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How to Care for Your Baby with a Cold
How to Care for Your Baby with a Cold 🤧🍼 A common cold is a viral infection – rarely serious, but often upsetting for both baby and parent. These colds can last from one to two weeks and are caused by a variety of viruses. While babies are born with some immunity, their immune systems take time to mature, making them more vulnerable in the early months. The best thing you can do is ease their symptoms and keep them as comfortable as possible while their body does the hard work. And remember – catching a cold helps strengthen their immunity over time. Common Cold Symptoms in Babies: What to Look For Symptoms of a cold usually appear about three days after exposure to the virus. You might notice: A stuffy or runny nose (often clear at first, then yellow or green) Sneezing A cough Fussiness or irritability Reduced appetite Trouble sleeping Mild fever General fatigue It’s always a good idea to check in with your GP, especially if your baby is under three months old or if you’re unsure about any symptoms. When your baby is unwell, offer plenty of extra love and cuddles 🤱🏼 Let them sleep when they need to, even if it's outside of their usual routine – rest is just as important as remedies when it comes to helping them heal. Natural Remedies to Help Relieve Baby’s Cold Because a cold is caused by a virus, antibiotics won’t help – but there are plenty of gentle remedies that can. If baby has a blocked or stuffy nose, saline drops can loosen mucus and make breathing easier. You should be able to get this at a good chemist. Pair this with a nasal aspirator to help clear their nose. At Dimples, we stock two great options: Oricom Rechargeable Nasal Aspirator – gentle, quiet, and super easy to use. It’s a popular choice for parents wanting something fuss-free and hygienic. NUK Nasal Decongester – simple and effective, designed to gently suction mucus without irritation. Best Humidifier for Babies with Congestion The Crane 3-in-1 Cool Mist Humidifier with Aroma Diffuser & Sleep Support Light can be such a help when your little one isn't feeling their best. The cool mist adds moisture to the air, helping to soothe stuffy noses, dry coughs, and delicate skin - making it a little easier for baby to rest and breathe. You can also add a few drops of baby-safe essential oils to the aroma diffuser for a comforting, calming atmosphere. And during those quiet overnight cuddles or feeds, the soft glow of the sleep light offers just the right amount of warmth and reassurance💛 The Best Chest Rub for Babies with a Cold 🌿 For natural relief, The Nude Alchemist Baby Chest Rub is a gentle balm made in New Zealand with certified organic ingredients. It can be applied to baby’s chest, back, or feet to help clear airways and promote a more restful sleep. A comforting must-have for cold season. When to See a Doctor About Your Baby’s Cold If your baby is under three months old and showing signs of a cold, always check in with your doctor. For older babies, trust your instincts – if symptoms worsen or you’re concerned, a quick visit can help rule out anything more serious and give you peace of mind.
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Tips & Tricks for Travelling with a Baby or Toddler
Travelling with Kids: Your Fun, Fuss-Free Guide Heading off on a family adventure? Travelling with little ones can be full of magical memories – but let’s be honest, the planning and packing can feel a bit overwhelming. We’ve put together some handy tips and a comprehensive checklist to help make your trip smoother (and a lot more fun!). 🏖️☀️ Before You Go: Planning Ahead Research your destination: Does your accommodation provide a cot, high chair, or other baby-friendly gear? Think about how you’ll get around too – will you need car seats or airport transfers? Book smart: When booking flights, don’t forget the extras. Request a bassinet if needed, look for seats with extra legroom, and pre-order kids’ meals. Check your airline’s baggage policy and what baby gear you can bring. Get your documents sorted: Make sure everyone’s passports are up to date (including baby’s – with at least 6 months’ validity). Don’t forget visas and any required immunisation records. Getting There: In-Flight Tips Arrive early: Give yourself extra time to get through the airport stress-free. Take advantage of priority boarding – it gives you a few bonus minutes to settle in before the crowd. Ears and altitude: Offer a bottle or breastfeed during takeoff and landing to ease pressure on their ears. A pacifier or sippy cup can also help. Keep boredom at bay: New toys or books they haven’t seen before can work wonders – try magnetic books, sticker books, or even a stack of post-it notes for endless sticking fun. Load up your device with baby-friendly apps or videos for those moments a toy just won't do. Snacks, snacks, snacks: Pack food you know they love – and plenty of it! Snacks can be both fuel and entertainment. Once You Arrive: Making the Most of the Holiday Stick (loosely) to routine: Keeping to familiar nap and mealtimes can help your little one adjust. But travel rarely goes perfectly to plan, so go with the flow where you can. Baby-proof your space: Once you get to your accommodation, do a quick scan of the room. Move anything hazardous out of reach so you can relax and enjoy your time away. Stay cool and sun-safe: Keep fluids up and protect sensitive skin with sunscreen, sunhats, and breezy clothing – especially in tropical destinations. Your Ultimate Packing Checklist (with links to products we love!) Important Documents: Passports and visas Luggage ID tags (don’t forget to label strollers and baby gear too) Travel insurance Carry-On Essentials: Nappies and wipes (pack more than you think you’ll need) Disposable change mats - super handy for when you're on the go Spare clothes for baby and you Swaddle or blanket Pacifier and a favourite cuddly toy Snacks and meals Bottles and formula (if needed) Baby-safe hand sanitiser - we love this one from Paume Toys and books Tablet with headphones Baby carrier for hands-free travel For older toddlers, consider the Jetkids Bedbox by Stokke – a ride-on suitcase that converts into an inflight bed! Baby Gear & Equipment: A compact travel stroller (like the YOYO) that fits in overhead lockers is a game-changer Travel cot if your accommodation doesn’t provide one – bonus as it doubles as a play space! For bigger kids, the Stokke Cloud Sleeper inflatable bed is a great option White noise machine - we love the Yogasleep Hushh Stroller fan for warm climates Insect nets for cot and pram Car seat – different countries have different rules, so it's very important to research ahead. We recommend the Maxi-Cosi Nomad for its light weight and compact size (suitable from approx. 15 months to 4 years) Portable blackout blinds for the room, or even a stroller shade to help with daytime naps Clothing & Accessories: Weather-appropriate clothes, including wet bags for damp items Sleep sacks (bring one your child is used to, and adjust for warmer/cooler climates) Sun protection – sun hats, sunglasses, and lightweight layers Feeding: Bottles or sippy cups Enough formula or food for the trip (plus some spares) Bibs, burp cloths, and baby-safe detergent Changing, Hygiene & Health: Nappies and wipes (pack for a few days, then restock locally) Sunscreen and insect repellent Baby-safe medication, thermometer, and first aid basics Travel-sized toiletries and nappy cream Once you’ve nailed your list, save a copy for next time. A notes app on your phone works perfectly! Bon voyage and happy travels with your mini adventurers! ❤️
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Protecting your baby from the cold this Winter
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: 16°C – Duvet Lined Sleeping Bag (TOG 2–3) over a Merino baby grow, cotton or Merino bodysuit, and socks. 18°C – Merino Lined Sleeping Bag (TOG 1.5–2.5) with a cotton bodysuit and Merino baby grow. 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.
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The Benefits of Having an Infant Capsule
The Benefits of Having an Infant Capsule When preparing for life with a newborn, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the gear you’ll need. However, one item that quickly proves indispensable is the infant capsule. Not only does it ensure safe travel for your little one, but it also simplifies everyday routines in ways that many new parents come to appreciate. So, what makes an infant capsule so essential? 1. Seamless TransitionsOne of the most convenient features of an infant capsule is the ability to move your baby from the car to the pram—or straight into the house—without disturbing their sleep. With a capsule, there’s no need to unbuckle or shift a drowsy newborn between seats. Simply lift the carrier off the base and you’re good to go. It's important to remember that newborns should only sleep in capsules or car seats for short periods. 2. Tailored Newborn FitUnlike regular car seats, capsules are specifically designed to support newborns, offering a snug and comfortable fit from the very first days. Most come with removable newborn inserts to cradle your baby and provide optimal positioning as they grow. 3. Safety FirstInfant capsules are designed with your baby’s safety as a top priority. With features like side-impact protection, memory foam padding, and extendable canopies, they provide extra reassurance for parents who want the very best protection for their little one while on the move. 4. Lightweight and PortableInfant capsules are lighter and easier to carry than convertible car seats. They’re perfect for quick trips out or when you want to pop into the shops or grab a coffee with your baby in tow. The portability of these capsules is a game-changer for busy families who need to get in and out of the car quickly. 5. Travel System ReadyA key benefit of many infant capsules is their compatibility with prams, creating a complete travel system. This makes it simple to move your baby from the car to the pram, or anywhere else, without disturbing them too much. Many premium capsules integrate seamlessly with strollers, giving parents the flexibility to choose the best combination for their lifestyle. Choosing the Right Capsule for Your Family When it comes to choosing the best capsule for your needs, some designs offer unique features that cater to different lifestyles. For families looking for a versatile, all-around solution, the Nuna ARRA™ Flex offers an exceptional blend of comfort and convenience. The ARRA Flex features a nearly-flat 157° recline, allowing for optimal spine and hip development, and can be used both in the car and on any Nuna stroller. Its sleek design and thoughtful functionality make it ideal for parents seeking a capsule that accommodates their busy lives, while still prioritizing baby’s comfort. For those prioritizing the best sleeping position, the Nuna CARI™ NEXT is a full lie-flat carrycot that secures into the base, providing a natural, ergonomic sleep position for baby. It’s an ideal solution for longer journeys, allowing your baby to rest comfortably throughout the ride. Its lightweight design and stylish finish offer both practicality and elegance for parents who want a premium, travel-friendly option. It's also compatible with most of the Nuna strollers too! If you live in the city or often switch vehicles, the Nuna PIPA URBN is the perfect option. With built-in ISOFIX and no need for a separate base, it installs in seconds—ideal for ride shares or households with multiple cars. Its ultra-lightweight construction and quick installation make it an incredibly practical choice for families on the go. For those seeking a capsule with premium safety features and materials, the Maxi Cosi Mico Luxe is a soft and comfortable option with excellent side-impact protection. The capsule’s breathable bamboo fabric and superior padding ensure baby stays snug and supported. Another excellent choice is the Cybex Cloud T, a premium infant capsule offering a recline function for a comfortable, lie-flat position outside the car, ideal for newborns. It features a 180° rotating mechanism for easy on-and-off boarding and can be paired with the Base T for secure installation. The Value of a Capsule No matter which capsule you choose, having one can make a huge difference in your daily life. They provide smooth transitions, superior comfort, and important safety features that give parents peace of mind. Whether it’s a quick errand or a long drive, the right capsule can make life with a newborn that much easier. For parents who seek a perfect balance of style, safety, and functionality, the right infant capsule isn’t just about convenience—it’s about providing the best possible experience for both you and your baby, wherever your day takes you. The above suggestions and many more options are now available online, here at Dimples!
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The Best Strollers for Travel: Lightweight & Convenient
Your Guide to Travel Strollers: Smooth Adventures With Baby in Tow Travelling with a baby or toddler can be a joy – but it definitely comes with its challenges. Whether you’re navigating airports, jumping on and off trains, or exploring city streets, having the right stroller can make all the difference. Why Choose a Travel Stroller? Everyday strollers tend to be packed with extra features that are great for everyday usage but can make them more bulky. When it comes to travel, compact and lightweight is the way to go. Travel strollers are designed to be easy to carry, fold, and store – perfect for life on the move. What to Look For Foldability: Look for a stroller that’s easy to fold – ideally one-handed. Weight: A lighter stroller is easier to lift into car boots, overhead lockers, or up stairs. Compact Size: Check the folded dimensions – the smaller, the better for travel. Portability: Is there a carry strap or handle? This makes a big difference on the go. Manoeuvrability: Smooth steering and good suspension can help you navigate tight spaces and bumpy pavements. Comfort: Reclining seats, padded cushions, and a sun canopy keep your little one happy on the move. Storage: A basket underneath for snacks, nappies, and must-haves is a handy bonus. Accessories: Travel bags, rain covers, and cup holders can all add extra convenience. Plane Travel Suitability: If you want to carry your stroller onboard, check the size. IATA (the International Air Transport Association) recommends 56 x 45 x 25 cm for carry-on, but rules can vary by airline and aircraft, so always double-check before you fly. You may also be able to use your stroller right up to the gate and have it stored in the hold – ask your airline in advance. Even strollers designed to fit in overhead lockers may need to be gate-checked on full flights. Our Top Picks for Travel Strollers STOKKE YOYO3Weight: 6.2 kg (6+ pack)Folded Size: 52 x 44 x 18 cmCar Seat Compatible: Yes The YOYO3 folds with one hand and opens in seconds – true to its name. Its compact size makes it a favourite for airline travel, and it’s compatible with a bassinet, newborn pack, or capsule. The slim frame and smooth steering are ideal for city life, and it’s customisable with colour/seat packs in a range of colours. It even has a padded shoulder strap so you can carry it hands-free. Perfect for: Urban adventures and families who travel often. NUNA TRVL LX Weight: 7 kgFolded Size: 72 x 52 x 35 cmCar Seat Compatible: Yes With its push-button self-fold, the Nuna TRVL is great for multitasking parents. All-wheel suspension, a reclining padded seat, and a large canopy offer serious comfort, while the MagneTech Secure Snap™ harness makes buckling up easy. It also includes a rain cover and travel bag. Perfect for: Those who want a high-end, luxurious stroller with all the comfort of a full-size model. (Just note it may be too large for carry-on.) The TRVL Dubl is now available too. Glide through doorways and navigate narrow spaces with Nuna’s first side-by-side double. Edwards & Co OttoWeight: 7.3 kgFolded Size: 54 x 50 x 32 cmCar Seat Compatible: No The Otto folds with one hand and lies flat, making it newborn-ready straight out of the box. It’s compact enough for most overhead compartments (excluding NZ’s small regional planes) and includes a generous canopy and travel bag. Perfect for: Families looking for a lightweight, compact travel stroller that won’t break the bank. Finding Your Fit Each stroller has its own strengths, so the right one depends on your travel style, lifestyle, and budget. If you’re not sure, pop into a Dimples store and take them for a test drive – our team is happy to help. Happy travels!
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YOYO Stroller Buying Guide
Is the YOYO³ the Right Travel Stroller for You? If you’re searching for a stroller that makes life simpler, especially when you’re out and about, the YOYO³ is well worth a look. The latest version of this much-loved pram is still ultra-compact and easy to fold, but with added comfort, improved suspension, and a smoother push than ever before. Whether you're heading on a plane, tackling public transport, or simply want something light and easy to manage, the YOYO³ is designed to make everyday outings more enjoyable – for both you and your baby. One thing that’s helpful to know before you start building your YOYO³ - the frame is sold separately. This gives you the flexibility to customise your setup from the beginning — and makes it easy to update or upgrade later as your little one grows. This modular approach is just a part of what makes the YOYO³ so popular: it's a compact pram that evolves with your journey. What makes the YOYO³ so popular? Parents love the YOYO for its versatility and portability. Here’s why: It folds and unfolds with one hand – ideal if you’re holding your baby or juggling bags. Once folded, it’s compact enough to sling over your shoulder or tuck away in small spaces. It weighs just 6.4kg with the 6+ seat, 6.6kg with the Newborn Pack, or 8.1kg with the Bassinet. The folded size (52 × 44 × 18 cm) fits in the overhead lockers of most airlines.* You can use it from birth through toddlerhood by choosing the right setup for your child’s age. Choosing your newborn setup: Bassinet vs Newborn Pack One of the first decisions to make is how you'd like to use the stroller from day one. The YOYO³ has two newborn options: The YOYO³ BassinetThis lightweight, semi-rigid bassinet clips onto the stroller frame in one click. It offers: A ventilated shell and breathable double mattress for comfort A parent-facing position so you can keep an eye on your baby The ability to unclip the bassinet and place it down flat without disturbing your little one A snug, bassinet-style interior with no harness – just soft fabrics and space to stretch Many parents prefer this option if they want a more traditional pram experience or the ability to move baby between stroller and indoors without waking them. The YOYO³ Newborn Pack (0+)This clever option transforms your stroller into a lie-flat, parent-facing pushchair that folds in one piece with the frame – no need to detach anything when you’re heading onto a bus or popping it into the boot. It includes: A soft nest with a 5-point harness for safety A 2.5cm mattress insert for newborn comfort The ability to fold down ultra-compact – perfect for travel or tight storage spaces If you’ll be using the YOYO³ for quick errands, public transport, or frequent travel, the Newborn Pack offers ultimate convenience. Not sure which is right for you? It often comes down to lifestyle. If you need something super compact and easy to fold at a moment’s notice, go with the Newborn Pack. If you want a more spacious, removable bassinet, the YOYO Bassinet might suit you better. When do you move to the next stage? Once your baby is sitting independently (around 6 months), it’s time to switch to the YOYO³ 6+ Seat Pack. This setup is forward-facing and features: A five-point harness for growing explorers A multi-position reclining backrest A sun canopy with ventilation panels to keep your little one cool Easy access to the under-seat basket From here, your stroller grows with your toddler, adapting to everyday life and bigger adventures alike. What about using a car capsule? With the right adapters, you can also clip certain car capsules directly onto the YOYO³ frame. This can be helpful for short trips where baby falls asleep in the car – just transfer the capsule to the stroller without waking them. That said, for longer walks or nap times, it’s best for baby to be lying flat in either the Newborn Pack or Bassinet, as this supports healthy spine development. Accessories to make life easier There’s a full range of optional accessories that fit the YOYO³, including: Footmuff for winter strolls Rain cover and parasol for all-weather outings Leg rest for added comfort Cup holder for your coffee on the go Travel bag to protect your stroller during flights Stroller board for an older sibling And even ski attachments for snowy destinations! Plus, if your family grows, you can get an add-on that lets you turn your YOYO³ into a double stroller! You can mix and match seats or bassinets depending on the ages of your children. Is the YOYO³ for you? The YOYO³ really shines when you need something reliable, compact, and easy to handle. Whether you're catching flights or just want a pram that doesn't take up the whole boot, it’s a strong option from newborn right through to toddlerhood. And if you’re unsure which setup is right for your baby, come visit us in-store. We’ll walk you through the options, show you how it folds, and help you choose the best configuration for your lifestyle. * Cabin luggage standards can vary – we recommend checking with your airline before travelling.
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Beginning your baby on solid foods
Starting Solids: A New Chapter in Your Baby’s Feeding Journey 🥄 Introducing your baby to solids is an exciting milestone for both of you! It’s a time for new tastes, textures, and the inevitable messes that come with it. But as your baby reaches the six-month mark, it’s time to introduce them to new foods to complement their milk diet. For the first six months, your baby relies on iron stores from the womb and breast milk or formula. But as those iron stores begin to deplete, solids are needed to boost their nutrition. It’s recommended to continue breastfeeding or bottle-feeding alongside solids until your baby is 12 months old. Solids at this stage complement, rather than replace, their milk feeds. You can also start offering small amounts of water after six months, either in a sippy cup or with meals, to help your baby stay hydrated as they transition to solids. Signs Your Baby Might Be Ready for Solids Here are some signs to watch for that indicate your little one is ready to start eating solids: They seem hungry after milk feeds Can sit up with support and hold their head steady Show interest in your food, possibly reaching out or opening their mouth Make chewing motions when they see food Open their mouth when a spoon comes near Baby’s First Taste: Making Mealtimes Memorable 💛 Starting solids can be an exciting and slightly messy adventure! You can begin with simple, iron-rich foods to complement their milk diet, such as: Iron-fortified rice cereal mixed with breast milk or formula Purées of cooked vegetables like pumpkin, kūmara, or carrot Mashed avocado – easy to prepare and great for baby’s first tastes Purée of cooked apple or pear – mild, easy-to-digest options Purée of cooked chicken or beef – an excellent way to introduce iron A fantastic way to offer baby their first tastes is with the b.box Silicone Fresh Food Feeder. Simply pop in soft fruits or steamed vegetables, and let baby explore with a self-feeding method that doubles as teething relief. Make Mealtimes Easier with the Right Tools The right tools can make the journey into solids so much easier – and a little less messy! The Zazi Clever Spoon Set is designed for tiny hands, and paired with the Clever Bowl with Lid, they're perfect for portioning, feeding, and storing leftovers. The b.box Roll + Go Mealtime Mat keeps the mess contained, while the classic Mum2Mum Wonder Bib or the Mum2Mum Sleeved Wonder Bib makes sure your baby’s outfit stays clean, even on the messiest of days. After all, less laundry means more cuddle time! Moving to Mash As your baby approaches seven months, they’ll likely be ready to try foods with a thicker consistency. Offer them mashed or fork-mashed foods like ripe banana, avocado, small pasta pieces, or cooked egg. These textures are easy for your baby to swallow and great for practicing chewing. At this stage, avoid harder lumps like whole peas, which can pose a choking risk. Embracing Independence Around 8 Months Around eight months, your baby may begin showing an interest in feeding themselves. They may grab the spoon and try to feed themselves – it’s messy, but it’s also a great opportunity for developing their hand-eye coordination. Give them a chance to explore, but always stay close by to offer a helping hand (and a napkin)! We’re Here to Help At Dimples, we know starting solids can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re always here to support you with expert advice and product recommendations. Visit us in-store or contact our friendly team for any questions – we’ve got everything you need to make this adventure as fun and easy as possible.
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Temperature Control and Sleep
Hot and cold – helping your baby sleep comfortably We all know how much temperature affects sleep. Too hot and you’re tossing the covers off, too cold and you’re hunting for another blanket. For babies, who are still learning to regulate both their body temperature and sleep patterns, the impact can be even greater. If they’re too warm or chilly, they might struggle to drift off – or wake more often through the night. The good news is you can help keep your baby at a comfortable temperature with the right mix of clothing, bedding, and room adjustments, making it easier for them to settle and stay asleep. Why temperature matters Our bodies can regulate internal temperature, but during deep sleep, that process slows down. This means a room that’s too hot or too cold can cause night wakings. For babies, the ideal room temperature is around 18°C – it might sound cool, but a lower core temperature is linked to better sleep, while warmer conditions often mean more restlessness. A warm bath before bed can also help. While it seems backwards, the water on your baby’s skin will cool them down after the bath, helping them start the night at a comfortable temperature. Ways to manage temperature Heaters, fans, air conditioning, and the right bedding can all help keep things steady through the night. If you have a thermostat, set it to 18°C and let it do the work. If not, you can buy a plug-in thermostat for your heater to help maintain consistency. Merino – your sleep-time secret When it comes to baby sleepwear, merino wool is a year-round winner. Naturally breathable and temperature-regulating, it helps keep your baby comfortable in both warm and cool conditions – and research shows it can even help them sleep longer. In winter, use merino layers under a merino sleeping bag or sleepwalker. In summer, lighter cotton or merino sleepwear with a lighter weight sleeping bag is usually enough, depending on the temperature where you are. Sleeping bags are especially useful as they can’t be kicked off like blankets, keeping your baby covered all night. Choose one with a weight (or TOG rating) that suits the season. Spotting temperature troubles Signs your baby might be too hot: Waking often Sweaty neck or back Damp hair Rapid, shallow breathing If you notice these, remove a layer of clothing, switch to a lighter sleeping bag, improve airflow, or lower the room temperature. If your baby seems uncomfortably hot, check for fever and use a cool, damp cloth on their forehead and back. Signs your baby might be too cold: Moving around the cot more than usual Rolling onto their stomach during sleep Frequent short naps Early morning waking (around 5am, when body temperature naturally dips) If this happens, add a layer, switch to a warmer sleeping bag, or adjust the room temperature. Getting the temperature right won’t solve every sleep challenge, but it’s one piece of the puzzle that can make nights smoother for everyone. Click here to shop our full range of merino.
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Trouble Shooting Breastfeeding Issues
When Breastfeeding Gets Tough: What You Can Do Many new mums set out hoping to breastfeed, but once baby arrives, things don’t always go as planned. Painful feeds, engorgement, latch troubles, low supply, clogged ducts, and infections – there are plenty of common hiccups that can make breastfeeding harder than you expected. Add in sleep deprivation, postpartum recovery, and all the well-meaning voices around you, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed if feeding isn’t going smoothly. If you decide to supplement or switch to formula, there’s no shame in that – a fed baby and a supported mum are what truly matter. But if your heart is set on breastfeeding, the good news is most challenges can be worked through – and often, they’re only temporary. You've got this. Here’s a gentle guide to some of the common hurdles and how to help overcome them: 1. Engorged Breasts When your milk comes in a few days after birth, your breasts may suddenly feel hard, heavy, and tender – this is normal. It’s your body adjusting to baby’s needs. Engorgement usually settles down as milk supply begins to regulate, but it may crop up now and again if you go longer between feeds. What can help: Feed often, even if it’s just a little. If your breasts are too full for baby to latch, try hand expressing a bit first to soften the area. Cold compresses and gentle massage can bring relief. We stock some amazing inserts from Bare Mum which you can pop into your bra to help soothe the area. Some mums also swear by popping chilled cabbage leaves inside their bra between feeds – it’s an old remedy, but surprisingly soothing. 2. Latch Issues A bit of discomfort at the start of feeds is normal, especially in the early days. But if you're experiencing sharp or lasting pain, your baby might not be latching deeply enough. A shallow latch can press your nipple against the roof of their mouth, making it painful for you and less effective for them. What can help: Encourage a wide open mouth by gently rubbing under baby’s chin. Position them with their nose opposite your nipple, then bring them to you (not the other way around). A good latch usually means your baby’s mouth is wide, their chin is tucked into your breast, and your nipple is deep inside. If pain persists or your baby still can’t latch comfortably after a week or two, reach out to your midwife or a lactation consultant. Sometimes structural issues like tongue-tie can make latching difficult, and professional help can make all the difference. 3. Cracked or Bleeding Nipples It sounds scary, but many mums experience cracked or sore nipples in the first week or two. It can happen due to a shallow latch, overuse of a pump, or simply your skin adjusting to feeding. What can help: Use a nipple cream after each feed to soothe and heal. Hydrogel pads can bring instant cooling relief. Taking a mild pain reliever like paracetamol before feeds can help too. Most importantly, check baby’s latch – and ask for help if your nipples aren’t healing. Here are two of our favourite products to help you through: Pure Mama Nipple Butter and Silverette Cups these two in combination with each other should help you heal faster and stay protected. 4. Low Milk Supply It’s common to worry about supply, especially in those early weeks when baby seems to feed non-stop. But frequent feeding, short feeds, and night wakings are all normal and don’t usually mean you’re not making enough milk. True low supply is rare, but if your baby isn’t gaining weight or has very few wet nappies, it’s worth talking to your midwife or GP. Sometimes birth complications or certain medical issues can affect milk production. What can help: If baby is showing signs of dehydration, it’s important to get help quickly. Your healthcare provider may suggest medication or a feeding plan. If you’ve been given the all-clear but still want to increase your supply, try pumping between feeds, eating milk-boosting foods like oats and fennel, or treating yourself to some tasty lactation cookies or this delicious lactation blend. 5. Inverted or Flat Nipples You might not have thought much about your nipple shape before baby arrived – but inverted or flat nipples can make latching trickier. If your nipple pulls inward when gently pinched, it may be inverted. What can help: Most mums with inverted nipples are still able to breastfeed with the right support. Talk to your midwife or lactation consultant – they may suggest trying a nipple shield or using a breast pump briefly before feeding to draw the nipple forward. 6. Blocked Ducts A blocked duct feels like a hard, sore lump under the skin. It usually happens when milk isn’t draining well – perhaps due to a skipped feed or a tight bra. What can help: Keep milk flowing by feeding often on the affected side. Apply a warm compress before feeding and gently massage the lump toward the nipple. Most clogs clear within a day or two. 7. Mastitis If a blocked duct doesn’t clear or if bacteria enters through a cracked nipple, it can cause mastitis – a breast infection. You may feel feverish, achey, and have a red, painful area on your breast. What can help: Mastitis needs medical treatment, so see your GP for antibiotics. Keep feeding or pumping often – it might be sore, but emptying the breast helps you recover faster. Warm or cool compresses between feeds can ease the discomfort. 8. Thrush This yeast infection often begins in baby’s mouth and spreads to the breast. It can cause sharp, shooting pain and red, shiny, itchy nipples. What can help: Thrush won’t go away on its own, so you’ll need to see your GP for antifungal medication for both you and baby. It’s important to treat both of you at the same time to stop it from bouncing back. You Are Not Alone – and You’re Doing Great! Before baby arrives, breastfeeding can feel like it should come naturally – and for some, it does. But if you’re finding it hard, you’re not doing anything wrong. Many new mums face bumps in the road, and most find they only need support for a short time before things click into place. For others, despite trying everything, breastfeeding may not work out – and that’s okay too. You haven’t failed. Formula feeding is a perfectly valid option, and many babies thrive on it. What matters most is that your baby is fed, loved, and cared for – and you’re doing an incredible job. Don’t hesitate to ask for help – whether it’s from your midwife, GP, a lactation consultant, or another mum who’s been through it. And if you don’t feel listened to, keep asking. The right support can make all the difference ❤️
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