16/08/2025
Here are some top tips for breastfeeding in our current heat wave: 🥵
(adapted from "8 tips for breastfeeding in warm weather" by Samantha Ball writing for Mother & Baby)
1. Don’t stress about your milk😧
If you're wondering if your baby needs extra fluids in warmer weather, they don't. Your baby is likely to want to feed more frequently for shorter bursts. Your milk adapts to meet their exact nutrition and hydration needs.
2. Stay hydrated 🫗
As well as thinking about what your baby is drinking, you need to give yourself equal consideration in the heat. If it’s a hot day, you’re likely to feel really thirsty as your baby will be taking more water from you, so make sure you are staying well hydrated for your own wellbeing as well as your milk supply. Minimise caffeine intake, which has a dehydrating effect.
3. Be mindful about your environment🌍
Breastfeeding in the heat can be sweaty business. Loose, breathable clothing will help to keep you cool. Keeping your blinds down or curtains closed can keep the temperature of the room down.
4. Use a muslin cloth🆒💦
Lightly wetting a muslin cloth or placing in the fridge before putting it between you and your baby during feeds can be a great way to keep both of you cool.
5. Take regular breaks 🚗🚶🏾♀️
Summer days out and holidays can mean longer journeys than usual, whether you're driving, or walking. The heat and long car journeys can mean your baby may not wake for feeds as often as they would at home, so it's important you factor in extra time to your travel plans, so you can take breaks to wake your baby for a feed.
6. Try a different feeding position 🏉
By feeding in a different position than the traditional cradle hold, for example an underarm rugby hold position, you'll conduct less body heat between you and your baby. To do the rugby hold, support your baby by placing your hand under their head and shoulders and let their legs point behind you.
7. Keep an eye on their nappy 🚽
You can make sure your baby is getting enough milk by keeping an eye on their nappies. By the time your baby is 6 days old we would expect at least 6 wet nappies in each 24 hour period.
Look out for any signs of dehydration such as dark coloured urine or hard stools, frequent breastfeeding will reverse the effects of mild dehydration. However, if your baby refuses to feed or seems unwell, seek medical advice. 🩺👩🏾⚕️
