Covering baby’s seat with a blanket to create shade could create deadly high temps underneath

By Megan Alley

Shading your baby from the sun with a "light" blanket while they sit in a car seat or stroller is a common, and potentially dangerous, mistake made by well-intentioned parents.

It may be surprising for parents to learn that protecting their baby, and baby's delicate skin, from the sun's dangerous rays can be dangerous, but here's what can happen.

According to a report from researchers in Sweden, on warm days, draping a muslin cloth or other seemingly thin, flowing fabric, over the top of a stroller or car seat can cause a greenhouse effect in the enclosed space.

A follow up experiment showed that a stroller left outside on a moderately warm day maintained a temperature of 72 degrees. However, when it was covered by a thin cloth, the temperature inside shot up to 93 degrees after 30 minutes, and after an hour, it reached an alarming temperature of close to 100 degrees.

The increased heat and reduced air circulation can cause kids to suffer from heatstroke and even sudden infant death syndrome as their body temperature rises.

Also, because there's a cover over the stroller or car seat, it's hard for parents to see that their baby is in trouble and possibly suffering from overheating.

The good news is that this is preventable. To keep your baby safe while blocking the sun, experts suggest starting with choosing the right stroller; those that are light in color and avoid excess cushioning that might keep skin from breathing normally are recommended.

Other suggestions include:

– Choose a model with a large canopy and removable back panel.

– Add a small fan that can be attached to the stroller's handlebars.

– Check your baby regularly for heat exhaustion; warning signs include extreme thirst, sweating, acting tired or weak, rapid and shallow breathing, and skin that is red or hot to the touch.

If you think your baby is suffering from heat exhaustion, head indoors to an air-conditioned area immediately. Offer them fluids, and if symptoms continue, call your pediatrician.