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New to Little One Snug? Start here → This guide is for you if... ✔ You're not sure about carrying in the hot summer ✔ You would like some reassurance ✔ You're after some tricks and tips ✔ You want to feel more prepped When the weather warms up, many parents start wondering: "Can I still use my sling when it's hot?" The answer is usually yes (think about those who carry in even hotter countries!) Keeping baby cool in the sun with a wide-brimmed hat and lighter-weight sling! Babywearing can be a wonderful way to enjoy summer days. A sling can make getting outside easier, help you navigate places where a pram is tricky, and give your baby the closeness they love. However, warmer weather does mean we need to think a little differently about comfort, clothing and safety. The aim isn't to stop babywearing in summer, it's to make sure you and your baby are comfortable, supported and confident. Can babies overheat in a sling? Babies are less able to regulate their temperature than adults, particularly when they are very young. A sling or carrier creates close contact, which means your body heat and the carrier itself both contribute warmth. This doesn't mean babywearing is unsafe in summer, but it does mean it's important to pay attention to: Your baby's clothing The temperature around you The carrier fabric Shade and airflow How your baby is behaving Regular check-ins are key. Sometimes baby's struggle with heatrash - and this can make babywearing trickier for other reasons... If you’re looking for more practical tips on keeping your baby cool, comfortable and avoiding heat rash, read this guest-blog post by Hana from Matyla Baby - it's a guide to babywearing in summer.” Summer sling safety: the ABC check The same safety principles apply all year round. A useful reminder is ABC: A = Airways Your baby's airway should always be clear. You should be able to see your baby's face easily and check on them regularly. Avoid: Covering your baby's face with blankets or muslins Pulling hoods fully over their face Adding fabric over the carrier to create shade Instead consider: Finding shaded routes Using a sun hat where appropriate Taking breaks from direct sunlight B = Body positioning A good fit matters in every season. Your baby should be: ✔ Upright ✔ Positioned appropriately for their age and stage ✔ Securely supported with a correctly tightened carrier ✔ Close enough to kiss with their face fully in sight A carrier that is too loose may feel less supportive and can make carrying less comfortable. Even though I have heard from parents that it is tempting to have it a little looser in the heat! Sometimes small adjustments can make a huge difference. C = Comfort Comfort applies to both baby and wearer. Signs your baby may be getting too warm include: A sweaty neck or back Damp hair Flushed skin Increased fussiness Feeling hot to touch When checking temperature, the chest, back or neck are usually more useful indicators than hands and feet, which can naturally feel cooler. Remember to look after yourself too — babywearing can be surprisingly thirsty work! What should a baby wear in a sling in summer? A common mistake is dressing a baby as though they are going into a pram. A carrier already adds warmth. Depending on the temperature, your baby may be comfortable in: A nappy only A lightweight vest Breathable cotton clothing Other light layers suitable for the weather Think about the whole picture: How warm is the day? What fabric is your carrier made from? Are you in direct sunlight? How long will you be carrying? Choosing a cooler sling for summer Some carriers naturally feel warmer than others. If your current carrier feels too hot, you may not need to stop carrying — you may simply need a different option. Some families enjoy: Lightweight woven wraps Linen blends Breathable buckle carriers Ring slings Less bulky carrier styles However, the coolest carrier is not automatically the best carrier. The best choice is one that fits your baby, your body and your lifestyle. Summer babywearing tips Choose your timing The hottest part of the day can be challenging for everyone. Morning and evening walks may feel much more comfortable. Look for shade Trees, covered areas and shaded routes can make a big difference. Keep hydrated Remember that you are carrying extra weight and sharing body heat. Carry water for yourself and take breaks when needed. Take regular checks Especially with younger babies, make checking their position and comfort part of your routine. When should I get help with my sling? If you are unsure whether your sling is fitted correctly, or you are finding it uncomfortable in warmer weather, a small adjustment can make a huge difference. At Little One Snug, I support families across Hastings and East Sussex with: Sling fitting sessions Carrier hire Trying different carriers before buying Troubleshooting uncomfortable carries Building confidence with babywearing Sometimes the answer isn't carrying less, it's finding a setup that works better for you. Final thoughts Summer doesn't have to mean putting your sling away. With the right fit, suitable clothing, regular checks and a few simple adjustments, babywearing can continue to be a lovely part of family life throughout warmer months. Read more seasonal babywearing advice 🌧️ Babywearing in Rainy or Windy Weather 🍂 Dressing Your Baby for Changing Seasons ❄️ Safe Babywearing in Winter ✈️ Going on holiday? Babywearing and Airports Happy Carrying, Emma X 📍 Local reader and need personalised babywearing support? Reading online is a great place to start, but sometimes nothing beats having someone look at your baby, your carrier and your situation. I'm Emma, the babywearing consultant behind Little One Snug. I offer relaxed, personalised sling consultations, carrier hire and troubleshooting sessions for families across Hastings and East Sussex, helping you carry your baby safely and confidently from newborn through to preschool. Whether you're choosing your first sling, struggling with your current carrier or simply want reassurance that everything feels right, I'm here to help. Ready to get started? Download my FREE Newborn Starter Guide → Book a consultation → Browse the sling library → Learn more about Little One Snug → About the Author: Emma is a qualified babywearing consultant and the founder of Little One Snug, a babywearing consultancy and sling library based in Hastings, East Sussex. She supports families with personalised sling fittings, carrier hire, safety guidance and practical babywearing support from pregnancy through to preschool.