Heat Alert: How to Dress Your Baby on Hot Days and Keep Them Cool

Summer brings sunshine and good moods, but also risks for our little ones. Babies can't yet regulate their body temperature on their own and are particularly susceptible to overheating. That's why it's important to dress and protect your baby thoughtfully when it's hot.

How to Dress Your Baby Right in the Heat

Go for light, breathable clothing. Natural materials like cotton, linen, or muslin are ideal because they let the skin breathe and absorb sweat quickly.

• A short-sleeve bodysuit made of cotton is often enough on its own.
• When you're out, a light sun hat with a wide brim and neck flap provides protection.
• Skip thick socks or hats. Babies release excess heat through their heads.

Protection From Sun & UV Rays

Babies under 1 year should generally not be exposed to direct sunlight. Deliberately seek shaded spots or use a sunshade on the stroller. From 6 months on, you can additionally use a special baby sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (50+) — ideally mineral and fragrance-free.

UV protective clothing also makes sense: it protects sensitive baby skin best where clothing is needed, e.g. at the beach or playing in the park.

Spotting and Avoiding Heat Traps

Watch for signs of overheating: reddened skin, restlessness, glazed eyes, or lethargy. Ventilate the stroller regularly, don't use thick mattresses or cuddle blankets, and make sure your baby doesn't lie too long on a warm surface.

A lukewarm washcloth on the forehead and neck can gently cool your baby. A lukewarm bath also feels pleasantly refreshing.

Don't Forget Fluids

Breastfed babies usually don't need additional fluids in the heat but should be nursed more often. After checking with your midwife or pediatrician, bottle-fed babies can be offered small amounts of water.

The Wetterbaby app gives you daily recommendations for hot days — including sun protection, clothing, and warnings about current heat stress.