Summer can be tough when you’re out and about with a baby. The heat feels amplified when your little one is snuggled close to your body, and while baby carriers don’t come with air conditioning (yet!), there are plenty of ways to stay cool, comfortable, and safe while babywearing in hot weather. Here’s a friendly guide to help you navigate babywearing in the summer months.
Dress for the Heat: Light, Breathable Clothing
The first rule of staying comfortable in the heat is simple: dress for it.
Choose light, airy fabrics for both you and your baby. Linen or 100% cotton is ideal because it allows air to circulate, keeping both of you cooler. Modern performance fabrics are also a great option, especially if you love easy, everyday leisurewear that’s designed to breathe.
Remember that your carrier acts as an extra layer, so avoid overdressing. Sun protection is important too. Lightweight arm and leg covering can shield delicate skin while keeping you both cool, and some even offer UV protection.
Consider using lighter layers in your carrier or wrap, adjusting how many layers of fabric are in contact with your baby. Stretchy wraps can be folded or layered less if needed.
Keep a Barrier Between You and Baby
Even with breathable fabrics, close contact can still heat things up. A higher coverage, soft touch top can help minimize skin on skin sweat, or you can keep a lightweight muslin cloth handy as an easy in between layer. And if it gets damp? Just swap it out.
Some parents also use a cool pack or gel pack temporarily placed against the outside of the carrier (never directly against baby’s skin) for brief relief during extremely hot days.
Stick to the Shade Whenever Possible
This might seem obvious, but in the rush of daily life, it’s easy to forget. On especially hot days, slow down if you can. Schedule outings during the cooler parts of the day, like early mornings or late afternoons, and make use of shaded areas whenever possible.
Make Your Own Shade
Sometimes the sun is unavoidable. Brimmed hats for both you and your baby can help especially styles with Velcro straps that little hands can’t easily pull off. If your baby refuses a hat, a wide brimmed hat for you can still create shared shade.
Ergobaby carriers like the Omni Deluxe also feature a built in sun hood, offering extra protection when you’re on the go and hands free.
Umbrellas or parasols are another great portable shade option. Fun fact: “parasol” literally means “for sun”!
Use Water to Stay Cool
Hydration is key, but water can also help cool you off externally. A small spray bottle is great for a spritz on hands, feet, and hair. Toddlers often love helping with this, turning it into a little game.
Use Air to Your Advantage
Remember those simple paper fans from childhood? They still work! Small handheld fans or battery operated ones can provide a refreshing breeze for both you and your baby.
Choose a Lightweight, Breathable Carrier
Not all carriers are created equal for hot weather. Look for options with breathable fabrics and good airflow. Some favorites include:
Omni™ Deluxe
The Omni™ Deluxe carrier is designed to keep both you and your baby comfortable in warmer weather, with multiple fabric options to suit your needs. It’s available in soft cotton, airy linen, or breathable mesh for enhanced airflow, so you can choose the level of ventilation that works best for you. Adjustable from newborn to toddler (7-45 lbs), it supports every carry position, including forward facing ergonomically. Padded lumbar support helps keep your back comfortable, while the built in hood offers sun protection and with plenty of storage, you can’t go wrong.
Embrace Soft Air Mesh Newborn Carrier
This carrier is ideal for newborns, designed to feel lightweight and breathable for everyday comfort. With simple buckles instead of complicated wraps, it’s easy to put on and adjust. The carrier is designed for those newborn days with skin to skin contact and its compact, streamlined design makes it easy to tuck into your diaper bag when you’re on the go.
Both carriers come with the ErgoPromise Lifetime Guarantee, so you can feel confident they’re built to last.
Choose Your Carry Wisely
Your carry position can make a big difference in hot weather. For newborns and younger babies, front carries are usually the safest option, as they allow you to easily monitor breathing, temperature, and comfort. As your baby grows and gains head and neck control, switching to a hip or back carry can help improve airflow and reduce heat buildup for both of you.
No matter the position, make sure your baby’s face is always visible and uncovered, and take regular breaks to cool down, especially on very warm days.
Tips from Other Parents
We asked our Facebook community for their hot weather babywearing tips, and they shared some great ideas:
Melissa: “I keep a separate outfit in a Ziploc in the cooler. When they get too hot, I swap clothes. The cool clothes against my body help me too!”
Lindsey: “I keep cooler gel packs in the front pocket of my carrier. Instant relief for us both on hot days.”
Karin: “I carry an umbrella for portable shade. Looks silly maybe, but it works!”
Molly: “A damp handkerchief draped around our necks cools us down instantly.”
Stay Cool and Keep Carrying
Hot weather doesn’t mean you have to give up babywearing. With breathable clothing, the right carrier, strategic carry positions, shade, hydration, and a few clever tricks, both you and your baby can enjoy the summer comfortably. A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping baby happy and mama or papa too!
