How to Keep Your Baby Safe in Hot Weather

What to do when a child is too hot

Hot weather can be tough on little ones, especially babies and toddlers who can’t regulate their body temperature as well as adults. From knowing what to dress your baby in during summer to spotting signs of sunstroke in kids, this guide will help you navigate those hot days with confidence.

Why babies need extra care in the heat

Newborns and young children are more vulnerable to overheating, dehydration and sunburn. Their little bodies warm up a lot faster than ours, and they rely on us adults to help them stay cool and safe. Whether you're managing baby sleeping routines in hot weather or just wondering how to dress your baby in summer, here are our essential tips to help.

Baby hot weather essentials: our top tips to keep them cool

Sun safety for babies and toddlers

Babies under 6 months should stay completely out of direct sunlight
Use a clip-on parasol or sunshade on your pushchair. Never drape it with a blanket or muslin!
Dress your baby in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, with a wide-brimmed UV sunhat - bonus points if it also covers their neck
For babies 6 months and older, apply SPF 50+ sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays

How to dress a baby in hot weather

For bedtime in summer, a breathable nappy or a short-sleeved vest is often enough
Avoid swaddling unless using a very lightweight fabric - and always check your baby isn’t too hot first
During the day, dress in breathable cotton clothes and avoid overdressing

Keeping baby cool while sleeping

The ideal baby room temperature is 16-20°C
Use blackout blinds to keep the sun out during the day
Open windows if safe, and use a fan to circulate air - not aimed directly at your baby.
A room thermometer is a must-have for peace of mind

Staying hydrated

Breastfed babies may feed more often during hot spells, so follow their lead. Breastmilk naturally adapts to provide hydration, so you shouldn’t need to supplement with water
Formula-fed babies can have sips of cooled boiled water in addition to feeds
From 6 months, offer sips of water with meals and throughout the day

Keeping cool outdoors

Stick to shaded areas and avoid going out between 11am and 3pm
Paddling pools are great for cooling off older babies and toddlers - remember to keep them in the shade and supervise little ones closely
Avoid crowded, hot places like public transport during peak hours

Monitoring for signs of overheating or sunstroke in kids

Watch out for:

Flushed or hot skin
Rapid breathing or fussiness
Lethargy or refusal to feed
If they’re vomiting or seem confused, seek medical help - the NHS website has lots of useful info.

Always check your baby's chest or back of the neck - not hands or feet - to gauge their body temperature.

Fun ways to keep bigger kids cool in summer

Whilst all the general rules still apply to bigger kids - extra hydration and suncream, avoiding midday sun, loose clothing - keeping older children cool doesn’t have to mean staying indoors all day. Here are some playful ways to beat the heat:

DIY water play

Set up a sprinkler, water balloons, or splash mat in the garden
Create a mini car wash for bikes and scooters - kids will love rolling through it!

Cool crafts indoors

Make handprint fans or decorate paper parasols.
Freeze small toys in ice blocks and let kids excavate them with spoons

Frozen treats

Blend fruit and freeze into homemade ice lollies
Let kids help make frozen yogurt bark or chilled smoothies

Shady adventures

Go on a scavenger hunt in a shady park or woodland
Create a backyard den using sheets and a garden parasol

Evening playtime

Save high-energy outdoor activities like biking or football for the cooler evening hours - a bit of exercise before bed should also help them sleep better!

Keeping your kids cool in hot weather doesn’t need to be stressful. With a few simple steps and regular check-ins, you can help your little one stay safe, comfy and happy throughout summer.

FAQs: Babies and hot weather

What temperature is too hot for a baby?

Anything above 24°C indoors can start to feel uncomfortable for a baby. Over 27°C, take extra steps to cool the room - such as a fan (not aimed at your baby), or using blackout blinds - and reduce clothing layers.

Can you put a fan on a baby in hot weather?

You can use a fan in the room but don’t direct it at your baby. It should circulate air to keep the environment cooler.

What should my baby wear to bed in summer?

On very hot nights, just a nappy or a sleeveless vest is often enough. Always feel their chest or back to check for overheating.

How can I make my baby’s room cooler?

Keep blinds or curtains closed during the day, open windows at night, use a fan for airflow, and dress baby lightly. Avoid too many layers.

What are signs of sunstroke in kids?

Red, hot skin, excessive crying, tiredness, dizziness, or vomiting. Move them to a cool place, offer fluids, and seek medical help if their symptoms persist or get worse.

Is it safe to swaddle a baby in hot weather?

Swaddling in heat is risky unless using breathable, light fabric. Most babies are fine with no swaddle at all in hot conditions.