As the weather warms up, understandably parents start to worry about whether their baby will be too hot in their baby carrier or sling. Undoubtedly the closeness does mean that it is warmer for both of you, however, there are some simple things you can think about to ensure you both stay safe and as cool as possible:
- Think about layers! Depending on the thickness - most carriers count as 1-2 layers (some like Caboo or stretchy wrap will even count at 3), so do think about the layers you and baby are wearing. Can you take any off? Thin loose layers - that cover and protect from the sun are ideal, or even just naked save for a nappy can work too.
- Protect extremities from the sun. Sun hats - particularly those with wide brims covering face and neck are great. I adored these ones from Sleepy Nico because their little cord ensured they really stayed on, but sadly they don't seem to be made anymore. But two equally fantastic options include these beautiful hats have the same little stay on cord tie and come in fantastic prints, and these which feature the ability to fit to baby's head size and grow with baby! Hoods on carriers can be a bit of a mixed blessing, as while most do protect from UV - covering the head and face can restrict airflow and actually make baby hotter so a hat can be a really ideal option for ensuring baby's head is protected from the sun. You can check out our very own hat savers here to prevent the inevitable lost hat issues! Also think about arms and legs. Suncream if appropriate, or long loose clothing that covers arms and legs or even loosely tie a large muslin to provide some light coverage and sun protection. Another great option is these lightweight legwarmers from MooMo Baby - easy to slip on a sleeping baby and perfect for keeping sun off while not over heating them.
- Stick to the shade were possible and try to avoid direct sun, and/or think about time of day and try to avoid the hottest parts of the day. And when it's not possible to stay in the shade consider bringing your own shade with you - in the form of a large wide brimmed hat for yourself (wide enough to shade baby too) or even a parasol! Toddlers in particular love 'helping' hold a parasol... and they can be very helpful if you have a baby who refuses to wear a hat!
- Cooling aids such as a damp muslin between you and baby can be helpful in keeping you both cool. Likewise little fans for helping circulate air around you both. One trick I used to use a lot with my son was to dampen his hat. The damp cool hat on his head used to really help cool him down and allow him to settle! Likewise carrying water in a spray bottle so you and spritz you and baby can really help keep both of you cool.
- Stay hydrated - seems obvious but drinking plenty of water can really help your body's ability to temperature regulate, which in turn will help your body regulate your baby's temperature too. Likewise, your baby will need to feed/drink very regularly too - whether this is via more frequent breastfeeds (making it doubly important for you to stay hydrated) or ensuring you have extra feeds/ extra water in an appropriate bottle/cup for them to drink.
- Hip or back carries can feel cooler than tummy to tummy front carries. Even seated sideways or off centre can reduce the skin contact and feel cooler. So do think about if there is another way you can use your carrier that may help keep you cooler. This will of course dependent on the carrier or sling you have and dependent on the age and stage of your baby - but this is definitely something I can help advise on so please do get in contact if you'd like suggestions.
- Take regular breaks - if you and baby are starting to feel too warm, do take a break. Build in time to allow for getting baby out of the carrier in the shade and giving them time to kick around/wiggle, have a drink/feed and give both of you a break. There is a reason most humans feel lethargic on a hot day - it's your body's way of telling you to go slow and take breaks!
There are of course some carriers that are cooler than others, or some that naturally lend themselves better to being used in a cooler way than others. But in general, the hottest part of babywearing in the summer months is actually the baby (and for the baby - you!). And really while having a cooler carrier can help by not adding further warmth, it won't magically make holding your baby any cooler! Not to mention that some of the carriers with mesh that claim to be cool yet have reams of heavy padding aren't as cool as they claim to be! So if you have a carrier already, definitely consider all the advice above and see if any of it helps before investing in a new cooler carrier (unless you want to of course!). Because after-all the British Summer never lasts that long!!
-Madeleine
