Babywearing in Summer: A Few Things Worth Knowing

There is something really special about carrying your baby in summer. Long slow mornings at the market, afternoon walks, sitting outside somewhere with a coffee while your little one naps against your chest. It is one of the best parts of this season.

It just asks for a bit more attention than the colder months. Nothing complicated, just a few things to keep in mind so both of you stay comfortable while enjoying your (maybe first) summer together.

Sunscreen, and more sunscreen

Baby skin burns fast. Even on a cloudy day and even in the shade. If your baby has any skin exposed, like little legs, arms, the back of the neck: Apply a baby-approved SPF 50 before you leave the house, and reapply throughout the day. It is the kind of thing that is easy to forget when you are busy wrangling a baby and a bag out the door. That's why we suggest to always have a bottle of sunscreen protection at home, as well as in your diaper bag.

And don't forget yourself. Your shoulder and upper back are often in full sun when you are carrying, more than you might realise.

A sun hat is non-negotiable

One thing most new parents don't know, and it's worth saying clearly: never cover your baby's head fully when babywearing. Not with the hood or head cover that might come with your carrier, not with a hydrophilic cloth, not with anything. This is important for any season of the year, and especially with warm temperatures and direct sunlight. When the baby's face is covered, heat builds up quickly underneath, and that can make it genuinely difficult for your baby to breathe properly.

Your baby's face and airways should always be visible and free, at all times.

A sun hat does the job beautifully. It protects from the sun, keeps the head cool, and leaves everything open and visible. Simple.

Choose one with UV protection (UPF 50+) that covers the ears and neck too. Babies tend to pull them off, so a chin strap helps. It becomes one of those things you just don't leave the house without.

Cover those little legs

For bare legs, light breathable shorts or leggings work great. But if you are using a ring sling, you already have the perfect solution with you: the tail of the fabric. Just drape it gently over your baby's legs for a bit of shade. No extra kit needed.

Offer fluids more often

When it is warm, babies need more fluids than usual. They can get dehydrated faster than you would expect. Offer the breast or bottle more frequently than you normally would, and if your baby is on solids, offer a little extra water regularly. If something feels off, like if your baby seems unusually fussy or heavy or quiet: take a break and give them a feed somewhere cool.

Find shade where you can

It sounds simple, but it is easy to lose track when you are moving and enjoying the day. Plan routes through the shady side of the street, pause under trees, choose the covered terrace. You will both feel the difference.

What you wear matters too

The fabric sitting between you and your baby is part of the equation. If you are wearing a thick synthetic top, like polyester, nylon, or anything that doesn't breathe, that layer traps heat just as much as the carrier fabric does.

On warm days, a thin cotton or linen top makes a real difference. Natural fibres breathe and allow heat to move away from both of you, rather than building up between you. It doesn't need to be complicated, just think of it the same way you would dress your baby: light, natural, loose.

How to tell if your baby is too warm

This is worth knowing, because babies cannot tell you, and because being held close to another body does add warmth.

The most reliable way to check is the back of the neck or the chest. Slip your hand gently in and feel the skin there. Warm is fine. Hot and sweaty means it is time for a break and some fresh air.

Other signs to watch for: flushed or red skin, rapid breathing, unusual fussiness, or limpness. If you notice any of these, take your baby out of the carrier, move to a cooler spot, and offer a feed. Most importantly, trust your instincts, you know your baby.

As a general rule: if you are starting to feel hot and uncomfortable, your baby is too.

Choose a carrier that works with the heat, not against it

The single most impactful thing you can do for summer babywearing is choose a carrier made from breathable natural fabric. Ideally, one that only uses a single layer of fabric between you and your baby.

Our Moon Slings are made from 100% linen, which is naturally breathable and light. Just one layer, no padding, no synthetic fibres. It makes a real difference.

One last thing

Linen softens with every wash. New linen has a lovely light crispness to it. A few wears in, especially with summer use, when you might be washing it more often, it becomes something else entirely. Softer, more supple, almost like it was made for you specifically. Parents who have had their Moon Sling for some time say it feels completely different from when they first opened it. Better different.

That is just what linen does.

If you are looking for a carrier you can actually enjoy wearing in summer, linen is the answer. And if you want a carrier that works in summer, autumn, winter, and spring: one layer of breathable linen handles all of it.

Find your Moon Sling →