As new parents, there are probably a million questions running through your head. Do newborns need hats? Is my baby too cold? Too warm? And do these tiny hats actually do anything? Let’s unravel this mystery, dad-style.

When Can Newborn Babies Start Wearing Hats?

Babies can wear hats from day one! But whether they should is a whole other debate. Newborns’ heads are delicate and need care. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, newborns can lose body heat through their heads faster than adults.

So a hat can help them stay warm in chilly environments, like in a drafty hospital room or during those first trips home.

However, once your baby is settled in a controlled environment at home, like a cozy room at the right room temperature (68-72°F), they might not need a hat 24/7. Mother Nature designed newborns to adapt pretty well to their surroundings—with a little help from us, of course.

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What Hat Is Best for a Newborn Baby?

Not all hats are created equal, especially for those tiny noggins. For newborns, it’s best to choose hats made of natural fabric like soft cotton or merino wool. These materials are gentle on your baby’s delicate skin, breathable, and help regulate temperature.

Avoid hats with tight elastic bands or scratchy seams. A good rule of thumb is to try the hat on yourself. If it’s comfortable for you, it’s probably good for your baby too. Newborn hats with a snug but not tight fit are your best bet.

What Types of Hats Can Babies Wear?

Babies have hat options, believe it or not! Here’s a quick rundown:

1. Cotton Hats: Great for mild weather or indoor use. They’re lightweight and breathable.
2. Baby Sun Hats: Wide-brimmed hats protect your little one from direct sunlight during outdoor adventures.
3. Merino Wool Hats: Perfect for cold weather, as they provide warmth without overheating.
4. Knotted Beanies: These are adjustable and cute for everyday use.
5. Chin Strap Hats: Ideal for wiggly babies who like to toss hats off faster than you can say “peek-a-boo.”

The type of hat you choose depends on the weather and your baby’s needs. Just remember, hats are an accessory, not a permanent fixture.

GET A GREAT SELECTION OF NEWBORN HATS AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN HERE!

Can a Baby Wear a Hat When Asleep?

Nope, baby hats shouldn’t be worn while sleeping. While hats are great for keeping your baby warm during the day, they’re a no-go at night.

According to safety experts’ new recommendations and safe sleep guidelines, loose items like hats or infant sleep products with head coverings can increase the risk of SIDS-Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

The best way to keep your baby cozy at night is with a sleep sack, lightweight blanket, or similar products designed for safe sleep. These keep your baby warm without covering their face or head. Let your baby’s head breathe while they’re snoozing—it’s how they naturally regulate their temperature. 

Related Article!

8-month-old Baby Sleep Schedule: Nap and Bedtime Tips

Do Newborns Need Hats For Sun Protection?

Absolutely! A baby sun hat is a must-have for outdoor trips. Babies’ delicate skin is extra sensitive to the sun’s rays, and their heads need protection. Look for hats with a wide brim that shades their face, ears, and neck. Bonus points if the hat has a chin strap to keep it in place.

Pair the hat with other sun-safe measures like lightweight, long-sleeved clothing and a shady stroller or seat backs. Keep your little one out of the sun’s harmful rays whenever possible, especially during peak sun hours.

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Five Tips to Keep a Hat on a Baby

Let’s face it—babies are professional hat tossers. Here are some dad-tested tricks to keep that hat on:

1. Choose a Hat with a Chin Strap: These are harder to pull off and stay snug.
2. Make It Fun: Distract your baby with toys or games while putting on the hat.
3. Model It: Wear a hat yourself. Babies love to mimic what they see.
4. Go for Comfort: Ensure the hat isn’t too tight or itchy. Uncomfortable hats are the first to go.
5. Use Distractions: If all else fails, try putting the hat on during feeding or playtime when your baby’s attention is elsewhere.

Do Newborns need Hats During Winter?

Winter’s chill can be tricky. Here’s how to know if your baby needs a hat:

1. Feel Their Skin: If your baby’s head, hands, or feet feel cold, they might need an extra layer.
2. Check the Weather: In cold weather, a hat is usually necessary, especially if you’re outdoors.
3. Monitor Baby’s Temperature: Keep an eye out for shivering or a red, cold nose—signs your baby needs warming up.

Remember, babies lose a lot of heat loss through their heads, so a snug hat can help in the colder months. Just don’t overdo it; overheating is also a concern.

basics cap / ivory – $5.00
from: FINN + EMMA, LLC

Keeping Infants Warm in Winter: Best Practices

Winter can be magical, but keeping your infant cozy during the chilly months is essential. Babies lose heat faster than adults, so bundling them up the right way is crucial.

1. Dress in Layers
Think of your baby’s clothing like an onion—layers are your best friend. A good rule of thumb is to dress your infant in one more layer than you’re wearing. Start with a snug onesie, add a cozy sweater or jumper, and finish with a warm jacket.

Don’t forget essentials like hats, mittens, and socks to keep extremities toasty. +They surely don’t smell like onions with their awesome newborn baby smell+

short sleeve pajama set / wild child pinstripes – $38.00
from: FINN + EMMA, LLC

2. Be Mindful of Temperature Changes
Winter often means transitioning between heated indoors and frosty outdoors. Make sure your baby doesn’t overheat once you’re inside by removing outer layers like heavy jackets. Overheating can be just as uncomfortable—and dangerous—as being too cold.

Check your baby’s neck or tummy to ensure they’re warm but not sweaty.

balance board rocker – 2nds
from: FINN + EMMA, LLC

3. Use Safe, Warm Bedding
For naps and nighttime, avoid heavy blankets. Opt for a wearable sleep sack or swaddle to keep your sleeping infant snug without risking suffocation.

By layering wisely and staying alert to changes in temperature, you’ll keep your little one warm, safe, and ready to enjoy their first snowy adventures!

How to Choose a Baby Hat and Safety Tips

Here’s the cheat sheet for picking the perfect baby hat:

1. Material Matters: Go for natural fabrics like cotton or merino wool.
2. Perfect Fit: The hat should be snug but not tight.
3. No Strings Attached: Avoid hats with long strings that can pose a strangulation risk.
4. Chin Straps Are Handy: Opt for hats with a soft, secure strap to keep them in place.
5. Seasonally Appropriate: Choose lightweight hats for summer and insulated ones for winter.

Safety Tip: Always remove hats indoors if the room temperature is warm. Overheating can be as big of a problem as being too cold. As mentioned above always abstain from the use of hats during sleep to reduce the risk of suffocation. 

Reasons to Avoid Putting a Hat on Your Baby

While hats can be beneficial, there are times when skipping the hat is the better choice. Here are some reasons to avoid putting a hat on your baby:

1. Overheating Risk: Babies regulate their temperature through their heads. Covering their heads when it’s warm weather or indoors can bring on the risk of overheating, which is uncomfortable and potentially dangerous.
2. Sleep Safety Concerns: Hats can slip down over your baby’s face while sleeping, increasing the risk of SIDS. This is why it’s crucial to keep babies’ heads uncovered during sleep.
3. Skin Irritation: Some materials or tight hats can cause irritation or even rashes on a baby’s sensitive scalp.
4. Unnecessary Indoors: If the room temperature is comfortable and stable, your baby’s head doesn’t need extra covering. Their natural ability to regulate body heat is usually enough.
5. Development of Dependency: Constant use of hats might make parents overly reliant on them, ignoring other ways to ensure the baby’s comfort, like appropriate layering.

Be mindful of your baby’s cues and the environment. Sometimes, less is more!

Last Words: Do Newborns need Hats

So, do Newborns need hats? In short, yes—but only when it makes sense. Hats can help keep your baby warm, protect their delicate skin from the sun, and look downright adorable in those Instagram photos.

Just remember to follow safety guidelines and use your dad instincts. Whether it’s a cute cotton beanie or a floppy sun hat, pick the right hat for the occasion and keep your little one comfy and safe. Now, go rock that dad life with confidence!