The Best Clothing for Babies in Hot Weather: A Guide for Australian Summers

Australian summers are long, hot, and often humid – which can make it tricky to know how to dress your baby so they stay cool, comfortable, and safe. Babies are more vulnerable to overheating because they can’t regulate their own body temperature by sweating the way adults do. That means choosing the right clothing and fabrics is essential.

If you’re wondering what your baby should wear on scorching summer days and warm nights, here’s a simple guide to the best baby clothing for hot weather.

Best Fabrics for Hot Weather

When it comes to dressing your baby in summer, fabric choice matters just as much as the style of clothing. Look for lightweight, breathable, and natural materials that allow airflow and wick away moisture.

• Cotton – Soft, breathable, and gentle on delicate skin. Cotton allows heat to escape and is ideal for both daywear and sleepwear.
• Organic cotton – Even better for sensitive skin, as it’s grown without harsh chemicals. Brands like Purebaby specialise in organic cotton basics that are perfect for summer.
• Bamboo – Naturally breathable, moisture-wicking, and silky smooth. Bamboo fabric can also be naturally antibacterial. ergoPouch makes bamboo-blend sleeping bags designed for hot nights.
• Muslin – A lightweight cotton weave that’s perfect for hot days. Muslin clothing and wraps are airy and keep babies cool.

Avoid synthetic fabrics like polyester, which can trap heat and cause discomfort in warm weather.

Best Baby Clothing Items for Summer

When dressing your baby during hot weather, simple is best. You want light, loose-fitting clothes that allow airflow.

• Onesies or rompers – Short-sleeve or sleeveless cotton onesies are perfect for everyday wear. The Bonds Wondercool Zip Romper is a popular option in Australia, designed with breathable fabric and a two-way zip for easy nappy changes.
• Singlets & nappy-only time – On very hot days, a cotton singlet or just a nappy with a muslin wrap can help keep your baby cool indoors. Marquise and Purebaby have high-quality singlets in soft cotton.
• Light dresses or shorts & tees – For outings, a light cotton dress, or a tee and shorts set is comfortable and practical. Preloved pieces from brands like Sprout, Country Road or Seed Heritage are easy to find and great value.
• Sun-safe hats – A wide-brim or legionnaire-style hat is a must when outside to protect your baby’s face and neck from the sun. Brands like Bedhead Hats make excellent options for babies and toddlers.

Sun Safety Essentials

Australian sun is harsh, and babies’ skin is especially sensitive. Clothing is one of the best ways to protect them from UV rays.

• Light, long-sleeved cotton tops – Great for when you’re out and about, especially during peak sun hours.
• Rash vests – For swimming or beach days, a baby rash vest provides lightweight coverage with UV protection. Look for options from Speedo, Bonds or Cancer Council.
• Pram covers – Use a breathable muslin pram cover for shade – never a blanket or heavy fabric, as it can trap heat.

What Should Babies Wear to Sleep in Summer?

Sleep can be difficult in hot weather, especially if your baby is restless and uncomfortable. Dressing them correctly can make a big difference.

• Ideal summer sleepwear: A short-sleeved cotton bodysuit or a lightweight singlet suit. On very warm nights, just a nappy and singlet may be enough.
• Baby sleeping bags: Instead of blankets, choose a summer-weight sleeping bag to reduce the risk of overheating and keep them comfortable all night. Popular Australian brands include:
  
• Love To Dream – Their 0.2 TOG Lite Swaddle Up is perfect for hot nights.
• ergoPouch – Their 0.2–0.3 TOG organic cotton and bamboo sleeping bags are breathable and safe.
• Room temperature guide: If the nursery is above 24°C, stick with the lowest TOG rating and minimal clothing layers.

Why Choose Preloved Baby Clothes for Summer?

Babies grow quickly, and summer clothing is often worn only a handful of times before it’s outgrown. Buying preloved baby clothes is a smart, sustainable choice that benefits both your wallet and the planet.

At Daisy Chain Clothing, we stock a huge range of preloved baby and children’s clothing in breathable, natural fabrics – from everyday rompers and singlets to organic cotton sleepwear and sun-safe hats. Every piece is carefully quality-checked, so you can shop with confidence knowing your little one will stay cool, comfy, and safe this summer.

Key Takeaway: For hot Australian weather, dress your baby in lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, organic cotton, bamboo, and muslin. Choose simple, loose-fitting clothing during the day, sun-safe essentials when outdoors, and low-TOG sleeping bags at night to help them sleep comfortably.