Baby’s First Summer: 8 Essentials Every New Parent Needs
There’s something so sweet about a baby’s first summer—wiggly toes in the sand, that first taste of ice cream. We’ve rounded up our favorite baby essentials to make navigating the season a whole lot easier, so you can focus on soaking in all those special firsts.
Written By
Sally Voyles
1. A Wide-Brimmed Sunhat
When it comes to summer hats, cuteness counts—because the more you love how it looks, the more likely you are to actually use it. But beyond the “awww” factor, look for a hat with a wide brim made fom breathable fabrics like cotton or linen that will help keep baby cool on warmer days. Pro Tip: Choose one with a chin strap to keep it from being tossed off mid-stroll.
For swimwear, go with a one-piece or rash guard that has built-in UPF 50+ protection. Long sleeves add extra sun coverage, and lightweight fabric keeps things breezy. A zipper makes changes easier, and a snug—not tight—fit helps prevent chafing on baby's sensitive skin.
Baby wearing is the best option for a summer packed full of new adventures, but be sure to choose a baby carrier made from lightweight, breathable fabric to keep both of you cool when the summer starts heating up. Adjustable straps help get the perfect fit, and good airflow means comfy, sweat-free cuddles even on warm days.
Oversized and soft these lightweight blankets are like a Swiss Army knife for parents—perfect as a stroller cover for shade, a picnic blanket for little legs, a nursing cover for privacy, or an impromptu burp cloth when you need it most. Its endless uses make it one of those items you’ll wonder how you ever lived without.
Whether you're a minimalist or a pack mule, there are so many good options for stylish diaper bags these days. Since you’ll be on the move more during summer, look for one that’s roomy enough for all your essentials but still easy to carry on busy days. Bonus if it has an insulated pocket to keep your bottles and snacks cool in peak summer.
Choose a gentle, mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that’s specially made for babies’ sensitive skin. Look for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formulas with SPF 30 or higher. Remember, sunscreen is best for babies over 6 months—until then, shade and protective clothing are the way to go.
Lightweight cotton rompers make dressing baby a breeze on hot days. With easy snaps for quick diaper changes and sweet, simple designs, they’re as cute as they are comfortable. Whether you're going to the beach or a summer party, they're perfect for all your summer adventures.
Whether you're headed to the beach or the splash pad, swim diapers are a summer must-have for anyone looking to outfit their water-loving baby. You can choose reusable styles with easy snap closures or a convenient disposable, but either way, look for a snug fit that prevents leaks and fun prints to make splash days even cuter.
