If we’ve learned anything from the recent heatwave, it’s that the UK was not designed to withstand sweltering temperatures. Therefore, coping in the heat requires some personal adjustments and creative solutions.
Babies are most susceptible to the harmful effects of heat, as they cannot regulate their body temperature, so it’s essential to have a few nifty tricks up your sleeve to keep your little ones safe and cool at this time of year.
How to keep a baby cool in the summer
Staying safe in the sun doesn’t mean you have to hide from it. However, to reside in the sun responsibly, make sure to:
- Stick to the shade. Consider laying out a play gym or play mat in a sheltered area, ensuring your baby is protected as the sun moves across the sky. We’re a big fan of KinderKraft’s colourful playtime products as they encourage tactile, visual and auditory stimulation.
- Fill up a paddling pool with cool, refreshing water.
- Add a pushchair parasol to your pram. Never cover your baby’s stroller with a sheet to block the sun, as it will restrict airflow.
- Use a set of protective car sunshades to baby-proof your vehicle from pesky UV rays.
What temperature should a baby's room be?
Heat increases the likelihood of restless nights for both baby and parents. It can also lead to extreme risks like sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
To ensure a safe and comfortable climate, we recommend that your baby’s room temperature sits between 16-20°C.
Unfortunately, heat retention and a lack of fitted air conditioning in British housing can interfere with maintaining your baby’s room temperature in hot weather. So here are a few suggestions on how to keep your baby cool at night without AC:
- Shut blinds or curtains in the room whilst the sun is out.
- Strategically position electric fans towards walls, but never point them directly at your baby.
- Run a slightly chilled bath to cool your baby’s temperature before bedtime.
- Create a cold compress by wrapping ice cubes in a baby muslin square and gently pressing against their skin.
- Briefly relocate sleeping arrangements downstairs or to a chilled room. Avoid shifting furniture around in the heat by setting up camp with a portable, easy-to-unfold travel cot. Maximise the cooling potential by matching the travel cot with a cotton travel cot fitted sheet.
What to dress a baby in at night?
For a hot night ahead, it’s advisable to dress your baby in minimal bedclothes.
During hot spells, day or night, your baby’s clothing should contain light and breathable materials. Cotton is a preferred fabric choice to nylon, as nylon is known to trap heat and absorb sweat.
A single, fitted cotton bed sheet should also line your baby’s bedding. Ensure the sheet is well-secured, so your baby will not be entangled as they toss and turn throughout the night.
Alternatively, a baby sleeping bag can avoid tangling during the night and allow your baby to sleep safe and sound. A 0.5 tog sleeping bag is the most suitable and lightweight option.
Consider looking into our dedicated Baby Bedding: Top Tips & Infant Sleep Advice post for more baby bedtime information.
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For more advice, recommendations and inspiration, delve into the array of articles featured on the official For Your Little One blog.
