How cold is *too* cold for a baby to go outside?

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Table of Contents
- How to dress a baby for cold weather
- What temperature is too cold for a baby to go outside?
- How long can a baby stay outside in cold weather?
- Signs your baby is too cold
- Additional winter safety tips for parents
- A note from Motherly
- FAQs
- Wondering how to dress your baby for cold weather? Here's what you need.
As the days get shorter, in addition to facing freezing temperatures, parents have the extra challenge of coming up with winter activities for their kids—and themselves—during these long, dark, cold months.
Heading outside is such an amazing activity for everyone from newborns through adults—but what about when it’s absolutely freezing? How cold is too cold for a baby outside? What are the safe winter temperatures for infants? What should a baby wear in the winter?And can you safely take your sweet little bundle outdoors?
The answer is: Maybe.
Children, especially babies, are more sensitive to temperature changes than adults. “Because they are less able to regulate their body temperature than adults, children can quickly develop a dangerously low body temperature [i.e., become hypothermic]. Newborn infants are prone to hypothermia [defined as a body temperature of below 95º F], because of their large body surface area, small amount of subcutaneous fat, and decreased ability to shiver,” says The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
You’re not overreacting by being nervous about taking your infant outside in freezing temps. The good news? There are ways to do it safely.
Related: Is it the flu, RSV, a cold, allergies or Covid?
How to dress a baby for cold weather
To keep warm in the winter, layers are the key—for both babies and adults. But it’s very important not to overheat your baby by putting on too many layers—since overheating is dangerous for babies, too.
Winter safety tips
The general rule of thumb is that your baby should be dressed in one more layer than you feel comfortable in. If you are happy with one long-sleeve shirt, your baby should probably have a long-sleeve onesie, plus another shirt or light jacket on top.
If you’re going for a stroller walk, dress baby warmly, then add a blanket or stroller cozy to keep them all snuggled up.
Related: The best winter gear for kids: 9 must-haves from our editor who lives in Alaska
When playing outside, in addition to a winter coat and warm pants or snow pants, don’t forget a hat and mittens. The most vulnerable parts of a little body are the extremities, like their chin, nose, ears, fingers and toes.
Remember, car seat safety is of utmost importance, even as you try to keep baby warm. Babies should not wear a winter coat, very thick clothing or blankets under the straps of their car seats—the straps will not cinch tightly enough around the baby if they do, which is unsafe in a crash.
What temperature is too cold for a baby to go outside?
Above freezing: Extreme cold can be dangerous for babies when temperatures drop below freezing (32º F). Many parents wonder, “How cold is too cold for a baby?” The American Academy of Pediatrics advises that newborns and infants are more sensitive to temperature changes and may not tolerate extreme cold well.Y ou can still go outside, but it should not be for very long.
Safe outdoor temperatures by age and condition
Well-below freezing: Once temperatures start to drop below 20º F, it’s best to stay inside if you can. Be sure to factor in wind chill when you’re checking the weather—the wind can feel much, much colder, especially on sensitive baby skin.
Indoors: When you’re inside, the ideal temperature for your thermostat to be set at is 68º to 72º. Remember that baby blankets, although super cute for snuggling baby in our arms, are not safe for the crib as they pose a risk for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). If you’re concerned about baby being cold at night, we recommend sleep sacks.
Related: How to help your congested baby breathe (and sleep) easier this winter
How long can a baby stay outside in cold weather?
Once you know it’s safe to step outside, the next question is how long to stay out. Experts say it depends on your baby’s age and the temperature:
- Newborns (under 2 months): Limit outdoor exposure to 10–15 minutes in mild winter weather, and skip outdoor play entirely when it’s below freezing.
- Infants (2–12 months): Can usually tolerate 20–30 minutes of outdoor time in above-freezing temperatures, as long as they’re properly bundled and dry.
- Toddlers (1–3 years): Can stay out longer (up to 45 minutes) with warm layers and active movement, but watch for signs of cold skin or fussiness.
Always factor in wind chill, humidity, and dampness—wet or windy conditions make cold air more dangerous for babies.
Pro tip: If baby’s nose, ears, or hands feel cold to the touch, it’s time to head back indoors.
Signs your baby is too cold
Keep a close eye on your baby (we know you always do) when you’re playing outside. According to the Mayo Clinic, if you see any of these symptoms develop, give your pediatrician a call right away (or just call 911):
Symptoms of hypothermia in infants and children
- Shivering (note, young babies don’t shiver!)
- Slurred speech
- Slow, shallow breathing
- Weak pulse
- Clumsiness
- Sleepy or very low energy
- Confusion or memory loss
- Loss of consciousness
- Bright red, cold skin (in babies)
Related: What should your baby wear today? Use this temperature guide to decide
Symptoms of frostbite in infants and children
- Cold skin
- Prickly, pins-and-needle feeling
- Numbness
- Red, white, bluish-white or grayish-yellow skin
- Hard or waxy skin
- Clumsiness and stiffness
- Blistering
Additional winter safety tips for parents
- Have an emergency kit in your car in case you break down. Edmunds has a great emergency kit list of things like blankets, flashlights, granola bars and bottled water. You’ll also want to make sure your gas tank is near full and the car’s maintenance is up to date to avoid issues.
- Consider pre-warming your car, but NEVER in a garage—even an open one.
- Protect everyone’s skin with baby-safe lotion or balms.
- Consider using a cool-mist humidifier to keep baby’s air moist at night.
Related: 8 must-have products to help mamas & babies survive the winter
A note from Motherly
You can certainly still take baby outside, it’s just safest to stay aware of the temperature. Dress babies in layers, follow safe carseat guidelines, and watch closely for any signs that baby is too cold. Don’t stay out for too long, and if it’s less than 20º F, avoid going outside at all (a quick walk to a preheated car is OK).
Hang in there. You’re not doing it wrong—this season can be hard. Go into hibernation mode, focus on some real self-care and snuggles, and before you know it, the flowers will be in bloom and you’ll be spending every waking second outside.
Related: 11 must-have products for babies and toddlers during cold & flu season
FAQs
1. What temperature is unsafe for a baby to go outside?
Generally, it’s best to stay indoors when it’s below 20°F (-6°C), especially with wind chill. Babies lose heat faster than adults and can’t regulate temperature well.
2. How long can a baby be outside in cold weather?
Limit outdoor time to 10–30 minutes depending on age and temperature. If your baby’s nose, ears, or hands feel cold, it’s time to head inside.
3. How should I dress my baby for cold weather?
Dress your baby in one more layer than you’re wearing, including a hat, mittens, and warm booties. Add a blanket or stroller cover if you’ll be outside for longer periods.
4. Can cold weather make a baby sick?
Cold air alone doesn’t cause illness, but exposure can weaken your baby’s immune defenses. Keep them warm, dry, and limit time in extreme temperatures.
Wondering how to dress your baby for cold weather? Here's what you need.
A version of this article was originally published November 12, 2019. It has been updated.



























































































