A cool October evening means you'll probably want to add a layer under your baby's Halloween costume — but stacking clothes on a baby who's already bundled into a costume is an easy way to overdo it. Here's how to layer smart without your baby overheating before you even leave the porch.
Start with one thin layer, not two
A single thin, breathable long-sleeve bodysuit underneath the costume is usually enough, even on a cold night. Babies overheat more easily than adults, and a bulky sweater plus a costume on top adds up fast once you're walking, in a stroller, or inside someone's warm house.
Check the neck and chest, not the hands
Baby's hands and feet naturally run cooler than the rest of their body, so they're not a reliable way to judge temperature. Slide a finger under the back of the costume at the neck or chest instead — warm and dry means comfortable, damp or hot means it's time to peel off a layer.
Skip the layer entirely for a costume that's already warm
Fleece-lined costumes, hooded rompers, and anything with long sleeves and full coverage often don't need anything extra underneath at all. Save the base layer for costumes that are lighter, short-sleeved, or made from thinner fabric.
Bring a layer instead of wearing one
If the weather might swing either way, bring a light jacket or blanket instead of dressing baby for the coldest possible moment. It's much easier to add warmth outside a decorated porch than to strip a costume off a fussy baby halfway through the block.
Watch for these overheating signs
Flushed cheeks, damp hair at the neckline, or a baby who suddenly seems fussier than usual are all signs to remove a layer or head indoors for a few minutes. A quick break rarely ruins the night, and it's a lot easier than dealing with an overheated, upset baby the rest of the evening.
Choosing a costume made from breathable organic cotton baby clothes as the base layer also helps regulate temperature better than synthetic fabric.