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Confused by conflicting advice on how to keep your baby cool, comfy and safe in sweltering summer temperatures" Don?t get hot and bothered ? here are the facts.
How can I tell if my baby is too warm" ?One way is to feel the back of the baby?s neck,? says Ottawa paediatrician and Canadian Paediatric Society spokesperson Alyson Shaw. If it?s hot or damp and clammy, try stripping off a layer of his clothing. Fussiness, crying and heat rash (see below) are other clues your infant could be feeling the heat.
What does heat rash look like" And how do I treat it" ?It?s usually red or pink and bumpy,? notes Shaw, and tends to crop up where airflow is poor ? where clothing fits snugly, in skin creases or areas that come in contact with the car seat. But, she adds, ?babies can get heat rash on their faces too.? The remedy" Remove clothing (including diapers) from the affected area, and sponge down the skin with lukewarm (not cool) water. Leave the rash exposed to the air as much as possible, and dress your baby in light, loose-fitting clothing made of a breathable fabrics like cotton. As long as you keep your child cool, the bumps should start fading within about 12 hours. If not, ?talk to your doctor to make sure it?s actually heat rash,? suggests Shaw.

How should I keep him cool and comfortable at bedtime" If you have air conditioning, set the thermostat at 18 to 20°C (65 to 68° F). If not, use a fan to keep air in your baby?s room...