How to dress your baby for rain
In the rain, add a raincoat and wellies over the usual layers for the temperature; in cold rain choose a waterproof padded coat.
Rain at different temperatures
5 °C
long-sleeve top, trousers, fleece, raincoat, bobble hat, mittens, winter boots
More: 5 °C10 °C
long-sleeve top, trousers, cardigan, raincoat, bobble hat, wellies
More: 10 °C15 °C
long-sleeve top, trousers, cardigan, raincoat, thin hat, wellies
More: 15 °C
Weather adjustments
How the outfit changes for a toddler (1–3 years).
Rain: raincoat and wellies
Add: raincoat, wellies
Take off: light jacket, trainers
Wind: scarf and a windproof jacket
Add: scarf
Strong sun: sun hat and sunglasses
Add: sunglasses
Put children’s sun cream on exposed skin
Active play: one layer lighter
Take off: cardigan
More details
In the rain two layers matter most: a waterproof top and shoes that cope with puddles. The rest follows the temperature.
Rain at 5 °C: long-sleeve top, trousers, fleece, raincoat, bobble hat, mittens, winter boots. At 10 °C in the rain a toddler can wear long-sleeve top, trousers, cardigan, raincoat, bobble hat, wellies. Rain at 15 °C: long-sleeve top, trousers, cardigan, raincoat, thin hat, wellies. If it rains near freezing, choose a warm waterproof coat and warm boots.
Several thin layers work better than one thick piece: they are easier to take off indoors or on the bus. A cotton base layer breathes well, while fleece keeps warm and stays light. Take a spare layer: the weather and your plans can change. Dress for the feels-like temperature: wind and humidity make the air feel colder. Indoors and in the car, remove the outer layer so your child does not overheat.
Once home, change out of wet clothes straight away. This is a guide, not medical advice.
Questions and answers
What if the rain is cold?
Pick a waterproof outer layer and warm shoes.
Should I bring an umbrella?
A hooded raincoat is easier for little ones.
Is this medical advice?
No. It is a clothing guide; watch how your child feels and follow your GP’s or health visitor’s advice.
Where can I get advice for my weather?
In the Layer app: it reads temperature, wind, humidity and UV and suggests layers by age.
What should my child wear today?
Layer suggests layers from the forecast for your town.
iPhone and Android
Not medical advice
