How to Keep Newborn Cool in Summer - A complete Guide

From wherever you are reading this, however hot or mild your Summer is, remember, it's important that you keep your baby cool in Summer as they cannot regulate their core temperature.

Adults can easily switch on the AC or remove their shirts when they feel hot. But when it comes to babies, it isn't easy to decode what these cute beings are feeling. This makes it all the more important to be prepared and take precautions for newborns in Summer. There are certain indications that you need to look for in your baby during the Summer. These indications tell you how your baby is feeling and what to do about it. All of those things are discussed in the latter part of this blog.

Of course, prevention is better than cure any day, anytime. So here are a few tips to keep your baby away from overheating, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke.

How to Keep Newborn Cool in Summer - A Complete Guide

Dress accordingly, and go minimal

Appropriate dressing is the most important part when it comes to Summer. To state in one line, comfortable and breathable clothes are the go-to clothes in Summer. 

Newborns have delicate skin, and their skin is porous. The most desirable fabric for Summer would be cotton. Cotton is lightweight, porous, and breathable. In Summer, we sweat more, and cotton fabric has a good absorbing quality and keeps the skin dry. Nylon or polyester fabric don't absorb sweat and make the baby feel uncomfortable. They are also harsh on the skin. If you are looking for soft clothes, then organic cotton is the best option. Organic cotton clothes are very soft on the skin and have no chemical residues in it. This fact keeps the baby's skin from rashes. As it is comfortable and cozy, it enables your baby to sleep well.

Put on minimal clothes, especially at night. A singlet and diaper or onesie or sleepsuits are easy to wear. Sleepsuits cover the whole body and stop mosquito bites.

• Turn on fans and maintain good ventilation

Keep the fans on and ensure there is good ventilation. Keep the blinds closed so that the room is cool. If you have AC, then ensure you don't leave it on for a long time. Newborns have a developing immunity, and too much AC might make them catch a cold. They will be wearing minimal clothing and will be too cold if the AC is on for too long. It might be okay for adults but not for newborns.

• Stay inside during peak hours

Unless it is necessary, stay inside during the hottest time of the day. 10 am to 2 pm are very hot, and the UV rays are harmful. It is suggested that you stay in or be in the shade during these times. If you are out, ensure your baby is wearing a good quality cotton dress. It is suggested you put on light-colored clothes on your baby. As their skin is tender, the Sun might burn. You can use Sunscreen for protection; however, it is not recommended to use chemicals on newborns. 

• Hydrating your baby

Staying hydrated is the most important part, be it any season and any day. In Summer, to keep your baby cool, you must ensure your baby takes a good amount of water and pees regularly. Ensure the water is heated and cooled before you give it to your baby. You can start giving water only after six months, and the quantity will be 2-3 ounces.

You can wipe your baby with a wet cloth to cool the body temperature. Ensure the baby's skin is moist and not very dry. Use a carrier that is made of light and soft material instead of thick and dark material. If your baby sweats a lot and if the baby is not dressed appropriately, then red bumps and rashes might arise on the skin. Don't pop them and use baby-friendly talcum powder and try to make sure your baby doesn't sweat a lot by keeping the fans or AC on. When you are nursing your baby, ensure you are wearing a soft cotton dress so that your baby won't feel any discomfort or feel hot because of the fabric and holding the baby so close.

If your baby is feeling overheated, then their face might turn red or pale. Look for those signs and if you find your baby feeling exhausted, then take immediate necessary actions. Check if there is rapid breathing or fever, which might occur if you expose the baby to heat.

These are a few basic yet essential tips on how to keep newborn cool in Summer. If you need specific details based on where you are from, then you may consult a pediatrician or ask a trusted person who has good expertise in parenting and child health.

Author bio: I am Bettye Reinhard, a post-graduate in humanities and communications, and an inquisitive person who loves writing. I’m working for https://tinytwig.com.au/  and my forte is a digital marketing and everything that has to do with phones and screens. I am someone who believes that one person can make a change, and that's precisely why I took up writing, which is the best tool to communicate these days. I have a decade of experience in writing and marketing, and I still find myself learning new things about it, which I want to share with my readers.