fb tracking
No Result
View All Result
BellyBelly
  • Home
  • Getting Pregnant
    • Conception
    • Two Week Diaries
    • Conception Calculator
      • Conception Calculator
      • Ovulation Calculator
  • Pregnancy
    • Pregnancy Articles
    • Pregnancy Week By Week
    • Pregnancy Symptoms
    • Pregnancy Calculator
      • Pregnancy Calculator
      • Reverse Due Date Calculator
    • Pregnancy Journals
      • Irene’s Pregnancy Journal
      • Pregnancy Diaries
      • Diary of Ambah article
      • Diary of Belinda article
      • Diary of Rachael article
      • Diary of Sherie
      • Diary of Janelle
      • Diary of Sharon
      • Diary of Lucy
      • Diary of Kathryn
      • Diary of Julie
    • Prenatal / Perinatal
  • Birth
    • Birth Articles
    • Doulas
    • Midwives
    • Birth Diaries
  • Mothers
    • Mother Articles
    • Post Natal/Post Partum
  • Baby
    • Baby Articles
    • Baby Week By Week
    • Star Signs For Baby
  • Sleep
    • Sleep
    • Conception Sleep
    • Pregnancy Sleep
    • Infant / Baby Sleep
      • Infant Sleep
      • Baby Sleep
    • Toddler Sleep
    • Weaning / Feeding Sleep
      • Feeding Sleep
      • Bottle Sleep
      • Formula Sleep
      • Weaning Sleep
    • Child Sleep
    • Adult / Family Sleep
      • Mothers Sleep
      • Fathers Sleep
      • Family Sleep
      • Cosleeping
  • Baby Names
    • Baby Names
    • Baby Boy Names
    • Baby Girl Names
    • Gender-Neutral Baby Names
    • Unique Baby Names
  • Breastfeeding
    • Breastfeeding Articles
    • Breastfeeding Week by Week
    • Lactation Cookies
  • Toddler
  • Child
  • Men/Dads
  • Parenting
  • Health Lifestyle
    • Health
      • General Health
      • Cooking & Recipes
      • Meal Planning
      • Exercise
    • Lifestyle
      • Family Travel
      • Relationships
      • Men/Dads
  • General
    • Forum
    • Product Reviews
    • Competitions
  • Advertise
  • Home
  • Getting Pregnant
    • Conception
    • Two Week Diaries
    • Conception Calculator
      • Conception Calculator
      • Ovulation Calculator
  • Pregnancy
    • Pregnancy Articles
    • Pregnancy Week By Week
    • Pregnancy Symptoms
    • Pregnancy Calculator
      • Pregnancy Calculator
      • Reverse Due Date Calculator
    • Pregnancy Journals
      • Irene’s Pregnancy Journal
      • Pregnancy Diaries
      • Diary of Ambah article
      • Diary of Belinda article
      • Diary of Rachael article
      • Diary of Sherie
      • Diary of Janelle
      • Diary of Sharon
      • Diary of Lucy
      • Diary of Kathryn
      • Diary of Julie
    • Prenatal / Perinatal
  • Birth
    • Birth Articles
    • Doulas
    • Midwives
    • Birth Diaries
  • Mothers
    • Mother Articles
    • Post Natal/Post Partum
  • Baby
    • Baby Articles
    • Baby Week By Week
    • Star Signs For Baby
  • Sleep
    • Sleep
    • Conception Sleep
    • Pregnancy Sleep
    • Infant / Baby Sleep
      • Infant Sleep
      • Baby Sleep
    • Toddler Sleep
    • Weaning / Feeding Sleep
      • Feeding Sleep
      • Bottle Sleep
      • Formula Sleep
      • Weaning Sleep
    • Child Sleep
    • Adult / Family Sleep
      • Mothers Sleep
      • Fathers Sleep
      • Family Sleep
      • Cosleeping
  • Baby Names
    • Baby Names
    • Baby Boy Names
    • Baby Girl Names
    • Gender-Neutral Baby Names
    • Unique Baby Names
  • Breastfeeding
    • Breastfeeding Articles
    • Breastfeeding Week by Week
    • Lactation Cookies
  • Toddler
  • Child
  • Men/Dads
  • Parenting
  • Health Lifestyle
    • Health
      • General Health
      • Cooking & Recipes
      • Meal Planning
      • Exercise
    • Lifestyle
      • Family Travel
      • Relationships
      • Men/Dads
  • General
    • Forum
    • Product Reviews
    • Competitions
  • Advertise
No Result
View All Result
BellyBelly
No Result
View All Result
Home Baby

Babies And Hot Weather – 6 Important Things To Know

Renee Kam IBCLC
by Renee Kam IBCLC
Last updated December 18, 2024
Reading Time: 4 min
Babies And Hot Weather

In most parts of the world, there are times when the weather can be really hot.

It’s important for everyone to take extra steps to stay cool and well hydrated during hot weather.

This is particularly important for babies because their bodies cannot adjust to changes in temperature as well as adults can.

Babies And Hot Weather – 6 Important Things To Know

Babies sweat less than adults older children, reducing their bodies’ ability to cool down. Hence, they’re more at risk of overheating and developing a heat-related illness.

It’s common for parents to have questions about feeding their baby in hot weather. This article provides you with 6 important things to be aware about babies during hot weather.

#1: Babies Often Need And Want To Feed More Often

During hot weather, many babies want to feed more often, just like we want to drink more often during such times.

Regardless of whether your baby is bottle-fed or breastfed, it’s a good idea to offer more feeds during hot weather too.

Feeding a breastfed baby more often means she gets more of the lower fat milk which satisfies her thirst more. You don’t need to worry about your baby wanting to breastfeed more often as your supply can adjust to her needs.

An older baby who is no longer exclusively breastfed can be encouraged to drink extra water between feeds.

#2: It’s Important To Dress Your Baby Appropriately

During hot weather, it’s important to dress your baby in light, loose clothing. It’s even better if the clothing is made of 100% cotton, which is breathable.

Some nappy-free time would be very welcome during hot weather too. This could be done, for example, on a portable change mat with a cotton towel placed over it.

#3: It’s Best To Stay Indoors

It’s best to stay inside during the heat, especially during the hottest part of the day (often between 11am-5pm in summer).

If possible, it’s best if outdoor activities can be done in the early morning and evening, when the temperature is cooler.

You can help protect your baby from the sun by keeping her in the shade as much as possible, using a hat with a broad brim, and using long sleeves and pants (made of light cotton). If sunscreen is necessary, look for a brand which uses minimal/no chemicals.

#4: Exclusively Breastfed Babies Don’t Need Extra Water

Leading health organisations such as Australia’s National Health and Medical Research Council recommend exclusive breastfeeding for around the first six months and then for breastfeeding to continue alongside suitable family foods for at least one year or as long as the mother and child desire.

Exclusive breastfeeding means a baby receives only breastmilk, no other liquids or solids are given, not even water.

Breastmilk is very thirst quenching with a high percentage of water. Feeding your baby according to her individual needs helps ensure she gets all the nutrition and water she needs even during hot weather.

Giving a breastfed baby water might actually reduce how much breastmilk she drinks and hence reduce your milk supply. Also, because a young baby has immature kidneys, giving her water can put her at risk of water intoxication. Hence, it’s important to seek medical advice before giving a young baby any water.

Formula-fed babies may need extra water during hot weather – this is best guided by a doctor.

#5: Your Baby May Be Extra Fussy

When we’re feeling hot and bothered, the last thing most of us want to do is to sit close to someone else. Hence, it’s not really surprising that some babies may be reluctant to want to breastfeed during these times. If this is your baby, it can help to:

  • Keep trying to follow her cues
  • Place a light 100% cotton towel between you and your baby while breastfeeding to absorb any sweat and keep you both from sticking to each other
  • Try breastfeeding lying down.

Some babies refuse to feed during the hottest part of the day. They cope by feeding for longer or more frequently in the cooler parts of the day such as evening, overnight and early morning.

#6: Watch Out For Signs Of Heat-Related Illness

It’s important to be aware of signs and symptoms of heat-related illness and to seek urgent medical advice if you notice any. Following are some signs and symptoms of heat-related illness in a baby:

  • Looks unwell and is more irritable than usual
  • Pale and clammy skin
  • Sleepy and floppy
  • Fewer wet nappies
  • Dark-coloured urine
  • Soft spot on baby’s head (fontanelle) appears sunken in.

Recommended Reading: 

  • Does My Baby Need Water? What You Need To Know
  • Breast Refusal – 13 Tips For A Baby Who Refuses The Breast
  • 3 Reliable Signs That Your Baby Is Getting Enough Milk
Previous Post

10 Things Experienced Mamas Do When They Visit A New Baby

Next Post

Apple Introduces Breastfeeding Emoji And 5 Other Emojis

Renee Kam IBCLC

Renee Kam IBCLC

Renee Kam is a mother of two daughters, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), a graduate research student, a physiotherapist, and author of 'The Newborn Baby Manual'. Renee also has a Cert. IV in Breastfeeding Education (Counselling). In her spare time, Renee enjoys spending time with family and friends, horse riding, running and reading.

Next Post
Apple Introduces Breastfeeding Emoji And Other Emojis We Want To See

Apple Introduces Breastfeeding Emoji And 5 Other Emojis

Featured Articles

how to conceive a boy

How To Conceive A Boy | 6 Special Tips to Have A Baby Boy

Last updated 4 months ago
endometriosis stage

Endometriosis Stages | Understanding The 4 Critical Stages

Last updated 7 months ago

Authors

  • Amy Cameron, RM, IBCLC
    Amy Cameron, RM, IBCLC
  • Anne Macnaughtan
    Anne Macnaughtan
  • BellyBelly Ed
    BellyBelly Ed
  • Carly Grubb B.Ed (Primary) Hons.
    Carly Grubb B.Ed (Primary) Hons.
  • Darren Mattock
    Darren Mattock
  • David Rawlings
    David Rawlings
  • David Vernon
    David Vernon
  • Dawn Reid, EEPM CNCM MMID
    Dawn Reid, EEPM CNCM MMID
  • Deborah Cooper
    Deborah Cooper
  • Desiree Spierings
    Desiree Spierings
  • Sarah Buckley
    Sarah Buckley
  • Dr. Jack Newman MD FRCPC
    Dr. Jack Newman MD FRCPC
  • Dr. Thomas W. Hale
    Dr. Thomas W. Hale
  • Emily Brittingham, IBCLC, BHSc
    Emily Brittingham, IBCLC, BHSc
  • Emily Robinson
    Emily Robinson
  • Fiona Peacock
    Fiona Peacock
  • Gloria Lemay
    Gloria Lemay
  • Graham White
    Graham White
  • Heather Hack-Sullivan CPM, LDM, BS in Midwifery
    Heather Hack-Sullivan CPM, LDM, BS in Midwifery
  • Christopher Tang
    Christopher Tang
  • Irene Garzon BSc (Hons) Midwifery
    Irene Garzon BSc (Hons) Midwifery
  • Janet Powell
    Janet Powell
  • Jared Osborne
    Jared Osborne
  • Jennifer Block
    Jennifer Block
  • Joana Camato
    Joana Camato
  • Jordan Gray
    Jordan Gray
  • Kara Wilson
    Kara Wilson
  • Karen Wilmot RM, RYT, MAEd
    Karen Wilmot RM, RYT, MAEd
  • Kelly Rennie
    Kelly Rennie
  • Kelly Winder
    Kelly Winder
Tools and Features

Tools and Features

Get your birth education video

Get your birth education video

Join our Week by Week emails

Join our Week by Week emails

Get your free ebook

Get your free ebook

Belly Belly Logo

We’re passionate about women and men feeling informed, confident and prepared for pregnancy, birth and early parenting.

  • Home
  • Getting Pregnant
  • Pregnancy
  • Birth
  • Mothers
  • Baby
  • Health Lifestyle
  • Product Reviews
  • Pregnancy Symptoms
  • Pregnancy Week by Week
  • Baby Week by Week
  • Sleep
  • Baby Names
  • Breastfeeding
  • Toddler
  • Child
  • Parenting
  • Sleep Education Series
  • Breastfeeding Week by Week
  • Toddler Week by Week

OUR NETWORK

  • Belly Belly Logo
    bellybelly.com.au
  • Around the World Plus Kids
    www.aroundtheworldpluskids.com.au
  • Doula Training
    www.doula-training.com.au
  • About
  • Contact
  • Disclaimer
  • Privacy Policy
  • Advertise

© Copyright 2002–2025 BellyBelly, All Rights Reserved.

Know What's Normal For Your Baby Every Week Of The First Year

Close
No Result
View All Result
  • Home
  • Getting Pregnant
    • Conception
    • Two Week Diaries
    • Conception Calculator
      • Conception Calculator
      • Ovulation Calculator
  • Pregnancy
    • Pregnancy Articles
    • Pregnancy Week By Week
    • Pregnancy Symptoms
    • Pregnancy Calculator
      • Pregnancy Calculator
      • Reverse Due Date Calculator
    • Pregnancy Journals
      • Irene’s Pregnancy Journal
      • Pregnancy Diaries
      • Diary of Ambah article
      • Diary of Belinda article
      • Diary of Rachael article
      • Diary of Sherie
      • Diary of Janelle
      • Diary of Sharon
      • Diary of Lucy
      • Diary of Kathryn
      • Diary of Julie
    • Prenatal / Perinatal
  • Birth
    • Birth Articles
    • Doulas
    • Midwives
    • Birth Diaries
  • Mothers
    • Mother Articles
    • Post Natal/Post Partum
  • Baby
    • Baby Articles
    • Baby Week By Week
    • Star Signs For Baby
  • Sleep
    • Sleep
    • Conception Sleep
    • Pregnancy Sleep
    • Infant / Baby Sleep
      • Infant Sleep
      • Baby Sleep
    • Toddler Sleep
    • Weaning / Feeding Sleep
      • Feeding Sleep
      • Bottle Sleep
      • Formula Sleep
      • Weaning Sleep
    • Child Sleep
    • Adult / Family Sleep
      • Mothers Sleep
      • Fathers Sleep
      • Family Sleep
      • Cosleeping
  • Baby Names
    • Baby Names
    • Baby Boy Names
    • Baby Girl Names
    • Gender-Neutral Baby Names
    • Unique Baby Names
  • Breastfeeding
    • Breastfeeding Articles
    • Breastfeeding Week by Week
    • Lactation Cookies
  • Toddler
  • Child
  • Men/Dads
  • Parenting
  • Health Lifestyle
    • Health
      • General Health
      • Cooking & Recipes
      • Meal Planning
      • Exercise
    • Lifestyle
      • Family Travel
      • Relationships
      • Men/Dads
  • General
    • Forum
    • Product Reviews
    • Competitions
  • Advertise

© Copyright 2002–2025 BellyBelly, All Rights Reserved.