Bathing your baby can be a real experience and not always a good one. This is mainly because your newborn is so small, that you are always scared that you may be doing it wrong. However, it need not always be an ordeal. There are many ways in which you can ensure that you can bathe your tiny one and form a great bond with your baby in the bargain.
Here is how you can handle baby bathing time like you have been bathing babies all your life.
It Really Is All About Timing
You need to give your baby baths often but not more than a couple of times a week. Bathing your baby too often can dry out the soft skin of your baby. Pick a good time to bathe your baby, a time when your baby is not hungry and is well-rested. See that you do not go right after eating as they can spit it out. A bath in the evening, say an hour after feeding but before putting your baby down at night is a good time. The warm water makes your baby feel drowsy and ready for sleep.
Keep your Supplies Ready
Prior to starting your bath, get everything you need. This involves having the right baby care products by your side. Gather everything you need and keep it within arm’s length. See that the bottles are open and ready to use and if you are using soap or baby wash, it is easy to reach. Keep towels, cloths, and sponges ready. The last thing you want is to rip the safety seal off a bottle while supporting your baby with one arm.
Use a Sponge
If your newborn still has the umbilical cord stump, see that you stick to the simple sponge baths. Do it every few days. This ensures it stays clean and dry. Babies usually do not get very dirty except for the diaper area and under the chin. Under the chin is where the spit-up tends to trickle. You can skip the soap as well for newborns. Just some lukewarm water is fine.
Tear-Free is the Best
As we said earlier babies do not need a great deal of soap. Make sure you use a little shampoo if they have any hair. Go for baby bath products such as baby washes and shampoos that are tear-free. Some mothers even prefer going in for lavender baby wash as it lends a soothing and calming feeling.
Utilize a Bath Mat
A wet and soapy baby is definitely very slippery. A bath mat, pad, or pillow proves to be helpful. It works to keep your baby in one spot. You can also use it to line your sink or tub with a towel. This adds a bit of comfort and warmth.
Be Sure to Check the Temperature
Since your baby is tiny, they do not need a lot of water. An inch or two is fine since you are going to lay your baby down in the tub. Since the skin of your baby is more sensitive than adults, it is very important that you take into account water temperature. Remember, water that feels toasty and warm to you may feel hot for your baby. So make sure you take these factors into account. You can try testing the water by putting it in your elbow or the inside of your wrist into the hot tub. Remember, the water needs to be warm, not hot. You can use a baby bath thermometer that should read 90 degrees or below.
You can also have someone to help you out in case the bathing process proves to be a little overwhelming for you. Whatever you do, see that you do not leave your baby unattended no matter what the amount of water. If your baby is new to the experience or does not like bath time, see that you have someone who can soothe the wailing baby. Regardless you can expect some kind of crying and tears so just get used to it. So there you go. See that you pay attention to these elements when looking at baby bath care. This ensures you can get the best experience possible when you are bathing your baby.
