How to dress a newborn in any weather

Start with a comfortable base and add a light middle or outer layer when conditions call for it. A newborn may need about one more layer than an adult in the same setting, but the chest check matters more than counting garments.

Choose layers that fit without restricting breathing or movement. Remove hats once indoors and warm, except where a clinician has given different instructions for the immediate newborn period.

Newborn hands and feet often feel cool. Feel the chest or back of the neck instead: warm and dry is a useful sign, while hot, sweaty skin suggests removing a layer and checking again.

Keep a young baby in shade as much as possible. Lightweight covering clothing and a properly used stroller canopy or parasol are preferable to direct sun; do not cover the stroller opening with a blanket, which can trap heat and reduce airflow.

For sleep, use clothing or a correctly sized wearable blanket suited to the room temperature. Keep the sleep space free of loose blankets, hats, bulky clothing and weighted products. If you swaddle, place your baby on their back, allow room for the hips, and stop as soon as they show signs of trying to roll.

In cold weather, use thin layers under the car-seat harness and add warmth over the secured straps. In hot weather, use one light layer, shade and airflow. For babies under 6 months, breast milk or formula remains the main source of hydration; ask your pediatrician or local health service about any extra-water question.

Seek medical advice promptly if your newborn is unusually difficult to wake, breathing rapidly, has a concerning temperature, or remains very hot or cold after you move them to a more comfortable environment.