Having a baby in summer is wonderful: those first walks in the countryside, plenty of fresh air and relaxing cuddles in the shade. Yet when it comes to buying essentials for their new baby, many expectant parents feel unsure.
What should you dress a newborn in when it’s over 25 degrees outside? How do you protect their delicate skin from the sun? And how do you prevent them from overheating in the pushchair?

💡 The essentials for your summer baby at a glance

• Breathability is key: Opt for natural materials such as cotton, linen or wool and silk blends. They help regulate body temperature.
• The ‘onion’ principle: Layering makes sense even in summer, as newborns can quickly get cold, for example in a light breeze or in air conditioned rooms.
• Sun protection: During the first year of life, shade is the best protection. Sun cream should generally be avoided for newborns.
• Avoid heat build up: Never drape a burp cloth completely over the pram as sun protection, as life threatening heat can build up inside.

1. Clothing: Airy, light and protective

During the first few weeks, newborns are not yet able to regulate their own body temperature. They hardly sweat at all and can cool down quickly.
The solution? High quality materials and the tried and tested layering principle.

The basic wardrobe checklist:

• 6–8 bodysuits: Choose a mix of short sleeved and long sleeved bodysuits. Wrap around bodysuits are particularly popular for newborns. Long sleeved wool and silk bodysuits are ideal in summer, as they provide protection from UV rays and draughts without making your baby too warm.
• 4–5 rompers or lightweight trousers: Comfortable bloomers made from light muslin or thin cotton allow plenty of air to circulate around little legs.
• 2–3 light jackets: Ideal for cooler mornings and evenings.
• 2 pairs of thin socks: As babies can lose body heat through their feet and head, light cotton socks are useful on cooler days.
• 1–2 summer hats: A lightweight sun hat with a wide brim and built in neck protection helps shield the face and neck from the sun.

❤️ Our mum’s tip: Avoid clothes with thick appliqués, zips at the back or stiff collars. Your baby spends much of the day lying down, so comfort comes first.

2. Baby sleep on tropical nights

When the nights are hot, even babies can find it difficult to sleep. The most important thing is to provide a safe and comfortable sleeping environment.

Here’s what you’ll need for the night:

• 1–2 summer sleeping bags: Look for the TOG rating. An unlined sleeping bag with a TOG rating of 0.5 can be suitable for the height of summer.
• Cotton fitted sheets: Avoid waterproof plastic mattress protectors directly beneath the sheet, as they can trap heat and make your baby sweat.
• A room thermometer: The recommended sleeping temperature is generally around 16–20 degrees, although this can be difficult to achieve in summer. Air the room thoroughly in the morning and keep it shaded during the day.
• The neck test: Unsure whether your baby is too warm? Place two fingers on the back of their neck. If it feels comfortably warm and dry, your baby is likely comfortable. If it feels damp and hot, remove a layer of clothing.

3. Out and about: Walks, the car and the baby carrier

Summer babies often spend plenty of time outdoors. To help protect them from UV rays and overheating, their pushchair or carrier may need a few summer essentials.

Essentials for outings:

• Sun canopy or parasol: A sun canopy for the pushchair provides shade while allowing air to circulate. Never stretch a muslin cloth or blanket completely across the opening of the pushchair, as this can cause heat to build up inside.
• Sun shades for the car: These help provide additional protection from direct sunlight through the rear side windows.
• A thin blanket: A light muslin blanket is usually sufficient in summer to cover your baby in the pushchair when there is a gentle breeze.
• For parents who carry their baby: When carrying your baby, you will both get quite warm. Your baby may only need a bodysuit in the carrier. Protect any bare legs from the sun with UV protective leg warmers or long, thin trousers.

4. Skincare & hygiene in summer

In summer, a baby’s delicate skin often needs fewer care products than you might think.

• The bath: A bath can be a pleasant way to freshen up on hot days. Plain water at around 37 degrees is often enough. A few drops of a suitable baby oil can provide additional skin care if needed.
• Nappy rash cream: On hot days, the nappy area can become sore more quickly due to heat and moisture. A suitable nappy rash cream and plenty of time without a nappy can help soothe the skin.
• Washcloths: Soft fabric washcloths are useful for gently wiping away sweat from your baby’s neck and skin folds from time to time.

Frequently asked questions about summer babies

Can I put sun cream on my newborn?
Where possible, newborns and young babies should be kept out of direct, strong sunlight. Their skin is particularly delicate. Shade and suitable lightweight clothing that covers the skin provide the best protection. If sun exposure cannot be avoided, seek professional advice about suitable sun protection for your baby.

Does my summer baby need extra water or tea in hot weather?
Babies who are exclusively breastfed generally receive the fluids they need from breast milk, even in hot weather. Formula fed babies may require additional considerations depending on their age and the conditions, so follow professional guidance. It is normal for breastfed babies to want to feed more frequently for shorter periods during hot weather.

Should I leave my baby completely undressed in hot weather?
Although it can be tempting to leave your baby in just a nappy, a thin, short sleeved bodysuit made from wool and silk or cotton can be a good choice. It absorbs sweat, helps protect delicate skin from light draughts and keeps your baby comfortable.