There's no denying that baby hats are adorable, and they also serve a practical purpose. Because babies' heads are larger in relation to their bodies than adults, they lose heat much faster in cold environments than full-grown humans. That is why, during the colder months, a hat is essential for preventing heat transfer and keeping your child comfortable, warm, and safe. But if the primary purpose of a baby baseball hat is to keep babies warm, do babies need hats in the summer?
When the weather is warm, an insulated hat is unnecessary; in fact, a warm hat on a hot day can cause your baby to overheat.
However, babies do require sun protection. Doctors do not recommend using sunscreen on babies aged 0-6 months because their skin is so sensitive and vulnerable. As a result, protecting your baby from the sun is critical. One of the simplest ways to protect their head, face, neck, and shoulders? A navy blue hat for the sun!
What Kind of Hats Should Babies Wear in Summer?Your baby's head should be covered whether you're going to the beach, pool, playground, or even a sunny patio for lunch. This could be a sun shade on the stroller or a beach tent, but bringing a hat for your baby is one of the simplest ways to ensure you're covered no matter where you go.
Instead of a knit, fleece, or fuzzy hat, go for something breathable with a brim. For maximum coverage and shade, straw or woven sun hats are an excellent choice. You can also try baseball caps or bucket hats if their clothing covers their shoulders, neck, and any other areas that aren't shaded by the hat.
The only other time a baby might require a hat in the summer is if you're in an environment with intense air conditioning, but most of the time, wearing an extra layer of clothing will do. A good generalization is that your baby is likely to be cold or hot if you are.
How to Keep a Baby Hat On?One of the most difficult aspects of sun protection for babies is keeping a hat on. It can be difficult to keep a hat on your baby's head when he or she is wiggling, exploring, or has little hands that want to grab at everything.
To find the perfect fit, look for baby sun hats with an adjustable drawstring inside. These can also help a baby sun hat last for several years as your child grows. Chin straps and ties can also be useful; just make sure they fit your child properly to prevent straps from digging into their skin.
As your baby enters the toddler stage, keep baby baseball hats on them consistently to help them get used to it. Many parents enforce a "no hat, no play" rule to teach their children the importance of wearing a hat for protection before going outside to play.