How to Beat the Heat with Baby

Unlike adults, babies haven't yet mastered the art of regulating their body temperature, making them vulnerable to overheating. As parents, it's your job to be their personal thermostat, constantly monitoring and adjusting to ensure they're neither too hot nor too cold! 

In this article, we'll explore practical tips and strategies to help you and your baby beat the heat and make the most of the summer months. 

Let's dive in!

How to Tell If Baby Is Too Hot? 

If you notice your baby sweating, with clammy skin or damp hair, it's a clear indicator they're too warm. Keep an eye out for rapid breathing or flushed cheeks too. A sluggish or unresponsive baby could also be struggling with the heat. 

A normal body temperature for babies ranges from 98 to 100.3°F. If your little one's temperature creeps above this, it could be a sign of overheating or even a need for medical attention. At nighttime, aim to keep the room temperature comfortable, between 68 to 72°F.

Sunscreen 

While it's crucial to protect your baby's delicate skin from the sun's harmful rays, experts recommend waiting until your baby is at least six months old before applying sunscreen.  

For babies younger than 6 months, the best protection is to keep them out of direct sunlight altogether. Use shade, protective clothing, and hats to shield their sensitive skin. But once they hit that six-month mark, sunscreen is essential! 

UV rays can cause sunburns, contribute to premature aging, and even increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. By applying sunscreen regularly, you're providing a protective shield that allows your curious little explorer to safely experience the great outdoors. 

Sunscreen isn't a one-and-done solution, though. You'll need to reapply throughout the day, especially after water play or excessive sweating. Don't be fooled by claims of "waterproof" or "sweatproof" sunscreens — these terms are actually banned on SPF products in many countries because they can be misleading. A good rule of thumb is to reapply every two hours or after any water activities. 

To learn more, check out our "How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for Your Baby" article. 

In the Car 

The car can be one of the trickiest environments to manage.  

Cars parked in the sun can quickly become dangerously hot, turning into miniature greenhouses that trap heat. This rapid temperature rise can be life-threatening for infants, whose bodies heat up three to five times faster than an adult's. 

Before putting your baby in the car, always open the doors and windows to let the hot air escape. If possible, turn on the A/C before your journey to cool the interior to a safe temperature. 

Thankfully, there are a few products to help protect your little ones. 

The Cybex Cloud G Lux Comfort Extend Infant Car Seat comes with innovative SensorSafe technology built into the seat buckle. This smart system not only alerts you if the car's interior becomes too hot for your baby but also notifies you if you accidentally leave your child in the car unattended. As a bonus, this seat includes a load leg for extra safety in the event of a collision. For more information, read our SensorSafe Car Seat Technology Review article. 

When shopping for a car seat, look for models with good ventilation and breathable materials to help keep your baby cool. You can also add a sunshade to your car windows to block direct sunlight. The White Hot Sun Safety Shade is a great option, as it features an indicator that turns white when the interior temperature is too hot. 

These products are helpful tools, but they don't replace your vigilance as a parent. Always check on your baby regularly during car trips, especially on hot days, and never leave your child unattended in a vehicle. 

For Sleep 

When the mercury rises, ensuring your baby gets a good night's sleep can be challenging.  

It's important to note that overheating isn't just about discomfort — it can pose serious risks. Elevated body temperature in infants has been linked to an increased risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). So, how can you keep your little one cool and safe during those warm nights? 

A good rule of thumb is to dress your baby as you would dress yourself for sleep, plus one light layer. In warmer weather, this often means lightweight, breathable sleepwear. Sleep sacks with lower tog ratings are excellent for this purpose. For instance, the Cotton Muslin Sleep Bag by Perlimpinpin offers a cool, comfortable sleep solution. For more detailed information on sleep sacks and their benefits, check out our Everything You Need To Know About Sleep Sacks article.  

Bamboo fabric is another fantastic option for hot weather. It's naturally moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating, making it ideal for baby sleepwear. Pip + Phee Bamboo Footed Sleepers are a great example of this, offering softness and breathability for your little one. Similarly, a Bamboo Fitted Sheet can help keep the sleeping surface cool and comfortable. Check out our Best Bamboo Apparel & Bedding For Babies article for more great options! 

To ensure you're maintaining the right room temperature, consider using a thermometer like the Igro 2-in-1 Digital Thermometer/Hygrometer. This will help you monitor and adjust as needed throughout the night. 

Out & About 

Venturing outdoors with your little one in hot weather requires some careful planning and the right gear. Here are some key tips to keep your baby cool and comfortable while you're on the go: 

• Choose the right stroller: Look for models with good ventilation and a UPF-rated canopy for sun protection. However, be cautious — a fully enclosed stroller can quickly become too warm. The Bugaboo Donkey Breezy Canopy is a great option, offering sun protection while allowing for proper airflow. 

• Keep baby shaded: Use adjustable umbrellas or parasols for additional sun protection. These allow you to block the sun from different angles as it moves throughout the day. 

• Wear breathable fabric: Dress your little one in light, airy clothes made from natural fibers. 

• Use a stroller fan: A small, portable stroller fan or misting fan can make a big difference in keeping your child cool. 

• Stay hydrated: Bring a stroller cooler like the BEVVY Stroller Cooler stocked with cool beverages for older babies, toddlers, and children. 

• Time your walks: Try to schedule outings during cooler parts of the day, like early morning or evening. 

• Use a cooling seat pad: These can help keep your child's seating area cool and comfortable. 

• Create a cold-water bottle sandwich: Place a frozen water bottle wrapped in a cloth between your child and the stroller seat back for a cooling effect. 

• DIY air conditioning: Dampen a light cloth and drape it over the stroller frame (not directly on your child) to create a cooling effect as air passes through. 

Most strollers come with UPF-rated canopies, which are fantastic for sun protection. However, be careful not to create a greenhouse effect by fully enclosing the stroller or draping blankets over it to block the sun. This can actually trap heat and make the interior dangerously hot. 

Cool Clothing & Carrier 

Choosing the right clothing and carrier for your baby is crucial when the temperature rises. Here's how to dress your baby for hot weather success: 

1. Opt for loose-fitting, lightweight clothing made from natural fabrics. Cotton is an excellent choice due to its breathability and ability to wick away moisture. These properties help prevent your baby from getting too hot or sweaty. Light colours are preferable as they reflect heat rather than absorb it like darker shades do. 
   
   
2. A wide-brimmed hat like CaliKids’ UV Vented Bucket Hat is essential for protecting your baby's delicate face, neck, and ears from the sun. Look for one with a chin strap to keep it securely in place. For added eye protection, consider infant Surf Sunglasses with UV protection — just make sure they fit comfortably and securely! 
   
   
3. Bamboo fabric is gaining popularity for baby clothing, and for good reason. A bamboo bodysuit like this one from Pip + Phee, offers excellent breathability and natural temperature regulation. It's also incredibly soft, making it perfect for your baby's sensitive skin. 
   
   
4. When it comes to baby carriers, look for options designed with hot weather in mind. Some carriers like the Ergobaby OMNI Breeze feature mesh panels and/or breathable fabrics that help minimize the transfer of body heat between you and your baby.  

Baby's Cool Summer 

While keeping your baby cool is vital, it's equally important to ensure they don't get too chilly. As evenings cool off or when the A/C is on full blast, watch for signs that your little one might be too cold, such as cool skin, shivering, or blue lips. 

For more help with your summer baby needs, check out our Summer Essentials and Summer Heat products. You can also explore our articles on Top Products To Keep Baby Cool This Summer, Pool and Beach Must-Haves For Baby, and how to Get Summer Ready. With these resources, you'll be well-equipped to handle whatever the season brings, ensuring your baby stays cool, comfortable, and happy all summer long!