How to Dress Your Newborn in Winter
When winter sets in, keeping your newborn snug and comfortable becomes a top priority. Dressing baby in natural, breathable layers helps to regulate their temperature and reduce the risk of overheating or getting too cold. At the heart of this is Merino wool – a super-soft, temperature-regulating fibre that’s perfect for delicate skin.
Merino is the ideal base for your baby’s winter wardrobe. It works to insulate when it’s cold and cools when it’s warm, keeping baby cosy without the need for bulky layers. At the same time, organic cotton can be used alongside Merino for gentle layering or in warmer indoor settings, giving you flexibility as the temperature shifts.
Why Merino is the Best Choice for Winter
Unlike synthetic fibres, Merino is breathable, moisture-wicking, and ultra-soft, making it an excellent next-to-skin layer. It naturally helps regulate body temperature, which is essential in those early weeks when your baby can’t do it themselves.
Cotton is also a trusted option, especially for sensitive skin. While it doesn’t insulate quite like Merino, it’s great for layering over Merino or wearing in warmer rooms or during nap times when baby doesn’t need as much warmth.
What to Dress Baby In During the Day
At Home
When indoors, comfort is key. A Merino bodysuit or baby grow offers the right amount of warmth without overheating. For mild days or heated rooms, you might choose a cotton bodysuit as the base, layering a Merino cardigan or leggings on top.
Combining the two materials gives you the best of both worlds – Merino for temperature regulation, cotton for softness and breathability.
Heading Out
When you're on the go, think in layers. Start with a Merino base layer, followed by a cotton or Merino baby grow. Add mittens, a beanie, and a warm blanket in the pram or carrier.
A simple rule: dress baby in one more layer than you’re wearing. Merino accessories like socks and hats are especially good for keeping warmth in, as babies lose a lot of heat through their head and feet.
Dressing Baby for the Car
For car rides, avoid bulky outerwear that interferes with the car seat harness. Dress baby in Merino and/or cotton layers, and use a blanket over the harness if needed. Merino’s warmth means you don’t need excessive layers, making it ideal for safe travel.
How to Dress Your Baby for Sleep
The ideal room temperature for baby’s sleep is between 16°C and 20°C. Use breathable Merino sleepwear and a Dimples Sleeping Bag suited to the room’s temperature (based on TOG rating) to help keep your baby warm and safe without overheating.
Sleepwear suggestions:
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16°C – Duvet Lined Sleeping Bag (TOG 2–3) over a Merino baby grow, cotton or Merino bodysuit, and socks.
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18°C – Merino Lined Sleeping Bag (TOG 1.5–2.5) with a cotton bodysuit and Merino baby grow.
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20°C – Summer Sleeping Bag (TOG 1–2) over a lightweight cotton or Merino bodysuit.
Using a cotton bodysuit underneath Merino layers is a great option if your baby tends to run warm, or if your home is well heated.
Why Layering Matters
Layering natural fibres gives you the flexibility to adjust to your baby’s needs throughout the day. Merino next to the skin helps regulate their temperature, while cotton adds comfort and light coverage.
If you’re unsure what your baby needs, check the back of their neck – warm (but not sweaty) means they’re just right. Adjust layers as needed.
Why Choose Dimples
At Dimples, we’ve been lovingly making New Zealand Merino and organic cotton clothing for over 30 years. Our Merino comes from trusted NZ sources, designed with your baby’s wellbeing in mind – soft against their skin, naturally breathable, and kind to the planet.
Whether you’re layering for winter sleep or everyday wear, our Merino baby grows, bodysuits, sleeping bags, accessories, and blankets are crafted to keep your little one comfortable, safe, and warm through every season.
Cotton remains a wonderful companion to Merino, offering softness and flexibility in your baby’s wardrobe. Together, they make a perfect pair.
Explore the full range of Dimples Merino and Organic Cotton essentials online or in store.
