On hot summer days it’s important to keep your baby cool and comfortable. In this post we’ll discuss some general tips on how to dress your baby in summer.

Will you be travelling with your baby this summer? Be sure to check out our essential packing checklist for travelling with a baby or young child!

How to Dress a Baby During the Day in Summer

Go for lightly coloured clothing made from cotton, or any other natural and breathable material. The NHS advises that babies younger than six months should stay out of direct sunlight. So make sure your baby’s summer clothes have long-sleeves, choose trousers instead of shorts or a skirt, and use a wide-brimmed hat to keep the sun out of your baby’s face.

As your baby gets older, they’ll get more melanin in their skin, which will help protect them against the sun’s UV rays. But even then, you should try and prevent your baby from spending too much time in direct sunlight. And also, be sure to use sunscreen with a high SPF – go for at least factor 30.

How To Dress a Baby for Summer Nights

As we said in our guide to what babies should wear to bed, it’s vital that you help them stay cool during hot summer nights. A light vest or t-shirt is ideal, or a bodysuit with short sleeves. Make sure that any nightwear is made from a natural and breathable fabric, such as cotton. Combine this with a light 0.5 tog blanket or sleeping bag and your baby should have no trouble keeping cool at night.

And don’t forget the nappies! Read our full guide to the best nappies for nighttime.

Tips for Keeping Your Baby Cool in the Summer

• Try to stop your baby’s room from heating up too much during the day. Keep the curtains closed and close windows on sunny days and use a fan to keep things cool and breezy at night.
• If you’re travelling by car, buy a window screen to protect your baby from direct sunlight.
• Keep your baby hydrated. If you’re breastfeeding or bottle feeding, try feeding your baby with smaller amounts more regularly, to help them keep up their fluid levels. If your baby’s weaning, you can give them small sips of water throughout the day. But don’t dilute their milk with water, or it could affect their nutrition.
• Learn to spot the signs of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. If you think your baby’s struggling, move them to a cool and shady place, give them a drink, and use a wet cloth to cool their skin. Call 111 for medical advice, or 999 if they show any symptoms of heatstroke.

Soft, Comfortable, and Natural Nappies for Summertime

Our range of reusable nappies will keep your baby comfortable whatever the weather. They’re made from natural materials, which means they’re breathable, and free from many of the harmful or irritating chemicals you’ll find in other nappies.

Check out our guides to how reusable nappies work, and the difference they can make to your baby’s comfort and wellbeing.