How to Keep Your Baby Cool During Hot Weather

How to Keep Your Baby Cool During Hot Weather

As temperatures rise across the UK, many parents are asking the same question.

How can I keep my baby cool and safe in hot weather?

It's a sensible concern. Babies and young children are more vulnerable to heat because they cannot regulate their body temperature as effectively as adults. During periods of hot weather, they are at a greater risk of overheating and dehydration.

The good news is that there are simple steps you can take to help keep your baby comfortable and safe throughout the summer.

Why are babies more vulnerable in hot weather?

Babies are less able to regulate their body temperature than older children and adults. They can become too hot much more quickly, particularly when sleeping, travelling in a car or spending time outdoors.

Recent reports have also highlighted growing concerns about overheating in UK homes during heatwaves, making it more important than ever for parents to know how to reduce the risk.

1. Keep your baby out of direct sunlight

Babies under six months should be kept out of direct sunlight wherever possible.

If you are outside:

☀️ Stay in the shade, particularly between 11am and 3pm.
🧢 Dress your baby in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
🌂 Use a parasol or sunshade on the pushchair.

One important point many parents are unaware of is that you should never cover a pushchair or pram with a blanket or muslin cloth. Although it may seem like a good way to create shade, it can trap heat inside the pram and increase the temperature significantly.

2. Help your baby stay hydrated

Babies can become dehydrated more quickly during hot weather.

If you are breastfeeding, continue to feed on demand. Many babies will naturally want to feed more frequently when it's warm.

Formula-fed babies should continue with their usual feeds. Babies over six months can be offered water with meals and between feeds. Exclusively breastfed babies under six months do not need additional water and may feed more frequently. Formula-fed babies should continue their usual milk feeds and may also be offered small amounts of cooled boiled water during very hot weather. 

Signs your baby may be becoming dehydrated include:

• Fewer wet nappies than usual (and darker urine if noticeable).
• A dry mouth or lips.
• Unusual sleepiness or irritability.

If you are concerned that your baby may be dehydrated, seek medical advice promptly.

3. Keep your home as cool as possible

Many UK homes are designed to keep heat in, which can make bedrooms particularly warm during summer.

The NHS recommends:

• Closing curtains or blinds during the day to block out the sun.
• Opening windows when it is cooler outside, where it is safe to do so, particularly in homes with upper floors.
• Using a fan to circulate air around the room, rather than pointing it directly at your baby.
• Avoiding unnecessary heat from ovens and electrical appliances during the hottest part of the day.

4. Keep sleep safe during hot weather

One of the biggest concerns parents have is helping their baby sleep safely when temperatures are high.

Safe sleep advice does not change during hot weather.

Your baby should still sleep:

🛏️ On their back.
🛏️ In their own clear, flat, firm sleep space.
👨‍👩‍👧 In the same room as you for the first six months, day and night where possible.

Dress your baby according to the room temperature. During very warm weather they may need fewer layers, but the amount of clothing will depend on how warm the room is. Avoid extra blankets, pillows, cot bumpers or sleep positioners, as these can increase the risk of overheating.

The recommended room temperature for a sleeping baby is between 16°C and 20°C, although this may not always be achievable during UK heatwaves. Adjust your baby's clothing and bedding according to the room temperature to help keep them comfortable.

5. Never leave your baby in a parked car

Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a parked car can rise very quickly.

Never leave your baby alone in a vehicle, even for a few minutes.

When should you seek medical advice?

Most babies cope well with warm weather when simple precautions are taken.

However, you should seek urgent medical advice if your baby:

• Is unusually sleepy or difficult to wake.
• Is not feeding.
• Has significantly fewer wet nappies.
• Develops symptoms of heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
• Has a high temperature and seems unwell.
• Is under 3 months old and has a fever of 38°C or above, as they should always be assessed promptly regardless of the weather.

We're here to help

Hot weather can be worrying for parents, particularly if you have a newborn or young baby.

If you have any concerns about your baby's hydration, feeding, sleep or general wellbeing, our experienced paediatricians are here to help.

At Childhealthy, we provide newborn examinations, 6 to 8 week checks and ongoing paediatric care for families throughout the early months and years of childhood.

If you would like to book an appointment or speak to a member of our team, please get in touch.

Additional resources:

NHS sun safety

The Lullaby Trust: Safer sleep guidance

If you would like further reassurance, our team is here to help. Contact us to arrange an appointment.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalised guidance and treatment recommendations.