MIMOU babywear

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 twoA 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.Halloween Skull & Pumpkin Print Romper & Headband Set — a thin long-sleeve layer underneath is plenty for most costumes.Check the neck and chest, not the handsBaby'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 warmFleece-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.Ghost Footprint Halloween Romper & Bow Headband Set — checking the neck for warmth is the most reliable overheating check.Bring a layer instead of wearing oneIf 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 signsFlushed 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.

A simple, season-by-season guide to your newborn's going-home outfit — safe car-seat layers, what to pack, and the softest first pieces.