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Important tips for hot weather with your baby

When the weather is warm, it’s extra important to pay attention to your baby’s health and safety. The maternity care professionals at BabyManager share some helpful advice for keeping your baby comfortable and safe in the heat.

Key tips at a glance

Feeding & hydration

  • Breastfeeding: Offer the breast more often when it’s hot.

  • As a mother, make sure you drink extra fluids, as dehydration can affect your milk supply.

  • Bottle-feeding: Check with your maternity nurse or (after the postpartum period) your child health clinic to see if your baby needs any extra fluids and how much.

Babycare

  • Dress your baby in light, breathable clothing, for example, just a cotton romper.

  • Use only a sheet to cover your baby, not a blanket.

Environment

  • Let your baby sleep in a cool place in the house, avoid attics or warm upstairs rooms.

  • Air out the room in the evening or early morning when it’s cooler.

  • You may use a fan or air conditioner, but never direct it straight at your baby. It’s best to cool the room before your baby sleeps, keeping it just a few degrees cooler than the outside temperature.

  • Keep the curtains closed in the baby’s room during the day.

  • Avoid going outside with your baby during the hottest hours (12:00 – 16:00).

  • Prevent drafts, even when moving between rooms.

Transporting Your Baby

Stroller:

  • Use a UV sunshade or parasol instead of covering the stroller with a (muslin) cloth, except for a loosely draped one that allows air to flow.

  • Keep the hood down to allow fresh air to circulate.

  • Never leave the stroller in direct sunlight; dark-colored strollers heat up quickly.

Baby carrier or wrap:

  • Pay close attention to the temperature and adjust your baby’s clothing accordingly.

  • When it’s hotter than 30°C (86°F), it’s best not to use a baby carrier.

Car:

  • Ventilate the car well before driving. Be cautious with the air conditioning (don’t make it too cold) and open windows (to avoid drafts).

  • Never leave your baby alone in the car, not even for a short time.

But above all, make sure to take good care of yourself and your little one!