During the summer months, temperature rises 100 degrees Fahrenheit in many parts of the US. So keeping your baby cool in the car seat becomes necessary. But How to Keep Your Baby Cool in the Car Seat?
Unlike adults, babies are very sensitive to temperature changes. Even a short time of sitting in the sun, car seats can get really hot.
I have faced this situation several times. As I entered my car and put my baby in the car seat, I noticed that the car seat was super hot. The summer heat has turned the car into an oven. To reduce the temperature of the car seat, I have used cooling towels, light-colored car seat covers, and a portable fan.
I have seen many parents suffering to keep their baby cool in the car seat. That’s why I have listed 10 ways to keep your baby cool in the car seat and some gadgets and accessories you can consider.
Key Takeaways
● Babies are highly sensitive to temperature changes, making them prone to overheating, especially in car seats.
● Overheating can lead to severe health risks such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke.
● Using cooling towels, dressing your baby appropriately, and ensuring proper ventilation can help keep your baby cool.
● Various gadgets like portable car seat fans, sun shades, and cooling car seat liners are available to maintain a comfortable temperature for your baby in the car.
● Never leave your child alone in the car, even with the air conditioning on, as it poses significant risks.
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Why Do Babies Overheat?
Babies overheat faster than adults in summer time and it’s dangerous for them. But if you understand why babies overheat, you can take certain measures to prevent this.
A normal temperature for babies is around 97.5°F (36.4°C). A reading of 100.4°F (38°C) or above is considered a fever. Keep in mind that overheating and fever are two different things.
Babies have a limited ability to regulate their body temperature, making them more susceptible to the dangers of overheating. This can lead to severe health risks such as dehydration, exhaustion, and even heatstroke.
Overdressing your baby or using heavy blankets can cause your baby to overheat. Also, their sweat glands are not fully developed so babies can heat up faster than adults.
Read More: 6 Beach Hacks to Keep Your Baby Cool and Refresh at the Beach
Dangers of Baby Overheating in the Car Seat
One of the things you should not overlook is your baby overheating in the car seat. On summer days, your baby can overheat quickly. Do not ignore this situation as the consequences can be severe.
- Dehydration is a serious consequence of baby overheating in the car seat.
- One of the main dangers of baby overheating in the car seat is heatstroke which can damage the brain, heart, kidneys, and other organs.
- Heat exhaustion is another risk, characterized by symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and fainting.
- Another danger of a baby overheating is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). SIDS is the sudden and unexplained death of a baby younger than 1 year old.
Interesting Fact: The temperature inside a car can rise 20 °F in just 10 minutes.
11 Practical Tips to Keep Your Baby Cool in the Car Seat
You now know how overheating is bad for you baby. I know the consequences I have mentioned for baby overheating in a car seat are really terrifying. Don’t panic, some of these cases only occur in extreme situations.
These are 11 practical tips that I have found to be very effective in keeping my baby cool in the car seat.
Use Cooling Towels
If you want to cool off your baby fast, the cooling towel is a very effective method. Just dampen the towel, wring it out, and place it on your baby’s forehead or back. This method quickly brings the body temperature of your baby. Place the cooling towel over the car seat harness.
Dress Appropriately
I know it is tempting to dress your baby in the most fancy dresses. But this can overheat them quickly. If the temperature is 90° F and you dress your baby with two layers of clothing, then HOLD on Miss.
Heavy, layered clothing that can trap heat and make your baby uncomfortable. Go for light, breathable fabrics like cotton for better air circulation.
Block the Sun
One of the main reasons why your baby overheats in the car seat is because of the direct sunlight inside the car. The UV rays can be harmful to your baby. These are some of the measures I have used to block the sun in my car.
Use a Sun Shades
These are screens that stick to the car windows block out the sun and reduce the glare. These are really helpful when your car is parked in a sunny area and there is no shade.
These are easy to install, affordable, and adjustable. However, they might not cover the entire window, and some shades can limit the driver’s visibility.
There are different types of sun shades. These are some of the types of sunshades so you can choose whichever is the most suitable for you.
Car seat sun shade: It covers the car seat when it is not in use, preventing it from getting too hot in the sun. It also blocks harmful UV rays and reduces the temperature inside the car seat by up to 40°F.
Car window shade: This is a screen that sticks to the car window, blocking out the sun and reducing the glare. It also protects your baby’s eyes and skin from UV rays and keeps the car cooler.
Car windshield sun shade: This is a fabric that unfolds to fit across your windshield and block the sun’s rays. It also prevents the dashboard and steering wheel from getting too hot.
Car umbrella sun shade: It looks like an umbrella and attaches to your car roof. It creates a large shaded area around your car and blocks out most of the sun’s heat and light.
Did You Know: The average temperature of a car’s interior can reach 115 °F in just 10 minutes if the car is parked in direct sunlight.
Get Your Window Tinted
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, consider window tinting. It not only blocks the sun but also adds a layer of privacy. Once it’s on, you don’t have to worry about it again. Besides blocking out harmful UV rays, it can give your car a sleek look.
However, some states have laws about how dark your tint can be, so check local regulations before you install it.
Use a Fan
If your baby is sweating a lot, use a fan to cool them immediately. Do not use the air conditioner in this case as your baby can catch a cold. Just keep the fan at a safe distance.
Opt for Light-Colored Car Seats
Did you know that light-colored car seats can significantly reduce heat absorption? Dark colors absorb more heat, making the seat hotter and increasing the risk of your baby overheating.
I am not saying you should throw it away if you have a dark-colored car seat. You can make them useful with a light-colored cover. This cover won’t let the car seat trap much heat and keep your baby cool.
Point the Rear Air Conditioning Toward Your Child
If your car has rear air conditioning vents, make sure they’re pointed toward your child’s car seat. If not, Noggle will be your best friend.
This device extends the air conditioner to the back seat. Just hook the Noggle to your car’s air vent and point to your baby in the back seat. They are easy to install and remove.
Let Your Baby Sweat
Sweating is a natural way for your baby to cool down their body. Babies have more sweat glands than adults and can sweat all over their bodies. Don’t worry, sweating is not a sign of dehydration. Just wipe off the excess sweat gently with a towel.
You can also spray water on your child to cool them off. But beware. Do not leave them with wet clothes under air condition as they can get too cold.
Keep Your Child Hydrated
Keeping oneself hydrated is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. When it comes to babies, this is more critical. You can keep your baby hydrated by offering them fluids frequently, such as water or breast milk.
Hydration can keep your baby cool on summer days. For babies under 6 months old, breast milk or formula is enough to meet their hydration needs.
For older babies, you can also offer them diluted fruit juice or electrolyte drinks. Avoid carbonated drinks, as they can cause diarrhea and worsen dehydration.
Park Your Car in Shade
I know this sounds so obvious. Believe it or not, it is one of the easiest ways to prevent your car seat from getting too hot in the sun.
The sun can heat up the car seat quickly and cause overheating for your baby. That’s why park your car in a shaded area, in a garage, or in a shaded car park whenever possible.
Leave Your Car Window Slightly Open
One of the most effortless things you can do to prevent your car seat from getting too hot is to keep your car window slightly open. This allows hot air to escape and fresh air to circulate inside the car.
However, do not leave the car window too wide open, as it can pose a security risk.
Monitor the Car Seat Temperature and Precondition the Cabin if Necessary
It’s always a good idea to have a look at the temperature of the car seat and then put your baby in it. If the car seat is already too hot, then precondition the car if you think necessary.
You can turn on the AC or the fan in your car. You can use a remote control to control the AC or fan if you have one. This will lower the temperature inside your car and make it more comfortable for you and your baby.
What are the Gadgets and Accessories You Can Consider?
When it comes to keeping your baby cool in the car seat, there are several gadgets and accessories available that can make a world of difference. Here are some of the best gadgets designed to keep your baby comfortable during car rides.
Portable Car Seat Fans
These small, battery-operated fans can be clipped onto the car seat or stroller. They offer adjustable speeds and can oscillate to distribute air evenly.
Sun Shades for Car Windows
Sun shades can block out harmful UV rays and keep the car’s interior cooler. Opt for shades that offer both UVA and UVB protection. Some even come with suction cups for easy installation and removal.
Cooling Car Seat Liners
These liners are designed to wick away moisture and provide a cooling effect. They are usually made from breathable materials like mesh or bamboo fabric. Make sure to choose one that’s machine washable for easy cleaning.
Baby Monitor with Temperature Sensor
While most baby monitors focus on audio and video, some models come with a built-in temperature sensor. This allows you to monitor the car’s internal temperature in real-time, giving you peace of mind.
Car Seat Canopy with UV Protection
A car seat canopy can provide shade and block out harmful UV rays. Look for models that offer UV protection and are made from breathable materials to ensure adequate air circulation.
Frequently Asked Question
1. Can Babies Overheat in Car?
Yes, babies can overheat very quickly in cars, especially on hot and sunny days. You should monitor the car’s internal temperature before you put your baby in the car.
2. How Do I Keep My 3 Month Old Warm in the Car Seat?
Use a light blanket and dress your baby in layers that can be easily removed. Avoid bulky coats as they can interfere with the car seat’s safety features. Make sure to remove any extra layers once the car is warm enough.
3. How Many Layers Should Baby Wear in Car Seat?
Dress your baby in one more layer than you would need to be comfortable. Always check your baby’s neck or back to check their temperature.
4. How Hot is Too Hot for Baby in the Car?
A car’s internal temperature should not exceed 75°F (24°C) for a baby. Always touch-test the car seat before placing your baby in it.
5. Is It Safe to Leave My Child Alone in the Car if the Air Conditioning Is On?
No, it is not safe to leave your child alone in the car, even if the air conditioning is on. Many risks involved in leaving your child unattended in the car, such as abduction, injury, suffocation, carbon monoxide poisoning, or accidental activation of the car’s controls.
6. Will a Baby Cry if They Are Too Hot?
A baby may cry if they are too hot, but not always. Some babies may become quiet when they are overheated, which can be more dangerous than crying. Crying is one way that babies express their discomfort or distress.
Wrapping Up
Knowing How to Keep Your Baby Cool in the Car Seat is not just a matter of comfort, but also a safety concern. As I’ve already mentioned, babies are particularly sensitive to the temperature which leads them to overheat.
I have guided you through why babies overheat, what are the dangers of baby overheating and how to tackle this situation. Remember, it’s always better to be proactive rather than reactive when it comes to your child’s safety.
More Resources
How To Install A Baby Car Seat
9 Best Car Seats for Grandparents
My name is Olivia Brown, and I’m a New York-based blogger and stay-at-home parent. Former business executive enjoying retirement and time with kids Lily and Max. On my blog, I review things for kids and offer my honest thoughts and insights to other parents who may be having the same or similar experiences.
