You go to a baby store looking for the ideal bedding. There are so many cute designs on offer that it’s tough to choose. But when you’re buying a baby blanket this winter, remember it’s primary purpose – to keep your baby warm and secure.

Dr Shakuntala Lavasa,  paediatrician and allergy specialist from Chandigarh, advises you to choose a blanket that is not only lightweight but will also be able to keep your baby sufficiently warm and free from allergies...

Checklist

* The size must be appropriate (should not be so big or heavy that there’s a risk of smothering your baby)

* The material has to be non-toxic as babies have oral tendencies and if there’s a blanket in the vicinity they will automatically chew on it. It’s part of your baby’s normal brain development to explore everything by putting it into his mouth.

* Even if for external appearance the blanket is  synthetic, the inner lining should be cotton to prevent your baby from contracting contact dermatitis.

* It should be washable so that it can be kept clean even if your baby soils it.

* Make sure that the blanket doesn’t emit too many fibres in the atmosphere, since micro fibres can go into your baby’s respiratory passage and cause respiratory allergy.

Words Poornima Nair
Visuals Binisha Mehta