British weather is famously unpredictable, with sudden rain showers, gusty winds, and occasional sunny spells all in one day. This can make dressing your baby for family outings in their iCandy pram or pushchair a bit of a challenge. Ensuring your little one is comfortable, safe, and appropriately dressed for the weather is key. Here’s a helpful guide on how to dress your baby throughout the year.
- Firstly, it’s vital that you do not cover your babies’ pushchair, pram or travel system with a blanket, cloth or any cover that prevents the air circulating. As advised by The Lullaby Trust - “Covering a pram or buggy with a blanket could lead to overheating, which increases the chance of SIDS. Using a cover also creates a barrier between parent and baby, which is risky as parents won’t be able to see if their baby is having difficulties or monitor their temperature easily. We recommend attaching a clip-on sunshade or parasol to a pram or buggy and checking if baby is getting too hot by feeling their chest or the back of their neck. Keep babies out of direct sunlight as much as possible.”
Spring (March, April, May)
Typical Weather in the UK
Spring in the UK is a season of transition, marked by blooming flowers and increasing daylight. The weather can vary significantly, with occasional warm days interspersed with cooler, rainy periods.
Typical Temperatures in the UK
Temperatures during spring can range from 7°C to 15°C (45°F to 59°F). However, it’s not uncommon to experience occasional cold snaps or unexpected warmth.
Life with a Baby in Spring: Spring is a wonderful time to take your baby out for walks and enjoy the daffodils and tulips. The days start to get warmer, the evening lighter, making it more pleasant to spend time outdoors.
How to Dress Baby for Going Out
Layering is key in spring. Start with a soft cotton bodysuit or vest as a base layer. Add a lightweight jumper or cardigan, and top with a jacket that can easily be removed if the day warms up. Don’t forget a hat to protect baby from both sun and wind.
Do You Need a Pramsuit?
In early spring, a pramsuit can be useful, especially if the weather is still quite chilly. As temperatures rise, a lighter blanket or luxury iCandy Footmuff & Liner can replace the pramsuit.
It is important to remember that every baby is different, and it is vital to regularly check the temperature of your baby by feeling the back of their neck/chest. If they feel hot, clammy or sweaty remove several layers to help them cool down.
What We Do: Rosie Salliss
“In spring, I dress my baby in a long-sleeve vest, a fleece jumper, and a light waterproof jacket. I always carry an extra blanket in the pram just in case it gets cooler.” - Rosie Salliss.
Summer (June, July, August)
Typical Weather in the UK
Summer in the UK can bring warm, sunny days, but also cooler spells and rain showers. It’s essential to be prepared for both.
Typical Temperatures in the UK
Summer temperatures generally range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), but heatwaves can push temperatures higher.
Life with a Baby in Summer: Summer is perfect for beach trips, park outings, and lots of outdoor play. The extended daylight hours mean more time to enjoy the sunshine.
How to Dress Baby for Going Out
Light, breathable fabrics are best for summer. Dress your baby in a short-sleeve bodysuit or romper. A wide-brimmed hat and lightweight blanket or an iCandy Parasol for shade are essential, along with sun protection cream suitable for babies. If you’re ever unsure, refer to The Lullaby Trust for further information and guidance.
Do You Need a Pramsuit?
Pramsuits are generally not needed in summer. Opt for lighter blankets or footmuffs for cooler evenings.
It is important to remember that every baby is different, and it is vital to regularly check the temperature of your baby by feeling the back of their neck/chest. If they feel hot, clammy or sweaty remove several layers to help them cool down.
What We Do: Kameron Shah
“I dress my baby in a cotton romper and always have a muslin cloth handy in case of a cooler breeze. We use a pram fan for our iCandy Peach 7 with the included parasol on really hot days to keep her cool.” - Kameron Shah.
Autumn (September, October, November)
Typical Weather in the UK
Autumn sees a gradual cooling with shorter days and more frequent rain. The crisp air and colourful foliage make for beautiful walks.
Typical Temperatures in the UK
Temperatures range from 7°C to 18°C (45°F to 64°F), gradually cooling as the season progresses.
Life with a Baby in Autumn: Autumn walks are delightful with the changing and falling leaves, but it’s important to be prepared for sudden weather changes.
How to Dress Baby for Going Out
Layering remains important. A bodysuit, long-sleeve top, and warmer jacket are ideal. Don’t forget a hat and mittens for cooler days.
It is important to remember that every baby is different, and it is vital to regularly check the temperature of your baby by feeling the back of their neck/chest. If they feel hot, clammy or sweaty remove several layers to help them cool down.
Do You Need a Pramsuit?
As temperatures drop, a pramsuit becomes more useful. It keeps your baby warm and snug during outings.
What We Do: Izzy Godson
“In autumn, I dress my baby in layers and use a pramsuit when it gets colder. An iCandy raincover for the pram is a must-have too!” - Izzy Godson.
Winter (December, January, February)
Typical Weather in the UK
Winter brings cold, frosty mornings and potential snowfall. It can be challenging to go out, but it’s important to get fresh air when possible.
Typical Temperatures in the UK
Winter temperatures usually range from 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F), with occasional dips below freezing.
Life with a Baby in Winter: Winter outings require more preparation, but they are vital for both parents and babies to get fresh air and avoid cabin fever.
How to Dress Baby for Going Out
Bundle your baby in multiple thin layers: for example a bodysuit, a warm sweater, and a thick coat. Add a pramsuit or snowsuit for extra warmth. Hats, mittens, and a sumptuous iCandy Footmuff & Liner or blanket are essential to keep your baby cosy.
Please note it is vitally important to remember to remove any bulky outer layers, hats and any outdoor clothing before strapping baby into their infant carrier/child car safety seat or when baby is indoors, even in a pram.
Do You Need a Pramsuit?
Definitely! A pramsuit or snowsuit is crucial for keeping your baby warm during winter outings.
It is important to remember that every baby is different, and it is vital to regularly check the temperature of your baby by feeling the back of their neck/chest. If they feel hot, clammy or sweaty remove several layers to help them cool down.
What We Do: Sebastian Campbell and Anna Stammers.
“In winter, we use a thermal bodysuit, a fleece-lined pramsuit, and a thick blanket. We also have a weatherproof iCandy raincover for our iCandy Core pram to shield against wind and rain.” - Sebastian Campbell and Anna Stammers.
Navigating the unpredictable British weather requires some preparation, but with the right clothing and accessories, your baby can enjoy outdoor adventures year-round. Happy strolling!