The hot summer months can be unpredictable and uncomfortable. The frequency of scorching heat waves is steadily increasing, and keeping cool can be challenging, particularly if you have a baby or young child to care for. Ensuring our little ones are safe and happy is a top priority for every parent. While going up against the onslaught of a relentless heat wave can be exhausting, there are numerous tricks and hacks you can use to help keep your baby cool and comfortable in the heat. 

Keep Their Bedroom Cool

Keeping your baby’s room cool throughout the day will help you maintain a safe and comfortable temperature at night. Overly warm sleeping environments can be profoundly dangerous, as overheating can increase the risk of SIDS. During heat waves, keep the blinds or curtains closed to prevent direct sunlight from heating the room, particularly if your baby’s room is south-facing. You can also keep your little one’s room cool by investing in a high-quality, air-purifying fan. Furthermore, consider installing a thermometer to monitor the temperature – your baby’s room should be maintained at around 16-20°C.

Water Play

Water play is a fun, inexpensive method of keeping your little one cool and refreshed in warm weather. Not only that, but this enjoyable sensory activity helps develop hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. Simply fill a tray or paddling pool up with cool water and add your little one’s favourite bathtime toys or measuring cups so they can experiment with filling and emptying them. Keep in mind that water play should always be closely monitored, as even the smallest volume of water can be hazardous for young children. 

Up Their Fluid Intake

During hot weather, replacing vital fluids lost through sweat is crucial for everybody. Ensure you offer your little one plenty of water and extra feeds to help them stay hydrated. However, experts generally recommend waiting until your baby is at least six months old before offering them water. If your baby refuses water, try offering them heavily diluted squash or milk, but avoid sugary fruit juices and fizzy drinks. It may also be worth trying them with a different cup, as some babies and toddlers are notoriously fussy about their drinking receptacles. 

Another excellent way to ensure your baby stays cool and hydrated is to offer them healthy, water-rich summer snacks, such as watermelon, frozen yoghurt and cucumber. Moreover, if your baby is currently teething, chewing on a finger-sized piece of chilled watermelon will help soothe their sore gums.

Dress Them Appropriately

Dressing your baby appropriately for the hot weather will help regulate their temperature. Consider the fabric of your newborn clothes; organic cotton is the best material for hot weather, as it is soft, lightweight and breathable. Keep layers to a minimum, and always ensure your baby is covered up when spending time in the sun. A wide-brimmed sun hat will help to protect their neck and face from the sun. At night, opt for a short-sleeved bodysuit or simply leave them in their nappy on particularly hot and humid nights. 

Run Them A Cool Bath

A cool bath before bed can be tremendously soothing after a hot, sweaty day. This will help to cool them down and prepare them for a restful night’s sleep. Ensure your baby’s bath is cool, not cold, so aim for body temperature (around 37°C). Bathtime is also an excellent opportunity for sensory stimulation. The feeling of water on your baby’s skin can be soothing and enjoyable, particularly after a hot, uncomfortable day during a heat wave. Bathtime can also become a special bonding time in your baby’s daily routine, with plenty of chatting, playing and interaction. 

Sun Protection

Enjoying the pleasant weather and allowing your baby to explore the great outdoors can be incredibly beneficial to their development and well-being. However, keeping your little one safe and protected from the sun’s harmful rays is crucial. Sunscreen is unsuitable for babies under six months old, so the best way to protect them from the sun is to keep them out of it. Seek shade and once your baby reaches six months of age, buy some high-quality, baby-safe sunscreen with an SPF factor of 50+ to help protect their fragile skin from sun damage.