Protecting our babies during the heatwave: Essential advice for their well-being

Summer often brings warm, sunny days, but when the heatwave sets in, it's crucial to take extra steps to protect our babies. Infants are particularly vulnerable to excessive heat because they cannot regulate their body temperature as effectively as adults. In this article, we will explore the steps we can take to ensure the well-being of our little ones during heatwaves.

1. Regular hydration:

Hydration is essential for everyone, but it's even more important for babies. Make sure your baby drinks enough fluids throughout the day, even if he or she may not express thirst. Breastfed babies should be breastfed more frequently because breast milk also provides hydration. For bottle-fed babies, offer extra water between meals to prevent dehydration.

2. Dress them lightly:

Choose light, loose clothing for your baby during hot days. Opt for breathable materials like cotton that allow air to circulate easily around the baby's skin. Avoid synthetic fabrics that can trap heat. For the night, a cotton sleeping bag + the diaper in case of very hot nights are more than sufficient. Better a baby who is cold and will let you know than a baby who is too hot!

3. Create a cool environment:

Maintaining a comfortable temperature inside your home is crucial for your baby's comfort. Use fans or air conditioning to cool rooms where the baby spends time. Make sure the temperature is neither too hot nor too cold for your child's comfort. Using a humidifier can also help keep the surrounding air humidified and prevent excessive dryness.

4. Avoid going out during the hottest hours:

Babies should be protected from direct exposure to the sun during the hottest hours of the day, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you must go out, try to plan your outdoor activities early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the weather is milder. When going out with your baby, always use appropriate sun protection and keep them in the shade as much as possible.

5. Watch for signs of overheating and dehydration:

During the heatwave, it is essential to monitor your baby closely for signs of overheating and dehydration. If your baby is red and the back of his neck is wet, your baby is overheated.

Look for signs such as irritability, excessive sleepiness, bulging fontanel, dry skin, or chapped lips. If you notice any of these signs, contact a healthcare professional immediately.

6. Pay attention to the fabric on the stroller to protect from the sun. Use a ventilated fabric, such as plain cotton, and leave space between the cuffs of the stroller and the bottom to allow air to circulate. A fabric covering the entire passenger compartment and it quickly becomes a furnace.

7. Did you know? Using lambskins for babies during heatwaves may seem counterintuitive, but they actually offer several benefits for the comfort and well-being of our little ones. Natural lambskins are known for their temperature regulating properties. They can help maintain optimal body temperature for the baby, keeping them cool in hot weather. The natural fibers of lambskin allow good air circulation, helping to prevent excessive sweating and skin irritation. Don't hesitate to put it in the bed so that baby sleeps on it, on the stroller mattress, or even, some are designed expressly, in the cozy space of the car. In fact, the coverings of strollers or cozy chairs are made of synthetic materials and promote perspiration. FYI, the UGG brand was designed for Australian surfers...

Heatwaves can present health risks to babies, but by taking simple and effective measures, we can protect them and ensure they have a safe summer. Keep in mind the importance of hydration, dress lightly, create a cool environment, avoid going out at the hottest times, and watch for signs of overheating and dehydration. By acting preventatively and paying special attention to the needs of our little ones, we can get through the heatwave with peace of mind.