The Best Sun Protection for Babies Under 6 Months

The best way to protect babies from the sun is to sit in the shade (or better yet, inside), especially since sunscreen is generally discouraged for babies under 6 months. But if you decide to take baby to the beach or park in the early morning or evening (the best time to avoid the sun’s harmful rays), it’s important to protect him or her with sun protective gear. This is the best sun protective gear for babies under 6 months of age.

1. Baby Car Seat Cover

A baby carrier cover is a must for trips to the pediatrician’s office or Target. We love this one on Amazon since it features a neutral design and can easily double as a nursing cover or light blanket for baby.

2. SunBusters Girls Flap Hat

Hat’s off to warm weather and sunny skies. Just make sure your baby has a hat that covers her sweet cheeks… and ears and neck. San Diego-based SunBusters has an adorable selection of colorful caps made of swimsuit fabric that can be worn in the water.

Related: 7 Best Baby Sun Hats

3. SwimWays Baby Spring Float Sun Canopy

You want your baby getting used to the water, but not getting burned. Here’s a shady solution: SwimWays’ infant float has a UPF 50+ canopy and soft seat with adjustable three-point harness to keep baby secure. It’s recommended for babies 3 to 9 months old.

Related: 9 Best Swim Floaties for Kids

4. Hatley Baby Boys Mini One Piece Rash Guard

Surf’s up, baby! Most romper-style rash guards only have a zipper. That means you have to take the entire thing off to change a diaper. That’s no way to spend a day at the beach! The Hatley Baby Boys Mini One Piece Rash Guard is a UPF 50+ swimsuit with a zipper in the back AND a snap closure at the bottom. Getting baby changed is a cinch!

5. Sunday Afternoons Infant Sunsprout Hat

Consider it your patriotic duty to make sure your kids are sun-safe at the park, pool or neighborhood barbecue over 4th of July weekend. No matter how you celebrate, the Sunday Afternoons Infant Sunsprout Hat has you covered. The strap means babies can’t pull it off, and UPF 50 (plus a longer brim in back) means their neck’s protected from ultraviolet rays. Hats off to that!

6. Girls’ Two Piece Rashguard Set

Fun designs are in with this adorable two-piece rash guard with matching reusable swim diaper. The iPlay 2 Piece Rashguard Set has you ready for a fun day at the beach and the long sleeves means little arms won’t get burned.

Related: 9 Best Poop-in-the-Pool-Proof Swim Diapers

7. Baby Solo UV 400 Sunglasses

Sunglasses on babies are not only adorable, they’re necessary to protect their developing eyes from harmful UV rays. Over time, damage to unprotected eyes can lead to cataracts and macular degeneration. Don’t panic just yet, there is a solution… baby sunglasses. We love the Baby Solo UV 400 Sunglasses.

Related: 13 Best Sunglasses for Babies and Toddlers

8. Sun Smarties UPF 50+ Non-Skid Sand and Water Socks

Keep baby safe from the sun and burning sand with these fun and functional slipper socks available in nine colors. Made of a quick-drying, UPF 50 fabric, Sun Smarties UPF 50+ Non-Skid Sand and Water Socks are perfect for protecting cute little feet.

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