baby bathing and hygiene

baby bath
Beside rest, diet, and exercise, every baby needs to follow a regimen of hygiene and cleanliness. A newborn baby’s skin is soft and delicate, so you must handle the baby with care. Generally, there is a popular belief that even babies need a bath everyday. Not so is the case. With all the diaper changes and wiping of mouth and nose feedings, most babies need to be bathed every alternate day. But even with this you need to maintain hygiene, especially take care of their bottom.

The Nappy
The nappy is an absolute essential item of a baby’s equipments. But the nappy can also lead to nappy rash. Since the nappy is always in contact with the baby;s very soft skin, it creates a warm and moist environment, which promotes growth o bacteria. Compounded with this is the constant friction causing chafing. This results in an uncomfortable and painful problem for the baby.

Changing nappy
To ensure that there are no nappy rashes, change nappies frequently. Use nappies made of very soft cotton. Gently clean the baby’s bottom with comfortable warm water, and dry thoroughly between the folds every time the nappy is changed. Always wipe from front to back, so that faecal matter does not get into the genital area to cause infection. Baby oil will be useful in removing any dried material on the skin. If there is nappy rash, apply a barrier cream containing zinc oxide to protect the skin. Rinsing the nappies thoroughly after washing them is absolutely essential so that any detergent that may still be present in the washed nappies does not affect the baby’s skin.

Bathing baby
Bath for the babies can be given at a time convenient to the mother. While some like to bath them around noon, there are some who like to give them at night before putting them to sleep. Anytime convenient is good enough, but make sure the baby is not very hungry.

Bath time with the baby is a special time for close bondage between mother and baby. a warm bath can soothe a restless baby and help him sleep letter. Initially, sponge baths would do until the umbilical cord falls off.

baby shampoo
If you use a shampoo to wash the baby’s head, use a washcloth that is dipped in warm water, add a few drops of shampoo, and gently apply on the scalp. Holding the baby firmly with your arm under his back, and your wrist and hand supporting his neck, you can use a faucet or a mug of water to rinse the hair.
After thoroughly drying the hair, use a soft baby brush to comb the baby’s hair. As far as possible, avoid using a hair dryer to dry your baby’s hair. Moisturize your baby’s skin with a mild moisturizing lotion. Check the navel area for redness, moisture or swelling. Keep it dry and clean at all times even after the cord has fallen off.