Summer Babywearing Tips
Summer Babywearing Tips by Marni Matyus
When temperatures near triple digits and the sun is intense and high overhead, babies still want to be held. Babies don’t know seasons but they do know the comfort of hearing your heartbeat as well as the familiarity of your walking motion.
Many parents come into the store wondering what they can possibly use to carry their baby during the hot summer months. I will freely admit that there is just about no way to be comfortable in 100 degree weather with a baby held against your body. For young babies, I generally recommend staying in the shade whenever possible. For those times that you absolutely must get out in the heat, look for a cool cotton or Solarveil sling.
Solarveil is a breezy mesh fabric that has sun protection built in. It is no longer being manufactured due to the high cost of production, but you can still find slings, blankets, and coverings in this wonderful see-through mesh fabric that blocks 78-80% of the UVA/UVB rays.
If you don’t like the feel of Solarveil (some people feel it is a bit rough), then look for 100% cotton. A woven or mesh fabric will be much cooler than a knit or canvas.
You can use the tail of your sling to cover your baby’s head (if he will let you), but be aware that little legs and arms may still need protection.
While most of your baby will be covered by a sling when wearing them, you should still take precautions to protect them from the sun. Here are some tips:
• According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, babies under 6 months should avoid direct sun exposure. For all babies in slings, it’s best to stay in the shade whenever possible.
• Dress your baby lightly. A diaper and t-shirt are probably plenty.
• Babies older than 6-months can wear an organic sunscreen that uses titanium dioxide, a white pigment that reflects the sun's rays off the skin such as Natural Mineral Sunscreen SPF 18 by baby Avalon Organics.
• Have your baby wear a breathable, summer hat to cover their head without adding heat. Brimmed hats that shade the neck are also recommended from the AAP to prevent sunburn.
• Some mothers have given their (older) child a cold water bottle to hold in the sling with them, helping to keep baby cool.
Waterproof Baby Slings
A waterproof infant sling is a fun way to introduce your baby to water while still having the closeness and comfort of being close to mom or dad. It should be noted however, that water carriers are NOT intended for deep water or for immersing. Infant slings are designed for wading in a pool or ocean.
There are two main benefits of waterproof slings: they don’t take on much water and they dry quickly. You also usually have two types of fabric options. Some are made of a very lightweight, slinky fabric similar to very lightweight swimsuit fabric. Others are made with a mesh fabric that does not take on much water and dries quickly.
As with any babywearing here are some general tips to guide you in wearing your baby safely:
• Choose a carrier of a similar style to what you are accustomed to using. A day at the beach is not the time to learn to use a new carrier.
• Use an age-appropriate baby carrier. Some have weight restrictions (most only go up to 35 pounds.)
• Practice before you begin. Babywearing can be intimidating and may require a few attempts before you’ll feel confident. Practice with a doll, take a class, or visit a local support group (DFWBabywearing.com) to learn from experienced moms who are there to help you learn how to use your carrier.
• Use your common sense and baby clues. If the carrier doesn’t feel right. Take it off and try again. When worn correctly, baby slings are very comfortable.
• Support your baby when you bend over.
Marni Matyus is the owner of Peppermint Baby Boutique. Peppermint provides weekly babywearing classes for free. They also carry a variety of products for a safe summer including natural insect repellents, bug bite ointments, and organic sunscreen. Visit Peppermint.com for details or to download helpful, easy to follow babywearing video instructions, as well as printable instructional sheets.