When it comes to dressing newborn babies, especially babies born prematurely, every detail matters. From soft fabrics to easy closures, parents and caregivers look for clothing that provides comfort, safety and practicality. One small but essential feature that can make a big difference is in-built mittens. These tiny hand coverings, integrated into the sleeves of baby clothing, offer numerous benefits for premature babies.
1. Protecting Delicate Skin from Scratches
Like all newborns, premmies often have long, delicate fingernails that can easily scratch their sensitive skin. Since they are too young to control their movements, they might accidentally scratch their face, leading to irritation or even minor injuries. In-built mittens help keep little hands covered and protected without the need for separate mitts, which can sometimes fall off or get lost.
2. Keeping Hands Warm
Premature babies have a harder time regulating their body temperature, making warmth a priority. In-built mittens help retain heat and keep little fingers warm, especially in cooler environments. Unlike separate mittens, which can slip off, integrated mittens stay securely in place, ensuring continuous warmth and comfort as needed for fragile newborns.
3. Supporting Skin-to-Skin Contact When Needed
While mittens are beneficial for warmth and protection, there are times when babies need skin-to-skin contact for bonding and sensory development. The great thing about in-built mittens is that they are usually designed to be foldable or adjustable, allowing parents to uncover their baby’s hands when needed. This flexibility makes them a practical choice for parents who want both protection and the option for hands-on interaction. All long sleeved Earlybirds garments feature in-built fold over mittens.
4. Reducing the Risk of Loose Items in the Cot
Loose mittens can pose a choking hazard if they accidentally come off and end up in a baby’s sleeping space. In-built mittens eliminate this risk by staying attached to the garment, giving parents peace of mind that their little one is safe and comfortable.
5. Convenience for Parents and Caregivers
Parents of premmies already have enough on their plates. In-built mittens remove the need to keep track of separate mittens, making dressing and undressing much easier. Whether during late-night nappy changes or quick outfit swaps, integrated mittens provide a hassle-free solution that saves time and effort.
Choosing Clothes with In-Built Mittens
When shopping for premature and small baby clothing, look for designs that feature in-built mittens. Soft, breathable fabrics like organic cotton ensure comfort, while a well thought out design with in-built mittens makes it easy to fold them on and off.
At Earlybirds, we understand the unique needs of premature and small babies, which is why our carefully designed clothing includes practical features like in-built mittens. Every tiny detail is crafted with love to ensure your little one stays safe, warm and comfortable whilst looking beautiful in 'regular' baby clothing.
Explore our collection today and discover the difference thoughtful design can make for your baby!
