How to know if the baby is hot

On hotter days, ensuring the baby’s thermal comfort becomes an important concern for parents. Due to their sensitivity, babies can suffer from the heat just like adults, becoming irritable or uncomfortable when the temperature is high. Light clothing, refreshing baths, and the proper use of fans and air conditioning are some strategies that can help maintain the child’s well-being.

Identifying signs of heat in the baby

In the early days of life, it can be challenging to tell if the baby is feeling cold or hot, as the signs may not be very obvious. To know if the baby is overheated, look for signs such as sweating, redness in the skin, and agitation. If you notice these symptoms, remove layers of clothing and opt for light fabrics, like cotton or knit. On very hot days, leaving the baby in just a diaper is also a good option, as long as the environment is protected from drafts.

At night, as the temperature drops and the baby’s movements decrease, their body tends to cool down a bit. In these cases, an extra layer of clothing, such as a thicker onesie and socks, is usually enough. Avoid covering the baby with heavy blankets, as they can cause overheating.

Frequent baths help to refresh

Baths are great allies in relieving the baby’s heat. On hot days, you can increase the frequency of baths, but remember to use soap only in one of them, especially for newborns. This prevents the skin from losing its natural lubrication.

The water temperature should be between 36ºC and 32ºC, depending on the climate. The baby’s reaction when entering the water is the best indicator of comfort. If they seem relaxed, it means the temperature is pleasant.

The use of air conditioning in the baby’s room

Air conditioning can be an effective solution to keep the baby’s room at a comfortable temperature, but some recommendations need to be followed. The ideal room temperature is 25ºC. Additionally, it’s essential to maintain the humidity of the air, which can be controlled with humidifiers or even by placing a basin of water in the room.

Another important consideration is the cleanliness of the appliance. The filter and ducts should be kept clean to prevent the accumulation of dirt and the circulation of contaminants such as fungi and bacteria.

Sudden temperature changes should be avoided, as they can cause thermal shock. Before leaving the air-conditioned environment, gradually adjust the temperature to avoid issues such as irritation of the airways, infections, or allergies.

Fans can also be used, but in moderation

Fans are another alternative to relieve the heat, but they do not reduce the room temperature. They can provide comfort by circulating air, but it is important to position them in a way that the wind is not directed straight at the baby.

Before suspecting fever, it’s important to check if the baby is not wearing too many clothes. The normal temperature for a newborn is between 36ºC and 36.5ºC, so light clothing is more recommended on hot days.

General care for the baby’s well-being

In addition to controlling the room temperature, keep an eye on the baby’s hydration. On hotter days, it’s common for feeding times to increase, ensuring the replenishment of fluids. For older babies, offer water regularly.