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Wondering how to keep your baby cool and comfortable in a carrier during hot weather? Discover top tips and expert advice to help you babywear safely all summer long.
When the weather gets warm, it’s hard to know how best to keep your baby cool – particularly when you’re using a baby carrier. Some parents have asked if they should even be using a baby carrier at all in hot weather, or if little ones are better off in their buggy. We’ve gathered all the questions we’ve received over the years and summed up the answers in our 6 top tips for baby wearing in warm weather.
You and the carrier are both like extra layers for your baby, so in warm weather make sure you’re both wearing lightweight clothing, like linen or 100% cotton, or functional fabrics like sportswear with UV protection. For your baby, it’s best to keep their arms and legs covered in the sun, so light long sleeves and trousers are recommended.
Skin-to-skin can get a bit sweaty, so save it for when you’re keeping cool at home and make sure there’s at least one layer of fabric between you and your baby when they’re in the carrier. If it’s really hot, the buggy might be more comfortable – and easier to shelter from the sun.
Though it’s nice to enjoy the sunshine, it’s best to stay in the shade with your little one. Try to plan your activities to avoid the hottest point in the day so you don’t overheat.
When you can’t stay out of it, make your own shadow by wearing hats. A nice big hat on you will create some extra shade for your baby, and of course they should also wear a hat – if you can convince them to keep it on!
Keep your fluids up and keep a bottle of water handy for yourself, while also ensuring your baby gets all the hydration they need. You could also cool off with a spray bottle of water, which your baby will no doubt enjoy as well!
Temperature check on the back of the neck. In very hot weather, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your baby’s temperature. Signs of overheating include hot, moist skin, a red head, rapid, shallow breathing, restlessness or exhaustion. Check the back of your baby’s neck and in between their shoulder blades, and get them to a cool room to cool off – or a doctor if you’re worried.
Breathable baby carriers with mesh inserts are particularly comfortable in hot weather and carriers with air-permeable fabrics are ideal to avoid sweating too much with baby. In the Ergobaby range, for example, we have our Ergobaby Omni Breeze or the Adapt SoftFlex Mesh, both made of airy mesh fabric.
The Aerloombaby carrier also keeps you pleasantly cool thanks to mesh zones. For newborns, the Embrace Soft Air Mesh baby carrier is soft, cool and breathable.
A new addition to our range is the Omni Dream Linen - a cosy, soft Omni baby carrier made from naturally cooling linen. It regulates the temperature even without mesh and is wonderfully comfortable on the baby's skin. For older babies and toddlers, a hip seat can be a great way to keep you both cool, as there is less fabric enclosing you and the baby.
So, there you have it; you can continue babywearing through the warmer months, but avoid the hottest parts of the day and try to stay cool in the shade – as much for your benefit as your baby’s! Happy adventuring!
Plus, as a BabyClub member, you get access to an exclusive discount code - find out more here.
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*10% off HiPP's online shop does not apply to our First Infant, Anti-Reflux or Comfort Formula Milk.
Important notice: Breastfeeding is best. Follow on milk should only be used as part of a mixed diet from 6 months. Talk to a healthcare professional.
