In Bangladesh's hot weather, air conditioners (ACs) and coolers often become necessities to beat the heat. However, as a parent, ensuring your baby’s comfort and wellbeing in such environments can be tricky. Babies are more sensitive to temperature changes, and without proper care, they might catch a cold. So, how do you balance the need for cooling while keeping your baby healthy? 

Why Babies Catch Cold Under ACs 

Babies Have Weaker Immune Systems

Babies, especially newborns, have developing immune systems. This means they are more susceptible to catching colds and infections, which can be triggered by their surrounding ambients, such as exposure to cold air from ACs.

Rapid Temperature Changes

One key reason babies catch cold under ACs is the rapid shift from warm to cool temperatures. Imagine stepping out of a hot, humid day into a chilled room—you will feel the difference immediately. For babies, such abrupt changes in temperature can hurt their respiratory system, making them more prone to colds and related illnesses.

Read more: How to comfortably travel with babies

Dry Air in AC Rooms

ACs tend to remove moisture from the air and make the room dry. Babies’ nasal passages can get dried out, making them more vulnerable to respiratory issues and colds. They may also experience dry skin, which can lead to discomfort. 

Babies' Inability to Regulate Body Temperature

Unlike adults, babies cannot regulate their body temperature effectively. This means they might feel colder or warmer than you do under the same conditions. Though a room’s temperature might seem comfy for grown-up children and adults, it can be too cold for a baby, increasing risk of catching a cold. 

Tips to Keep Your Baby Healthy and Safe While Using Cooler or AC

Set a Moderate Temperature 

When using an AC, it is important to set the temperature to a moderate level. This range will cool the room without making it too cold for a baby. It is important to avoid setting the AC too low.

Read more: Baby Food Brands in Bangladesh: An Overview

Avoid Direct Exposure to Cold Air

It is necessary to ensure your baby is not in the direct path of cold air from the AC or cooler. Cold air blowing directly on a baby’s body, especially skin can cause body temperature to go down too quickly. To prevent such incidents, it would be wise to position the crib or bassinet so that the airflow does not directly hit the baby, while the room still remains cool.

Keep the Baby Properly Clothed

To maintain comfort, dress your baby in comfy, light, and breathable layers. Even in an AC room, a thin layer of clothing and a light blanket should be enough. Cotton fabrics work best to keep the baby cool but covered. You do not want the baby to overheat or be too cold, so adjust based on the room temperature.

Use Humidifiers to Prevent Dry Air

To counter the dry air that often comes with using an AC, parents can use a humidifier in the room. This keeps moisture in the air, preventing the baby’s nasal passages from drying out. If you do not have a humidifier, placing a bowl of water in the room can also help add some moisture back into the air.

Read more: Top Baby Products based eCommerce Sites in Bangladesh

Maintain Clean Air Filters

ACs and coolers need regular maintenance, especially in dusty environments like Bangladesh. Parents should make sure the air filters are clean, as dirty filters can lead to respiratory problems for babies. Clean filters will help ensure that the baby is breathing fresh, and uncontaminated air.

Keep the Room Ventilated

When you are using a cooler, it is important to allow fresh air into the room periodically. Poor ventilation can lead to stale air, which is not good for a baby’s respiratory health. To avoid such situations, try to open windows and let fresh air circulate.

Use Fans and Coolers with Caution

If you are using a fan or cooler instead of an AC, ensure it is placed at a safe distance from the baby. It is recommended to avoid pointing fans or coolers directly at the baby. Fans should circulate the air gently without creating too much wind.

Read more: How to Clean Baby Bottles

Monitor the Baby’s Temperature

Always keep an eye on your baby’s body temperature. If the baby is sweating or feels too warm, remove a layer of clothing. If its hands or feet feel cold, the baby might need an extra layer. Babies cannot always signal when they are uncomfortable, so regular checks are essential.

Keep Your Baby Moisturised

Using an air conditioner can dry out your baby’s skin. To prevent this, apply a newborn-friendly lotion regularly to keep their skin hydrated. Try to focus on sensitive areas like the hands and face. Additionally, consult a doctor for safe ways to moisturize the nostrils and eyes, as ACs can also deplete moisture from these areas. 

Follow Safe Sleeping Practices

When using AC or coolers, follow basic safe sleep guidelines. Place the baby on their back to sleep and avoid using heavy blankets or bedding that could cause overheating. It is recommended to stick to lightweight, breathable fabrics to prevent your baby from getting too hot or cold.

Read more: Best foods for expecting mothers

Limit AC Usage During Newborn Stage

For newborns, it is better to use the AC sparingly. Their developing bodies are more vulnerable to rapid temperature shifts. You can use fans or coolers on low settings and ensure the room is well-ventilated, so your newborn does not get too cold.

Avoid Sudden Changes in Temperature

Whenever you move your baby from a hot outdoor environment to an AC-cooled room, or vice versa, try to make the transition gradual. Sudden shifts can be a shock to the baby’s health system, making them more likely to catch a cold.

Verdict

Keeping your baby healthy, comfortable, and safe while using AC or coolers during Bangladesh’s hot seasons requires a bit of extra care and attention. By maintaining a moderate room temperature, ensuring proper airflow, and taking precautions like using humidifiers and dressing the baby appropriately, you can ensure that they remain cool without compromising their health. It is necessary to remember that the key is to avoid extremes and keep a close eye on your baby’s comfort.

Read more: How to Protect Babies and Children from Dengue Fever