Your baby’s skin may always seem soft and cuddle-worthy, but their sensitive skin also needs some tender loving care, especially in the winters. As babies are born with sensitive skin that is yet to be fully developed, it may be more prone to dryness and other such concerns, especially in the colder months. As the temperature drops during these months, their skin may become dry and itchy. Furthermore, due to the usage of room heaters, they may lose more moisture and thus their skin can become irritable, causing discomfort to the little ones. However, taking care of their skin is easy when you follow a few simple tips. As winters approach, many may also struggle with how to clean the baby’s skin. These hygiene tips will help you keep the baby’s skin clean, soft, and supple, all through the cold months!
Opt for lukewarm baths and use a gentle cleanser
As winters get colder, many parents choose to cut down on bath time and even skip baths for a day or two. If your baby’s skin is excessively dry, you can consult your doctor on skipping bath time, but most babies can do with a gentle bath or a quick wipe down with a wet cloth, on the colder days. Instead of running hot water, opt for lukewarm water so as not to lose more moisture. Use a gentle and baby skin-safe cleanser, devoid of artificial chemicals and odours for cleaning the baby’s skin every alternate day or whenever you feel like your baby needs some cleansing.
Brush away flakes or wipe down with a washcloth
Cradle cap is fairly common in newborns and even older babies can have dry and flaky skin in the winters. If it’s in the normal range, you can use a gentle cleanser and a soft-bristled brush or wet washcloth to gently wipe away the flakes. As tempting as it may be to clean it all in one go, even when it’s dry, resist the urge to do so, as it can redden the baby’s skin and make the condition worse. Most of these skin conditions become okay with time, but if your baby’s skin peels too much or becomes red and irritable, it is a good idea to see the baby’s doctor and ask for creams or cleansers that can keep the situation under control.
Moisturize the baby’s skin
While some may feel like a moisturizer may attract too much dirt, it’s good to remember that your baby’s skin is very sensitive and needs extra moisture to stay clean and soft. Especially in winters, when the temperature drops, the baby’s skin loses moisture very rapidly. So choose a non-oily and baby-safe cream or lotion and always check with your doctor before starting any new products. While a lotion is one way to keep the baby’s skin soft, there are other measures to take in winter to prevent moisture loss in the baby’s skin. If you are using a room heater, it’s a good idea to turn on the humidifier as well, as this will prevent clogged or stuffy noses and also help in retaining the moisture in the skin. Moreover, hydrating from the inside is also important during these months - this means that your baby needs enough fluids in the diet to stay hydrated. If you are breastfeeding your baby, continue to do so and it has all the essential nutrients. If your baby is on the formula, ask your doctor for any added fluids, if needed, that you can add to your baby’s feed time.
Use a good diaper to keep the baby’s toilet needs hygienic
Contrary to popular belief, winter is actually the essential time for diapers. As your baby pees more in winter and in regular intervals, you will need a diaper with superior absorption, to keep the baby’s skin dry and prevent the breakout of rashes. Keeping the baby’s skin dry is also important as wet nappies or clothes may cause your baby to catch a cold during these times. DIapers that fit well like pant style diapers also prevent leakage from the gaps and keep the baby dry and comfortable. If your baby is wet or irritable, especially during nap and bedtime, they may become fussy and refuse to sleep. Thus, it’s a good idea to choose a good quality diaper for the baby.
Use a gentle cleanser for the baby’s poo time
Gone are the days when every diaper change meant washing of the area - with the cold temperature, frequent washing can not only dry out your little one’s skin but can also cause them to catch a cold or flu. Thus it’s a good idea to choose a healthy alternative, like a baby-friendly wipe that cleans without harming the baby’s skin. Choose an alcohol-free wipe with natural ingredients that will lock in the moisture and effectively clean the area without any problems. You can choose MamyPoko extra clean wipes with criss-cross sheets that have a high moisture content, which doesn’t dry out the baby’s skin and leaves it clean, fresh and soft. Wipes are also handy baby essentials that you can always carry in your bag, so you can clean the baby’s skin efficiently even when you are traveling.
Keep the surroundings and baby essentials clean
While we may take utmost care when it comes to the baby’s hygiene requirements, sometimes the small things may slip our minds. A good way to remember this is by taking into account everything that comes in contact with your baby. Use a gentle and baby-safe cleaner for the baby’s room and the rest of the house, as this will prevent the baby from catching any germs or dirt from around the house. Also ensure that you wash the baby’s clothes and linens frequently with a soft formula, that will effectively clean the fabric and not irritate the baby’s skin. Moreover, as flu and other such diseases are common during this time, it is a good idea to keep a sanitizer or a cleanser easily accessible. Every time that you or any other family member picks up the baby or even the baby’s things, make sure to sanitize your hands well. This will prevent any germs or dirt transmission from the caregiver to the baby.
With these simple steps, you can take good care of the baby’s skin in winter with ease and keep it squeaky clean, soft, and supple! After all, nothing should stop cuddle time, isn’t it?
FAQ's
Q. Why is baby skin more sensitive in winter?
Ans.Baby skin is still developing, making it more prone to dryness and irritation during cold months. Lower humidity and indoor heating reduce moisture levels, leading to itchiness or redness. Proper winter care, like gentle cleansing and moisturizing, helps protect your baby’s delicate skin from these seasonal challenges.
Q. How often should I bathe my baby in winter?
Ans.Daily baths aren’t necessary in winter. Bathing every alternate day or giving quick wipe-downs with a soft cloth helps maintain skin moisture. Always use lukewarm water and a gentle, fragrance-free baby cleanser to avoid stripping the skin of its natural oils and causing dryness.
Q. What water temperature is safe for my baby’s bath?
Ans.Use lukewarm water, not hot, for your baby’s bath. Hot water can strip away natural skin oils, causing dryness. Test the water with your elbow or wrist to ensure it’s comfortably warm. Keeping baths short, around 5–10 minutes, helps retain your baby’s skin moisture during winter.
Q. How can I treat cradle cap or dry flakes in winter?
Ans.Gently clean the area with a mild cleanser and use a soft-bristled brush or wet washcloth to remove loose flakes. Avoid scrubbing dry skin. If peeling worsens, becomes red, or seems uncomfortable, consult your pediatrician for a suitable cream or medicated cleanser to manage the condition.
Q. Is moisturizer necessary for my baby in winter?
Ans.Yes, moisturizer is essential. Cold air and heaters dry out baby skin quickly. Use a non-oily, baby-safe lotion or cream recommended by your doctor. Apply after bathing to lock in moisture. Using a humidifier indoors also helps prevent dryness and keeps skin hydrated naturally.
Q. What type of diaper is best for winter?
Ans.Choose high-absorption, well-fitted diapers to keep your baby dry and comfortable. Pant-style diapers help prevent leaks and reduce the risk of rashes. Keeping skin dry is important in winter to avoid irritation and chills from wetness, especially during naps or nighttime.
Q. How can I clean my baby’s skin during diaper changes in winter?
Ans.Instead of frequent washing, use alcohol-free, natural ingredient-based baby wipes to clean the diaper area. Wipes with extra moisture prevent skin dryness. Choose soft, gentle options to avoid irritation, and ensure the area is dry before putting on a fresh diaper.
Q. Does indoor heating affect my baby’s skin?
Ans.Yes, heaters can lower indoor humidity, drying out skin. Use a humidifier to balance moisture levels. Keep heaters at a comfortable temperature and avoid placing your baby too close to the heat source. Hydration through feeding is also important for maintaining skin softness.
Q. How should I wash my baby’s clothes in winter?
Ans.Wash baby clothes and linens with a mild, fragrance-free detergent to prevent skin irritation. Frequent washing removes germs and dust. Avoid harsh chemicals and fabric softeners. Ensure all items are fully dry before use to prevent dampness, which can cause discomfort in colder weather.
Q. What hygiene practices help keep my baby healthy in winter?
Ans.Clean everything that comes in contact with your baby, including toys, bedding, and clothing. Use baby-safe cleaners for surfaces. Wash your hands or use sanitizer before handling your baby. These steps reduce the spread of germs and keep your baby’s skin and overall health protected.
