How can I protect my baby in summer?

Why are babies particularly at risk in summer?

The three biggest dangers for babies in summer are sunburn, dehydration and overheating. All three can become dangerous if early signs go unnoticed – be a bit more cautious with the sun and pay attention to your baby's behavior.

Sunburn: We all know that UV rays can damage our skin. A baby's skin is much thinner than that of children and adults and its natural UV protection is barely developed. Therefore babies have little defense against the sun. In your baby's first year you should completely avoid direct sun. Baby sunscreen with a high SPF protects the skin, but is more suitable for somewhat older babies.
Dehydration: Because of their small body size, babies dehydrate quickly. So in summer be sure to ensure regular fluid intake. With exclusively breastfed babies you don't really have to worry – your child gets enough fluid from breast milk. On very hot days they will probably drink small amounts more often. For babies who are already eating solid foods, you should repeatedly offer water or unsweetened teas.
Sunstroke: Babies cannot regulate their body temperature properly yet, and they have hardly any protective hair. High temperatures and direct sunlight can quickly lead to heat accumulation or a dangerous sunstroke. If you want to go outside with your baby on hot days, it's best to do so in the morning and evening: loose, lightweight clothing and a sun hat are of course mandatory – even in the shade.

SOS – how to act at signs of sunstroke

Massive sun exposure can raise the temperature of the brain. The result may be sunstroke. Typical signs of sunstroke are:

Bright red face
Pronounced restlessness and crying
Fever
Cool skin
Vomiting
Apathy or unconsciousness

Sunstroke is not a minor issue, not for adults and certainly not for babies. Therefore: always take precautions and at the slightest suspicion of sunstroke go immediately to the pediatrician or hospital!

Protection from insect bites

We've got the sun under control – but what about insects? Because babies' immune systems are still underdeveloped, mosquito or wasp stings can sometimes cause severe reactions. Tick bites carry a high risk of infection and are not always immediately noticeable. It's best to ensure with a Insect net for the stroller and the baby cot in place. Especially in forests and near lakes, you should put long clothing on your baby to avoid bites.

The most important rules for the hot season

Avoid direct sun: Babies should ideally spend their first summer entirely in the shade. That's not always possible – but avoid direct sun as much as possible and consider sun protection for strollers and the garden.
Offer sufficient fluids: Water and diluted teas are optimal to meet the increased fluid needs. Drinks should not be ice-cold – and feel free to be a bit persistent with bottles or sippy cups.
Stay inside at midday: Spend the hot midday hours with your baby indoors – a good opportunity to recharge during a midday nap.
Never without a hat: Newborns should also wear a lightweight cap in summer – for older babies a sun hat or sun scarf is mandatory to protect against sunburn and heatstroke, but also drafts.
Adjust clothing: Light, loose clothing made of natural materials is ideal – best in the proven 'onion look', which prevents heat buildup. With especially tightly woven UV-protective clothing, your baby is fully protected. Especially at night, you should dress your child more lightly so they can sleep peacefully.
Caution in the car: Never leave your child alone in the car in summer (not even for minutes). Prefer not to turn the air conditioning down too far, as there is a risk of catching a cold.
UV protection even on cloudy days: For somewhat older babies you can use special baby sunscreen with a high SPF, for example when you are at the beach or in the park.