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How to keep your baby safe and comfortable during summer

This guide gives you some useful tips to help keep your baby safe and comfortable during the hot Australian summer.

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Sun protection

Australia has one of the highest UV indexes in the world. When the UV index is 3 or above (February can be as high as 13), Cancer Council Victoria recommends that babies under 12 months are not exposed to direct sun to protect their thin and extremely sensitive skin.

There are many things you can do to minimise your baby's exposure to UV light. Avoid direct sunlight in your car by using a car shade for the windows. Car shades can provide UV protection, and some models such as the Outlook Auto Shade UPF10 can also help to keep flying insects out of the car.

Shades are also available for baby strollers. Models such as the Vee Bee Sunstopper Weather Shield and the Outlook Essentials Baby Shade cover the entire stroller and offer a high level of UV protection, while still allowing ventilation to keep your baby cool. If you are planning a family day at the beach and you are not sure if you will be able to score a spot in the shade, look at buying sun shelter.

Keep in mind that even in the shade, UV radiation can reflect off water, sand and even concrete. Babies should have sun-protecting clothing and a hat. Look for clothes that have a UPF label or choose a fabric that contains blends of heavyweight natural fibres such as cotton or linen. Protect exposed skin - such as your baby's hands - with an SPF 30+ sunscreen that is suitable for sensitive baby skin.

Keeping your baby nice and comfortable

Natural materials such as cotton and muslin can keep your baby comfortable during summer, as these fabrics are very breathable. Short sleeve onesies and bodysuits will also help to prevent your baby from getting too warm. And remember, when it's hot outside, it's important to make sure your baby has enough to drink. If your baby is old enough to drink out of a sippy cup, look into getting one that is insulated to keep drinks cold, such as the Disney Insulated Sippy Cup 2 Pack.

To avoid itchy and uncomfortable mozzie bites, check your window and door screens for gaps and tears. If they are in bad shape, you may want to consider replacing them. Citronella scented outdoor candles are another way of insect control that can help you keep away unwanted bugs.

Regulate the room temperature

18 to 21°C is a good room temperature for your baby. Usually, keeping a window open and letting a fan run should be enough to keep your baby comfortable overnight. If it gets too hot even at night, an air conditioner [link buying guide fans and air conditioners] can come in handy to regulate the temperature in the baby's room, but make sure the cool air is not blowing directly onto the cot. A monitor like the Philips Avent Dect Baby Monitor can help you keep an eye on the room temperature.

With these tips in mind, you can start browsing to buy essentials to keep your baby safe and comfortable in summer. Visit us online or come down to your local Big W to have a look at our great range of products.

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