6 Tips to Beat the Summer Heat While Breastfeeding
Editor’s note: This post is sponsored by 1 Natural Way, who can support you with all your breastfeeding needs.
Skin-to-skin contact is great for bonding, but during the summer months, it can get a bit uncomfortable and hot. Breastfeeding can be more challenging during the hot months, but you can use these six tips to stay cool:
1. Stay hydrated
Your body is an amazing self-regulating machine. Since it’s made up of about 75% water, maintaining a well-hydrated body is an important part of regulating your temperature. To maintain hydration, keep a bottle of water on you at all times. Pack one in your diaper bag (or breast pump tote) that you can manage with one hand—no screw top lids! Keep one by your baby’s rocker or wherever you do most of your nursing sessions so you never go thirsty.
2. Use a lightweight cover
If you choose to cover while nursing, it’s important to choose a blanket or cover that also allows ventilation, such as natural fibers like cotton or bamboo. You can also accessorize with a large, gauzy scarf for a light cover that’s always at the ready—no need to add extra items to an already full diaper bag!
3. Be strategic
Babies are often happy to eat whenever they’re offered the opportunity. If you want to have an outdoor adventure but don’t want to nurse in the heat, try “topping baby off” by feeding before heading outdoors. Pumping into a bottle by using a breast pump before heading out is another helpful option. From breastmilk cooler sets to disposable storage bags, there are a variety of products that make breastfeeding convenient for busy mothers.
4. Find a cool spot
The spring and summer months are wonderful times to bask in the beauty of the outdoors, but as a nursing mother, you may find yourself more comfortable in shady or indoor spots. Plan ahead to make yourself as comfortable as possible. If going to the beach, pack an umbrella. If going to a park, scope out a bench in the shade.
Don’t forget to bring something to entertain an older child if you prefer a shady bench away from a crowd. Don’t be afraid to go online to find nursing accommodations wherever you may be. Many places that cater to children, like theme parks, have areas specifically designated for nursing mothers.
5. Dress for the heat
As the weather gets hotter, layering with nursing bras and tanks can get uncomfortable and hot. Consider wearing fewer layers, or none, instead of layering clothes. Focus on clothing that uses natural breathable fibers like cotton and bamboo. When choosing a swimsuit, look for something that is breastfeeding-friendly.
6. Keep baby cool
If you keep your baby cool, then you’re more likely to be cool when nursing. When outdoors, always keep your baby covered from the sun. Stay in the shade or bring an umbrella. Always bring a sun hat and keep your baby well protected with a mineral-based sunblock (Note: sunblock is only recommended for children older than 6 months).
Water play is a wonderful opportunity to keep your child cool while she explores the world around her. Invest in a small plastic kiddie pool or fill a large plastic storage container with cool water and a few bath toys. If your baby isn’t sitting up well alone, get in the pool with her and support her from behind while she plays. This is a great opportunity to bond through play and keep cool!
Have you found respite from the heat as a nursing mother? What are some tips that we missed? Share in the comments below!
