Change Of Clothes For Baby If Necessary
Its only necessary to change your newborns clothes when they are actually dirty newborns are comforted and soothed by familiar smells, including their own smell, so no need to bring out new clothes just because youre bathing. If baby has only been in her pre-bath clothes a few hours or even a day and theyre still relatively clean, refrain the urge to bring out clean clothes.
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How Do I Care For My Babys Umbilical Cord
Keep The Area Clean
Pediatricians used to recommend cleaning the base of the cord with rubbing alcohol. However, most now recommend leaving the stump completely alone because alcohol is believed to irritate the skin and sometimes delays healing. Other methods in caring for your babys cord include the use of Goldenseal Root and Echinacea. It is best to consult your childs pediatrician for his/her recommendations before using either of these alternative methods.
Keep The Area Dry
Allow the cord to be exposed to air as often as possible. This allows the base of the cord to dry and will decrease the amount of time that is required for healing to occur. Using newborn diapers that have a special cut out or folding your babys diaper down will help keep the cord from becoming irritated. If weather permits, dress your baby in just a t-shirt and diaper to allow more time for the cord to dry out.
Only Give Sponge Baths
Do not bathe your baby in a sink or special tub until after the umbilical cord has fallen off. If your baby does take a bath, make sure to fan the area to dry it completely. You do not want to rub it dry as this could cause irritation.
Allow The Cord to Heal Naturally
It may be tempting to help the cord dry out and fall off especially if it appears to be hanging on by a thread, but it is best to allow this to happen naturally. Refrain from picking and pulling the cord off.
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Why Do Babies Need A Bath
Bathing babies is a way to help protect their health. For example, a good bath helps keep your baby clean and prevents rashes. Baths can also control excess oil on their hairs. According to experts, babies whose hair isnt cleaned are more prone to cradle cap, which causes flaky skin on the hairand the eyebrows, too.
The Nationwide Childrens Hospital in Ohio highlights that bath time is a great bonding experience between mamas and babies. Its a good time to talk to your baby and let him learn to make sounds and make eye contact, they add.
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How Often Should You Bathe A Baby
First week at Home. Your newborn is quite not ready for a full bath in the first week of delivery.
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How Often To Bathe Your Baby And What Time
For newborns, a daily bath is not necessary because it can dry out their skin. Most recommended three times a week to be the optimal frequency for newborns. But once your baby is mobile and active, you can opt to bathe them daily.
The time you bathe your baby is up to you, Mama. Some parents prefer to bath in the mornings, while others prefer at night as part of a bedtime routine to help their babies sleep. When choosing a bath time, its best to go for hours where you are not rushing.
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How Often Should You Bathe Your Newborn
Until a baby starts getting down and dirty on the ground, a daily bath isn’t needed . Your baby only needs a bath two or three times a week and in fact too much bathing can dry out your infants delicate skin. Newborns should only have sponge baths until their umbilical cords dry up and fall off.
When youre ready to graduate from a sponge bath, move the fun to a baby bathtub and eventually the big tub when your baby can sit up on her own and outgrows the infant tub. There’s nothing cuter than seeing a baby splashing in the bath, soapy suds dotting those chubby folds and dimples but always keep safety in mind. Never leave your baby alone in the bath water even for a second.
Washing And Rinsing Baby In The Baby Tub
Wash baby with a washcloth and a bit of soap, using a similar process to the sponge bath.
- Remember: babies dont need much soap!
You can also use the cup to wet baby with the warm water, as you bathe them.
Doulas Jessica and Kristi from Helping Hands Doula share more on bathing your little one in the baby tub:
End the bath when the water in the baby tub starts to get too cold.
Then, rinse baby with a cup of clean, warm water.
- Cradle the back of babys head in one hand and drape their body over your arm. Hold their head over the baby tub.
- Slowly pour the water on their head.
- Next, hold their body over the baby tub. Slowly pour water over their body parts, making sure all the soap is rinsed off.
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When Can I Put Lotion On My Newborn
Just like using soap and bathing itself, dont hurry to put any lotions or creams on your newborn. This needs to be done on an as-and-when-needed basis and is best avoided for the first month dry patches of skin may need a little moisturizer after bathing, if not then leave it.
When it comes to which moisturizer, many pediatric dermatologists swear by petroleum jelly rather than something designed specifically for babies. Another option is some lanolin-based cream.
How To Give Your Baby A Bath
Get everything ready before you start your baby’s bath:
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Ensure that all the supplies you need like shampoo, soap, a hooded towel, and a cup for rinsing are within armâs reachânever leave your baby unattended in the bath, so make sure you have everything you need on hand, including your babyâs fresh change of clothes
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Make sure the room is warm before undressing your baby.
Follow these step-by-step guidelines for bathing your baby:
Line a sink or baby bathtub with a towel, and fill it about 2 inches full of warm water âtest it with your elbow or the inside of your wrist to make sure itâs not too hot
While supporting your babyâs head with your non-dominant hand, use your other hand to guide him into the water feet first. Youâll want to do this swiftly so he doesnât get cold, and youâll want to make sure his head and most of his body are above the water level
Wash his body from top to bottom with clear water, and, if you prefer, a mild baby soap. Keep him warm by pouring warm water over his body using a cup. Use a soft cloth to wash his face
If he has hair, itâs enough to shampoo once or twice a week. When you do, massage a drop of mild baby shampoo into his scalp, even the soft spots of his head. Be careful not to get any soapsuds or shampoo in his eyesâcup your hands over his forehead when rinsing his head. If some soap or shampoo does get into his eyes, go ahead and wipe them using a cloth dampened with clear water.
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Lather And Rinse Carefully
As were sure you already know, babies have extremely soft, delicate skin. That means you need to be very gentle when lathering on cleansing products and shampoos.
You may choose to use an ultra-soft washcloth, or you can simply use your hands. If you prefer to use your hands, remove any rings, bracelets, or watches youre wearing.
After lathering, use a small plastic cup to rinse your baby off. Just scoop up a cup-full of water and gently pour it over a soapy area of your babys body. Be careful so that no soapy water gets in your loved ones eyes or nose!
Discover Mamas Choice Baby Hair & Body Wash
Now, choosing a safe hair and body wash for your little one is easier than ever with Mamas Choice Baby Hair and Body Wash. A baby shampoo and body wash in one, this product gently cleanses and moisturizes the hair and skin of newborns with a balanced pH.
Not only is it enriched with Lavender & Chamomile that lends a relaxing effect for babies, but it also has a Sulfate-Free yet Natural Bubble-Rich formula that will make bath time even more enjoyable for your little one.
If your baby still has her umbilical cord stump, you only need to use one or two drops of Mamas Choice Baby Hair and Body Wash. Mix into warm water, then soak a towel and wipe all over the body.
Theres no need to worry at all because Mamas Choice Baby Hair and Body Wash is 100% free of harmful chemicals and has been certified Halal. You can also find them on our official website and Lazada.
Arent these tips on how to bathe a newborn baby easy to remember? We hope you find these helpful, Mama!
Mama’s Choice Team
The Mama’s Choice MY team is consisted of 4 beautiful mamas who are strong and dedicated in being the support system that many mamas need these days. < 3
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Step : Fill The Baby Bath Or Sink With Water
It doesnt matter how much water since youre just sponge bathing, but you wont need much. Use your elbow or the inside of your wrist to judge the temperature water should be warm to touch, not hot.
Alternatively, use a baby bath thermometer. The water should be 37-38 degrees Celcius/99-100 degrees Fahrenheit most baby bath thermometers will have some kind of color-coding or smiley face system to help you get the temperature just right.
Potential Umbilical Cord Problems
Although rare, there are some conditions that can affect the umbilical cord. Infection can also occur, which requires treatment from your babys pediatrician. Check the umbilical cord regularly to watch for any signs of a problem and contact your doctor if you have questions.
Umbilical Hernia
Similar to a hernia in an adult, an umbilical hernia occurs when part of your babys intestine pokes out through the muscles that are surrounding their belly button. This isnt considered a serious complication and usually heals on its own, but you can discuss treatment options with your doctor. It may take up to two years for umbilical hernias to resolve naturally as your baby continues to develop.
Umbilical Granuloma
This is an umbilical complication that occurs when a small, light red-pinkish part of the umbilical cord remains attached after the majority of the stump has fallen off. Although it may be alarming, it causes no physical pain to your baby and is easily treatable. Call your doctor if you notice an umbilical granuloma, as they can remove it by tying it off with stitches or freezing it using a liquid nitrogen solution.
Omphalitis
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Will Lotion After A Baby Bath Help Prevent Rashes
Newborns are prone to the odd rash here and there. They seem to come and go all the time but a lotion may make improve it or make it worse. So unless its diaper rash or a very dry rash, leave well alone.
If the rash persists or is combined with symptoms of illness then seek professional advice promptly.
Diaper rash can be prevented and treated by regular application of this diaper cream.
Why Is It Important To Bathe A Newborn Baby
The benefits of bathtime go way beyond a basic cleanup! Heres why baths are good for babies:
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They boost bonding. Bathtime quickly becomes a highlight of the day because its all about time spent together. Taking care of your baby lets her know you care, so gaze into her eyes, kiss that yummy baby belly, count those tiny toes and sing silly songs as you wash. Feeling your gentle touch and hearing your voice will let your little one know how much she’s loved.
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Theres so much learning. Yup, there’s plenty to learn in the tub. Tickle your little one’s senses by trickling water gently onto her tummy or teach a lesson in cause-and-effect by showing how to kick the water and create a splash. And don’t forget a play-by-play as you wash name her little body parts as you bathe and she’ll be learning a tub-full of words!
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They can be soothing. You probably already know this from your own bathing experience, but nothing’s more calming and comforting than a soak in a tub after a long day. Up the relaxation even more by trying your hand at infant massage afterwards. While most little ones love it, if your baby balks , don’t sweat it just cuddle instead.
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They may induce sleep. There’s even more reason to love bathing your baby, especially if you add it to her bedtime routine. The warm water, warm room and warm feeling of being safe, secure and loved work magic and will put your baby in the mood to snooze.
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When Will Your Baby Be Ready For His First Tub Bath
After your babyâs umbilical cord stump falls off, you can transition from sponge baths to actual baths in a sink or a baby bathtub.
His first bath in a tub should be gentle and quick however, you might need to go back to sponge baths if your baby fusses a lot and simply doesnât like this new activity.
Can You Get The Umbilical Cord Wet
No, you dont want to get the umbilical cord wet. Just like any wound, you want to keep it clean and dry, hence a sponge bath is recommended. However, if youre confident you can keep the umbilical cord dry, you could try a shallow tub bath.
Once the umbilical cord has fallen off, 1-2 weeks after birth, its time to get baby in the tub.
If you notice any discharge, bleeding or a foul smell from the umbilical cord, arrange a visit to the pediatrician.
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Cleaning And Caring For Your Babys Belly Button
Wash your hands before handling the cord stump. Avoid touching it whenever possible.
Use only water to keep your babys belly button area clean, except if the area gets wee or poo on it. If this happens, wash off the wee or poo using clean water and a pH-neutral cleanser. Look for pH-neutral on product labels or ask your pharmacist or child and family health nurse to recommend a product.
Make sure the stump dries properly after bathing. Also, the stump will dry and heal much faster if you expose it to air as much as possible. Try not to cover it with plastic pants and nappies. Fold nappies down and away from the stump if you can.
Never try to pull the stump off yourself, even if it looks like its ready to fall off.
After the cord stump has fallen off, keep the area clean and dry until the area heals completely. It helps to fold the top of your babys nappy down so that the belly button is exposed to air.
How To Bathe A Newborn Baby Whose Umbilical Cord Has Fallen Off
Once the umbilical stump is gone, its safe to use a bathtub to bathe your newborn baby. Initially, you may face some resistance because theyre not used to it. If your baby is crying and refusing, gently ease them into the bathtub. You can do this by holding their head in your hands and soaking their feet in the tub.
Heres a visual guide to help you, Mamas! Save this on your mobile phone, so you can easily remember it, too.
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How To Bathe A Newborn Baby With An Umbilical Cord
A sponge bath is usually the first method for Mamas to clean their little ones. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP_ recommends a sponge bath until the umbilical cord falls off.
It takes approximately two weeks for the stump to fall off, but of course, it isnt always consistent. In some babies, the stump falls as early as five days after birth. However, if the stump has not dried up and fallen off by three weeks old, its recommended to consult a doctor to assess the umbilical cord.
Heres how to properly bathe your baby if the umbilical cord is still attached! Save this on your mobile phone, so you can easily remember it, too.
Step : Drying And Dressing Your Newborn After A Sponge Bath
So youve learnt how to bathe a newborn, now on to drying and dressing.
Once baby is washed and clean, re-wrap in the towel. Then gently pat and dab the towel all over to soak up any extra moisture and dry baby. When sponge bathing this should be a quick exercise but if you have had to use a decent amount of water you may want to use another towel for extra drying ability.
Make sure you pat dry all those creases and folds so theres no dampness left which could irritate, before putting diaper and clothes back on.
This is also the time you may wish to apply a little cream to any dry patches. As mentioned earlier, use some petroleum jelly or this lanolin-based cream which is also great if youre breastfeeding.
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