Summer brings warmth and sunshine, but for new parents, it also introduces challenges in keeping their babies cool and safe. Here are 10 essential tips to help you navigate the warmer months with ease.
1. Shade is your best friend
Always seek shade when you’re outside with your little ones. Use a stroller with a large canopy or a pram shade to protect your baby from direct sunlight. On particularly sunny days, lay your baby facing you. This allows you to monitor and ensure they are not looking directly into the sun or becoming uncomfortable and fussy.
2. Dress your baby appropriately
Choose loose, lightweight, and not too many layers of breathable fabrics to keep your baby cool. Natural fibers like cotton and linen are ideal as they enhance air circulation and retain heat less. Keep in mind that healthy babies typically regulate their body temperature more effectively than adults, which means they are less likely to have cold feet or feel overly cold than adults.
3. Hydrate regularly
Keep your baby hydrated by offering regular milk feedings or water (depending on the age), especially if you are breastfeeding, as babies get most of their water from milk. Have extra breast milk on hand: By using our Yummy Tray to freeze in convenient 30 ml portions and our award winning Yummy Bag to take those milk portions with you and defrost.
4. Use a fine mist spray water bottle
For older babies, a fine mist spray water bottle can be a lifesaver. Spritzing water is particularly useful during outings! This mimics the effect of sweat by creating a fine layer of moisture on the skin, which helps cool the body without causing your baby to lose any liquids.
5. Take a lukewarm bath regularly
If your baby feels hot, sponge them regularly with lukewarm water or give them a gentle bath to help regulate their body temperature. Be mindful with very small babies to gently stretch their arms and legs during the process to ensure that moisture does not accumulate in the skin folds.
6. Breastfeeding positions
Try alternative breastfeeding positions that reduce body contact, like the football hold or side-lying position, to prevent both you and your baby from overheating during feedings. When breastfeeding outdoors, use our breathable Nursing Cocoon. This ensures your baby is protected from direct sunlight, and also prevents having to look uncomfortably into the sun while feeding.
7. Check your baby regularly for “heat exhaustion”
Watch for signs of heat stress such as red cheeks, restlessness, and rapid breathing. Keep your pediatrician’s number handy in case you notice any troubling symptoms, when in doubt always call!
8. Car safety
We can not talk about this often enough: never, ever leave your baby alone in a car, not even for a minute! Cars can heat up to dangerous temperatures very quickly, causing serious risks.
9. Sun protection
Apply baby-safe sunscreen to parts of your baby’s skin that may get exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, shoulders and hands, and use a hat with a wide brim.
10. Nighttime cool down
Ensure your baby’s sleeping environment is cool. Use fans or air conditioning during the day to cool down the room before your baby goes to sleep.
Following these tips can help ensure that your baby remains comfortable, hydrated, and safe during the summer months. Always adapt based on your baby’s needs and environmental conditions, and enjoy a safe and pleasant summer with your little ones!
Lots of love,
Sarah
