# How do I keep my baby safe in the sun? | Clever Mum

> Keep babies under 6 months out of direct sun altogether — use shade, a pram sun canopy or parasol, and lightweight covering clothes. From 6 months, apply a

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#  How do I keep my baby safe in the sun? 

    
 
Quick answer — How do I keep my baby safe in the sun? 

 
Keep babies under 6 months out of direct sun altogether — use shade, a pram sun canopy or parasol, and lightweight covering clothes. From 6 months, apply a baby-safe sunscreen (SPF 50, broad spectrum) to any exposed skin, reapply every 2 hours and after water play, and dress in UV-protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat. Avoid the strongest midday sun (11am–3pm) for babies of any age.

   
## Why under-6-months is different

Babies under 6 months have thinner, more sensitive skin and immature ability to regulate temperature, so the NHS advice is to avoid direct sun exposure altogether at this age rather than relying on sunscreen — shade, clothing and timing are the actual protection.

## From 6 months

* **SPF 50, broad-spectrum, baby/child-formulated sunscreen** on all exposed skin, including ears, the back of the neck and feet
* **Reapply every 2 hours**, and immediately after swimming or sweating, even "water-resistant" formulas
* **UV-protective swimwear and a wide-brimmed or legionnaire-style hat** reduce how much skin needs sunscreen at all
* **Sunglasses with UV protection** if your baby tolerates them

## Timing and heat, not just burning

Avoid the strongest sun, typically 11am–3pm in the UK summer, for babies of any age — plan outdoor time for morning or early evening instead. Watch for overheating separately from sunburn: a hot, flushed baby needs shade and fluids even without visible burn. Never leave a baby or child alone in a car, even briefly, even with windows cracked.

   
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