Little babies can’t regulate their temperatures very well and they sweat less, which means they can’t cool down as easily and are at higher risk of overheating. They also can’t tell us that they’re too hot, so it’s important to keep an eye on them and check their temperature regularly.
Here’s a few tips on how to keep babies cool during the height of summer:
Whether you’re breast or bottle feeding, offer more milk than normal if temperatures are particularly high. If your baby is already on solids, you could try a frozen smoothie or frozen breastmilk to suck on. Whizz up some frozen fruit in the blender for a healthy, icy treat.
If you’re worried your baby is dehydrated, check their fontanelle. A sunken fontanelle is a sign of dehydration – offer more fluids and seek medical advice if you are concerned.
If it’s extremely hot dress bubs in a lightweight singlet suit or just a nappy and nothing else.
Muslin is a lovely, super cool fabric for the warmest of days and cotton is also a good natural fabric with high breathability, great for warm summer days and nights.
Checkout the The Sleep Store Pointelle range, with it's lightweight, open weave, it's a very cool fabric for hot, humid days.
For younger babies who are napping most of the day, sleeping them in a nappy and 0.5 tog swaddle or using a lightweight muslin swaddle will help them remain comfortable during their sleep. And if you’re able to, sleep them in the coolest room in the house. Using a fan will help to circulate the air.
For older babies and toddlers who will likely need a sleeping bag as a sleep association choose a lightweight 0.5 tog rated bag, or a light, breathable muslin sleeping bag.
Most of us are probably familiar with the Slip, Slop, Slap & Wrap message which resurfaces every summer and The Sleep Store has everything you need to keep your little one safe from the sun.
It’s not recommended to be out in the sun in the heat of the day, especially for babies under 6 months so finding a shady spot under a tree outside is a good way to keep bubs comfortable, yet still get some outdoor time.
There’s usually a little breeze under the trees and just being outside in the fresh air seems to make everyone happier in general. Cover baby up with a hat and pair of sunglasses to protect eyes from the glare.
If you usually bathe babe at night before bed, give them a cooler (but not cold) bath than usual. This may lower their temperature enough to help them get to sleep comfortably. See our article on Keeping the nursery cool for tips to ensure bubs stays comfortable the whole night.
Most babies love water play and it’s a fun, easy way for adults to cool down as well. So, get out that paddling pool, add some bath toys, find a shady spot and get playing!
Getting out and about in the cooler parts of the day is a great way to energise yourself (and burn energy for toddlers & pre-schoolers). If you're using a buggy regularly for naps on the go, or even just going for long walks, buggy shade is a must. It will protect bubs from the harsh sun, but also help to darken the buggy if it's nap time.
