How To Dress Your Baby In Summer

For me, dressing babies for summer has always been a balancing act between comfort, practicality, and style. I’ve spent my fair share of time figuring out how to keep my little ones cool and comfortable during the warmer months. Let me share my top tips and some personal advice to help you navigate their summer wardrobe. Whether you're a first-time mum or a seasoned parent, you'll find something useful here!

Babies Summer Wardrobe Checklist

Before diving into the details, here's a quick checklist of essentials for your baby's summer wardrobe:

1. Lightweight and breathable fabrics – Think cotton, linen, and bamboo.
2. Sun protection – Hats and UV-protective clothing.
3. Comfortable bodysuits – Short-sleeve or sleeveless for hot days.
4. Swimwear – A comfortable and sun-protective swimsuit.
5. Comfortable footwear – Soft shoes or sandals for tiny feet.
6. A couple of layers – For cooler evenings or unexpected changes in weather. We love these lightweight cardigans from Mori and Pigeon Organics.
7. Baby-safe sunscreen – Ideally keep them shades, but when needed use baby safe sunscreen to protect their delicate skin.

Choosing the Right Sizing for Baby Clothes

One of the first things I learned as a mum was how quickly babies grow. Newborn clothes are practically outgrown in a blink of an eye, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the sizing charts. I remember buying a full wardrobe for my first baby, only to realise it would be outgrown after a wear or two, with some items not worn at all.

The Importance of Breathable Fabrics

As the weather heats up, the last thing you want is for your baby to become sweaty and irritable. Cotton and linen are perfect for keeping babies cool during the warmer months. These materials allow air to circulate, which is essential when you’re trying to avoid overheating. 

I also love choosing organic fabrics when possible, as they are gentle on babies' sensitive skin. This was a game-changer for both of my children. In the summer heat, they were less likely to get rashes or irritation from harsh synthetic fabrics. At Borro our mission is to offer great value on high quality brands.

Sun Protection: Don’t Forget the Extras!

Most parents think about hats or sunglasses for babies when they think of sun protection, but there’s more to consider. Over the years, I’ve discovered a few overlooked items that are a game-changer when it comes to protecting delicate baby skin from harmful UV rays.

• UV-Protective Clothing: Protect their skin during water play in a UV sunsuit, we love this Little Otter one from Frugi.

• Lightweight, Wide-Brimmed Hats: A hat with a wide brim is an absolute must in the summer. It provides shade for your baby’s face, neck, and ears, which are particularly sensitive to the sun. I always make sure to pack one in the nappy bag for impromptu walks or outings.

• Baby-Friendly Sunscreen: When applying sunscreen, make sure it’s one that is specifically formulated for babies, free from harsh chemicals and fragrances. I often use natural mineral sunscreens, which are gentle on my babies' skin.

• Pram Shades: Take care to use only those that allow plenty of circulation to avoid overheating, and keep your pram out of the sun as much as possible.

Renting Baby Clothes: Great Value on Top Brands

Renting baby clothes is a fantastic way to access trendy, high-quality clothing for every season, at a fraction of the cost.

As a new parent, it’s difficult to know what will look best on your baby, and be most practical for you. Renting clothes from Borro allows you to experiment with different styles without the worry of spending too much on items that might only be worn a handful of times. 

Borro also offers the benefit of convenience—no need to worry about seasonal shopping sprees or storing clothes that will be outgrown in a few months. With a rental service, you can access a new wardrobe for your baby, designed to suit the season, without the extra cost.

Keep Your Baby Hydrated

When we talk about summer clothes, we often overlook one of the most important things for babies during the warmer months: hydration. It’s easy to focus on clothing, hats, and sun protection, but don’t forget about making sure your little one stays hydrated. Babies tend to get warmer quicker than adults, so offering milk more frequently during hot weather is key.

If your baby is older, offering water throughout the day can also help maintain hydration. I found that keeping a water bottle with me, especially when we were out in the sun, helped me remember to offer water often.

Final Thoughts on Your Baby’s Summer Wardrobe

Building the perfect summer wardrobe for your baby doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning, you can make sure your little one stays comfortable and stylish while keeping things practical and budget-friendly. By focusing on breathable fabrics, ensuring sun protection, and even renting clothes for the season, you can enjoy the summer months with fewer worries.

If you're planning a holiday with your little one, we have your essential packing list here.

And remember, whether you’re a new mum or have done this before, it’s okay to take a step back and enjoy the process. Your baby’s comfort is the most important thing. Happy summer dressing!

For more tips on renting clothes for your baby, check out Borro.