Yes, we love it when summer finally hits and we get some good weather in the UK, but it’s not always a good time for babies. Summer nights can be hot, stuffy and uncomfortable. And it’s super important to make sure your little one is properly protected during the day.
It can be hard for parents too. Firstly to see your baby uncomfortable in the heat and secondly to know exactly what to do to help. To assist, our parenting expert Sophie Pickles has eight top tips for looking after babies in the heat.
Change up their bedding at night
Use a thin summer sleeping bag and keep layers thin and light to make sure your baby stays cool throughout the night.
The thin sleeping bags (0.5 tog) are good because you can always put a blanket over the top when you go to bed if necessary – this will make sure they’re still warm enough if the temperature drops during the night. And what should they be wearing to bed? Skip the sleepsuit and use a short-sleeved vest or even just a nappy.
It’s all about shade and sunscreen
Of course, the strength of the sun is a huge factor when looking after your baby in the heat. Even in the UK. So, how should you protect your little one in the sun?
Make sure you avoid sunscreen before six months as babies’ skin is too sensitive, so stick to the shade at all times. With slightly older babies, remember to use factor 50+ and stay out of the sun between the hours of 11 and 3.
Throw open those windows
Keeping windows open during warm weather will help to lower the temperature indoors, although this can sometimes mean that the air inside the house can become polluted by passing traffic or allergens.
An air purifier is a great idea – you can create a “bubble” of clean air wherever you go, keeping little lungs safe.
Know your water levels
Your water intake will of course go up in hot weather, but babies under 12 months don’t actually need extra water in addition to their milk. So don’t stress if they keep spitting it out.
You can offer water at mealtimes and in the hot weather (to babies over six months) but remember that breast milk and formula will provide all the water they usually need. They might need more milk than usual however, to stay hydrated.
Make use of the weather at bath time
As the strength of the sun drops later on in the day, consider taking bath time outside to make the most of the warm weather. Not only will it mean less cranky post-bath babies (no nasty transitions from warm water to cold air) but they’ll have so much fun too.
The outdoors provides a wonderful learning environment for babies and young children, and the addition of water play makes the sensory experience even more enjoyable. Our White Hot Inflatable Safety Duck Bath has a safe non-slip surface and drains and dries quickly thanks to a recessed drain hold and handy suction cup hanger.
Remember the mantra of ice, ice baby if it just gets too hot
We all know the feeling of struggling to sleep in hot rooms during summer – especially the higher up you go (heat rises after all).
If your baby’s bedroom is just too hot for them to sleep comfortably, put a bowl of ice water in front of a fan to cool the air. Position the fan so it oscillates and avoid pointing it directly at your baby, especially if they are under six months.
Don’t stick rigidly to your usual sleep schedule
Warm weather often means tired and cranky babies. Not just because of the heat but often because we’re out and about and exploring new places too. Watch closely for those early sleep cues and fit in an extra nap or let them sleep longer (follow their lead) if you think it’s needed.
Use a nightlight for those inevitable night-time wake ups
Unfortunately, the hot weather and sticky nights can mean increased wake ups, as babies look for comfort, additional milk or simply wake too hot. Try and keep the room dark as you tend to their needs by using a nightlight. This means you can still see what you’re doing without disturbing your baby even more.
Now you’re ready to take on anything the Great British weather decides to throw your way this summer. And if you’re looking for some more expert parenting advice head to our StrollerCoaster podcast.