Tips for bathing a newborn safely

Bathing a baby seems to be unnerving but actually, it isn't. Once you get the hang of it, you will soon be able to do this task very easily. It's better to take assistance from someone who is experienced for a few days before doing this single-handedly. Until the umbilical cord has fallen, it is advisable to keep the cord dry and thus sponge bath becomes an easier option. Handle the umbilical cord according to the paediatrician's advice.

Babies have very gentle skin so it is always advisable to use the toiletries meant for their skin type. To keep his or her supple and soft, use products which are free of parabens and sodium lauryl sulphate. Try to keep the products as natural as possible and also look in for ingredients which have more hydrating properties like Vitamin E and Aloe Vera. Always use a tear-free shampoo and body wash so that you don't hurt their gentle eyes. Also, try to use the products which are less scented because artificial smell might irritate the baby.

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Essential tips for bathing a newborn:

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1. Never leave the baby unattended, not even for a second because they can drown easily in about an inch or less of water. I have earlier mentioned this in my earlier post. Every parent should feed this in their mind. It is better to keep all the essentials (toiletries, towel, clothes, etc.) ready beforehand and give full attention to the baby while he or she is in the bathtub.
2. Wear something which you don't mind spoiling while bathing the baby. Also, keep your nails short and remove all your accessories such as rings, bangles, etc so that you don't hurt the baby.
3. Check the water temperature. The water shouldn't be too hot or too cold. The best way to check the water temperature is by placing your wrist or the inside of your elbow. If it feels comfortable then it is appropriate for the baby. Also, never bathe a newborn or toddler under running water. The temperature is sometimes unexpected and might not be favourable to them.

   

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4. Always try to use the tubs which are designed for the newborns. Choose the ones which are designed to support the newborns head and neck.  Toddler's bathtubs are deeper and don't have a headrest. If you don't plan to buy a bathtub, use your kitchen sink. But make sure you don't let the baby's head touch the sink's tap. Whether or not you use a bathtub, make sure to support your baby's neck and head because the neck area is weak and newborns cannot support their head on their own.
   
5. Avoid bubble bath. This might lead to urinary infections in newborns. Always clean the diaper area and the skinfolds well. Try to stay away from chemicals as much as possible. Use the bath products are meant for their gentle skin. Also, use very soft towels to soak water from your baby's skin. Regular towels can be harsh towards their delicate skin.
   
6. Newborns don't require bath that frequently. It is okay to bathe them twice a weak. Over bathing may actually dry out their skin. Babies, when are able to crawl and walk tend to make themselves dirty and thus require bath regularly.
7. Babies might get irritated initially during their bath times. Therefore, keep the timings short and quick.

I hope you find this article useful. There is no task a parent cannot do. Handling a newborn is difficult but it isn't impossible. Always follow the paediatrician's advice and your instincts and your life will be much easier.