Expert Advice for Keeping Your Baby Comfortable in Warm Weather

It’s still “Summer” in Alabama, and hot all Fall long. In the heat it is important to take steps to keep a baby comfortable.  High temperatures can leave little ones feeling overheated or irritable and can result in heat rash or dehydration. Jess Mann, a certified baby wearing educator on behalf of MOBY provides some of her favorite tips for staying safe while babywearing while it is warm outside.

Baby Wearing in the Heat

An adult’s body heat combined with a baby in a confining space creates additional warmth for everyone.  It’s essential to look for baby wraps that provide ventilation so that a child can be worn without overheating.  Look for wraps that are made of lightweight breathable fabrics like cotton or mesh to prevent overheating. In particular, Mann recommends the MOBY Evolution Wrap is breathable and moisture-wicking. MOBY ring slings are made with a double gauze fabric that allows for good airflow. And many soft-structured carrier brands offer carriers with mesh lining or panels.

Change Baby Wearing Positions

Consider switching up the baby’s position from a front carrier or sling to a hip seat.  It is okay to do this if a little one is over six months old and can sit independently while holding up their head.  Hip carriers can feel cooler because the baby is sitting sideways or off center and there is less skin-to-skin contact which creates heat.

Staying Hydrated Helps

Just like adults who need extra fluids when it’s hot outside, so do babies.  Babies that are younger than six months cannot drink water, so instead they may need to be fed more often. If breastfeeding, mothers should be sure that they are increasing their water intake.  For babies that are formula fed, parents and caregivers should pack more than what they expect to use and keep a close eye on their baby’s comfort cues. For babies that are older than six months, water is okay, and parents should consult with pediatricians to find out exactly how much water is appropriate for their baby’s age.

UV Ray Protection

Try and keep a baby out of direct sun as much as possible. Protect little ones from UV rays with a wide-brimmed hat that keeps the light off their face. If a young child is going into a pool, a rash guard can add an extra layer of protection.  Sunscreen is also important and both baby and parent should wear it. Discuss with a pediatrician which manufacturers are recommended for young children.

Take a Break

Parents and caregivers need to be aware not to overexert themselves.  As an adult’s body heat rises, a little one may become increasingly warm and uncomfortable.  If this is the case, seek out shade or air conditioning. Take a break from your baby wrap or carrier if needed. After some rest in the shade and a cold drink, you’ll soon be ready to head out again comfortably and in a safe way.