All parents should take note of this advice

Snowy and frosty conditions are set to hit Ireland over the coming days with Met Éireann predicting temperatures as low as -10.

We'll all be bundling up if we need to head outside, but parents are being reminded about the dangers of some winter clothes.

Did you know that some winter clothing items can actually put your baby at risk? Puffy jackets, snowsuits, and other bulky items of clothing might seem essential for keeping them warm, but they can interfere with the safety and effectiveness of a car seat harness. 

Graham Conway, Managing Director at Select Car Leasing, has compiled a list of winter clothing items you should never let your baby wear when travelling in a car seat. 

Puffy coats and snowsuits

Puffy clothing like coats and snowsuits adds bulk between your baby and the harness, creating a false sense of tightness. 

Whilst this may keep them toasty, if you were to crash, the padding would compress, leaving the straps too loose to restrain your baby effectively.

Instead, use thin layers and place a warm blanket over them once they’re securely strapped in.

Oversized hoodies or jackets

Similarly to puffy coats, oversized hoodies or jackets can create slack in the harness and can obstruct the proper fit. They can also shift if your baby fidgets and can cause discomfort.

As an alternative, use a fitted fleece jacket or jumper for warmth without bulk.

Thick knitted or heavy hats

Bulky hats can shift during travel, which can cover your baby’s face and potentially obstruct their airway. In addition to this hazard, they may also overheat your baby in a warm car.

When travelling, take off any thick or heavy hats. If you still want them to wear one, however, use a lightweight, snug-fitting hat for warmth.

Thick blankets worn under the harness

Placing thick blankets or buntings under the harness can interfere with proper strap placement and tension, similarly with big coats or jumpers. Whilst it may keep them warm, it isn’t worth jeopardising their safety.

To keep them warm, secure your baby in the harness first, then layer a blanket over the straps instead.

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