Spring & Summer Baby Safety: Keeping Your Little One Cool & Comfortable
The warm months bring sunshine, fresh air, and the joy of outdoor adventures. But if you're welcoming a baby in the spring or summer, it’s important to know how to keep them safe and comfortable in the heat. Babies are more vulnerable to temperature changes, so understanding how to protect them from overheating, dehydration, and sun exposure is key.
How Hot is Too Hot? Understanding Temperature Safety
You probably already know that newborns and young babies have a harder time regulating their body temperature. Ideally, babies should be outside when temperatures are between 50-80°F (10-27°C). Anything above 85°F (29°C) increases the risk of overheating and dehydration. If it’s hot and humid, limit outdoor time to short periods in the shade and during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
Signs of Overheating & How to Check Baby’s Temperature
Babies can’t tell us when they’re too hot, so it’s up to us to watch for signs of overheating, including:
Flushed skin
Rapid breathing
Fussiness or lethargy
Damp hair or skin
A body that feels very warm to the touch
To check if your baby is too warm, feel the back of their neck or their chest. If they’re sweating or feel hot, take immediate steps to cool them down.
What NOT to Do: Common Mistakes That Cause Overheating
Using Car Seat Covers or Heavy Blankets: Covering a car seat with a blanket, even a light muslin one, can trap heat and create a dangerously warm environment.
Leaving Baby in a Hot Car: Even for a few minutes, this is extremely dangerous and can be fatal.
Overdressing Baby: Layers can lead to overheating, even if they seem thin.
Being Outside at Peak Heat Hours: Avoid being outdoors between 10 AM - 4 PM, when the sun is strongest.
Keeping Baby Cool: What You CAN Do
Use a Stroller Fan: A battery-operated fan can provide a gentle breeze.
Dress Baby in Lightweight, Breathable Clothing: Opt for loose-fitting cotton onesies, rompers, or short-sleeve bodysuits.
Stay in the Shade: Use a stroller with a large canopy, a UV sunshade, or find natural shade.
Keep Skin Cool with a Damp Cloth: Gently wipe baby’s skin with a cool, damp washcloth if they seem warm.
Sun Protection for Babies
Babies under 6 months should not use sunscreen. Instead:
Keep them in the shade as much as possible.
Dress them in lightweight long sleeves and pants for added sun protection.
Use wide-brimmed hats to shield their face and neck.
Opt for UV-protective clothing when possible.
For babies over 6 months, choose a baby-safe, mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and apply it to small areas of exposed skin. Remember to reapply as necessary.
Water Safety: Keeping Baby Safe Around Water
Never leave baby unattended near water. Even a few inches of water can be a drowning hazard.
Keep baby cool with damp cloths or a lukewarm bath.
If introducing water play, use a shallow, shaded area. Small kiddie pools should always be supervised.
Avoid using floatation devices as a safety measure. Always hold your baby when near water.
Take a swim class with baby. This will help your baby grow accustomed to water and allow you to gain confidence in water safety as you learn more!
Hydration is Key: Breastmilk & Formula Needs in Hot Weather
Babies under 6 months should not drink water, but they do need extra fluids when it’s hot. Offer more frequent feeds to keep them hydrated. Whether breastfed or formula-fed, expect your baby to drink more during warm weather. Watch for dehydration signs like:
Fewer wet diapers
Dark urine
Dry mouth
Lethargy
Safe Outdoor Activities for Babies
Stroller Walks in the Early Morning or Evening
Tummy Time in a Shaded, Cool Spot
Picnic in a Breezy, Covered Area
Supervised Water Play with a Damp Washcloth or Small Basin
Enjoy the Warm Weather Safely!
Having a baby in the spring or summer can be such a fun time, as long as you take steps to keep them cool, hydrated, and protected from the sun. By following these tips, you can enjoy outdoor time while keeping your little one safe and comfortable.
Have questions or need personalized advice? Reach out—your family’s comfort and safety are always the priority!
