Whether you're jetting off on your first family holiday abroad or packing for that long-awaited staycation, alongside baby suncream and sunglasses, baby sun hats are an important purchase to keep your little one safe in the sun.
There are lots of things we do to protect our babies, like using a car seat and car shades, but what about protecting them from the sun? Your baby's skin is so delicate, especially on their heads, and direct sunlight can be highly damaging - this is where a baby or toddler sun hat can really come in handy.
To prevent sunburn and heatstroke, it's best to head for the shade and protect them from direct sunlight with a baby sun hat, baby sunglasses, loose-fitting clothes and, of course, sunscreen. You may prefer a waterproof baby sunscreen if your little one loves the water. The NHS also recommends that you keep your baby in the shade when the sun is at its hottest between 11am and 3pm.
The best baby sun hats at a glance
• Best adjustable baby sun hat: JAN and JUL GRO-with-Me Cotton Adventure Hat - Buy from Amazon UK
• Best baby sun hat for coverage: Odosalii Kids Sun Hat Baby Toddler Fisherman Hat - Buy from Amazon UK
• Best sun hat for swimming: Splash About Baby Kids Legionnaire Sun Hat - Buy from Amazon UK
From baby and toddler sun hats with UV protection to those with chin straps to make sure they stay in place, we've summed up our top sun hat market picks for you to look at.
Best summer hats for babies and toddlers 2023:
Best adjustable baby sun hats
Description
A breathable 50+ UPF sun protection for all your adventures! This Gro-With-Me design ensures the
Pros
- Multiple colour/pattern options
- UPF 50+ rated breathable cotton
Cons
- Hand wash only
Best baby sun hats for design
Description
This hat comes in loads of patterns and styles, but our favourite has to be this stylish soft
Pros
- Easy to fold and store away
- Internal sweatband
Cons
- Better for older infants
Best baby sun hats for coverage
Description
With 50+UPF, this hat will keep your baby protected from the sun. It's also water repellent making
Pros
- Breathable
- Full neck coverage
Cons
- Limited colour options
Best stretchy baby sun hats
Description
Available in six colours, this sun hat from FURTALK is made of 95% cotton and 5% spandex, making
Pros
- Super soft
- Easy to put on
Cons
- No patterned options available
Best sun hats for swimming
Description
This Legionnaire Hat from Splash About will protect your child's little head from the sun both in
Pros
- Quick-drying
- Great coverage
Cons
- Limited sizes
Best baby sun hats for style
Description
Available in a variety of sizes and patterns, this hat is made from 100% cotton. The unique
Pros
- Great size range
- Foldable
Cons
- Not the easiest to wash
Best baby sun hats for comfort
Description
Crafted from a quick-drying and breathable material, this comfy and super-soft LACOFIA beach hat
Pros
- Breathable and comfortable
- Quick-drying
Cons
- Not the best size range
What to consider when choosing a baby or toddler sun hat
Size - Of course, you'll want your choice of baby sun hat to fit properly. Too tight, and your little one will be uncomfortable, too loose, and it will inevitably fall off and possibly get lost.
Material - Whether you're looking for something more soft and breathable or a baby sun hat with added UV protection (which you should consider with a parasol too), it's good to consider what material the hat is made from.
Style - Who said a sun hat can't look stylish too? Picking one in their favourite colour or some extra design elements may mean they're less likely to want to pull it off every time you're not looking.
Chin strap - Because we know what little ones can be like, a sun hat with a chin strap is always preferable. This will keep them nice and secure while they play out in the sun.
Eleanor Weaver is the Deputy Homes & Garden Product Editor and has been a writer for titles such as Mother&Baby and Yours. In her role, she has researched and recommended the best products for parents, from breast pumps to toys, nursery décor to car seats. She's also kept a keen eye on celeb mums and influencers to share what they've been using to help make parenting that little bit easier.