Keep Your Baby Cool and Comfortable During Hot Summer Days
Nothing beats a classic Aussie summer—picnics in the park, weekends by the beach, and lazy afternoons in the backyard. But while we enjoy the sunshine, the warmer months can be challenging for babies and young children, who struggle to regulate their body temperature.
As a parent, keeping my little one cool and hydrated is always top of mind. Dehydration, heat rash, and overheating can creep up quickly, so taking extra precautions during summer is essential. Whether you're heading to the coast, firing up the BBQ, or just relaxing at home, here are five simple ways to help keep your baby comfortable and safe in the heat.
5 Ways to Keep Your Baby Cool in Summer
If you're worried about keeping your baby comfortable during scorching summer days, here’s what you can do:
✔ Dress your baby in cool, breathable fabrics
✔ Keep them hydrated throughout the day
✔ Give them a lukewarm bath to regulate body temperature
✔ Let them nap more—hot weather is exhausting!
✔ Avoid direct sunlight, especially during peak hours
1. Dress Your Baby in Light, Breathable Clothing
Babies under six months should be kept out of direct sunlight, as their delicate skin lacks melanin, making them more vulnerable to sunburn. For older babies and toddlers, lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made of natural fabrics like cotton or linen is the way to go.
✔ A wide-brimmed hat will help protect their head, neck, and face.
✔ Sunglasses with UV protection can shield their sensitive eyes.
✔ A breathable, long-sleeved onesie can help prevent sunburn without overheating.
Hot tip: If you’re heading to the park or beach, choose lighter colours—they reflect heat better than dark fabrics!
2. Keep Your Baby Hydrated
Babies can lose fluids quickly in hot weather, so staying hydrated is key.
✔ Breastfed babies may want to feed more frequently in the heat.
✔ If your baby is over six months and eating solids, offer small amounts of cooled, boiled water throughout the day.
✔ Avoid giving fruit juice or sugary drinks—water is best!
For older babies, using a sippy cup or a soft-spout bottle can encourage them to drink more. And if you're out and about, freeze a bottle of water overnight—it’ll stay cool longer and be refreshing when they need it.
3. Give Your Baby a Cool Bath
Nothing soothes a hot, cranky baby like a lukewarm bath. Bathing in slightly cooler water than usual helps lower body temperature, making it easier for your little one to relax and sleep.
✔ Keep the bath short but refreshing.
✔ Use a damp cloth or cool sponge to gently wipe down their face, neck, and arms during the day.
✔ Let your baby splash around—it keeps them cool and turns bath time into fun playtime!
Tip: If you’re putting your baby to sleep on a hot night, try placing a damp washcloth on their forehead for a few minutes—it helps cool them down.
4. Schedule Extra Naps
Just like us, babies burn more energy in hot weather, making them more tired than usual. Don’t be surprised if your little one sleeps more on warm days.
✔ If possible, keep naps indoors in a cool, shaded room.
✔ Use a fan to improve airflow, but never point it directly at your baby.
✔ Swap thick bedding for a light muslin wrap or cotton sheet.
If you’re out for a walk, a well-ventilated pram with a canopy will help keep your baby cool and shaded.
5. Avoid Direct Sunlight & Plan Outdoor Time Wisely
The Australian sun is strongest between 10 am and 4 pm, so try to schedule outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons when it’s cooler.
✔ Find shaded spots at the park or beach.
✔ Use a pram cover, parasol, or stroller fan to improve airflow.
✔ If you're taking a stroller trike on a walk, make sure it has a retractable sun canopy for extra protection.
For added peace of mind, check the temperature of car seats and prams before placing your baby inside—metal buckles and dark fabrics can get dangerously hot in the sun.
