Caring for Your Baby’s Skin During Cold Weather

When the temperature drops and the heating goes on, baby skin can start to feel a little less soft and a lot more sensitive. Winter air is drier, indoor heating can strip away natural moisture, and little cheeks often take the brunt of chilly winds. The result? Dry patches, redness, and irritation that make those baby snuggles a little less comfortable.

But the good news is, a few simple changes to your routine can help protect your baby’s skin all season long. Here’s how to keep them cosy, comfortable, and kissably soft through the colder months.

Why Cold Weather Affects Baby Skin

Babies’ skin is thinner and more delicate than ours, which makes it more prone to dryness and irritation when the air loses humidity. In winter, cold outdoor air and warm indoor air create a perfect storm that draws moisture out of the skin’s surface.

You might notice flaking, tightness, or even tiny red patches on their cheeks and hands. These are all signs their skin barrier needs a little extra love.

Gentle Winter Skincare Tips for Babies

1. Keep baths short and lukewarm
Hot water might feel lovely on a cold evening, but it can strip away natural oils. Stick to short, warm baths (around 10 minutes) and use a gentle, pH-balanced baby wash like MooGoo Baby & Child 2-in-1 Bubbly Wash – formulated for sensitive skin and free from harsh detergents.

2. Moisturise right after bathing
The best time to lock in hydration is straight after bath time. Gently pat the skin dry and apply a rich, natural moisturiser such as MooGoo Soothing MSM Cream, focusing on dry areas like cheeks, knees, and elbows.

3. Dress in breathable layers
Choose soft, natural fabrics such as certified cotton blends or bamboo to help regulate your baby’s temperature without irritation. Avoid wool directly against the skin and switch use soft vests and sleepsuits when layering up.

You can find our collection of breathable, UK-made baby outfits here.

4. Protect little cheeks from the elements
Before heading out, smooth a thin layer of natural barrier cream over exposed skin. It helps protect against windburn and moisture loss, keeping their skin calm and happy.

Recommended Natural Baby Products

We’ve chosen a few trusted partner products that work beautifully through the colder months:

• MooGoo Baby & Child 2-in-1 Bubbly Wash – Gentle, natural cleanser for bath time fun without irritation.

• MooGoo Soothing MSM Cream – A calming daily moisturiser packed with skin-loving ingredients.

• Matylda Baby Body Balm - A barrier and healing balm to tackle nappy rash or add extra moisture.
• Robertsons Skin repair ointment - The miracle cure we stumbled across when dealing with our sons severe eczema. 

Daily Skincare Habits to Keep Baby’s Skin Happy

• Keep rooms comfortably warm but not overheated (around 20°C).

• Run a humidifier if indoor air feels dry.

• Avoid heavily fragranced laundry detergents.

• Don’t over-bathe – two to three times a week is enough for little ones.

Consistency is key. A simple, gentle routine will help restore their natural moisture balance and keep skin baby-soft.

Shop Ethical Baby Essentials

Alongside natural skincare, clothing plays a big part in keeping babies comfortable. Our handmade, UK-made baby clothes are designed to be kind to skin, easy to wear, and built to last.

Explore:

• Newborn Babygrows

• Swaddle Blankets

• New Baby Gifts