Needless to say, little ones are unable to regulate their own body temperature. If they’re too hot, they can’t simply remove a layer like you and I would – although they’ll probably tell you when they’re uncomfortable.
But that doesn’t ease the conundrum of how to dress a baby in summer, does it? So, allow us to simplify your stresses, and help you navigate summer styling for tiny tots.
8 Top Tips for How to Dress a Baby in Summer
1. Keep Out of Direct Sun
If you’re lucky enough to experience a heatwave, you might find yourself wondering how to dress a baby in summer when it’s scorching hot outside. And the number one rule is to keep your little one out of direct sunlight. Babies under six months shouldn’t wear sunscreen, so it’s best to position them in shady spots, minimising exposure to UV rays. Clip-on parasols and sunshades from prams are life-savers, too.
2. Opt for Thin Layers
When dressing for hot weather, lightweight baby clothes that can be layered are best – because let’s be honest, British summers usually bring wind and rain, not all-day sunshine. So, we definitely recommend keeping a cardigan or a jacket in your baby bag for unpredictable weather changes.
3. Always Have a Hat
The sun is extremely harmful to adult skin, let alone delicate newborn skin. That’s why protecting your baby’s head from the sun’s powerful rays is a must – and a lightweight cotton hat is always a great choice.
4. Carry a Blanket
Having a little one is all about planning ahead, and you never know when you might need to cover them up. If you’re out and about during the summer months, shops and cafes tend to have the air conditioning on full blast (not that we’re complaining). But this can mean your baby suddenly needs an additional layer, so a blanket – although bulky to carry – is always a clever idea!
5. Size Up for Breathing Room
It’s no fun wearing tight, restrictive clothing at the best of times – let alone when the temperature is sky-high. So, size up to maximise airflow and allow for freedom of movement, keeping your baby comfortable all day.
6. Pick Out Lighter Colours
Black, grey, and navy are officially out during the summertime. Known to attract and absorb heat, dressing your tiny tot in lighter colours is a much smarter – and safer – option, as it bounces heat back. Besides, bright, colourful clothing is normally much more playful in design – just look at our baby clothing collection.
7. Forget the Socks
On particularly sweltering days, tiny tootsies will be far too hot in thick socks. So, rock the bare-foot look instead – you can always carry a spare pair should the temperature suddenly drop.
8. Go for Cotton Material
Here at Rydale Country Clothing, we don’t just design our baby clothes in 100% cotton for its long-lasting quality. This well-loved material brings many benefits:
- It’s lightweight and breathable, helping your little one stay cool throughout the day.
- It soaks up sweat effectively, meaning your baby’s skin isn’t irritated by constant contact with damp fabric.
- It’s also super soft and comfortable on the skin, keeping your newborn happy as can be.
How to Dress a Baby in Summer: Tips for Safe Sleeping
Wondering how to dress a baby for hot nights? For new – and experienced – parents, scorching summer nights can cause lots of worry. And we can bet there’s a million questions racing through your mind, like:
- How do I keep my baby cool all night?
- How do I know if my baby suddenly gets too hot?
- Is it safe to dress them at all?
So, let’s put a stop to your stress. According to the NHS, babies can sleep in just a nappy on those scorching nights, taking half the confusion out of how to dress a baby in summer. If it’s a little cooler, a bodysuit is a good option as it only covers the torso. And as a general rule of thumb, it’s always best to ask yourself: what would I wear?
Keeping Your Baby Comfortable in the Heat
When it comes to keeping babies cool in summer, lightweight baby clothes for hot weather are essential. Think breathable bodysuits, sleeveless tops, and roomy cotton outfits. Not only will these prevent overheating, but they’ll also ensure your baby stays comfortable whether you’re on summer holidays in the UK or simply out in the garden.
Sun Hats and Protection
A cotton sun hat is a must-have. Not only does it shield delicate skin, but it also helps reduce the risk of sunburn when you’re out and about.
Breathable Fabrics for Babies
Cotton is great, but muslin and linen work brilliantly, too. They’re soft, airy, and allow maximum airflow – making them the ideal choice for newborn summer outfits in the UK.
Baby Clothing for Summer Holidays UK
Bodysuits
With an open arm and leg design, cotton bodysuits are definitely a brilliant option for soaring temperatures in the UK heat. Super practical and even more comfortable, they provide a light, roomy layer whilst allowing your little one to stay cool. And the best part? We have plenty of fun, vibrant designs in our collection, meaning they’re the perfect option for casual or formal dressing.
Sleepsuits
Although fully covering your baby might seem counterintuitive, sleepsuits are a great option for the summer months when it’s warm but not sweltering. Not only do they keep your little one’s arms and legs hidden from the sun’s rays, but the breathability of the material will keep them cool.
Two-Piece Outfits
Similar to a sleepsuit, our two-piece outfits are another warm weather wardrobe choice, only the contrasting top and bottoms create much more of a flashy statement.
Cotton Hats
The “cherry on top”, our two-pack cotton hats complete your tiny tot’s ensemble, ensuring they’re fully protected from the sun’s rays.
FAQs
Is cotton the only suitable fabric for dressing newborns in summer?
Of course not – cotton is definitely our top choice, and our complete Rydale baby collection is constructed from this material for its softness, durability, and breathability. But similar materials like linen or muslin are great options for infants.
Is it important to change a baby’s clothes regularly in summer?
Some babies can get particularly sweaty during summer, so it’s a good idea to change their outfit at least once a day to keep them fresh and comfortable. And remember, when it comes to how to dress a baby in summer, always do what feels right for your little one.
Which colour is best for summer dressing?
Lighter tones are the go-to choice, but as far as the colour – it’s totally up to you. You could stick to neutrals if that’s your preferred aesthetic, but we love to dress our little ones in a vibrant pop of colour at Rydale.
Should my baby wear socks in summer?
On hot days, it’s best to skip socks altogether – bare feet will help your baby stay cool. However, always keep a lightweight pair in your bag in case the weather turns.
How many layers should a baby wear in hot weather?
As a rule of thumb, babies should wear one more layer than you. In very hot weather, this might be just a single bodysuit.