It’s no secret – Australia’s sun is powerful, even on cool or cloudy days. The aim isn’t to stay inside all summer, but to confidently plan short, happy outings using shade, protective clothing and smart sunscreen habits. This guide gives you quick, age-appropriate steps so you can enjoy the outdoors while keeping your baby comfortable and safe.
When Can Babies Wear Sunscreen?
For babies aged 0–6 months, prioritise shade and clothing first. If you can’t fully avoid the sun, you may use a very small amount of baby-appropriate sunscreen on tiny exposed areas as a last resort. Keep outings brief and avoid peak UV times.
From 6 months+, add broad-spectrum SPF 50+ to exposed skin whenever you’re outdoors. Sunscreen is part of the routine, alongside shade, clothing and a hat. Always patch test a new product first.
The Sun-Safe Order (Shade → Clothing → Hat → Sunscreen)
Think of sun protection as layers, used in this order:
- Shade
Choose natural shade (trees, verandas) or portable shade (UPF sun tents, umbrellas). For prams, use a breathable canopy or clip-on shade and keep air flowing. Shade blocks a large portion of UV before it reaches your baby. - Clothing
Long sleeves and legs in UPF 50+ fabrics provide reliable coverage. Look for lightweight, breathable materials that your baby will tolerate in warm weather. - Hat
A broad-brim or legionnaire hat protects the face, ears and neck. Soft, comfortable straps help hats stay on without irritation. - Sunscreen
For 6 months+, apply broad-spectrum SPF 50+ to exposed areas. For under 6 months, use only tiny amounts on small areas if shade/clothing can’t cover. Reapply as per the label.
Why this order matters: clothing and shade do most of the heavy lifting. Sunscreen is a helpful backup, not the first or only line of defence, especially in Australian conditions where the UV Index can be high year-round.
Smart Timing & UV Index
Timing your outings can make all the difference:
- Aim for earlier mornings and later afternoons. Midday sun (often 10am–3pm) tends to bring the highest UV.
- Check your local UV Index. Temperature isn’t a reliable indicator—UV can be high on cool or cloudy days.
- Keep trips short. Plan feeds, nappy changes and rest breaks in shaded, ventilated spots.
- If you must be out during higher UV hours, lean into shade and clothing, and shorten the time in direct sun.
Shade & Gear Checklist
Create a simple sun kit so you can leave the house in minutes:
- Pram with a breathable UPF canopy or clip-on shade. Avoid draping heavy blankets over the pram, as this can trap heat and reduce airflow.
- Portable UPF sun tent or umbrella for the park or beach.
- Light muslins for extra cover in the car or pram (use so they don’t block airflow).
- Ventilation aids: safe pram airflow, a small cordless pram fan if needed, and regular shade breaks.
- Water and cooling cloths for the family.
Sun Protective Clothing & Hats
Clothing is consistent, reliable protection:
- Choose UPF 50+ long sleeves and legs in lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton, bamboo-blend or technical UPF materials).
- Look for flat seams, soft tags and stretch where your baby needs to move.
- Hats: broad-brim or legionnaire styles with a neck flap provide extra coverage. A soft chin strap can help the hat stay put without being too tight.
- If tolerated, baby-safe wraparound sunglasses add eye protection.
- Laundry tip: tightly woven fabrics generally protect better than thin, see-through weaves. If you can see a lot of light through the fabric, coverage may be limited.
Choosing a Baby-Friendly Sunscreen (6m+)
When your baby is 6 months or older, sunscreen becomes a regular tool:
- Look for broad-spectrum SPF 50+ and water resistance if you’ll be near water or if your baby perspires.
- Consider mineral (zinc oxide) sunscreens if your baby has very sensitive skin. Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options can be gentler.
- Always patch test a new product on a small area and wait 24 hours before wider use.
- Aim for a thin, even film on exposed skin. For tiny faces, dot around the cheeks and forehead and blend gently, avoiding the eyes.
- Reapply as per the label. This is often every 2 hours, and after water play or towelling. Sunscreen can wear off with rubbing, sweat, or sand.
How to Apply Sunscreen on Babies
A simple, repeatable routine helps:
- Dress first: long sleeves/legs and a hat. This minimises the area you need to cover with sunscreen.
- Apply to remaining exposed skin. Use small amounts, spreading into an even layer.
- Avoid the eyes and use caution on hands (babies mouth their hands). Consider sleeves long enough to cover wrists.
- Allow it to dry/bind before heading out.
- Reapply as directed, and continue to prioritise shade and clothing.
Heat & Hydration Safety
Sun safety isn’t only about UV. Heat management matters too:
- Watch for overheating: a hot or clammy neck, unusual irritability, excessive sleepiness, or flushed skin.
- Offer breastmilk or formula on demand; babies need frequent fluids.
- Choose ventilated shade and avoid hot, enclosed spaces. Never leave a child in a parked car, even briefly.
- Use light layers and remove hats indoors if the room feels warm.
- In the pram, check airflow regularly. If it feels stuffy under the canopy, take a break in more open shade.
Beach & Water Play with Babies
Beach days can be enjoyable with the right set-up:
- Keep sessions short. Set up a shaded base with a UPF tent and good airflow.
- Dress baby in a long-sleeve rash vest or UPF suit and a hat that stays on when wet.
- Rinse salt or chlorine off the skin afterwards and pat dry. If your baby’s skin is sensitive, moisturise gently after bathing.
- Reapply sunscreen as per the label, and again after towelling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Small changes prevent big upsets:
- Relying on sunscreen alone. Don’t skip shade, clothing or hats.
- Covering prams with heavy blankets. This can trap heat and reduce airflow.
- Missing easy-to-forget spots: ears, neck, the tops of feet and the back of knees.
- Forgetting to reapply after water or towelling.
- Using strongly fragranced adult formulas on sensitive baby skin without a patch test.
Practical Outing Planner
Make sunny trips smoother with a quick checklist:
- Check UV Index and choose your time window (morning or late afternoon).
- Pack your sun kit: UPF hat, UPF clothing, breathable pram shade, baby-friendly SPF (6m+), water, muslins and a spare outfit.
- Plan shade stops every 20–30 minutes to cool down and check comfort.
- Keep outings flexible. If baby seems hot, irritable or unusually sleepy, head to cooler shade or go home.
FAQs
What age can babies wear sunscreen?
Under 6 months, rely on shade and clothing first. If there’s unavoidable sun on small areas, you may use a tiny amount sparingly as a backup. From 6 months+, include broad-spectrum SPF 50+ on exposed skin whenever outdoors, alongside shade, clothing and hats.
Can babies get sunburned on cloudy days?
Yes. UV can be high even when it’s cool or overcast. That’s why checking the UV Index is helpful.
Mineral vs chemical sunscreens—what’s the difference?
Mineral formulas (often zinc oxide) sit on top of the skin and reflect/scatter UV. Some families prefer these for sensitive skin. Choose broad-spectrum SPF 50+ and patch test any new product.
How much sunscreen should I use?
Aim for a thin, even film over exposed skin, adjusting for your baby’s size. Reapply as per the label and after water or towelling.
What about sun protection in the car?
Car windows can reduce some UV, but not all. Use shade where possible, dress in protective clothing, and never use heavy coverings that limit airflow. Buckle-up safety comes first – avoid anything that interferes with proper restraint use.
Do I need different TOGs for summer nights?
Room temperature and fabric matter more than the season label. For help choosing sleepwear warmth, see our guide on what TOG means and how to layer safely (when live).
When to Seek Medical Advice
Contact your GP or child health nurse if you notice any of the following:
- Sunburn, blistering or fever
- Unusual sleepiness, poor feeding or vomiting
- A rash or suspected allergic reaction after sunscreen use
- Any time your instincts say something isn’t right
Final Thoughts
Keep it simple and flexible. Start with shade, add protective clothing and a hat, then use baby-appropriate sunscreen from 6 months+ on exposed skin. Choose cooler times of day, take regular shade breaks, and watch your baby’s cues. With a little simple planning, your family can enjoy the sunshine comfortably and safely.
Helpful Resources from Infants’ Friend
- Settling after feeds? Try ways to relieve trapped wind and learn how to burp a baby.
- Curious about gentle support options? Explore Colic & Wind Oral Liquid and see how to use Infants’ Friend.
- Got a question? Contact us.
AUST L 367810. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.
