The UK is experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures predicted to reach nearly 40°C in some areas. As conditions peak mid-week, consumer champion Which? has issued a critical safety reminder for parents using pushchairs and prams: never drape a towel or blanket over the hood to shade a baby.
Why Draping Fabric Over a Pushchair Is Dangerous
In an Instagram post, Which? explained that while it may seem intuitive to cover a pushchair with a muslin, towel, or fleece blanket to block the sun, research shows this can cause temperatures inside the pushchair to spike dangerously. “In some cases, this was by 6°C more after 60 minutes in hot temperatures, compared with when just the hood is up,” the organization stated.
This trapped heat can cause a baby to overheat, increasing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Which? advised parents to seek shade and limit time outdoors during extreme heat.
Safer Alternatives to Keep Babies Cool
Instead of draping fabric, Which? recommends using the pushchair’s built-in hood. If additional shade is needed, attach a parasol or small umbrella. At home, use a fan to circulate air—but do not point it directly at the baby. Placing a bowl of ice or frozen water bottle in front of the fan can help cool the room.
During a heatwave, keep curtains and blinds closed during the day to block sunlight, and open windows at night to let cooler air in. Regularly check your baby’s chest or the back of their neck; if it feels clammy or sweaty, remove a layer of clothing.
Additional Tips for Hot Weather
Run a lukewarm (not cold) bath before bedtime to lower your baby’s core temperature. If breastfeeding, your baby may need more frequent feeds to stay hydrated. Avoid going out between 11am and 3pm, the hottest part of the day.
According to Save the Children, young children are especially vulnerable because they heat up three to five times faster than adults. For more guidance, visit the NHS website on keeping babies safe in the sun.
