As temperatures rise, strategies for how to keep baby cool in summer can feel a bit daunting.
Summer can mean lots of fun, but it can also mean a lot of outdoor time, pool-as-bath times, and sweaty, red-faced, miserable babies. All that skin-to-skin contact seems like a good idea until temps start to top 80, and then, it’s like a Slip N Slide. Every. Single. Day.
But never fear, fellow mamas: We’ve got some tips and tricks up our sleeves about how to keep your baby cool in the summer without losing your cool (or your sanity). Whether it’s baby’s first summer or your little one is starting to toddle, summer parenting hacks can help.
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Here are the best warm-weather tips for how to keep baby cool in summer.
Dress for Success
Clothes are one secret for how to keep baby cool in summer. When it’s hotter than a jalapeño pepper outside, ditch the footie pajamas and opt for lightweight, loose-fitting baby outfits made from breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. Bonus points if they’re light in color, as dark hues absorb more heat.
And don’t be afraid to let those chunky thighs breathe – shorts and dresses are your friends!
The Power of the Popsicle (and Other Cool Treats)
You know what’s the perfect summer snack for babies? Popsicles! Not only are they refreshing and hydrating, but they’re also a fun sensory experience (and a fun way to keep those little hands busy). Just be sure to supervise closely, as melty messes are practically guaranteed.
If you’re feeling fancy, you can make ice pops with pureed fruits or veggies for a nutrient-packed treat.
And let’s not forget the frozen washcloth trick. Soak a clean washcloth in water, wring it out, and pop it in the freezer for a bit. Once it’s nice and chilly (but not too solid), let your baby gnaw on it to their heart’s content. It’s like a teething ring but way cooler. (Pun intended.) This is the perfect option for babies who aren’t on solids yet but need a quick cooldown.
The Great Indoors
The best way to keep your baby cool in summer may be waving your white flag and getting out of the heat.
Crank up the AC, close the curtains, and create a cozy little oasis inside your home. Set up a shaded playpen or blanket fort, break out the indoor toys, and let your little one chill (literally) in comfort.
If you don’t have air conditioning, fear not. There are still ways to keep your home cooler. Use fans to circulate the air, invest in blackout curtains to block out the sun’s rays, and consider setting up a makeshift “cooling station” with a kiddie pool or even just a shallow tub filled with cool water for your baby to splash around in – always supervised, of course.
You can also consider an outing to an air-conditioned area in the middle of the afternoon or early evening, when the heat is the highest. A trip to the store to see the sights or time at a library can be refreshing for everyone.
The Great Outdoors
Of course, you can’t stay cooped up inside all summer. When you do venture out, try to plan outdoor activities for the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening. And always, always, always, have plenty of water on hand for both you and your little ones (if they’re old enough).
If you’ll be spending extended periods outside, look for shaded areas or bring a portable canopy or umbrella to create your own shade. And don’t forget sunscreen. Doctors recommend starting sunscreen use in babies at 6 months old; before then, they recommend staying in the shade as much as possible and using protective clothing if they are exposed to sunlight.
Pro tip: Stash a few frozen water bottles or gel packs in your diaper bag – they’ll help keep you and your baby cool on the go, and they’ll thaw into refreshing drinking water as the day goes on.
Water Tables
Two words: water tables. A good water table is worth its weight in gold during the summer. I had one water table that lasted through all five kids, and it was always a great way to spend time outdoors with little ones.
If you can’t afford a full water table – or don’t want to deal with storage and clean-up – a plastic bowl and some measuring cups will do the trick just as effectively for your baby.
Keep Baby Comfortable
At the end of the day, keeping your baby comfortable in the summer heat is all about being prepared and staying flexible. Pack light, stay hydrated, and don’t be afraid to embrace the AC or seek out cooler indoor spaces when needed.
Most importantly, trust your mama instincts: If your little one seems overheated or uncomfortable, it’s time to make adjustments.
