Babies do not always need to wear mittens, but they may be necessary depending on the season, environment, and the baby's activities.
When Are Mittens Necessary for Babies?
Based on expert insights, there are specific situations where putting mittens on a baby's hands is beneficial or necessary. The primary reasons revolve around protection and comfort in certain conditions.
Protecting Against Cold
As highlighted by the reference, mittens are particularly important in colder settings.
- Cold Climates or Winter Months: Mittens are often essential during these times to keep a newborn's hands warm and protected from harsh weather conditions.
- Drafty Environments: Even indoors, if the environment is particularly cold or drafty, mittens can help maintain a baby's body temperature.
Preventing Scratches
Another common reason parents use baby mittens (often called "scratch mittens") is to prevent newborns from accidentally scratching their faces with their sharp, tiny fingernails. While this is a common practice, ensure mittens don't hinder hand development or exploration when not necessary for warmth or safety.
Other Considerations
- Activity: Consider what the baby is doing. Outdoors in cold weather requires protection, while indoor playtime might not.
- Individual Baby: Some babies might have colder extremities than others.
Ultimately, the decision to use mittens should be based on the immediate environment and the specific needs of the baby at that moment, prioritizing warmth in cold conditions and sometimes used to prevent scratching, especially in newborns.
