How to Keep a Baby Cool on Hot Days
He's sturdier than you'd think in some ways, but your baby is still a sensitive little person. His small body can't regulate its temperature as effectively as you can, and his skin is thin and delicate. Hot weather is more than just uncomfortable for her; it can be downright dangerous because he can't tell you when he's getting sunburned or in the early stages of heatstroke. No matter how steamy it is outside, it's up to you to keep him happily oblivious of changing temperatures.
Things You'll Need
- Lightweight clothing
- Brimmed hat
- Washcloth
- Lightweight baby carrier
- Sunscreen
- Window shade
Instructions
Dress your baby in cool clothes. Pick lightweight pieces made of natural fibers that breathe, such as cotton. Indoors, let him wear only a onesie. If he's younger than 6 months old, your baby shouldn't wear sunscreen, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics' website, HealthyChildren.org. Instead, dress him in light clothing that covers his arms and legs before going outdoors. Put a hat on him only when he's in direct sunlight. Seek out air conditioning, if you have none. If your home feels too warm to you, you can bet it's too hot for your baby. Visit the mall, library, community center or a friend's home if you don't have air conditioning. If leaving home is impossible, use a fan. Spraying a light mist of water on you and baby while you rest in front of a fan will cool you, using the same principle as a water cooler. Camp out in a dark room on the lowest floor of your home with the shades drawn. Nurse your baby a bit more often than usual to prevent dehydration. According to AskDrSears.com, an infant gets all the water he needs through breast milk or formula. If he's old enough to drink from a sippy cup, keep his cup full of water and within his reach. Press a cool washcloth to his head while he nurses or for a few minutes as he drifts off to sleep. Watch him while the cloth is on her head, ensuring it doesn't slip down over his nose and mouth. Give him a comfortably cool, not cold, bath a few times a day if his skin feels warm. Switch out your usual baby carrier for one made of thin, breathable material such as mesh or nylon. Wear a single layer of clothing so your infant won't overheat when pressing against you. Take baby outside. Ideally you'll keep him inside between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m when the sun's rays are strongest, unless you have a nice shady area to sit. Apply sunscreen to a baby older than 6 months old at least 15 minutes before going outside. Store the stroller indoors away from windows so it won't be burning hot when you buckle him in. Park your car in the shade whenever possible. If your car is sitting in the hot sun when you need it, try to turn the air-conditioning on a few minutes before loading your baby into the car. Attach window shades to the windows near your baby's car seat.
