Is Your Home Heater Harming Your Baby? Winter Air Risks Parents Often Miss

When winter temperatures drop, home heaters quickly become a staple in households with infants. They promise warmth and comfort, but few parents realise that heated indoor air can quietly affect a baby’s health if not used thoughtfully.According to Chandra Shekhar, Founder of CuteStory, the biggest concern begins with moisture loss. “Heating indoors drastically lowers the humidity level; thus, the air becomes dry.” For babies, this dryness doesn’t just feel uncomfortable, it shows up on their skin. “For infants, this may lead to symptoms such as dry and itchy skin, rash, and even the exacerbation of certain skin conditions like eczema.” Because babies’ skin barriers are thinner than those of adults, they lose moisture faster and react more intensely

to dry air.

Dry indoor heat doesn’t stop at skin issues. Shekhar explains that “dry air may also cause irritation of the nasal passages, thus, stuffy nose, sleep disorder, and increased chances of catching a cold.” Many parents mistake these symptoms for seasonal illness, without realising the indoor environment could be contributing.Overheating is another winter risk that often goes unnoticed. “Excessive heat may cause sweating, skin irritations, and unpleasantness in general, so the probability of dehydration will be increased as well.” Maintaining balance is key. Shekhar notes that keeping room temperature, ideally between 20–22°C, and using a humidifier can help restore comfort and safety.Paediatrician Dr. Vikash Kumar Agrawal adds that while heaters aren’t inherently dangerous, misuse can be harmful. “A room heater reduces humidity, and dry air can irritate a baby’s nose, throat, and lungs, causing cough, congestion, or nosebleeds.” He also warns that “too much heat increases the risk of dehydration and fever.”More serious hazards exist too. “Oxygen depletion can cause breathing problems in babies. Hot surfaces of the heater can cause burn injury to the kids.” To reduce risks, Dr. Agrawal advises safer practices: “We should preferably use oil heaters and room temperature should be kept around 22 to 24 degrees Celsius.” Ventilation matters, and the heater should be placed at a distance from the baby's bed.

Night-time heating deserves special caution. “Never leave the heater on all night and turn the heater off once room is warm.” Parents should also avoid heavy layering, “baby should not be heavily covered.” A simple check helps: You can check baby’s neck for sweating and other signs of overheating. To maintain moisture, parents can use a humidifier or water bowl.Winter warmth is essential, but when it comes to babies, gentle heat, balanced humidity, and mindful habits make all the difference.