Summer with a baby is exciting, but preparing for hot weather can feel overwhelming for new parents. These elements (and opportunities!) definitely have me in mom mode. Between beach trips, pool days, and outdoor activities, having the right baby summer essentials makes all the difference. With the right summer baby essentials (plus our helpful list below), you’ll be more focused on those “firsts” and less worried about being unprepared.
Summer Essentials Every Baby Needs
Keep reading for our favorite summer essentials for babies and toddlers.
1. Sunglasses
Have you ever seen an infant wear sunglasses? They are OH so cute.
These miniature accessories are essential to help keep that bright sunlight out of your little one’s eyes this summer. Most sunglasses made for babies come with a head strap for extra support.
2. Bucket Hat
Shield your baby’s neck and face from those harsh sun rays with a wide-brimmed bucket hat. Our little one prefers hats instead of sunglasses, so we have stocked up on different colors of this baby summer essential.
Most sun hats for babies come with a chin strap for added security.
3. Sunscreen
Just like adults, babies (over 6 months old) need sunscreen, too!
Do your research on what sunscreen works with your baby best, as some sunscreen brands tailor to more sensitive skin than others. Different mediums include spray, lotions, and “sticks” for a gentle and precise application to your little one’s face.
In general, the AAP does not recommend sunscreen for use in babies younger than 6 months. A young infant’s body has a very high absorption rate, so this is recommended to avoid toxicity. Your little one’s body is also still learning how to regulate their body temperature, and their underdeveloped sweat glands cannot regulate their body temperature if sunscreen is clogging their pores. Sweat is important in hot temperatures, and we don’t want your newborn or young infant overheating!
Stick with physical barriers and protection for young babies less than 6 months old instead of relying on sunscreen.
4. Baby Aloe
After those long days in the sun, you’ll want aloe formulated just for babies to help rehydrate their skin.
Baby aloe also provides a cooling touch for any part of your baby’s body that may have been overexposed to the sun. Be proactive to sun repair with this baby summer essential.
5. Insect Repellent
If you didn’t stock up on insect repellent during the spring season, now is the time to do so. Keep those mosquitos away from your baby with bug spray designed specifically for babies’ sensitive skin.
According to latest AAP guidelines, insect repellent should not be used on infants younger than two months old. If using an insect repellent that contains DEET, the AAP recommends no more than a 30% DEET concentration be used on children.
If your little one has ultra-sensitive skin or if you just don’t prefer the application of insect repellent, consider purchasing mosquito repellant stickers or bracelets. These unique options have added great value to my list of summer baby essentials.
6. Stroller Fan
One thing is for sure, a nice breeze can make all the difference in the world on a hot summer day.
Looking for how to keep your baby cool in the summer? Make that breeze happen for your baby with an adjustable stroller fan. More than one stroller fan will serve you well if you’re looking for all-day use for those outdoor summer activities.
7. Baby Pool
If you’re looking to make inexpensive, easy memories with your baby, a baby pool in your backyard will fit perfectly into your backyard summer setup. Baby pools are easy, fun, and are an excellent way to keep your baby cool for outside family gatherings.
Have older babies or lots of kids? Consider getting a splash pad (or a cheap sprinkler system) to spread the fun and add a little excitement for the summer.
8. Water Toys
Want to spice up your water days for your older infants or toddlers? Consider getting a water play table.
Floatation devices for big pools also provide a new way for your infant to explore their surroundings with an additional measure of safety.
9. Swimsuit
For big pools and public settings, a swimsuit for infants is a summer essential!
Infant swimsuits usually provide more full-body coverage with sleeves that cover extremities. This thin material also provides optimal sun protection for that sensitive skin. If you have an infant younger than 6 months, consider swimsuits with sleeves that cover entire arms and legs since sunscreen is discouraged at such a young age.
Many swimsuits also come with matching hats with the same pattern and material for additional protection on the scalp, face, and back of the neck.
10. Swim Diapers
We already (or should) know how absorbent regular diapers are, so special swim diapers are crucial even if your baby isn’t getting fully submerged. Swim diapers are made out of special waterproof material that keeps all the “outside” fluids from being absorbed and keeps all the “inside” fluids (or solids!) from inside until your baby can be changed.
Reusable swim diapers are also an option, too!
11. Wagon
Sometimes, depending on use and preference, a wagon may suit your needs better than your day-to-day stroller.
Wagons typically accommodate higher weight limits and have more storage options compared to strollers. Wagons also offer a wider field of view for observing surroundings. Typically, wagons also provide older children with more independence, giving elder kiddos the option to enter and exit the wagon as they please.
Depending on if take a trip to the beach, plan on sightseeing, or have children of multiple ages, a wagon may be a better option for you since summer is a prime-time for these family moments.
12. Baby Powder
This is mainly a beach essential, but you may be considering a sand box for your backyard, too! Baby powder is an excellent baby summer essential to have on standby, as it easily helps dust off wet sand before eating or going indoors. Thank me later!
Most baby powders are cornstarch-based and no longer contain talcum powder, but double check that ingredient list, as select companies still use talcum powder.
13. Bubbles
When you see how excited your baby acts around bubbles for the first time, you’ll understand why this is a baby summer essential. It’s another cheap, fun outdoor activity that builds memories all summer!
Seriously, grab some the next time you see them in the checkout line.
Final Thoughts on Baby Summer Essentials
Summer with a baby can feel overwhelming at first, especially when trying to prepare for heat, outdoor activities, and travel. Having the right baby summer essentials on hand can make beach trips, pool days, and everyday outings much more enjoyable and stress-free for both parents and babies.
These summer baby products help keep your little one cool, comfortable, and protected all season long.