By Renata Lardelli | Nurse, Midwife, Mum and Founder of Lila Jasmine
Newborns aren’t great at regulating their own temperature that’s up to us as parents and caregivers. Their tiny bodies lose heat quickly, and keeping them warm but not overheated is essential for their comfort and wellbeing.
That’s why choosing the right fabrics for your baby’s wardrobe makes all the difference. Unlike cotton or synthetic materials, merino wool is a natural, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabric that helps regulate temperature, keeping babies snug in winter and cool in summer.
Whether you're preparing for your own pēpi or looking for the perfect newborn baby gift, investing in quality merino essentials can provide comfort, peace of mind, and long-lasting wear.
Why Choose Merino for Your Baby?
Not all newborn baby clothes are created equal. When dressing your little one, fabric choice matters. Merino stands out because it:
-
Naturally regulates temperature – Keeps babies warm when it’s cool and prevents overheating when it’s warm
-
Breathes and wicks away moisture – Helps prevent dampness and discomfort
-
Feels soft and gentle on sensitive skin – No itchiness, irritation, or synthetic fibers
-
Resists odors and requires less washing – Naturally antibacterial, making life easier for parents
-
Is durable and stretches with your baby – Meaning fewer purchases and longer wear
Unlike fleece or synthetic fabrics, merino is a safe and breathable option for layering, whether at home, out and about, or for sleep.
The Must-Have Merino Layers for Your Newborn
You don’t need an entire wardrobe of merino, but investing in key base layers makes a big difference:
-
Singlets – Essential for warmth and layering
-
Socks – Tiny toes get cold fast!
-
Hats – Babies lose a lot of heat from their heads
-
Sleeping bag - Babies tend to kick their blankets off making a merino sleep sack a great way to keep warm and snug all night.
As a midwife, I see this often—babies arriving at the birth centre feeling cold after their journey. It takes skin-to-skin contact, breastfeeding, extra expressed breastmilk, and warm towels to help regulate their temperature. This is a reminder of how important it is to dress newborns in warm, breathable layers—even for short trips.
Dressing Your Baby for the Day: Simple & Stress-Free
Dressing your baby during the day is easy - just follow the rule: one more layer than you’re wearing. If you’re in a t-shirt, your baby might need a long-sleeved bodysuit. If you’re wearing a jumper, they may need an extra layer too.
Avoid fleece and synthetic fabrics as these can trap heat, causing your baby to overheat. Instead, opt for natural fibers like merino, which allow your baby’s skin to breathe while keeping them warm.
Dressing Your Baby for Sleep: Room Temperature is Key
Nighttime dressing can feel more confusing, especially when temperatures drop in the early morning hours. Instead of focusing on the season, dress your baby based on room temperature for safe and comfortable sleep.
The ideal sleeping temperature for babies: 18-20°C
Room temperature 20-22°C
-
A merino singlet or bodysuit as a baselayer
-
A merino sleep sack
Room temperature 18-20°C
-
A merino singlet or bodysuit as a base layer
-
A full-length onesie over top
-
A merino sleeping bag or suit
Merino helps regulate body temperature and prevents overheating—one of the key factors in safe sleep for babies. Please note these are guidelines only.
Merino: A Thoughtful Investment & Gift
Yes, merino is pricier than cotton, but it lasts longer, requires fewer layers, and is easy to care for. Instead of buying multiple cotton layers, one good merino piece can do the job.
Woolbabe x Bo & Ko Merino Sleeping Bags and Suits are ideal for pēpi to sleep year round in, a high-quality choice that new parents will appreciate.
The Merino Difference
Dressing your baby for the day? Keep it simple - one more layer than you. Dressing your baby for sleep? Think about the room temperature and choose breathable fabrics. With merino, you can rest easy knowing your baby is comfortable, warm and safe no matter the season.
Written by Renata Lardelli - nurse, midwife, mum, and founder of Lila Jasmine. If you want to know more about breastfeeding, supporting your milk supply and the 4th trimester visit Lila Jasmine.
