Your baby’s first summer is an exciting time filled with new experiences, from outdoor adventures to splashing in the bath. However, the warmer weather brings with it new challenges for parents, especially when it comes to keeping your baby’s delicate skin safe and ensuring bath time remains a fun, refreshing experience.
In this blog, we’ll cover how to protect your baby’s skin from the summer sun, and share tips on making bath time enjoyable for both you and your little one.
Protecting Your Baby’s Delicate Skin
A baby’s skin is much more sensitive than an adult’s, so it requires extra care, especially in the summer months when UV rays, heat, and humidity can cause irritation or damage. Here’s how to keep your baby’s skin safe and healthy throughout their first summer.
Use a Baby-Friendly Sunscreen
When your baby is older than six months, sunscreen becomes a crucial part of their sun protection. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher that’s specifically formulated for babies and free of harsh chemicals. Always apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before heading outdoors and reapply every two hours, especially if your baby is sweating or playing in water.
For babies younger than six months, it’s best to avoid direct sun exposure and rely on shade and protective clothing.
Dress in Lightweight, Breathable Clothing
Opt for loose-fitting, lightweight clothing made of natural fabrics like cotton, which allow the skin to breathe. Long sleeves and wide-brimmed hats offer excellent protection from the sun, without making your baby uncomfortable in the heat. Choose lighter colours, as they reflect sunlight and help keep your baby cool.
Seek Shade and Avoid Peak Sun Hours
Whenever you’re outside with your baby, make shade your best friend. Use umbrellas, canopies, or the shade from trees to protect your baby from direct sunlight. If you’re planning to spend time outdoors, try to avoid the peak UV hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Keeping your baby hydrated is essential during hot weather. For younger babies who are still exclusively breastfeeding or formula-feeding, make sure to offer feeds more frequently. For older babies, you can introduce small sips of water along with their regular feeds to help prevent dehydration.
Making Bath Time Fun in the Summer
Summer is the perfect time to turn bath time into a fun, cooling experience for your baby. After a day of exploring, playing, and staying protected from the sun, bath time offers a great way to unwind and refresh.
Cool Down with a Lukewarm Bath
One of the best ways to help your baby cool off during summer is to give them a lukewarm bath. Avoid using cold water, as it can be a shock to your baby’s system. Instead, aim for water that feels just slightly cooler than body temperature to gently lower their core temperature after a warm day.
Use Gentle, Hydrating Skincare Products
With the heat, your baby’s skin can become dry or irritated. Choose gentle, fragrance-free baby washes and lotions to cleanse and hydrate their skin without causing further irritation. After bath time, apply a moisturizing baby lotion to lock in moisture and keep their skin soft and nourished.
Add Fun with Bath Toys
Make bath time something your baby looks forward to by incorporating fun bath toys. Floating animals, stacking cups, and even light-up bath toys can turn a simple bath into an interactive and enjoyable experience. At The Stork Nest, you’ll find a range of playful bath toys that are safe for babies and guaranteed to make bath time a splash!
Keep Bath Time Short and Sweet
While bath time can be a fun way to bond with your baby, it’s best to keep it brief, especially in the summer. Longer baths can dry out your baby’s skin, so aim for around 10-15 minutes per bath, and always follow up with a gentle moisturizer to protect their skin from the drying effects of water.
Essential Products for Baby’s First Summer
The Stork Nest offers a variety of summer essentials to help keep your baby safe, comfortable, and entertained during the warmer months. Here are a few must-have items:
- Sun Hats and Protective Clothing: Lightweight hats and breathable clothing that provide UPF protection.
- Baby-Friendly Sunscreens: Gentle sunscreens that offer broad-spectrum protection without irritating your baby’s sensitive skin.
- Bath Toys: Fun and safe toys that make bath time enjoyable for your little one.
- Gentle Baby Skincare Products: Soothing and hydrating lotions, washes, and oils to keep your baby’s skin soft and healthy after a day in the sun.
Preparing for your baby’s first summer can feel overwhelming, but with the right tips and products, you can enjoy the season together with confidence. By protecting your baby’s delicate skin from the sun and making bath time fun and refreshing, you’ll ensure your little one stays happy, healthy, and comfortable all summer long.
Visit The Stork Nest to shop for all your summer baby essentials, from sun protection to bath time fun!