Bringing a new life into the world is magical, but it also comes with exhaustion, hormonal changes, and a steep learning curve. When you throw summer heat into the mix, the challenges multiply. New mums often find themselves juggling sleepless nights, breastfeeding discomfort, and postpartum recovery — all while trying to stay cool and sane in sweltering weather.
This article is here to help. Whether you’re battling hot flushes, trying to get your baby to sleep in a sticky room, or simply seeking moments of peace, you’ll find practical, fuss-free tips to bring some much-needed comfort into your day.
So, are you ready to make this summer feel a little cooler?
Dress for Comfort, Not Just Style
What you wear during the summer months plays a big role in how comfortable you feel. Loose-fitting clothes made from breathable fabrics like cotton, bamboo, or linen help prevent overheating and skin irritation. These materials also make moving around, feeding, and cuddling more pleasant.
You don’t need to dress up unless you want to. Focus on outfits that feel light and easy.
Keep Your Bedroom a Calm, Cool Sanctuary
Your bedroom should be a space that encourages rest and restoration. During summer, the heat can make both you and your baby restless and irritable. To manage this, aim to keep your sleeping area as cool and airy as possible. If air conditioning isn’t an option, use blackout curtains during the day to block out the sun and open windows in the evening to allow for ventilation.
A bamboo summer duvet is an excellent investment. It’s light, breathable, and naturally regulates temperature, making it ideal for warm nights. Unlike synthetic materials, bamboo wicks moisture away, so you’re less likely to wake up sweaty and uncomfortable after a night-time feed. When paired with cotton or linen sheets, your bed can become a welcome oasis from the heat. Consider using a quiet standing fan or ceiling fan to circulate air gently—enough to cool the room without disturbing your baby’s sleep.
Stay Hydrated Without Getting Bored
Between the summer heat and breastfeeding demands, staying hydrated is vital. Water is the obvious choice, but it doesn’t have to be boring. Add a bit of variety by infusing your water with lemon slices, cucumber, or fresh mint. These simple additions can make sipping more enjoyable and feel like a small act of self-care.
Coconut water is another good option. It’s naturally hydrating and rich in electrolytes, which are particularly useful if you’re sweating more than usual.
Create a “Cool Down” Corner Just for You
It’s important to have a space in your home that’s just for you—a little corner where you can sit, relax, and cool off. This doesn’t need to be an entire room. A comfy chair near a fan, a side table for your water and phone, and maybe a cooling face mist or a small speaker for music can create the perfect nook for quick escapes.
This space can be used for feeding, reading, or taking a few deep breaths when the day feels too much. Having this small zone set up can give you a sense of control and something to look forward to during busy moments.
Optimise Nappy Changes and Baby Snuggles
Babies feel the heat just as much as we do, sometimes even more. During skin-to-skin time or feeding, it can get quite sticky. Keeping a few muslin cloths close by helps create a breathable layer between you and your baby. These cloths are soft, lightweight, and absorbent, making them perfect for wiping sweat or acting as a light cover.
During nappy changes, giving your baby a few minutes without clothing helps their skin breathe. Just be sure the room is warm enough, and there’s no direct draft.
Choose Your Foods Wisely
In the early stages of motherhood, eating well often feels like an afterthought. But the food you eat can have a major impact on how you feel during hot weather. Heavy, oily meals tend to sit in your stomach and leave you feeling sluggish. Instead, go for fresh, light options that help you stay energised and cool.
Cold pasta salads, yoghurt with fruit, boiled eggs, and chopped vegetables with hummus are great staples. Watermelon, cucumber, and oranges are not just refreshing—they’re hydrating too. Batch-prep a few easy meals when you have the energy, or ask a friend to help stock your fridge. Eating little and often can keep your energy steady without making you feel overly full or uncomfortable.
Use Natural Cooling Remedies
You don’t need fancy gadgets to cool down—nature offers some effective remedies. Keep a bottle of aloe vera gel in the fridge to soothe tired feet, sun-exposed skin, or even a mild heat rash. Chamomile and lavender sprays can refresh your face or bedsheets, especially during warm evenings. They also bring a little sense of calm when emotions are running high.
A cold flannel placed on your neck, wrists, or ankles helps lower your body temperature. These small, simple things can be done in a minute but can bring comfort that lasts much longer. Keep your favourite items in a little basket near your resting area so they’re always within reach.
Comfort during summer is something every new mum deserves but often overlooks. These practical adjustments can transform your experience of motherhood during the hotter months. You don’t need to do everything perfectly. You just need to do what keeps you well, in body and mind.
Taking small, mindful steps to care for yourself has a ripple effect. When you’re cooler, calmer, and less overwhelmed, you’re in a better place to bond with your baby and enjoy these early, fleeting days.
