Beanies and Babies - Can Beanies Cause Babies to Overheat?

If you are thinking about purchasing a beanie for your baby, it is important that you know how to take care of your baby's heat tolerance. Babies are susceptible to heatstroke and other heat related conditions. Luckily, you can prevent heatstroke and other serious problems by following a few simple tips.

Layers are the Best Way to Warm or Cool a Baby

There are many ways to keep a baby warm during the winter months. The most effective way is to dress your baby in layers. During the cold season, a light, natural fabric is best for layering. This fabric will help your baby's skin to breathe and will avoid static cling.

To help your baby stay warm, you should also make sure to check her temperature on a regular basis. A quick glance at her chest, neck, and back is an easy way to determine if she is overheating. If she appears to be sweating, flushed, or dripping, you may want to remove her layer.

Another good way to make sure your baby is staying warm is to bring her infant carrier inside. You can also use a humidifier to soothe her skin.

Baby warmers are another great option for keeping your baby warm. They include swaddles, footie pajamas, and additional clothing. Wearable blankets, such as those from Carter's, are also a safe way to add extra warmth.

Avoid Outdoor Time During Peak Heat

Taking the time to figure out how to avoid outdoor time during peak heat is a good idea. It's one thing to have fun in the great outdoors, but if you're not careful you may end up in the hospital instead. Here are a few ways to ensure you won't burn out before the season is over.

For starters, try to stick to the basics. Wear light-colored clothing that will help your body evaporate sweat faster. And, don't forget to drink plenty of water. If you have to go outside, make sure you bring along a movable umbrella or two and a good hat.

While you're at it, consider a cooling device that can be strapped onto your shoulder or backpack. These devices can provide a cool down and keep you from going into shock. This is especially important if you're pregnant, elderly or have an immune system limiting condition.

A great way to avoid the pitfalls of outdoor play is to schedule your adventures early in the morning. Similarly, if you're spending the day on the go, try to get in some quality shut eye at night.

Properly Fitting Beanies

When it comes to ensuring the safety of your baby, you'll want to take the appropriate precautions. One of the most important aspects to take into consideration is the temperature of the room. Ideally, the temperature should be somewhere around 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. That's not to say you can't go a few degrees warmer or colder.

Although you shouldn't let the temperature dictate your sleep, you should be aware of the room's temperature. While it's certainly possible to have a cozy baby, it's probably not advisable to have an infant that's overheated. To ensure you're not caught off guard in the middle of the night, a few tips and tricks may be necessary. You should also be on the lookout for any sign of overheating, such as excessive sweating, shivering or spitting up.

The best way to ensure your baby is sleeping well and for the long term is to take measures to keep him or her comfortable. For example, it's always good practice to dress him in light-colored, non-denim clothing. In the same vein, make sure to wear a hat or headband of some sort to keep him or her warm.

Signs of Heatstroke in Babies

Heat stroke is an extreme form of heat injury that can be dangerous to infants and kids. It can cause brain damage and permanently alter muscle function. Symptoms include confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness. Untreated heatstroke can result in death.

Kids have a higher risk of heat-related illnesses than adults, because they are more sensitive to heat. They also sweat less. Wearing loose-fitting cotton clothes and sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 are recommended.

If you notice symptoms of heat illness in your baby, make sure they get to a medical professional. The first step is to move the child to a cooler location, such as a shaded room or bathtub filled with cold water.

Once the baby is in a cooler environment, the parent should start rapid cooling in the bath. Apply cold towels over the child's body to help cool them down.

The next step is to get the child to a hospital or call triple zero. While waiting for an ambulance, continue treating the child until a doctor arrives.