Colin Snow
Deciding whether to let a newborn sleep with mittens on is a common dilemma for new parents. Some parents opt for mittens to prevent their baby from scratching their face, to keep their hands warm, or to protect them from harsh weather conditions. However, others worry about the potential risks of suffocation or choking associated with mittens, especially when the baby is swaddled. Pediatricians generally advise against constant mitten use to facilitate natural hand development and tactile sensitivity. Ultimately, the decision lies with the parents, who can choose to use mittens selectively during specific activities or times of the day, gradually transitioning away from them as the baby gains better control of their hand movements.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To prevent baby's nails from scratching their face and/or to keep their little hands warm |
| Pros | Can act as a mini shield, preventing unintentional baby scratches, provides warmth |
| Cons | May restrict hand movement and hinder sensory exploration, suffocation/choking hazard, may cause babies to feel uncomfortable or hot |
| Alternative | Using socks, swaddling, fold-over mitten jammies, sleep sacks, basinette |
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What You'll Learn
Scratching and protection
Newborns have sharp nails, and they might end up scratching themselves on the face. Mittens can act as a protective barrier, preventing these unintentional scratches. They can also protect the baby from harsh weather conditions and keep their hands warm. However, mittens with strings or tassels should be avoided as they pose a choking hazard.
Some parents prefer to use fold-over mitten jammies or sleep sacks instead of separate mittens, as they are less likely to come loose and pose a choking risk. Others opt for socks on their baby's hands, as they stay on better and seem warmer. Some parents also choose not to use any hand coverings at all, focusing instead on regularly trimming their baby's nails.
It is important to note that unrestricted hand movement is essential for a baby's development. Pediatricians generally advise against constant mitten use to allow babies to develop motor skills and tactile sensitivity naturally. Therefore, mittens should be used selectively during specific activities or times of the day, such as outdoor outings or during sleep in colder weather.
Additionally, babies use their hands to explore and interact with their environment, which is crucial for their sensory exploration and development. They also use their hands to feel and touch their parent's breasts during breastfeeding, stimulating milk flow and promoting oxytocin release. As such, constant mitten use may lead to missed early hunger cues.
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Temperature regulation
It is worth noting that a baby's hands being cold at night is quite normal due to their immature circulatory system, and it does not necessarily indicate that they are uncomfortable. In fact, a paediatrician has advised that the temperature of their hands and feet is not an accurate indication of their comfort, and it is better to feel the back of their neck to gauge this.
To prevent babies from removing their mittens and potentially creating a choking hazard, it is important to ensure that the elastic wristband is tight enough to keep the mittens in place. However, it should not be too tight as to make the baby uncomfortable.
Some sources suggest that mittens can hinder a baby's movement and development as they grow and become more curious about their surroundings. Therefore, it is recommended to remove the mittens after two weeks to allow the baby to touch, grasp, and explore their environment.
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Safety concerns
Safety is a key concern for new parents, and the question of whether newborns should wear mittens to sleep is a common one. While mittens can provide protection and warmth, there are several safety considerations to keep in mind.
One of the primary safety concerns is the potential risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Overheating is a known risk factor for SIDS, and mittens, especially if they are too tight or made of non-breathable material, can cause newborns to overheat. Additionally, mittens with strings or tassels can pose a strangulation or choking hazard, further increasing the risk of SIDS. As such, it is crucial to choose mittens that are safe and simple in design, without any strings or tassels that could pose a risk.
Another safety concern is the restriction of hand movement and sensory exploration. Pediatricians generally advise against constant mitten use as it can hinder the natural development of motor skills and tactile sensitivity. Babies use their hands to explore and learn about their environment, and mittens can limit their ability to do so. It is important to provide opportunities for unrestricted hand movement during supervised playtime to encourage healthy hand development and sensory perception.
Furthermore, mittens can also interfere with early hunger cues. Newborns may lick or suck on their hands as a way to communicate that they are hungry. If their hands are covered with mittens, caregivers may miss these important hunger cues, leading to potential feeding issues.
To ensure the safety and well-being of newborns, it is recommended to use mittens selectively during specific activities or times of the day, such as outdoor outings or particularly cold nights. Gradual transition away from mittens is also important, allowing babies to become accustomed to sleeping without them over time. By considering the environment, season, and the baby's activities, parents can make informed decisions about when and how long to use mittens, ensuring both comfort and safety for their little ones.
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Breastfeeding
The topic of whether or not newborns should sleep with mittens on is a divisive one among parents. Some parents choose to put mittens on their newborns to prevent their baby's nails from scratching their face or to keep their hands warm. Mittens can also help regulate the baby's temperature during sleep. However, others argue that mittens can restrict the baby's movement and hinder their development as they grow more curious and start to explore their surroundings. Additionally, mittens with decorations, strings, or loose threads can pose a choking hazard, and even plain mittens can increase the risk of SIDS if babies manage to remove them.
Finding a comfortable position for both you and your baby is important. Some common positions include the cradle hold, cross-cradle hold, football hold, and side-lying position. Experiment with different positions to see which ones work best for you and your baby.
Latching
Getting a good latch is crucial for effective breastfeeding. Make sure your baby's mouth covers as much of the areola as possible, not just the nipple. This will help prevent sore nipples and ensure your baby gets enough milk.
Demand Feeding vs. Scheduled Feeding
Demand feeding, also known as feeding on cue, involves offering the breast whenever your baby shows signs of hunger, such as sucking on their hands or rooting. Scheduled feeding, on the other hand, involves feeding your baby at regular intervals, typically every 2-3 hours. Some parents choose to combine both approaches, offering the breast on demand but also setting a minimum feeding schedule to ensure adequate milk intake.
Breast Milk Supply
It's normal for your milk supply to fluctuate, and it's usually regulated by your baby's demand. However, if you're concerned about low milk supply, there are some things you can do to increase it. Nursing more frequently, pumping after feedings, and eating lactation-boosting foods such as oats, fenugreek, and garlic can all help increase your milk supply.
Skin-to-Skin Contact
Skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care, is beneficial for both you and your baby. It helps regulate your baby's body temperature, heart rate, and breathing, and it can also improve your milk supply and promote bonding. Try to incorporate skin-to-skin contact as much as possible, especially in the early days and weeks after birth.
Breast Care and Nipple Care
Taking care of your breasts and nipples is important to prevent soreness and cracking. Lanolin cream or nipple balms can help soothe and protect the skin. Wearing loose-fitting clothing and using breast pads can also help keep the area dry and comfortable.
Remember, every baby is unique, and you will gradually learn what works best for you and your little one. Don't be afraid to reach out to healthcare professionals, lactation consultants, or support groups for guidance and support throughout your breastfeeding journey.
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Motor skills
The decision to let a newborn sleep with mittens on is a divisive topic among parents. Some sources recommend against it, citing the potential hindrance to a baby's motor skill development. The argument is that mittens restrict hand movement and limit the baby's ability to explore and interact with their surroundings through touch, which is crucial for their cognitive and physical development. This restriction can impact their ability to grasp objects and develop tactile sensitivity.
On the other hand, mittens offer protection to newborns by preventing them from accidentally scratching their delicate faces and eyes with their sharp fingernails. They also provide warmth and help regulate the baby's temperature during sleep. The National Sleep Foundation recommends that newborns wear soft mittens to sleep to prevent scratching their faces.
To balance protection and healthy hand development, some sources suggest alternatives to constant mitten use. For instance, swaddling is a safe sleep option recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, as it keeps the baby's hands covered. Another option is to dress the baby in a onesie with sleeves that extend to create pockets for the hands. Using a nail file instead of nail clippers can also help keep a newborn's nails short and less likely to cause scratches.
If parents choose to use mittens, it is recommended to opt for plain cloth mittens without decorations, strings, or loose threads to minimise choking hazards. Additionally, mittens should be tight enough to stay on but not too tight to cause discomfort. It is generally advised to transition away from mittens gradually, allowing the baby to explore their hands freely during supervised playtime and providing toys that encourage grasping and fine motor skill development.
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Frequently asked questions
Newborn mittens are generally safe for sleep, but there are some risks to be aware of. Mittens with strings or tassels can be a SIDS risk, and mittens may also cause babies to overheat or hinder their hand movement.
Newborns wear mittens to sleep to prevent scratches and to keep their hands warm.
Pediatricians recommend that newborns stop wearing mittens to sleep when they can demonstrate better control of their hand movements and can self-soothe without the risk of scratching themselves.
Some alternatives to newborn mittens include using socks, fold-over mitten sleepsuits, or swaddling.
To keep your newborn's hands warm without mittens, you can use a blanket or ensure they are sleeping in a warm environment.
