While we all love a sunny day, babies require a little extra care when the mercury rises.

Why Babies Can’t Regulate Their Body Temperature

Unlike adults, babies have a much harder time staying cool. They don't sweat as efficiently as we do, and their small bodies can heat up three to five times faster than an adult's. This makes them particularly vulnerable to heatstroke and dehydration during the warmer months.

The Overheating Risk: Why Keeping Cool is Crucial

According to The Lullaby Trust, overheating is a significant risk factor for SIDS. In summer, the goal is to keep your baby's environment and clothing as breathable as possible. It is always better for a baby to be a little too cool than too hot.

Quick Signs Your Baby is Too Hot

Checking your baby’s hands or feet isn't always reliable, as these can feel cool even when their core is warm. Instead, check their chest or the back of their neck:

• Heat Signs: If the skin feels hot, clammy, or sweaty, they are too warm.
• Flushed Cheeks: A bright red face can be a sign of heat stress.
• Rapid Breathing: If your baby seems to be breathing faster than usual, move them to a cooler area immediately.

The Golden Rules of Summer Baby Dressing

The "One Fewer Layer" Rule

While the winter rule is "one extra layer," the summer rule is often the opposite. In hot weather (above 24°C), babies usually need one fewer layer than an adult to remain comfortable. If you are comfortable in a light t-shirt, your baby may just need a nappy or a very thin cotton bodysuit.

UK Summer Temperature Guidelines (20°C to 30°C+)

• 20°C - 23°C: A short-sleeved cotton bodysuit and light trousers or a romper.
• 24°C - 26°C: A single layer, such as a short-sleeved bodysuit or a sleeveless romper.
• 27°C+: A nappy and perhaps a very thin, sleeveless vest. Keep them in the shade at all times.

Summer Fabric Guide: Why Natural is Best

The secret to a happy summer baby is breathability.

100% Organic Cotton and Linen

At Trotters, we prioritise natural fibres because they allow air to circulate and moisture to wick away from the skin. Our summer collection features lightweight cottons and linens that feel cool against the skin and prevent that "sticky" feeling.

Fabrics to Avoid: The Synthetic Trap

Avoid polyester and nylon. These synthetic fabrics trap heat and moisture, which can quickly lead to overheating and uncomfortable heat rashes. Stick to the simplicity of our newborn essentials crafted from the finest natural yarns.

Essential Summer Wardrobe Pieces

The Hero: Cotton Bodysuits & Rompers

A baby romper is the ultimate summer outfit—one single piece that allows for plenty of leg-wiggling and airflow.

Sun Hats: The Non-Negotiable

Babies have very thin skin that burns easily. A wide-brimmed sun hat that protects the face, ears, and back of the neck is essential for any outdoor memory-making.

Occasion Wear: Summer Parties

For summer weddings or christenings, look for baby dresses and sets with loose, airy silhouettes. Our Liberty print cottons are not only beautiful but incredibly practical for keeping cool while looking smart.

Summer Sleep Safety: Getting the Night-time Right

TOG Ratings for Summer (0.5 to 1.0)

In the summer, switch to a low TOG sleeping bag.

• 1.0 TOG: Perfect for rooms between 20-24°C.
• 0.5 TOG: Ideal for heatwaves and rooms above 24°C.

Managing the Nursery Temperature

The NHS recommends keeping the room between 16-20°C. During the day, keep curtains or blinds closed to block out the sun, and open windows only when the air outside is cooler than the air inside.

Outdoor Safety: Beyond the Clothes

The Golden Rule of Shade

Babies under six months should be kept out of direct sunlight entirely. Use the shade of trees, parasols, or your pram's hood.

A Warning on Pram Covers

Never cover your pram with a blanket or muslin. Even a thin cloth can act like a greenhouse, causing temperatures inside the pram to rise to dangerous levels within minutes. Instead, use a clip-on parasol or a specially designed UV sunshade that allows for plenty of airflow.

Common Summer Dressing Mistakes

1. Forgetting the "Indoor Transition": Air-conditioned shops can be surprisingly chilly. Always have a light cardigan in your bag for those quick transitions.
2. Over-dressing for Sleep: It is safer for a baby to sleep in just a nappy during a heatwave than to be bundled up.
3. Ignoring Hydration: While not "clothing" related, remember that breastfed babies may need more frequent feeds in summer, and bottle-fed babies may need small sips of cooled, boiled water.

Summer is a time for exploration and joy. By choosing the right fabrics and keeping an eye on the temperature, you can ensure your little one stays safe and comfortable all season long. Explore our full Shop All Baby range to find your baby's perfect summer staples.