Five Must-Have Sun-Care Products for New York City Babies

Everyone knows that if you plan to spend anytime outdoors under the burning sun, you better slather on the sunblock. (Your skin will thank you for it for years to come.) However, infants have extra-special needs when it comes to sun protection, particularly New York City babies, who are invariably out and about all day in strollers or slings on shadeless streets.

So where's an SPF-obsessed parent to start? As a mommy who's currently shuttling around a newborn babe, here are the five sun-care products I won't leave home without.

Protect-A-Bub Stroller Sunshade
For NYC families, strollers are our cars (and shopping carts and storage sheds). If you’re going to be out all day, your measly little stroller canopy probably won't cut it. The Protect-A-Bub clips onto any stroller and provides a large area of shade complete with UV protection. (How do they do that, anyway?) Bonus for small apartment dwellers: It folds up easily still attached to the stroller.

iPlay Sun Hat
I feel like every family I know has one of these head coverings. And why not? They're cute, UV protecting and adjustable—a huge plus given how fast babies grow. My hat hating daughter actually tolerated this one for some reason. A summertime miracle!

Aden + Anais Muslin Blankets
A savvy mama I know dubbed a four-pack of these blankets "the one baby product every mother should have." It’s true: These soft, gauzy coverings make great impromptu sunshades. They can go over your stroller, swaddle your baby and even serve as a nursing cover! Plus they come in lots of cute patterns.

California Baby Sunscreen
When my two-year-old got a heinous heat rash, our pediatrician recommended switching to California Baby Sunscreen. Apparently babies and tots are still forming their pores and sweat glands, leaving them prone to blockages that can cause rashes. Ultra-sensitive, chemical-free lotions like this one are easier on their skin. Note: Sunscreen of any kind should only be used on babies over six months old!

Adventure BanZ Sunglasses
Sunglasses with straps are obviously incredibly stylish (I’m pretty sure I've seen a couple of hipsters rocking them around town). But more importantly, they stay on your head—even big baby noggins. It also prevents curious babes from pulling the shades off and popping them into their little mouths.

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