Read the complete article at Babylist.com
By Briana Engelbrecht | Published On May 11, 2026
Hot summer days with a baby can feel like a lot. Babies don’t regulate their body temperature as well as adults do, which means it’s easier for them to overheat—and harder for them to tell you when something’s off.
That doesn’t mean you’re stuck inside until things cool down—there are practical ways to help keep your baby cool and safe when temperatures rise. I talked to two experts, board-certified pediatrician Dr. Debra Goldenring, and Jen LaBracio, Babylist’s senior gear editor, who also happens to be a certified passenger safety technician (CPST), for expert tips about what to look out for and how to keep babies safe in warm weather.
🌡️ Plan Around The Heat
You don’t have to stay inside all summer—but a little planning can help outings go more smoothly. It’s a good idea to check the weather, so you know what to expect throughout the day.
Sometimes it’s less about avoiding the heat entirely and more about working around it (and adjusting expectations a little). For example, a spray bottle filled with water can double as a quick cool-down and an easy way to keep toddlers entertained. And a stroller fan also comes in handy here.
If temperatures seem like they’re going to be high, here are some tips:
- Aim for outdoor time earlier or later in the day
- Take shade breaks often
- Bring an extra outfit in case your baby gets sweaty
👒 Dress Your Baby For the Weather
When it comes to dressing your baby in the heat, less is usually more. Babies can overheat easily, and what they’re wearing makes a big difference.
A good rule of thumb: dress your baby in one lightweight layer, like a breathable cotton bodysuit. If it feels hot to you, it probably feels even hotter to them.
What helps:
- Stick to light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
- You can usually skip extra layers unless you’re heading into air conditioning
- Check their chest or back (not hands or feet) to gauge if they’re too warm
To check if they’re too warm, feel their chest or back—if it’s sweaty or hot, it’s time to cool things down. Dr. Goldenring adds, “In addition, their cheeks may be flushed, and they may look sweaty and may even have damp hair.”
For the complete article, including more insights like sun exposure, hydration, signs of overheating and more, click here to read the original article on Babylist.com