If you've ever tried to keep a sun hat on a squirmy baby at the beach, you already know the problem. It flies off. They pull it off. It ends up in the sand approximately thirty seconds after you put it on.
Here's what most parents don't realize until they try a bonnet: a properly fitted bonnet with ties actually stays on — and it protects more of your baby's face, neck, and ears than a traditional hat ever could.
Why sun protection matters more than you think
Babies under 6 months have skin that's significantly more sensitive to UV damage than adults. Dermatologists consistently recommend minimizing direct sun exposure and covering as much skin as possible, especially during peak hours. A wide-brimmed bonnet with ties addresses exactly that — without requiring sunscreen on delicate newborn skin.
The bonnet advantage
A well-designed sunbonnet offers a few things a bucket hat or baseball cap simply can't:
Full coverage. A brimmed bonnet wraps around the sides of the face and covers the back of the neck — the areas most often missed by standard hats.
A secure fit. Bonnet ties that fasten under the chin stay put even on active babies. No more chasing a hat across the park.
Gentle materials. At Briar, our bonnets are silk-lined, which means nothing rough or scratchy against baby's skin — even during long summer outings.
Breathability. Lightweight woven fabrics allow airflow, which matters when you're keeping little ones comfortable in the heat.
What to look for in a baby sunbonnet
Not all bonnets are created equal. When you're shopping, look for:
- A brim wide enough to actually shade the face (at least 2–3 inches)
- Ties or a fastening that keeps it secure (not just an elastic band that slips off)
- Natural, breathable fabric — cotton or linen over synthetics
- A lining that's smooth against the skin
- A size that fits now and has some room to grow
When to start using a bonnet
You can start using a bonnet from newborn age — many parents put one on at the hospital for newborn photos, and the coverage and softness make them a natural choice for those early weeks outdoors.
As your baby gets older and more active, the ties become even more important. Toddlers are notoriously difficult to keep a hat on — a bonnet with a bow or tie under the chin gives you a fighting chance.
A note on sun safety
Bonnets are one layer of protection, not a complete sun safety strategy. We always recommend pairing sun-protective clothing with shade, staying inside during peak UV hours (10am–2pm), and checking with your pediatrician about when to introduce sunscreen for your little one.
But as a first line of defense that's also genuinely beautiful? A good bonnet is hard to beat.
Shop Briar Baby sunbonnets — handmade in small batches in Vancouver, Washington.