How to dress a baby for summer
Young babies have to work a lot harder than adults to regulate their body temperature, so it’s important to do what you can to avoid them getting too hot or too cold. Their clothing is one way you can help keep them in a comfortable zone.
Baby clothing in the summer should be made out of lightweight and breathable materials so that your little one can stay cool throughout the day but will still be covered from the sun. For daytime, if you’re heading outdoors, choose options that are loose-fitting but offer as much skin coverage as possible – while it’s best to keep your baby out of direct sunlight, covering their skin will help avoid accidental exposure to the harsh Australian sun. If you’re staying inside, you can ditch the sleeves and drop the layers if you want – whatever is comfortable and practical for you and your baby.
What Do Babies Wear in Summer?
Keeping your baby covered from the sun will keep their skin healthy as well as keep them from overheating. Help your little one stay cool and cute as they explore and learn. So, what do newborns wear in the summer?
Baby Bodysuits and Singlets: Bodysuits and singlets are wonderful layering pieces for little ones because they are made from lightweight and breathable material. Depending on the rest of your newborn’s outfit, you can choose long or short sleeve options. If you’re staying at home for the day, your baby could wear only a singlet.
Dresses and Skirts: Throwing a dress or skirt over a singlet makes a cute outfit for your little one during the summer. Dresses offer airflow and breathability for your baby, so they can stay cool as they crawl around or snuggle in your arms.
Shorts: Baby shorts are a great option for summer fun and play. Shorts are easy to pair with any singlet or bodysuit when you are out and about with your little one.
T-Shirts: When you need to add another comfortable layer, a t-shirt or shirt can add more lightweight coverage to your little one’s body.
Rompers: Little rompers are great because they are short sleeved, so they make excellent top-layer pieces.
Swimwear: Choosing the right swimwear for your little one will help avoid sunburn while they’re splashing around at the pool. Finding swimwear that still fully covers your baby’s chest, back and neck will help them stay safe from the sun’s rays.
Growsuits: Growsuits are excellent nighttime clothes for babies during summer as they come in a range of styles and weights, so you can tailor your selection for the specific room your little one will be sleeping in.
How to Keep Your Baby Cool in the Summer
Clothes are just part of keeping your baby cool and safe during the hot weather – here are a few other things to consider!
Use a sun hat
A sun hat will shade your little one’s face, neck and ears. A broad-brimmed or wide sun hat is an excellent addition to your child’s summer wardrobe.
Apply baby sunscreen
If you’re heading out for the day, using sunscreen can provide an additional level of protection for your little one. Make sure to use sunscreen specifically made for babies or toddlers since they have more sensitive skin.
Stay in the shade
Whenever possible, keep your baby in the shade. If you’re out walking during the day, use a stroller with good shade protection or a wide-brimmed sun hat so that your baby’s head is not exposed to the sun. Remember to never cover your pram with a muslin wrap or other blanket – it can reduce air flow and increase the temperature inside your pram significantly.
Stay hydrated throughout the day
On hot days, continue to feed your little one on demand – even if it means feeding a lot! They will know if they are thirsty, and breastmilk or formula is a balanced way for babies to hydrate. For older babies, you can also offer some water throughout the day, but if they are feeding on demand, it may not be necessary.
How to Know if Your Baby Is Overheated
To check if your baby is too warm, place your hand behind their neck, on their chest or on their stomach and see if they are hot to touch or excessively sweaty. Other symptoms which might indicate your baby is too hot could be:
- Skin is warm to the touch
- A flushed face
- Rapid breathing
- Sweaty or clammy skin
- Fussy or restless
- Seems tired or sluggish
If your little one is overheated, take your baby inside or to the shade. Take off a layer of clothing, and if possible, press a cool rag against their neck. Make sure they are hydrated and keep them cool.
Exploring and playing in the sun with your little one is the best way to spend summer days. Before you take your kids to the park or on errands, make sure they are dressed appropriately for the weather so they stay cool and happy. When looking for baby summer clothes, discover a vast range of singlets, dresses, baby swimwear and more from Baby Bunting.