Many first-time parents are a little nervous when bringing the new member of the family home from the hospital. It's easy to understand why. Little babies require all kinds of special care and safety considerations, and doing everything to that precious family member happy is usually a top priority for parents.
Bath time can be especially nerve wracking. Knowing what is fun - and safe for an infant can help to make this an enjoyable, relaxing experience for both caregiver and baby. Parents who have additional safety concerns or questions about baby care should remember to check with their healthcare providers as well.
Before bathing an infant, check to make sure that the water temperature is at least 90 degrees, but not more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Buy a thermometer and store it with other items for use during bath time. Water that is too hot or cold can be dangerous and cause harm to a small infant.
Generally, babies less than ten days to two weeks old should receive sponge baths. After the cord stump has fallen off, a baby can safely be bathed using an infant tub. These tiny tubs are made of sturdy plastic material and allow the baby to be laid back safely in the tub. They are small enough that a parent is not likely to lose his or her grip and allow the baby to become submerged in the water.
The best infant tubs feature a special seat designed to be slip-resistant, and are contoured to fit the shape of an infant. Small also offer handy soap rests and designated spaces for washcloths. Others are collapsible, so that they are portable and easily stored away. Some are even built with external handles so that they can be carried easily.
After babies are about seven months old, they can usually sit up by themselves. At this point, parents can safely use bath seats for bathing babies. A bath seat features several suction cups that adhere to the bottom surface of a standard tub. The baby sits upright in the seat, secured in place by a safety bar or strap that fastens between his or her legs.
Bath seats allow parents to keep their hands free to bathe the baby. Many of these seats also include bath toys that are designed to entertain baby during bath time. Parents should check the toys frequently to ensure that they are still securely attached and in good condition.
Bathing time is much more fun for both baby and caregiver when safe, fun bath toys are used. Choose from bath mittens featuring favorite characters to the rubber duckie made famous by Sesame Street's Ernie character. A wide variety of balls and other toys are also available.
Another important consideration during bath time is the use of baby shampoos, soaps, and bubble baths. A baby's skin is sensitive, and good shampoos or soaps will keep the baby's skin from becoming irritated or dry. Some parents also prefer to use additional skin care items to offer additional protection to their baby's skin.
Both Burt's Bees and Mustela sell special baby skin care products. Some ointments and powders used for baby skin care can be used to help keep a little one smelling clean and fresh. Others are used to help prevent diaper rash.
Caring for baby's skin also involves using special towels and washcloths. These will protect sensitive skin. Fleecy hooded towels and wraps also help to protect a vulnerable baby from experiencing painful temperature extremes.
Babies get dirty, and not just at bath time. Be sure to keep an extra supply of baby wipes and other items on hand for those times when your infant needs a quick cleaning. These are also useful for diaper changes and wiping hands or cleaning up small spills.
Once your infant is old enough to be placed in a regular-sized bathtub, invest in skid-proof mats and soft spout covers. These help to prevent accidents or injuries. They are useful from the time an infant is old enough for a bath seat until he or she is a toddler able to safely bathe alone.
Bath time can be lots of fun, resulting in enjoyable memories that will last a lifetime. Just follow some basic precautions, and use special items designated for baby care and safety. You and your baby will both be glad you did!