Most of the time, we focus on keeping babies warm as it is difficult for them to regulate their own temperature as newborns. However, it is equally as important to help keep them cool during the warmer months too.
Babies come from a very warm and comfortable place in the mother’s womb. Imagine stepping out of a warm swimming pool and then the cold air hits you, it’s a dramatic change. When you see midwives and nurses placing a warm blanket over the baby and putting a hat on as soon as the baby is born, it’s to help them warm up as quickly as possible.
Typically, a baby's temperature should be around about 36C to 37C. If their temperature is slightly elevated, you can always start by removing some layers of clothing to help them cool down.
Summer baby clothes should be created from lightweight, natural cotton fibres. Natural fibres absorb moisture easily and allow breathability. This assists your baby to regulate their temperature and prevents them from overheating. For warmer weather, we recommend loose-fitting clothing that covers as much of your child’s skin as possible, in particular if they are being exposed to the sun.
Make sure baby wears a broad-brimmed sun hatthat shades the face, neck and ears. Cap style hats do not provide enough protection and are not recommended.
How to Keep Baby Protected in Summer
Here are some of the things you want to think about during the warmer months:
Apply SPF 30+ (or higher) broad spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen
to any part of baby’s skin not covered by clothing that might be exposed to the sun. If using sunscreen on babies, do so very occasionally on very small areas of skin. If possible, try and use a baby, toddler or sensitive skin formula.
Seek shade
. Remember some UV rays can still reach you in the shade, so continue to use all forms of sun protection such as a broad-brimmed sun hat, even when in the shade.
Stay Hydrated.
Ensure they drink plenty of water and eat plenty of whole foods such as fresh fruit and vegetables.
Keep Baby Cool
. Make sure that there is adequate airflow where you are. Wetting a
face washerSee AlsoNurturing Your Baby's Skin Tone: Tips to Enhancing Complexion during Pregnancy | Motherhood Hospitaland placing this on the back of baby’s neck may assist in keeping your little one cool.
How toTell if Baby isTooHot?
As a general rule of thumb, your baby should be wearing one more layer than you. An easy way to check your baby’s temperature is by placing your hand behind your baby’s neck, or on their chest or tummy.
If it is a very hot day, you’re often able to gauge quickly if they are too hot or too cold. If in doubt, you can also use a thermometer to check your baby’s temperature.
Some signs to look for that your little one might be too warm are:
A flushed face
Sweaty or clammy
Rapid breathing
Skin is unusually warm to the touch
It can still be difficult to know how to dress a newborn during summer. Here are some ideas:
- Babyshorts
are a great option for warm weather. Pair them with one of our tees or bodysuits for a complete outfit
If it is a very hot day and you are indoors, you may opt to dress your little one simply in their nappy and a singlet or bodysuit.
- Baby rompers
are perfect for warmer days as they are often made from a lightweight organic cotton or breathable linen. Pair with a tee underneath for added sun protection.
If you your child is a little older and they have begun standing and or walking, they require grip on their little feet. In this case, you can put some sandals on and pair them with lightweight cotton clothing that is easy to move around.
Don’t forget a
sun hatso your little one is protected
Shop our newest summer collection for great items for your baby. Available in-store and online here.
