Hydration
Keeping regularly hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day, can help us stay cool and avoid feeling tired and confused.
From 0 to 6 months
- Fully breastfed babies do not need any water until they've started eating solid foods. During hot weather they may want to breastfeed more than usual
- If you're bottle feeding, as well as their usual milk feeds, you can give your baby a little cooled boiled water. If your baby wakes at night, they'll probably want milk. If they have had their usual milk feeds, try cooled boiled water as well
- Remember, you can ask your health visitor or another health professional for advice about any baby care issue. Advice will then be tailored to meet your baby's needs
From around 6 months
- Once you have started to introduce solid foods, you should offer your baby sips of water from a cup or beaker with meals. Remember that breastmilk or infant formula should be their main drinks during the first year. In hot weather, you may need to offer some additional water outside of mealtimes
From 12 months
- Water, breastmilk or whole cows' milk should be your baby's main drinks. In hot weather you can try giving them frozen lollies made from plain water or from very diluted fruit juice to help keep them hydrated. Lollies made from diluted fruit juice should only be given at mealtimes, because they can cause tooth decay
- For older children, give them plenty of fruit and salad to help keep their fluid levels up. Remember that undiluted fruit juice or smoothies should not be given to children until they are 5 years old, as these can also cause tooth decay
Adults
- Aim for 6 to 8 glasses (1.5 to 2 litres) of water per day
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Drink frequently through the day, rather than large amounts in one go. A straw can be helpful, as can taking drinks from small glasses, rather than being daunted by a tall drink
Stay cool
Keep your home cool by closing blinds or curtains in sunny rooms, and keep windows closed during the day. Open windows when it is cooler outside. Turn off lights and electrical equipment when not in use, as they generate heat.
Babies and children can keep cool and safe by following these tips:
- Run them a cool bath before bedtime
- Use a fan to circulate the air in the room. Make sure the fan is faced away from your child
- Keep nightwear and bedclothes to a minimum
- Monitor the temperature of your baby's room. You should aim for their room to be between 16°C (61°F) and 20°C (68°F), ideally 18°C
The cost of living affects us all, no matter what the weather. Keeping your home cool, by running several electric fans, for example, can lead to higher bills. We have advice for you if you are struggling with your energy bills this summer. You can also contact the Energy Advice Line for tips to keep your home cool without costing lots.
