Breastfeeding in Hot Weather #heatwave

My Suggestions for Keeping Babies safe During Hot Weather:
1.) Offer the breast more frequently.
2.) Keep yourself very hydrated.
3.) Offer a bit of extra water to infants that are solid food eating age, but no water for exclusively breastfeeding infants.
4.) Cover any waterproof mattress covers with cotton or absorbent sheets.
5.) Put your baby down for naps in just a diaper.
6.) Try to make trips outside during the cooler parts of the day.
7.) Use a shade on a car window to protect your baby from direct sunlight.
Emergency heat levels: Use a fan or AC. Don't put the fan directly on the baby, just direct it close by to circulate the air. If you have no AC then use damp hand towels to keep baby cool, but not cold.
​
DON'TS for Hot Weather:
Do not thin down formula or breastmilk bottles.
Do not leave your baby in a car for any amount of time unattended, not matter the temperature.
Do not leave your baby in a stroller for prolonged times.
Do not cover the stroller with a blanket, that can reduce hot air circulation.
Do not use fluffy mattresses/blankets that baby can sink into.

​Serena Meyer RN IBCLC