How to Stay Cool in a Baby Carrier

IS IT SAFE TO WEAR YOUR BABY AT ALL IN HOT WEATHER?

Yes, it is safe, so long as you take some safety precautions and use your common sense. People all over the world wear their babies in all sorts of climates, including very hot ones. After all, being close to your body helps babies regulate their own temperature, helping prevent them from overheating.

Those of us in the UK are known for going a bit crazy when the sun comes out (it’s 70*F! Quick, get out the short-shorts! Men, remove your t-shirts immediately!) But there’s no need to panic about wearing your baby in the summer months.


HOW SHOULD I DRESS MY BABY WHEN IT’S HOT AND SUNNY?

Having more skin exposed to the sun won’t necessarily cool anyone down. Thin, loose clothing which covers your baby’s body, and through which the breeze can circulate, is usually the best idea.

Choose 100% cotton or other natural fabrics to reduce sweatiness.

 I like to go for thin, floppy long-sleeved tops, and trousers that are a size bigger than my little one would normally wear so that their feet are covered.

If it’s an extremely hot day then you may want to have your baby in just a nappy (and shorts if you’re concerned about poop explosions.)

Your baby will be mostly covered by your sling/ carrier, but it’s likely that their legs, feet and head will be exposed – possibly arms too –  so you’ll need to take extra care to protect these from the sun.

So if your baby is old enough, ensure they are well covered in suitable sun cream.

For babies under 6 months who are too young for sun cream, our top tip is to tuck a muslin into your carrier to cover their legs (and arms if needed), so exposed skin is shaded but lots of air can still circulate.

If possible, stay in the shade and stay out of the late morning and midday sun. Mad dogs and Englishmen, as they say.


HOW ELSE CAN YOU PREVENT OVERHEATING?

A wide-brimmed summer hat that covers baby’s head, face and neck is a summer essential for all babies, whether you’re wearing them or not. Hats with chin straps are especially useful if you’re carrying baby on your back.

You might also like to use an umbrella or parasol to shade you both.

Stay hydrated. Drink lots of water. Yes, I know it’s hard to remember sometimes and you probably don’t get enough time to pee as it is, but it’s really important. We all need to take in extra fluids in warmer weather.

This is especially important if you’re breastfeeding. Be sure to offer your baby extra fluids, too.  If you are breastfeeding a baby under 6 months then offer some additional breastfeeds.

(Seek medical help if you are ever concerned about baby getting dehydrated: these suggestions are no substitute for qualified medical advice.)

Water on the skin can also help keep you both cool. Some people like to carry a little squirty bottle of water for the occasional spritz on the face or feet. If you’re really hot and already sweaty, you might as well pop a cool, damp flannel or muslin on your chest between you and baby.

Take a break. If you or your baby get uncomfortable, take the sling or carrier off and deposit yourself in a shady nook or air-conditioned shop to cool down. If you’re just not comfortable wearing your baby in hot weather and prefer to use a pram or pushchair, that’s fine too!