Fleece for kids – how to use it right all year round

As a parent, it can be hard to know when to bring out the fleece. Is it cold enough? Is it too warm for active play? Here's a simple guide to fleece for kids, so you always make the right choice.

When should kids wear fleece?

Fleece is for temperatures between approx. 5 and 15 degrees. But the right answer always depends on what the child is wearing underneath and how active they are. A child running around the playground needs less warmth than a child sitting still in a pushchair.

The great thing about fleece is that it's soft, light and breathable. That means it works well both for a calm stroll in the pram and an active day at nursery. But always remember to add waterproof outerwear on top if rain is in the air.

 

Quick guide to when to bring out the fleece

Temperature	Weather	What your child should wear
Below 5°C	Frost and cold	Snowsuit or winter outerwear
5 to 15°C	Cool and mild	Fleece, thermo wear or softshell and rainwear
Above 15°C	Warm	Lightweight jacket or overshirt

 

Fleece for nursery and kindergarten

Fleece is an obvious choice for nursery. It's easy to take on and off, can handle busy everyday life and can be washed again and again without losing its shape. Because fleece is breathable, children don't get too warm, even when play gets intense.

For nursery use, we recommend looking for:

• A full-length zip, so the child can change themselves

• Elastic at the waist and sleeves, so the fleece stays in place and doesn't ride up

• Durable material that can handle frequent washing at 40 degrees

• A space for a name label inside

 

Fleece as a mid-layer: how to use it correctly

Think of fleece as your child's warmest layer, not the outermost one. The principle is simple: fleece underneath and rainwear on top. The fleece traps body heat, while the rainwear keeps wind and water out. It's this combination that keeps kids warm and dry, even on grey and windy days.

Under the fleece, it's a good idea to add a thin base layer or bodysuit in wool or synthetic material. Avoid cotton, as it absorbs moisture and creates a cold, clammy layer against the skin.

Layering also gives you good flexibility during the day. If it gets warmer, you can take a layer off. If it gets colder, you can add more.

 

How to wash and care for fleece

Fortunately, fleece is easy to care for. Follow these steps to preserve its softness and shape:

 

1. Turn the fleece inside out before washing. This protects the material and prevents pilling.

2. Wash at 40 degrees on a gentle programme.

3. Avoid fabric softener. It breaks down the fleece fibres and makes the material less soft over time.

4. Dry the fleece on low heat or let it air dry. High heat can shrink the material.

5. Do not tumble dry on high heat.

 

Has your fleece started to pill? Use a lint remover carefully on the inside to remove the pills without damaging the material.

 

Is fleece waterproof?

No. Fleece is designed to insulate and retain warmth, not to keep rain out. So even if your child is warmly dressed, they always need waterproof outerwear on top when it rains or snows. It's the outer layer that does the work against the weather.

 

When is it too warm for fleece?

When the temperature creeps above 15°C, fleece can quickly become too much for active play. Here, a lightweight jacket or a pullover is a good alternative. It retains a little extra warmth without your child ending up with red cheeks and sweaty hair.

 

Find the right fleece for your child

At Wheat, you'll find fleece for kids from 0 to 12 years, designed for everyday use with a focus on softness, comfort and durability. See our selection and find the right size for your child.

 

Frequently asked questions about fleece

When should kids wear fleece?

Fleece is recommended at temperatures between approx. 5 and 15 degrees. The more active the child, the less warmth they need. Always remember waterproof outerwear on top in the rain.

 

Is fleece waterproof?

No. Fleece insulates and retains warmth but is not waterproof. Always add waterproof outerwear on top in rain or snow.

 

Can fleece be used as the outer layer?

Only in dry weather and at mild temperatures. In wind and rain, there should always be a waterproof layer on top.

 

What's the difference between fleece and thermo wear?

Fleece is softer and lighter than thermo wear and is typically used in milder weather. Thermo wear is warmer and more robust and better suited to the cold months. Both work as a mid-layer under rainwear.

 

What's the difference between fleece and softshell?

Fleece insulates and works as a mid-layer. Softshell protects against wind and light rain and can be used as the outer layer in dry weather. The two can be combined with fleece underneath and softshell on top.

 

Can Wheat's fleece be machine washed?

Yes. Wash at 40 degrees on a gentle programme. Turn inside out, avoid fabric softener and do not tumble dry on high heat.

 

What is Wheat's return policy?

Wheat offers a 30-day full right of return on items bought in the webshop. The return period starts on the day you receive the item. You pay the return shipping yourself, which is deducted from your refund. Create your return via the returns portal. Please note that the right of withdrawal lapses if the item has been used or damaged. Items bought from retailers must be returned to the retailer.

 

Does Wheat offer exchanges?

Wheat does not offer exchanges. If you would like a different item, please place a new order. Read all terms and conditions here.