Dressing your baby in summer
In summer, overheating is a bigger risk than being cold. Babies can't regulate their temperature well yet, sweat less effectively and get too hot quickly in blazing sun. The good news: summer clothing is wonderfully simple – often a single thin layer is enough.
In short: thin, airy, light-coloured fabric – and above all shade instead of direct sun. Check the neck: warm & dry is just right, sweaty means one layer off.
Chart: summer clothing by temperature
| Temperature | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| from 28 °C | Diaper only or a thin short-sleeve bodysuit · sun hat with neck flap · thin muslin cloth for shade |
| 24–27 °C | Short-sleeve bodysuit · thin trousers or a light romper · sun hat · thin socks |
| 20–23 °C | Short- or long-sleeve bodysuit · light trousers or romper · thin hat for outings |
Don't forget sun protection
Babies under one year don't belong in direct sun. Rely on shade, light long-sleeved clothing made of tightly woven fabric and a hat with a neck flap. Sunscreen is only the second choice and, for the first months, meant only for small uncovered areas – when in doubt, ask your paediatrician or midwife.
Stroller & car in summer
Never cover the stroller with a blanket – heat builds up underneath. Use a breathable sun canopy. In the car, don't park the seat in blazing sun and check the buckle and seat for heat before setting off. On hot days feed more often or – depending on age – offer water.
🧮 Open the clothing calculator
Frequently asked questions
What should my baby wear at 30 degrees?
A thin short-sleeve bodysuit or just the diaper, sun hat with neck flap, shade. Avoid the midday sun, feed or offer drinks more often.
Does my baby need socks in summer?
Thin socks or bare feet are enough. The neck check against overheating is what counts.
How do I notice my baby is too hot?
Sweaty, hot neck or chest, flushed skin, restlessness. Then remove a layer, move into the shade, offer fluids.
Can I cover the stroller with a blanket against the sun?
No. A blanket over the stroller traps heat – it can get well above 30 °C underneath in a short time. Use a breathable sun canopy or a parasol.
More dressing guides
General guidance, not medical advice. When in doubt, ask your paediatrician or midwife.
Never wonder again what your baby should wear
HeyFini suggests what fits based on the weather where you are, and predicts when the next feed and nap are due. Free on the App Store, no account needed.
Sources: Safe sleep and TOG values: The Lullaby Trust, the UK safer-sleep charity; room temperature in the UK: NHS; clothing layers and room temperature in the US: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and NICHD Safe to Sleep; clothing in the car seat: ADAC, German automobile club, child seat guidance; overheating and the neck check: German Professional Association of Pediatricians (BVKJ).