With summer well on the way it’s great to get out and about enjoying the sunshine with your little one. However, the heat is no fun if you’re battling to keep baby cool and comfortable. Here are some top tips to help your little one keep their cool:
Hydrated = happy
Babies and infants are sensitive to even small amounts of water loss so one of the biggest problems during warmer weather is dehydration. Make sure your little one drinks plenty of fluids throughout the day. You can even keep a cool wet cloth handy to dab on their forehead if they become particularly uncomfortable – this will work quickly to soothe and cool them down.
Seek shade
It’s an obvious one but stay in the shade where possible – it’s one of the most important things you can do, especially between 11am and 3pm, when the sun is at its strongest.
If you’re travelling in the car, try to park in the shade. It will be much quicker to cool down when you return than if your car has been roasting in the sun. Likewise, when you’re walking around, try where possible to find the shady side of the road to walk on or opt for woodland paths.
If your little one is under six months old then their skin is a little sensitive to sun cream, so see if your infant carrier comes with a sun canopy. Many on the market will cover most of your little one and shield them from direct sunlight. The Joie i-Gemm signature is suitable from birth and comes with a retractable, removable sun canopy with a zip-open ventilation panel, it’s also UPF 50+ for added protection.
Cotton = cool
When you’re getting ready for a day out consider what you dress your little one in. Light and breathable cotton fabrics are best as they will help your baby stay cool because the natural fibres let the skin breathe. It’s best to avoid synthetic fabrics as they tend to increase the likelihood of sweating, which can easily irritate young skin. Layering is also useful as you can put on/take off clothing depending on the temperature – we all know the UK weather can turn from hot to cool pretty quickly!
If your baby is still in nappies and it’s very warm then let them enjoy the freedom of not wearing any clothes – as long as they are in the shade.
Easy, breezy transport
Do your stroller or car seat fabrics get hot and sticky when running around with baby in the sun? If so, consider covering them with a muslin cloth or invest in a breathable pushchair/car seat liner. The Joie spin 360 signature comes with an interchangeable mesh-lined summer seat cover for cool comfort in soaring temperatures. The added benefit is that it’s easy to remove and clean if any mess is made too!
Splash around
Once you get home, it’s a good idea to give your hot and bothered little one a refreshing cool bath. Bathing them in lukewarm water will help to freshen them up before bedtime and get them ready for a good night’s sleep.
How do I know if I my baby is too hot?
If you’re unsure then the best thing to do is to check their tummy. If it feels warm, take off a layer and check again in a few minutes. It’s worth picking up a simple thermometer so you can be sure – 36.4 degrees is the ideal temperature.
Your little one will let you know if something is wrong so listen out for any crying or upset, as if the sun is shining it’s likely they are just a little too warm. Follow our checklist and you will have them smiling again in no time.
Tips provided by Damon Marriot, Head of Product Development, Joie UK
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