Too Hot? Too Cold? Keeping Your Baby Comfortable Outside

Heading out for a walk with your baby can be such a sweet part of your day. Yet, when it comes to newborns and young infants, the temperature is more important than you think.

Babies aren’t as good at regulating their body temperature as adults. That means they can get too warm or too chilly quickly, especially when nestled in a stroller or baby carrier. Here’s how to keep your little one comfy and safe during outdoor outings—especially during summer.

Why Can’t Babies Regulate Their Temperature?

Newborns don’t have the same ability as adults to keep a stable body temperature. That’s because:

• Their nervous system is still developing, so the body doesn’t respond as quickly to temperature changes.
• They have a higher surface-area-to-body-weight ratio, meaning they lose heat more quickly.
• They don’t shiver to warm up like adults can, and they sweat less effectively to cool down.
• Their skin is thinner and more sensitive, making them more prone to both heat loss and overheating.

This is why it’s important to dress them appropriately, avoid extreme conditions, and check their temperature often during outings.

Most babies start to regulate their temperature better by around 6 to 12 months of age. This happens as their bodies grow and mature. Until then, they need our help staying just right!

When Can I Take My Newborn Outside?

You don’t need to wait weeks to go outside with your baby. As long as your baby is healthy, you can start taking short walks within the first week or two after birth—just keep a few safety tips in mind:

• Avoid crowded or indoor public places in the early weeks
• Keep outdoor trips brief at first (10–20 minutes)
• Choose shaded, quiet areas to walk
• Always check the weather—avoid extreme heat, humidity, or wind

Fresh air is great for both of you—it just takes a little planning!

Summer-Specific Tips

When the temperature climbs, a few extra precautions can go a long way:

• Avoid peak heat hours: Try morning or early evening walks instead of midday
• Dress baby in lightweight clothing: A single layer of breathable cotton is usually enough
• Use a stroller fan: A baby-safe clip-on fan helps circulate air and keep baby cool
• Keep baby in the shade: Use a stroller canopy or light muslin cloth—not thick blankets
• Stay hydrated: If you’re breastfeeding, drink plenty of water yourself
• Check baby’s skin often: Touch their neck or chest to gauge warmth—not hands or feet

Signs Your Baby Is Too Warm

• Sweaty neck or back
• Flushed cheeks
• Fussiness or rapid breathing
• Warm skin to the touch

Signs Your Baby Is Too Cold

• Cool chest or neck
• Pale, blotchy, or bluish skin
• Crying or seeming overly sleepy
• Less movement

General Outdoor Comfort Tips

• Layer wisely: Use breathable layers that are easy to remove or add
• Feel baby’s chest or neck to check temperature, not fingers or toes
• Avoid over-bundling: Too many blankets can trap heat, even on breezy days
• Be smart about covers: Avoid plastic rain shields or heavy drapes over the stroller
• Time your outings: Start with short trips and adjust based on how baby does

One Day at a Time, One Snuggle at a Time

Getting outside with your baby can be grounding, peaceful, and healing—just take it one day (and one outfit!) at a time. With a little awareness, choose a shaded path. Bring some water for you. You and baby can enjoy all that summer has to offer comfortably and safely.