18 Summer Essentials for Your Baby

Sun's out, (baby) buns out! Hot summer days mean plenty of beach, pool, and outdoor time for you and your baby. Before you head out for some fun in the sun, make sure you're prepped to play. Check out these 18 essentials that will help keep your family healthy and cool in the heat.

Sunscreen: Naturally, sun protection is the first priority for any outing. Babyganics Pure Mineral Sunscreen Stick ($13 for a pack of two) has UVA and UVB protection, is water-resistant, and is gentle on your baby's delicate skin.

Tote Bag: You're going to be carrying a lot of extra baby gear with you. The PacaPod Hastings Baby Bag ($130) will help keep you organized with its dividing pockets, removable pods, and changing mat, all inside a chic backpack. (h/t Julia Wang/The Bump)

Lay Down Blanket: Just because you're sitting on the ground doesn't mean your picnic or play area can't be clean and dry. This Skip Hop Central Park Blanket and Cooler Bag ($45) doubles as a waterproof blanket and an insulated bag to keep your beverages and snacks cool from the sun.

Towels: If you're heading to a beach or pool, grab a towel to dry off afterward. These Pottery Barn Kids Nursery Critter Wraps ($40) come in a variety of animal designs and are both comfy and cute.

Lightweight Blanket: Although the sun's out, a lightweight blanket can come in handy if temperatures drop or you need a little extra protection from the elements. These aden + anais Muslin Swaddles ($50 for a pack of four) are breathable and perfect to use as an extra layer.

Sun Hat: Protect your baby's head and ears from the sun with a brimmed Sun Hat ($20+). Bonus points if it's nautical themed.

Sunglasses: Babies need some shades too. Protect their eyes with these Baby Aviator Sunglasses ($6) and they'll be sitting in style.

Insect Repellent: The heat can bring out pesky bugs. Babyganics Natural Insect Repellent ($15) is DEET free and made with essential oils instead of artificial fragrances, so it's safe for the entire family.

Diapers: Keep your tot's tush on trend with the season. The Honest Company's Diapers ($14+) now come in a variety of fun summer patterns, including pineapples and tropical prints. Plus, they are eco-friendly and super absorbent.

Swim Diapers: If your little one is going to be splashing around, they'll need diapers that can withstand the extra water. These Babyganics Swim Diapers ($10) have UPF 50+ protection, don't sag, are disposable, and change colors with prolonged UV exposure.

Ellie Sterilizing Pod ($103): Let's face it; there are germs everywhere. The Ellie Sterilizing Pod is small enough to fit in a diaper bag and uses digital UV light to kill germs, ideal for sterilizing bottles, pacifiers, or toys on the go. (h/t Julia Wang/The Bump)

Wipes: You'll be hard-pressed to find a mom that doesn't carry wipes in her bag. These Honest Company Wipes ($5) are plant-based, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic to help clean up both small and big messes.

Sippy Cup: Hydration is essential on a hot summer day. Make sure to pack water and a sippy cup, like this THERMOS FOOGO Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Sippy Cup ($17). It's BPA-free and has a soft spout and handles. The stainless steel construction minimizes bacterial growth and keeps drinks cool for six hours.

Snacks: Avoid hunger-induced crankiness by keeping healthy snacks on hand. Happy Baby Superfood Puffs (about $20 for a 6-flavor variety pack) are organic and gluten-free, enriched with vitamins and minerals and include choline to support brain and eye health. Pure Growth Organic animal crackers ($18 for a pack of six) are also a great travel-friendly organic snack for kids (and moms).

Wet/Dry Bag: There's no point in bringing extra dry clothes if there's no way to keep them dry. This Skip Hop Grab & Go Wet/Dry Bag ($15) has a waterproof lining and separate pockets for your wet and dry stuff, and is machine washable.

Rash Guard: Protect those little limbs. This two-piece Ice Cream Rash Guard Set ($14) has SPF protection and four-way stretch, allowing your baby to be protected when they play.

Extra Clothes: Pack an extra set (or three) of clothes to prepare for spills and accidents, or just to have a clean outfit to go home in. A cute romper such as this cactus one ($40) from Rags to Raches makes a stylish option for an afternoon outfit change.

Footwear: These adorable Freshly Picked Vanilla Sprinkles Moccasins ($60) will keep little toes cozy in or outside. The soft-soled shoes come in a ton of colors and patterns and even have a new collaboration with Care Bears.