What Actually Protects a Baby From the Summer Sun?

Protecting a baby outdoors takes a combination of shade, covering clothes and careful timing. Sunscreen can help protect exposed skin once a child is old enough, but it does not protect against heat.

Why do babies need more protection than adults?

Babies have thinner, more sensitive skin, cannot move themselves into the shade and can’t tell you when they are too hot. Health Canada recommends keeping babies under one year out of direct sunlight and never letting them play or sleep in the sun. Children with dark skin need protection too.

How do you plan shade and timing?

Check the local UV index and avoid long outings in the middle of the day: INSPQ advises keeping young children out of direct sunlight between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Use a tree, an umbrella or the stroller canopy for shade, check your baby’s position as the sun moves, and never seat your child facing the sun. Sunscreen does not make a long stay in the sun or heat safe.

Keep air moving around the stroller. INSPQ advises against putting a blanket over the stroller in hot weather, even to shield your baby from the sun, because the temperature inside rises quickly. Shorten the outing if your baby seems too warm, and never leave a child in a parked vehicle.

Which clothes and hats protect best?

Choose lightweight clothing that covers the arms and legs, and a hat with a wide brim; the Canadian Paediatric Society suggests a brim plus a back flap to protect the neck. It also notes that only UV-rated clothing fully protects the skin underneath. Sunglasses labelled “100% UV protection” or “UV 400” can help protect the eyes, but INSPQ says a large-brimmed hat or cap is the best protection.

The Miles The Label long-sleeved rash guard shown here is one example of rated clothing: its listing states built-in UPF50+ and long sleeves, in sizes from 12–18 months.

Teal Miles The Label ribbed long-sleeved rash guard, laid flat

L/S Ribbed Rashguard | Teal | Miles the Label

Browse swimwear

Does every swimsuit or hat state a UV rating?

No, and it is worth checking before you buy. When we reviewed the in-stock swimwear in our collection on 1 October 2026, the listings for several Miles The Label, Petit Lem and Wilson & Frenchy pieces stated UPF 50+, while the Mini Biscuit swimsuit listings gave no UV rating. Even within one brand, some models stated one and others did not. Hats vary the same way: Current Tyed states UPF 50+ for its bucket hat, while the Timininous linen hat is described by its brim and fabric, and the Little & Lively bamboo bucket hat promises sun protection, both without a UPF figure. Without a rating, don’t assume the fabric blocks UV completely; shade and the brim still count.

The Current Tyed bucket hat shown here covers the ears fully, according to its listing, and its neck strap includes a breakaway for safety. The UPF 50+ figure is the brand’s.

Blush pink Current Tyed waterproof bucket hat with a flat brim and a logo patch, on a white background

Waterproof Bucket Hat | Current Tyed

Browse hats and accessories

When can babies start wearing sunscreen?

Not before 6 months. The Canadian Paediatric Society does not recommend sunscreen for babies under 6 months, because they can rub it into their eyes and mouth, and INSPQ notes that it could cause allergic reactions at that age; Health Canada asks you to check with a health care provider first. Rely on shade, clothing and a hat.

From 6 months, choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and follow its label. The Canadian Paediatric Society advises applying it at least 30 minutes before going out on all uncovered skin, including the ears, nose, back of the neck and tops of the feet, and on the whole body if clothing is not UV-rated. Health Canada advises reapplying at least every 2 hours, and more often after swimming, heavy sweating or towelling off. A pharmacist can help you choose a product for sensitive skin.

What about mosquitoes?

Use lightweight covering clothes and a mosquito net over the stroller. Health Canada says not to use DEET or icaridin repellents on babies under 6 months. For older children, follow the exact product’s age, concentration and application limits, and don’t apply repellent to children’s hands, since they may get it in their eyes or mouth. If both products are needed, apply sunscreen first, then repellent.

Frequently asked questions

Can babies under 6 months wear sunscreen?

The Canadian Paediatric Society does not recommend it, and Health Canada asks you to consult a health care provider first. Rely on shade, covering clothes and a hat.

What SPF is best for kids?

From 6 months, a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, following the label. Reapplication matters, including with water-resistant products.

Do babies need sunglasses?

They can help if they fit well and are labelled “100% UV protection” or “UV 400,” as INSPQ advises. A large-brimmed hat and shade remain the best protection for the eyes.

How do I keep mosquitoes off my baby?

Use covering clothes and a mosquito net on the stroller. Repellent age limits depend on the ingredient and the label; DEET and icaridin are not for babies under 6 months.

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