Babies up to six months do not need extra water even in hot weather; mother's milk alone is enough.

VerdictTrue

Checked against WHO, NHS

Yes. For the first six months, breast milk alone gives all the food and water a baby needs, even in hot weather. Do not give extra water; offer more breastfeeds if the baby seems thirsty.

What experts say

For the first 6 months, breast milk alone gives all the food and water a baby needs. No other food or drink is needed, not even water.1 2 3
Even on hot days, a baby under 6 months who is fully breastfed does not need extra water. Breast milk is more than 80% water.1 2
If the baby seems thirsty in hot weather, offer an extra breastfeed. Babies may want to breastfeed more often on hot days.1 2
Giving water to a baby under 6 months can cause diarrhoea and malnutrition. It may also make the baby take less breast milk or stop breastfeeding early.1
Signs that a baby is getting enough breast milk include at least 6 wet single-use nappies or 8 washable nappies a day, unformed and plentiful stool, and growing well.1

What to do

Feed only breast milk for the first 6 months. Do not give water or any other drink.1 3
In hot weather, breastfeed more often if the baby seems thirsty. Keep the baby in a cool, shaded place.1 2
Check that the baby has enough wet nappies and is growing well. If you are worried, ask a breastfeeding counsellor or health worker.1 2
From 6 months, start family foods along with breast milk.1 3