When it comes to breastfeeding in hot weather, it can be really tough. Not only can the heat make you and your baby more restless and agitated but you might be worrying how the hot weather will affect your breastfeeding and how to make sure your baby stays hydrated.
We spoke with Lactation Consultant and Chair of RCN Midwifery Forum Angela Cartwright, and Midwife Pip MSc BSc to get their helpful tips to make sure that both you and baby stay cool and comfortable when breastfeeding in hot weather.
1. Hydration for babies
If you're wondering if your baby needs extra fluids such as water in warmer weather, they don't. Your breastmilk offers all they need. However, you might find they want to nurse more so you should be aware of their cues. As Midwife Pip says "your baby will likely feed more often and that is perfect, just follow their lead,"
"Breastfed babies do not need supplementation with water or any other fluids other than continuing to feed on demand in warm weather," she adds, "your milk adapts to meet their exact nutrition and hydration needs."
2. Hydration for older babies
However, if your baby is over 6 months, the NHS guidance is to offer sips of water at mealtimes, and between meals during hot weather. Breastmilk or infant formula will still be their main drink until they're 12 months old.
3. Nappies
You can make sure your baby is getting enough milk by keeping an eye on their nappies and the colour and frequency of baby's wee. There should be at least five wet nappies in 24 hours. "Breastfed babies should also have quite runny stools, especially if your baby is not eating solids," says Angela.
Look out for any signs of dehydration such as dark coloured urine or hard stools. Frequent breastfeeding should reverse the effects of mild dehydration but if your baby refuses to feed or seems unwell, seek medical advice.
4. Hydration for mum
As well as thinking about what your baby is drinking, it's vital to keep yourself hydrated in the heat.
"Leave water bottles around the house so you can drink whenever you need to," says Angela. "If it’s a hot day, you’re likely to feel really thirsty as your baby will be taking more water from you."
Get in the habit of having a drink every time you feed your baby, and aim to drink an extra litre of water a day while breastfeeding (three litres instead of the usual two).
Angela adds: "new mums are often too busy to drink or may reach for something like coffee, which is dehydrating, so it’s really important to stay hydrated for your own wellbeing as well as for your milk supply."
5. Stay cool
Breastfeeding in warm weather can be sweaty business, so keeping comfortable is important. The following tips will help you stay cool while breastfeeding in hot weather:
• Wear loose, breathable clothing
• Put a muslin cloth between you and baby when feeding: "Lightly wetting a muslin cloth or placing in the fridge before putting it between you and your baby during feeds can be cooling," says Midwife Pip.
• Freeze a bottle of water: Not only can you put it next to the muslins in your changing bag to keep them cool, but you'll also have a refreshing, cold drink on hand to keep you cool.
6. Regular breaks
Summer days out and holidays can mean longer journeys than usual, whether you're driving or walking and Angela points out that "your baby may sleep for longer than usual if in a car, meaning they might not wake for feeds as often as they would at home, so it's important you take breaks to feed".
"Also, keep in mind that the air conditioning in many cars doesn’t quite reach the back, so while you might feel quite cool in the front, your baby might be quite hot. If you’re going on a long car journey on a hot day, make extra stops and wake your baby up for a feed."
Remember that babies shouldn't be in a car for longer than two hours without taking a break.
7. Skin to skin
If you find it too hot holding your baby against your skin, you could try a different nursing position. For instance, an underarm rugby hold means you'll conduct less body heat between you and your baby. To do the rugby hold, support your baby by placing your hand under their head and shoulders and let their legs point behind you.
8. Comfortable environment
If possible, try to create a cool environment when you're breastfeeding. Pip suggests keeping rooms cooler by having blinds down or curtains shut to help keep the overall temperature lower. She notes that if using a fan to cool the room, avoid it blowing directly on your baby.
9. Speak to a doctor
Look out for the symptoms of dehydration and if you have any concerns about your baby's hydration or are concerned that they may be unwell, speak to a doctor or healthcare professional.
About the expert
Midwife Pip is a truly passionate midwife and advocate for the profession, bursting with knowledge. Pip is an experienced practicing NHS Midwifery Sister, MSc, author of Midwife Pip’s Guide to a Positive Birth, KGH hypnobirthing diploma, founder of the Midwife Pip Podcast, pelvic health specialist, pre and postnatal trainer, and most importantly, a mum.
About the author
Samantha Ball is a Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby, having written for the brand since 2018. She's a mum of three and loves browsing for the best and current trending products for little ones and for cute seasonal outfits.