Babies and the heat

How to Protect Them?

Babies don't cope well with extreme heat. They sweat less efficiently and dehydrate quickly. And most importantly, they can't tell you if they're too hot or thirsty.

Warning signs to watch for during heatwaves

• Fewer wet diapers than usual
• Dry lips or mouth
• Baby is very drowsy or less responsive
• Irritable baby, crying that's hard to soothe
• Hot, red, or very dry skin
• Rapid breathing
• Fever or vomiting
• No tears when the baby cries

How to protect your baby?

Temperature

• Keep the room between 18 and 22°C if possible.
• A fan helps. Don't point it directly at the baby.
• Avoid direct sun for babies under 12 months.
• Put a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses on them if they're exposed to the sun.
• Stay in the shade.
• Make sure you've taken your baby out of their car seat when you get out of the car.

Clothing

• Choose lightweight, cotton clothing.
• Dress your baby in one fewer layer than you're wearing.
• Sunscreen: Before 6 months, it's recommended to limit the use of skincare products or sunscreen to what's necessary and to avoid sun exposure altogether.

Drinking and feeding

Before 6 months:

• If exclusively breastfeeding: breastfeed more often than usual. No need for extra water. Note: if you're breastfeeding, be sure to drink enough water yourself, including after each feeding.
• If your baby has formula: you can offer more feedings if they seem thirsty.
• If you've started introducing solid foods, you can offer a little water between meals.

After 6 months: give water regularly between meals.

Cooling your baby down

• Give a lukewarm bath — not too cold.
• Wipe a damp, lukewarm cloth over the neck, wrists, and forehead.
• Avoid putting ice on your baby's skin. It can cause skin burns. Sudden cold can also make the baby shiver, which raises their temperature.

For sleep

• Choose lightweight clothing.
• Don't put thick blankets, duvets, or stuffed animals in the baby's bed. They trap heat and prevent it from escaping. The baby risks overheating.
• Check your baby's temperature at the neck or chest, not the hands or feet. If in doubt, check with a thermometer (a skin thermometer is preferable).