With the weather across the country reaching record highs this week, keeping mum and baby healthy in the heat is absolutely essential. As young families continue through their holidays this summer and especially as we head closer to the Australia Day long weekend, we thought we’d share some tips around keeping your baby happy and healthy in the height of the Australian summer.
1. LAYER UP
Dress your baby in layers so you can take them off according to the temperature. Cover their body in lightweight clothing made with breathable fabrics like linen and cotton. For any skin exposed, apply sunscreen that is designed for babies and waterproof to your baby’s skin regularly, particularly when in and out of the water or paddling pool.
2. MONITOR HEAT INDOORS
Use a nursery thermometer to maintain a comfortable heat in your baby’s bedroom, ideally between 16 to 20 degrees. Keep all blinds and curtains closed during the day and use a fan to circulate the air, but ensure it’s not blowing directly on the baby. To help your baby sleep, dress him in a singlet wrapped with muslin cloth, and have the bare minimum number of items in the cot, including toys and rattles to maximise ventilation.
3. STAY COOL WHILE BREASTFEEDING
Do not be alarmed if your baby’s number of feeds is more frequent during extreme heat. If breastfeeding, try placing a towel or cloth nappy between you and your baby’s body, as well as a cool, damp face-washer in the crook of your arm to make it more comfortable for you both. You may also find it useful stocking up on milk by using a Philips Avent manual or electric breast pump. Stay well hydrated by having a large glass of water at each breastfeed and check that there have been at least 5 to 6 wet nappies each day.
4. MONITOR RASHES
Some babies are susceptible to heat rash or prickly heat, causing very small pinkish-red or clear blisters on the face, neck and in the skin folds, especially in the nappy area. To avoid any heat rashes, if your baby’s skin feels hot to touch, gently sponge them with lukewarm water or bathe them in a cool bath but make sure to dry all their skin folds afterwards. If the rash persists after 2 to 3 days, visit your GP.
5. TRAVEL SAFELY
Avoid travelling with your baby in extreme heat where possible. If you do need to travel by car with your baby, try making the trip in the coolest parts of the day, which is usually early morning. Use sunshades on windows and never cover your baby’s capsule with a rug or towel to shade them from the sun as this will restrict air flow around your baby. Never leave babies or young children alone in a car, no matter what the weather. And don’t forget your toddler drinking cup. The Philips Avent Sip, No Drip Cups spill proof technology is perfect for mess free trips to the pool or beach.
