With the warmer weather, the heat makes us sweat more and and the importance of hydration for babies and for parents increases. Parents often ask themselves whether breast milk is really enough hydration for their baby in the warmer months - or whether water should be offered from time to time in the heat. Here is the short answer: No. For all of those who want to know more details, please read on.
Importance of hydration for babies - why breast mild quenches baby´s thirst
You might think, if your baby only drinks milk, it doesn't get enough water. However, this does not apply to breast milk. Mother Nature has devised an ingenious system to ensure that little human babies survive in the best possible way, even in the heat. And not only in this country, when the temperature is above 30 degrees for a few days, but also in the tropics and even in the desert. Breast milk consists of 88 percent water, so if you breastfeed your baby, it will get plenty of fluid to quench its thirst. If you are now panicking about where your baby gets its vital nutrients, let us reassure you, the remaining 12 percent contains everything your baby needs to grow up healthy.
How your baby regulates its own fluid intake
Frequent short feeds from both breasts will give your baby a rather watery milk with a low fat content. This is perfect for quenching your baby's thirst. This is why your baby may be fussy more often when it's hot, regardless of how long it's been since his last feed. In this case, simply offer them both breasts for a few minutes in between and see if they become more satisfied. In contrast, the fat content of one breast increases over time when you feed extensively. So the longer your baby sucks, the more fat-rich milk he or she will get, which will make him or her feel full and satisfied - and ensure that he or she gains enough weight. So it's important to trust your baby and not to breastfeed according to the clock, then they will regulate their fluid intake perfectly on their own. Additional water or unsweetened tea is not necessary. On the contrary, it can even cause problems for you and your baby. Tea and water only fill your baby's stomach without providing them with vital nutrients and salts. If your baby quenches its thirst with water, it may drink less often at your breast - and this can have a negative effect on milk production.
But don’t forget your own hydration! While baby rests comfortably in the Evolve 3-in-1 Bouncer, take a moment to have a drink yourself — it's important to stay hydrated while breastfeeding.
Why extra water can be dangerous
Too much water in the first year of life can lead to life-threatening water intoxication. This is why it is explicitly not recommended to give extra water to babies under six months of age. Too much water upsets the electrolyte balance and your child's sodium level drops. Since the baby's kidneys are not yet fully developed, the imbalance cannot be regulated by excessive excretion of water. This can cause the cells to absorb the water, resulting in life-threatening brain oedema with symptoms such as headaches, nausea, tremors, loss of consciousness and epileptic seizures. So-called water intoxications are the second most common cause of seizures in babies after fever and can even cost your child his or her life. Therefore, please do not add extra water to your baby's pre-milk (bottle-feeding) when it is hot. What is well-intentioned can end badly.
When your baby needs extra water
While your baby does not need additional water as you start to introduce food, you can start to introduce sips of water but please remember that breastmilk or infant formula should be their main drinks within their first year. From the age of one, water should be offered at every meal. The Research Institute of Child Nutrition recommends a total of 600 ml of water per day for toddlers from the age of one, divided into 6 small glasses, as part of the optimised mixed diet. Please note: In case of fever or persistent diarrhoea and vomiting, an earlier and also higher fluid intake may be necessary. However, this only applies to babies who are not breastfed. Breastfed babies cover their needs through their mother's milk. However, please discuss with your paediatrician or midwife to what extent you can increase your fluid intake without any problems. Oh yes, and as mothers, don't forget to drink while breastfeeding. The guideline here is 1 glass with each breastfeed and whenever you are thirsty.
FAQ: Baby Hydration in Summer
Can I give water to my 3-month-old baby in summer?
No. Babies under 6 months should not be given water — even in hot weather — as it can affect their electrolyte balance and interfere with breastfeeding or formula intake. Breast milk or infant formula provides all the fluids they need.
How do I know if my baby is hydrated?
Well-hydrated babies will have regular wet nappies, normal skin tone, moist lips, and good energy levels. If you notice dry mouth, sunken fontanelle, or unusual sleepiness, contact your GP or health visitor.
When can I start giving my baby water?
You can start offering small sips of water around 6 months when solid foods are introduced, but breast milk or formula should still be the main drink until your baby turns one. After 12 months, water can be given more freely, especially with meals.
Can babies drink bottled water in the UK (NHS advice)?
The NHS recommends avoiding most bottled water for babies. Many bottled waters contain too much sodium or sulphate, which can be harmful to a baby’s kidneys. If you must use bottled water, choose one with:
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Sodium (Na) less than 200 mg per litre
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Sulphate (SO or SO4) less than 250 mg per litre
Still, boiled and cooled tap water is safest for babies once they’re old enough to have water.
Importance of hydration for babies in summer - breast milk is enough
So just remember when the temperatures climb, keeping your baby hydrated becomes more crucial than ever, but that doesn’t mean giving them water. The importance of hydration of babies in summer lies in understanding that breast milk and formula already provide all the fluids and essential nutrients your baby needs. Breast milk is especially designed to adjust to your baby's needs, offering more watery foremilk during frequent feeds to quench thirst, and richer hindmilk for nourishment. Giving water too early can disrupt this balance and even pose serious health risks, such as water intoxication. Trust your baby’s cues, feed on demand, and skip the extra water until solids are introduced around six months. And don’t forget keeping yourself hydrated is just as vital, especially when breastfeeding during those hotter months.