Baby and heatwaves: 10 myths that just won't go away

When the temperature soars, parents ask themselves a thousand questions about how to protect their baby from the heat. Between advice from those around us, tips passed down through the generations and information found online, it isn't always easy to tell fact from fiction.

Let's set the record straight on 10 very common myths about babies during a heatwave.

1. A baby should always wear a bodysuit, even when it's very hot

❌ False

In hot weather, there's no need to dress your baby in several layers. In a well-ventilated home, very light clothing — or even just a nappy, depending on the room temperature — can be enough.

The key is to watch your child's comfort and avoid any overheating.

2. A light blanket is needed at night

❌ False

Even a thin blanket generally isn't recommended when temperatures stay high. For safe sleep, it's better to choose a season-appropriate baby sleeping bag, or to keep bedding to a minimum depending on the room temperature.

Baby's cot should stay clear to reduce any risks during sleep.

3. A fan is bound to make a baby ill

❌ False

A fan doesn't cause colds. Used correctly, it can help make a room more comfortable.

A few precautions still matter:

• don't let it blow directly on baby;
• clean the appliance regularly;
• keep the room well aired.

4. When it's hot, you must always give your baby water

⚠️ It depends on their age

For babies under six months, breast milk or infant formula usually covers their hydration needs.

Once they've started solids, you can offer small amounts of water regularly, especially on very hot days.

A good sign to watch is the number of wet nappies over the day.

5. A very cold bath cools a baby down quickly

❌ False

A sudden change in temperature can be unpleasant for a baby.

It's better to offer a lukewarm, slightly cooling bath, or to use a damp cloth on the arms, legs or back of the neck to bring comfort gradually.

6. A baby who sweats must be too hot

❌ Not necessarily

Some babies naturally sweat more than others, particularly around the head during sleep.

To gauge their comfort, keep an eye above all on:

• their behaviour;
• how alert they are;
• their hydration;
• their overall body temperature.

7. Cold hands mean the baby is cold

❌ False

Little hands and feet can feel cooler without this really reflecting the body's temperature.

To tell whether baby is properly covered, it's better to feel the back of the neck or the chest, which give a far more reliable indication.

8. Air conditioning isn't advisable with a baby

❌ False

A well-maintained, correctly set air conditioning system can be used without any problem.

The aim isn't to create a cold room but to keep a pleasant temperature, with no draught blowing directly towards baby.

9. Leaving a baby in a car for a few minutes isn't dangerous

❌ False

Even for a very brief moment, a child should never be left alone in a vehicle.

In summer, the temperature inside a car can climb extremely quickly and become dangerous within just a few minutes.

This rule applies whatever the weather.

10. A baby sleeping more in hot weather is always normal

⚠️ Worth keeping an eye on

Heat can certainly tire babies out. That said, a baby who is unusually drowsy, hard to wake or less responsive than usual is worth paying attention to.

If you're in any doubt, or notice a significant change in behaviour, it's best to seek a healthcare professional's advice promptly.

Good habits during periods of intense heat

During a heatwave, a few simple steps help keep baby comfortable:

• offer feeds more often;
• keep a cool, well-aired room;
• choose light clothing;
• avoid going out during the hottest hours;
• watch for signs of dehydration;
• stay attentive to their behaviour.

Every baby copes with heat differently. Observation is your best ally for adapting their surroundings and helping them sail through the summer calmly.