Carrying your baby in summer weather

Looking cool carrying a toddler in the Caboo DX Go

Are you worried about keeping cool when carrying? Are you worried about your baby overheating when you’re carrying in summer? There are many ways to make carrying in the heat work for you! Read on for our top tips!

Do I need a special carrier for carrying in summer weather?

You don’t need a special carrier for carrying in summer, although there are many carriers which offer either a ‘Cool’ version or have features such as zip open panels. If you are finding your current sling or carrier too warm then it is definitely worth exploring a similar carrier which may be thinner or cooler.  However, adjusting the way you are using your existing carrier might be enough!

For some more specific suggestions check out our Wovens When It’s Warm and Buckles When It’s Boiling articles!

Are some styles of carrier cooler?

Many people prefer lighter weight carriers and carriers which have less body contact when carrying in summer weather. Onbuhimo, unstructured buckle carriers like the Integra and Meh Dai are all often popular during warmer summer months. These carriers are also more open at the sides, allowing airflow around baby which can help everyone feel cool.

What should my baby wear in the sling when it’s hot?

If it’s really warm then your baby might not need much in the way of clothes at all! Whatever sling you are using remember that the sling or carrier acts like at least one layer of clothing on your baby. A stretchy wrap can act as 3 thick layers, or a thin wrap could be one thin one. A baby in a Moby wrap on a hot day won’t need more than a nappy, whilst a baby in a gauze wrap on a cooler day might need a couple of layers.

Thin and easily removed layers are great for days when the weather is changeable.

How do I keep sun safe in the sling?

Back carry with a toddler- still cool on a hot day

Make sure that your baby’s head is shaded with a hat where possible, and ensure you use sun cream on any part of their body which will be in direct sun or simply keep to the shade. If you would like to cover arms or legs but don’t want to overheat, draping a muslin over can give your baby a bit of extra shade.

Some sun creams can leave marks on fabric so it might be worth testing before you leave marks on your favourite sling!

Do I need to worry about dehydrating?

On very hot days dehydration can be an issue. Babies get sleepy in the heat so they might need waking to feed. Keep offering their usual milk, or water for older babies and children, and keep yourself hydrated too!

What other ways to keep cool in the sling can I use?

Some people like to use a damp muslin between themselves and their baby to keep everyone cool. Others prefer a dry muslin to avoid the sticky sweaty feeling! Handheld fans can be great for getting some air moving, and splashing or spraying a little bit of water can help cool everyone off a little.

Some people recommend using cool packs or ice packs, however this can become uncomfortable quickly and babies cannot always communicate this so this would be something we would suggest using sparingly.

Take regular breaks in the shade and if possible out of the sling too to help everyone keep cool!

Are different carrying positions cooler?

Yes, many people find hip and back carrying cooler than front carrying. If you are happier front carrying then using a seated sideways position can potentially be cooler as there is less body contact.

Want to try something for the summer but not sure what?

Get in touch or book a consultation (15 minutes on the phone is FREE) and we will help you pick the right sling for whatever you need!