It’s hot, and babywearing in summer is even hotter. Babywearing is a great way to bond with your baby, but you may be wondering how you can do it while keeping your baby and yourself safe and cool.
To help our babywearing mamas out this summer, we are sharing advice and tips from babywearing consultant Amie Martin, founder of Butterflies Dancing Perinatal Support.
Benefits of Babywearing
When it’s so hot outside, it’s hard to imagine adding another layer of fabric or clothing to your body, especially when there’s a baby involved too. But along with the benefits of bonding, babywearing can be good for you and your baby’s health. It can improve mood and oxytocin levels, and there are benefits for the child’s physical and cognitive development, according to Amie. Keeping your baby in an upright position can also help with reflux and digestion, decreasing crying episodes.
And, of course, don’t forget about the convenience of babywearing! Being able to travel or move around more freely while on adventures is a huge benefit of babywearing in summer as well.
Tips to keep you and baby cool while babywearing in summer
When it comes to babywearing in summer, Amie says you should think of the baby carrier as another piece of clothing. So, just as you are dressing your baby (and yourself) in light, breathable clothing, be sure to use a carrier made from lightweight, breathable fabric, too. Avoid bulky carriers this time of year.
Here are a few other tips for babywearing in summer:
- Consider wearing your baby for shorter periods of time to avoid overheating
- Wear a hat yourself, which can shade both you and the baby
- Keep a layer of fabric between your body and the baby, such as a lightweight muslin blanket, to reduce the stickiness of sweat
- Stay in the shade as much as possible when outside
- Even when babywearing, check on your baby frequently
- Don’t forget to apply sunscreen that’s appropriate for babies on any exposed areas, such as dangling legs or arms
After choosing the carrier that’s right for you and your baby, be sure to follow the recommendations of the manufacturer. If you want to carry your baby forward-facing, you may want to work with a babywearing consultant to be sure that’s a good option for your baby, to ensure you have the proper fit, and to explore other carrying options to meet your goals and comfort needs.
As for making sure you’re keeping your baby safe while babywearing in summer, Amie says you simply need to remember the acronym T.I.C.K.S.
T is for tight
I is for in view at all times
C is for close enough to kiss
K reminds you to keep baby’s chin off of her chest
S reminds you to make sure baby’s back is supported
All of these safety considerations apply in summer, no matter how hot it may be. If you feel that you or your baby is becoming overheating while babywearing, take a break and seek an air conditioned space so you can both cool off.
Best Carriers for Babywearing in Summer
Baby Bjorn Free 3D Mesh Carrier
The 3D mesh fabric allows for great ventilation and air flow during hot weather. The soft, airy design helps keep babies cool, and it also includes a UPF 50+ hood for protecting little heads in the sun. The carrier is quick and easy to put on and take off, and the head support, leg position, and length are adjustable, which means your baby is supported well and sits comfortably.
Boppy Baby Carrier
This carrier is inspired by yoga apparel, which means it’s lightweight and cool, perfect for summer. As a one size fits most carrier, it’s easy to share babywearing duties with multiple caregivers while on trips and vacations. It’s also machine washable and packs easily into a storage pouch so you can toss it in your car or diaper bag and always have it when you need it during summer adventures.
Baby Tula Discover Free-to-Grow Carrier
The Tula Discover is made of 100% cotton, making it soft, lightweight, and breathable. It adjusts in width and height, allowing you to carry your baby as a newborn (no hot infant insert required) up to toddlerhood. It has adjustable, padded shoulder straps that provide neck and shoulder comfort and make it easy to adjust between various babywearers.
LÍLLÉbaby Complete All Seasons Carrier
The LÍLLÉbaby Complete All Seasons Carrier keeps you ready for anything and adapts quickly. While it’s great in the winter to keep baby warm, it also does an excellent job of keeping babies cool in the summer thanks to a zip-down front panel. The carrier includes pockets, adjustable straps, an extendable back panel, lumbar support, and an adaptable seat so you can get the perfect fit for you and your baby. Carry your baby front-facing, back-facing, on your hip, and on your back.
