Your baby’s skin is beautifully soft but also extremely sensitive to the sun. As the weather warms up, it’s important to take simple steps to keep them safe outdoors. That means using a high-factor baby sun cream, dressing them in lightweight clothing and a wide-brimmed hat, and encouraging play in the shade. These small habits go a long way in protecting delicate skin from sunburn and helping your little one stay cool and comfortable while enjoying summer days.
Below, we share practical, parent-tested tips for sun safety - from choosing the right sun cream to packing the perfect poncho.
1. Use a High-SPF Baby Sun Cream
Once your baby is over six months old, you can start using sun cream to help protect them from harmful UV rays. Choose a baby-specific sun cream with SPF 50 or higher for the best protection. Apply it generously, especially on commonly burned areas such as:
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Back of the neck
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Ears and shoulders
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Tops of feet and hands
If your baby will be splashing in a paddling pool or at the beach, opt for water-resistant sun cream and remember to reapply it after swimming or towelling off.
2. Make Shade Play a Habit
Newly crawling babies and toddlers love to explore, which can make it difficult to keep them in the shade. Try setting up fun activities or toys under trees or parasols so they associate the shade with positive experiences. Shade is the safest place to play during peak UV hours (11am–3pm).
If you’re out and about, a clip-on pram umbrella or pop-up sun tent can help provide instant protection when natural shade isn’t available.
3. Dress for Sun Safety
Clothing is your baby’s first line of defence against the sun. On hot days, dress your little one in:
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A wide-brimmed sun hat that covers the face, ears and neck
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Lightweight, loose-fitting clothes made from breathable cotton
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Baby sunglasses with UV protection if they’ll tolerate them
Loose cotton outfits allow airflow while still protecting the skin from direct sun exposure, helping to reduce the risk of heat rash or sunburn.
4. Have a Hooded Poncho Towel Handy
After a paddle in the pool or a dip in the sea, babies can quickly chill - and their wet skin remains vulnerable to sun damage. A hooded baby poncho towel is perfect for these moments.
Slumbersac’s bath ponchos are made from soft, absorbent cotton that’s gentle on sensitive skin. The built-in hood offers extra sun protection for their head while they dry off. It’s the ideal beach or garden essential for the summer months.
Final Tips for Baby Sun Safety
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Keep your baby hydrated with regular feeds
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Avoid going outside during peak sun hours where possible
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Always check their skin - especially neck, nose and cheeks - for signs of redness
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Don’t forget the backs of knees, tops of ears, and scalp if hair is thin
Summer should be a time for fun, fresh air and memory-making but a little extra care goes a long way in keeping your baby safe, cool and comfortable.
🛍 Explore Our Summer Essentials
From lightweight sleeping bags to soft hooded ponchos, discover Slumbersac’s range of breathable, baby-safe products for sunny days:
➡️ Browse summer essentials
