Hi friend! If you’re anything like me when I had my summer babies (well it was March, but it’s hot here in SoCal) you’re probably staring at a pile of fleece baby sleepers you bought in a shopping haul thinking, “Um…what was I thinking?”
Let’s just say I learned the hard way (there was no way I was going to let my baby sleep in those heavy duty sleepers in the 90 degree SoCal heat 😅).
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So I asked real moms (and combed through Reddit threads, advice from family/friends, and Facebook mom groups) to pull together the ULTIMATE summer baby essentials list to help you survive — and maybe even enjoy — the hot months with a little one.
You may want to check if you can get any of these items free from my Free Baby Samples list before purchasing!
What are the best baby must haves for the summer?
Stroller Fans (get at least 2)
If there’s one item that every single mom raves about, it’s a stroller fan. Seriously, Reddit user @lemonalchemyst said, “I got a little electric fan for the stroller” and it’s been a lifesaver. Get one for the baby, and one for you too. Trust me.
If you live where it’s hot or humid, stroller fans are definitely a must have item! Here are some favorites:
- MomCozy makes a rechargeable stroller fan that stays charged for 12-27 hours with a 360 degree rotate that you can charge with a USB!
- Munchkin is another option and a brand I trust. However their fan is battery powered and only lasts 8 hours.
- Diono is another top brand with a 2 pack battery operated fan set. These clip on, but the battery life still isn’t as long as Mom Cozy mentioned above.
Muslin Swaddles
Muslin Swaddles were a must have for all three of my babies. Use them for shade, nursing covers, spit-up cloths, makeshift towels… you name it. They are so thin and breathable, so you can still swaddle your baby in the summer without feeling like you are sweating them up.
You should be careful not to drape them over the stroller too tightly because it can trap in the heat. However they are really breathable and a way better option during the summer than thicker cotton options.
Breathable Baby Carrier
You’ll want something like MomCozy’s Mesh Baby Carrier for morning walks or zoo days. Especially handy when your arms are all sweaty from from holding that baby through a 3-hour BBQ. Been there, done that.
Other options include:
- MomCozy Air Mesh– Mom (bwild27) on Amazon said that after trying several different brands, this was the easiest and quickest to put her baby in. She also praised it for being comfy for her and baby!
- ErgoBaby Mesh– One mom (Steph) said that this carrier gave her more control over the position of her baby’s head and was very breathable and comfy!
- SollyBaby Wrap – This wrap has been praised by moms for being lightweight, breathable, and comfy. They are really cute too!
- Ring Sling Muslin Carrier– Since this baby carrier is made of muslin, which makes it lightweight and breathable. Once you learn how to use a ring sling, they are usually really easy to use and comfortable too.
Pop-Up Shade Tent
These are game changers for beach days, watching older siblings at swim lessons, or just chilling in the backyard. Tori on Facebook swears by the Walmart pop-up kind with a fan and cooling towel inside. Luxury baby cabana vibes.
Mini Backyard Pool
DesertDweller702 from Reddit had the BEST tip: a shaded kiddie pool or splash pad with shallow water just to let baby splash or even just sit with feet in. You can stick your feet in for some bonding time with baby too. 🏊
6. Bucket Hat for Sun Protection
Baby’s eyes can be extra sensitive, so it’s always good to make sure they are shaded from the sun. Emily said she used breathable sun hats and it helped so much. Get one with neck coverage and a chin strap so it actually stays on.
7. Portable Fan for Car + Car Window Shades
Cars get HOT. Like, baby-sweating-before-you-buckle hot. A rechargeable fan (I choose MomCozy) clipped to the seat is the best. And car window shades? A must.
Bamboo Onesies + Rompers
Cotton’s great, but bamboo? Even better. Soft, stretchy, breathable. Your baby will thank you. (Okay, not really, but you’ll know!) Little Sleepies are my favorite, I get my PJ’s from them too!
Travel Bassinet/Playard
Planning beach trips or weekend visits to grandma? You’ll want a lightweight travel crib like the UppaBaby Remi or Pamo Babe Popup if you are on a budget. Super easy to pop up wherever.
Clip-On High Chair
Say goodbye to sticky and germ filled restaurant high chairs. The Inglesina Fast Chair has been with us to taco shops, the park, and Grandma’s kitchen table.
Outdoor Play Mat or Blanket
Get one that’s water-resistant, machine washable, and folds into a tote. Great for park playdates or backyard tummy time.
13. Collapsible Baby Seat
The Ergo Baby Collapsible Mesh Bouncer or something similar will go everywhere with you. Beach, BBQ, porch, nail salon… yes, I said nail salon. 😂
Swim Diapers
Swim diapers are a must if you plan to spend time in the pool. My favorite are Hello Bello swim diapers. But, there are lots of brands and even reusable ones that do the same job.
Hydration for YOU + Baby
Pack your Stanley cup girl… and remember: if you’re breastfeeding, you need even more water. Reddit mom @bearcatbanana said she was drinking over 100 oz a day.
A Few Bonus Tips from Fellow Mamas:
- @coffeewasabi: “We mostly stayed inside and used long sleeves with AC on blast.”
- @rougeradiant: Loved having a mosquito-net bassinet for back porch naps!
- @DOMEENAYTION: Keep baby in mittens and a short sleeve onesie in cool indoor temps. Swaddles help regulate temp inside.
And my #1 tip?
Go easy on yourself, mama. You can always buy more onesies later.
New baby? Already sweating buckets? I see you. You’ve got this.
Let me know your own must-haves in the comments or shoot me a message on IG @sammyapproves!
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