in a variety of interiors. The Dresser is a Red Dot Design Winner 2022!
The MacKenzie Change Tray is designed to transform your MacKenzie Dresser into a sleek, modern change table, saving valuable space while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic. Crafted from Ash Timber to perfectly match the Dresser, it combines practicality with style, making it a functional yet stylish addition to your nursery.
The Stokke® Sleepi™ Changer in White colour is designed to turn your dresser into a safe and convenient changing station.
With protective sides and a softly padded mattress, it creates a secure and comfortable space for your little one while giving you peace of mind. The elevated height brings your baby closer, encouraging eye contact and bonding during every change, and you can position it either sideways or parent-facing to suit your room and routine.
A water-repellent changing pad with raised edges is included, offering extra comfort and protection.
Soft against your baby’s skin, the cover is removable and machine-washable, making clean-ups quick and easy.
The Stokke® Sleepi™ Changing Table in White colour is the perfect addition to the Stokke® Sleepi™ nursery concept, pairing beautifully with the Stokke® Sleepi™ cribs.
With open space for parents' feet underneath, the Stokke® Sleepi™ Changing Table is the ideal height for changing your baby on the included softly cushioned changing pad.
Versatile and beautiful, the Stokke® Sleepi™ Changing Table is equipped with a generous open shelf for convenient storage. Depending on how you arrange your room, the Changing Table allows for both sideways and parent-facing changing positions.
Made with clean Scandinavian design, it is a Red Dot Design Winner.
The Stokke® Sleepi™ Changing Table in Natural colour is the perfect addition to the Stokke® Sleepi™ nursery concept, pairing beautifully with the Stokke® Sleepi™ cribs.
With open space for parents' feet underneath, the Stokke® Sleepi™ Changing Table is the ideal height for changing your baby on the included softly cushioned changing pad.
Versatile and beautiful, the Stokke® Sleepi™ Changing Table is equipped with a generous open shelf for convenient storage. Depending on how you arrange your room, the Changing Table allows for both sideways and parent-facing changing positions.
Made with clean Scandinavian design, it is a Red Dot Design Winner.
Breastfeeding Made Easier: Tips for Common Challenges
Before your baby arrives, it's easy to imagine that breastfeeding will happen instinctively. While that can be true for some families, it's perfectly normal if it takes a little longer to find your rhythm.
Many new mums experience challenges like sore nipples, engorgement, latch difficulties or concerns about milk supply in those first few weeks. If that sounds familiar, you're certainly not alone.
At Dimples, one of the things we hear most often is, "I thought breastfeeding would just come naturally." The reality is that for many mums, it takes a little time, plenty of patience, and the right support.
Thankfully, many breastfeeding challenges are only temporary, and with the right guidance they often become much easier to manage.
If you decide to supplement or switch to formula, that's okay too. A fed baby and a supported mum are what matter most. But if breastfeeding is something you'd like to continue, know that many mums find things improve with time, patience and the right support.
You've got this.
Here’s a gentle guide to some of the common hurdles and how to help overcome them:
1. Engorged Breasts
A few days after giving birth, you may notice your breasts suddenly feel hard, heavy, warm, and tender as your milk comes in. Although it can feel quite uncomfortable, this is a completely normal part of your body adjusting to your baby's feeding needs.
The good news is that engorgement is usually temporary. As your milk supply begins to regulate and your baby establishes a regular feeding pattern, the fullness will often settle.
What can help
Feed your baby regularly, even if it's only for a short time.
If your breasts are too full for your baby to latch comfortably, try hand expressing a small amount of milk first to soften the breast.
A cold compress after feeds and gentle massage can also help relieve discomfort.
💛 A favourite with our team: Many mums find the Bare Mum Hot + Cold Breast Therapy Packs incredibly soothing. Warm them before feeding to help encourage milk flow, or chill them afterwards to reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
And here's a little old-school wisdom that's been passed between mums for generations: chilled cabbage leaves tucked inside your bra between feeds have long been used to help soothe engorgement. It might sound unusual, but plenty of mums still swear by it!
2. Latch Issues
A little tenderness during the first few days of breastfeeding is common, but ongoing or severe pain isn't something you should simply put up with. A painful feed is often a sign that your baby isn't latching deeply enough, making feeding uncomfortable for you and less effective for them.
What can help
Try encouraging your baby to open their mouth wide by gently brushing your nipple against their upper lip. Position them with their nose level with your nipple and bring your baby to your breast, rather than leaning towards them. A good latch usually means your baby's mouth is wide open, their chin is pressed into your breast, and your nipple sits comfortably towards the back of their mouth.
If breastfeeding is still painful after the first week or two, or your baby continues to struggle with latching, it's worth reaching out to your midwife or a lactation consultant. Sometimes a simple adjustment, or identifying something like a tongue tie, can make all the difference.
3. Cracked or Bleeding Nipples
Sore or cracked nipples are very common in the early weeks of breastfeeding. They can be caused by a shallow latch, frequent feeding while your skin adjusts to this new rhythm, or even overuse of your breast pump.
What can help
Applying a nourishing nipple balm after every feed can help soothe and protect the skin, while hydrogel pads can provide instant cooling relief for particularly sore nipples.
One combination our team often recommends is Pure Mama Nipple Butter together with Silverette Cups. The nipple butter helps moisturise and soothe damaged skin, while the Silverette Cups protect sensitive nipples between feeds, allowing them to heal naturally.
If your nipples aren't improving after several days, it's important to have your baby's latch assessed, as treating the cause is just as important as treating the symptoms.
4. Low Milk Supply
Worrying about milk supply is incredibly common, especially during the first few weeks when your baby may seem to want to feed constantly. The reassuring news is that frequent feeding, cluster feeding and night waking are all normal behaviours and don't usually mean you're not producing enough milk.
True low milk supply is less common, but if your baby isn't gaining weight well or has very few wet nappies, it's important to speak with your midwife, GP or lactation consultant.
What can help
If your healthcare provider is happy that everything is progressing normally but you'd like to naturally support your milk supply, try feeding frequently, pumping between feeds if appropriate, drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet.
Many mums also enjoy adding lactation cookies or a lactation blend to their daily routine. While they're not a guaranteed way to increase milk supply, many mums enjoy them as part of their breastfeeding routine alongside regular feeding, good hydration and a balanced diet.
Shop our lactation support range here
5. Inverted or Flat Nipples
You may never have paid much attention to the shape of your nipples before breastfeeding, but flat or inverted nipples can sometimes make it more difficult for your baby to latch.
The good news is that many mums with flat or inverted nipples go on to breastfeed successfully.
What can help
Speak with your midwife or a lactation consultant, who may recommend using a nipple shield or expressing a small amount of milk before feeding to gently draw the nipple out.
6. Blocked Ducts
A blocked milk duct often feels like a tender lump beneath the skin and usually occurs when milk isn't draining effectively. This can happen if you've missed a feed, your bra is too tight, or your breast hasn't emptied fully.
What can help
Continue feeding regularly, particularly on the affected side, to help keep milk moving. Applying warmth before feeding and gently massaging the area towards the nipple can also help encourage the blockage to clear. Most blocked ducts resolve within a day or two but if you are experiencing alot of pain and unable to breastfeed, please see your GP.
7. Mastitis
Sometimes a blocked duct can develop into mastitis, or bacteria can enter through cracked skin, leading to a breast infection. Mastitis often causes flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills and body aches, along with a painful, red area on the breast.
What can help
If you think you may have mastitis, it's important to see your GP promptly, as antibiotics are often needed.
Although feeding may feel uncomfortable or sore, continuing to breastfeed or express milk can actually help speed up recovery by keeping the breast well drained. Warm or cool compresses between feeds may also provide some relief.
💛 Don't try to push through - Many mums think they can "tough it out", but mastitis really needs medical treatment. The sooner you seek help, the quicker you'll usually recover.
You Are Not Alone - and You're Doing an Amazing Job
If there's one thing we'd love every new mum to know, it's this: asking for help is a strength, not a weakness!
For over 30 years, we've had the privilege of supporting hundreds of New Zealand families through pregnancy, newborn life and beyond, and we've learned that almost every breastfeeding journey is different, and has its own ups and downs.
And if, despite your best efforts, breastfeeding doesn't work out the way you'd hoped, that's okay too. Whether you breastfeed, formula feed or combine the two, what matters most is that your baby is fed, loved and thriving.
Be kind to yourself, trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to lean on your midwife, GP, lactation consultant or the people around you. Sometimes the right support is all it takes to help you find your confidence.
❤️
Shop our full range of breastfeeding support and essential items here
Choosing the Right Bottle & Teat for Your Baby
A Practical Guide to Finding the Right Bottle Feeding Setup
We’ve been helping families for many years now, and a question we are always asked by new parents is “Which is the best baby bottle?” - and while we wish there was a one size fits all answer to this question, the reality is that there isn't one perfect bottle for every baby. The best baby bottle is the one that suits your bub's feeding style, comfort, and stage of development, while also fitting your family's routine and preferences.
Finding the right bottles and teats can sometimes feel overwhelming. With so many options available, from anti colic bottles and wide neck designs to glass, silicone, and plastic bottles… it's natural to wonder which choice is best for your baby.
In this guide, we'll help you understand the different bottle and teat options so you can find a feeding setup that feels right for your baby and your family.
How to Choose the Best Baby Bottle
When comparing baby bottles, start by thinking about your baby's feeding needs rather than focusing on brands or features.
Newborn? Look for slow flow teats and easy to clean bottles – you’ll likely be using up to 12 bottles a day in those very early stages!
Breastfed or mixed feeding? Wide neck bottles and breast shaped teats can help support a natural latch.
Experiencing wind or reflux? Anti-colic bottles will help reduce swallowed air.
Need something practical for everyday use? Lightweight plastic bottles are often a great choice.
Looking for a long term option? Glass bottles are durable and long lasting.
Choosing the Right Bottle MaterialDifferent bottle materials offer different benefits, but there isn't a single right choice.
Bottle Type
Best For
Things to Know
Plastic
Everyday use
Lightweight and practical
Glass
Durability
Easy to clean but heavier
Silicone
Mixed feeding
Soft and flexible
💛 Dimples Tip: Something we often tell parents is not to overthink the bottle material too much. Most babies will adapt well to different bottle types, so it's often more about what works best for your family and feeding routine.
Bottle Shapes at a Glance
Standard Bottles - A simple, reliable option that works well for most babies.
Wide-Neck Bottles - Easier to fill and clean, and often preferred by families combining breast and bottle feeding.
Anti-Colic Bottles - Designed to reduce the amount of air swallowed during feeding.
💛 Something we get asked a lot at Dimples: "Are anti colic bottles really worth it?" For babies who experience wind, gas, or reflux, or even for as a preventative method – yes! We know many parents who have found they make feeding more comfortable and reduce post feed fussiness.
Explore our bottle range here
Explore our Infant and Toddler Formula range here
Best Bottles for Breastfed Babies & Mixed Feeding
Another common question we hear at Dimples is:
"What's the best bottle for a breastfed baby?"
While every baby is different, wide-neck bottles with soft silicone teats are often a great place to start. When introducing a bottle to a breastfed baby, look for:
Wide teats that encourage a natural latch
Slow flow teats that mimic breastfeeding
Soft silicone teats with a familiar feel
Bottles designed to support mixed feeding
Many parents also find paced bottle feeding helpful, as it encourages babies to feed at a rhythm that's closer to breastfeeding. You can learn more about paced bottle feeding here.
Shop bottles suitable for mixed feeding
Choosing the right teat flow can make feeding feel calmer and more comfortable for your baby.
For newborns and younger babies, a slow flow teat is usually the best place to start. This helps milk flow gently and steadily, giving your baby time to feed at their own pace.
As your baby grows and becomes more confident with bottle feeding, they may be ready for a medium or faster flow teat. Age guides can be helpful, but your baby's feeding cues are often the best sign.
The flow may be too fast if your baby is coughing, spluttering, gulping milk, leaking milk from their mouth, or becoming unsettled during feeds.
The flow may be too slow if your baby seems frustrated, takes a very long time to finish a bottle, or often falls asleep before finishing their feed.
💛 Another common questions we are asked: "When should I move up a teat size?" The answer is usually based on your baby's feeding cues rather than just their age alone.
Shop our teat range here
Cleaning, Sterilising & Bottle Care
Keeping bottles and teats clean is a very important part of bottle feeding. Wash bottles and teats thoroughly, replace worn teats when needed, and sterilise bottles up until your baby is approximately 12 months old.
A few simple essentials can make life easier:
Bottle sterilisers
Bottle warmers
Bottle brushes
Drying racks
Feeding bibs
Shop bottle cleaning and sterilising essentials here
Frequently Asked Questions about Bottle Feeding
What bottles are best for newborns?
Most newborns do well with bottles fitted with slow flow teats. Anti-colic designs can also be helpful for babies prone to wind or reflux.
What bottle is best for a breastfed baby?
Wide-neck bottles with soft silicone teats are often a great option for supporting mixed feeding and encouraging a natural latch.
Are anti-colic bottles worth it?
For babies who swallow excess air while feeding, anti-colic bottles may help reduce wind, gas, and feeding discomfort.
How do I know if teat flow is too fast?
Look for coughing, spluttering, milk leaking from the mouth, or your baby struggling to keep up with the flow.
Glass vs plastic baby bottles: which is better?
Both are excellent options. Plastic bottles are lightweight and practical, while glass bottles are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to staining.
Finding the Right Feeding Fit for Your Family
Every baby is different, and finding the best baby bottle often involves a little trial and error.
Trust your baby's cues, be kind to yourself, and remember that there's no single "right" choice. What matters most is finding a feeding setup that feels comfortable for both you and your baby.
💛 A final note from our team: We've helped hundreds of New Zealand families navigate bottle feeding over the years, and if there's one thing we've learned, it's that every feeding journey looks a little different. You're doing a great job.
Shop our full range of baby bottles, teats and feeding essentials
Getting a wriggly toddler into a car seat shouldn’t feel like a workout. That’s why rotating car seats are quickly becoming a go-to for modern parents.
In this blog, we explore how they work and why so many families are making the switch. From extended rear and front facing options to reducing back strain, we’ll help you decide whether a rotating car seat is the right choice for your growing family.
Benefits of a Rotating Car Seat
Easier access in and out of the car - The swivel function turns the seat towards the door, making it easier to get your child in and out of the car without awkward angles. With the seat facing you, it is easier to correctly position and tighten the harness, helping ensure your child is safely secured every time.
Reduced strain on your back - Rotating the seat towards you helps minimise bending, twisting, and reaching, which can help prevent back and shoulder strain, especially with growing toddlers. This also helps parents (or grandparents) recovering from birth, injury, or surgery, or those with limited mobility, who often find rotating seats easier and more comfortable to use.
Rear and front facing options - While your child is young, rear facing car seats are recommended for their safety. Though you want to keep them rear facing as long as possible (according to weight and height restrictions), you will eventually need to switch to forward facing, which is made incredibly easy with the swivel feature. You also have multiple angle options to recline the seat and can change all of these settings without having to re-install the entire seat.
Things to Consider Before Buying
Weight limits - Most (though not all) rotating car seats have a weight limit of 18kgs because of the isofix installation. On average, that’s around four years old, and while many parents are happy to switch to a booster seat after that, others just want one seat that goes all the way. If you’d prefer to buy a single seat with more longevity, a non-rotating option may suit you better. The Nuna Rava Next goes up to 29.4kgs (seven or eight years on average), and the Exec Next has a booster seat conversion, meaning that it lasts right from newborn up to 49.9kgs, around 12 years old!
Space in your car - If you have multiple kids and multiple car seats in the car, having one that rotates might be a bit tricky. Rotating seats generally have a larger base, and the swivel motion itself can be blocked if there are other seats in the way. If you plan on having three seats side by side in the back row, swivelling is a no-go. If you have two seats, then a rotating seat might be a good option depending on how it fits into your car. If you’re not sure, give us a call at our Newmarket or Christchurch stores, and book in a time to try out some options and see what works best.
What Are the Rotating Car Seat Options?
Nuna NEXT System
Built to work together seamlessly, the Nuna NEXT System offers flexibility, longevity, and peace of mind in one refined package. With two different base options (Base Next & Base Curv), two capsules (Pipa Next & Arra Flex), a unique lie-flat car seat (Cari Next), and a toddler seat for good measure (Todl Next), the NEXT System gives you a range of options for travelling in style. The bases come equipped with True Lock™ technology and coloured installation guides for your peace of mind, and one base can be used for all compatible products (keeping you covered for the first four years of baby’s life).
Maxi Cosi Pebble 360 Pro Capsule & Maxi-Cosi Pearl 360
As part of the 360 Pro Family range, the Pebble and Pearl (when on the Family Fix 360 Pro Base) not only rotate 360°, but also slide towards you to eliminate the awkward reaching that usually comes with buckling in a little one. While the Pearl must be attached to the base in order to go in the car, the Pebble can also be seatbelt installed by itself.
Nuna Pruu
If you love the Todl but don’t want to bother with the separate base, the Pruu might be the seat for you. With the same detachable Side Impact Protection, integrated rebound bar, and smart-swivel lock, your little one will be travelling in stylish safety from start to finish. The big difference? The Pruu is one piece, with no separate base, making it a bit heavier to carry around, but super convenient for those who’d rather not bother with the extra pieces.
We also have the new Nuna Pruu Aire with a retractable sun canopy.
Nuna Rylo
A new and popular choice is the Nuna Rylo. This seat has it all: 360° rotation, seat belt installation capability, and premium materials. Certified to the AS/NZS standard, it’s perfect for Trans-Tasman travellers, or anyone who’s after the latest version of Nuna’s award winning technology.
Not sure which seat is right for you? Visit us in Auckland or Christchurch to see them in person. You can also book in a fitting with our team - we’ll help you find the safest, easiest option for your car and your family.
How to Keep Your Baby Warm and Well This Winter
Winter with a baby can bring a few extra worries, especially when they are brand new. Along with keeping your little one warm and comfortable, there are the inevitable winter sniffles, coughs and bugs to navigate.
Babies have very small nasal passages, so even a little congestion can make feeding and sleeping more difficult. While it is impossible to avoid every winter cold, there are a few simple ways to help protect your babe and keep them comfortable when the sniffles arrive.
Dress your baby in warm, breathable layers
Keeping your baby warm does not prevent a cold, but it does help them stay comfortable during chilly winter days.
A helpful guide is to dress your baby in one more layer than you are wearing. Choose light, breathable layers that are easy to add or remove as the temperature changes.
Merino wool is a wonderful choice for winter baby clothing. It naturally helps regulate body temperature, keeping your baby warm while allowing excess heat and moisture to escape. Soft merino bodysuits, babygrows and sleepwear are ideal for layering without adding too much bulk.
Create a safe and cosy sleep space
For every sleep, place your baby on their back on a firm, flat mattress with their face and head uncovered. Keep pillows, toys and other loose items out of their sleep space.
During winter, it is safer to dress your baby in suitable sleepwear or a baby sleeping bag than to add heavy or loose bedding. Avoid overheating the room and adjust your baby’s clothing when needed.
Help keep winter germs away
Good everyday hygiene can help reduce the spread of coughs, colds and other winter illnesses.
Wash and dry your hands regularly, especially before feeding your baby, after changing nappies and when returning home. Encourage older siblings to wash their hands and cough or sneeze into their elbow.
It can also help to regularly clean frequently handled toys and surfaces, and avoid close contact with people who are (or have just been) unwell.
Breastmilk provides valuable nutrients and antibodies, but every family’s feeding journey is different. Whether your baby is breastfed or formula fed, continue offering their usual feeds regularly.
When your baby has a blocked nose
A blocked nose can make it harder for your baby to feed, settle and sleep comfortably.
Saline drops suitable for babies can help loosen thick mucus. You can then use a baby nasal aspirator to gently remove it, following the product instructions carefully. This can be particularly helpful before a feed or sleep.
A cool-mist humidifier may also help make a dry room feel more comfortable. Place it safely out of your baby’s reach, change the water regularly and clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent mould or bacteria from building up.
Keep an eye on their temperature
If your baby feels unusually hot, cold or unwell, checking their temperature can help you understand how they are doing.
The Oricom Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer provides a quick reading without disturbing your little one. Always follow the user guide carefully, as forehead thermometer readings can be affected by positioning and the surrounding environment.
A fever is generally considered a temperature of 38°C or higher. If your baby is under three months old and has a fever, seek medical advice urgently.
A gentle chest rub for older babies
For babies over three months, the Nude Alchemist Chest Rub for Babies can be added to their comforting bedtime routine.
Apply it only as directed and remember that chest rubs provide comfort rather than treating or curing a cold. This particular formula is suitable from three months but there are other types of rub on the market as well. Always check age recommendations, complete a patch test and stop using the product if irritation occurs.
Baby Cold and Sniffles Comfort Checklist
Keep these winter essentials together so they are easy to find when your baby needs a little extra care:
A reliable baby thermometer
Baby safe saline drops
A gentle nasal aspirator
A clean cool mist humidifier
Chest rub suitable for your baby’s age
Soft, breathable layers
Hydration - Plenty of regular milk feeds and water if they are over 6 months
Extra cuddles, comfort and rest
When to seek medical help
You know your baby best. Seek medical advice if they are becoming more unwell, feeding poorly, having fewer wet nappies, unusually sleepy or difficult to settle.
Get urgent medical help if your baby:
Is under three months old and has a temperature of 38°C or higher
Is struggling to breathe, breathing unusually quickly or grunting
Looks blue around the lips or mouth
Is floppy, very pale or difficult to wake
Is unable to feed because of breathing difficulties
If you are unsure, contact your doctor, call Healthline on 0800 611 116, or call 111 in an emergency. You can also read Whānau Āwhina Plunket’s guidance on colds in babies and children.
A Little Winter Preparation Goes a Long Way
Winter bugs are an unavoidable part of childhood! Having a few trusted essentials ready can make those sniffly days feel much more manageable.
With breathable merino layers, a cosy sleep space and gentle comfort close at hand, you can help your little one feel warm, secure and well cared for throughout winter.
You’re doing great.
