by John Purdy
Babies are little angels that one cannot just get enough of. This is because from the time they were still in the womb of their mothers, they are already giving joy to their parents. As to the new parents, they want to do what is just right and they can be unsure of what to do.
First time parents, since they do not yet know what to do with their babies follow what the baby book is telling them to do or what their doctor and elders are advising.
One of the most common predicaments for them is bathing their babies. Bathing a baby though they are still 0-6 months old should be done at least once a day. For the other days, you can just clean the face of your baby and the genitals should be cleaned before changing a diaper.
When it is bathing time, you will have to carefully handle your baby. Zero- three month-old babies are expected not to have quick movements while four down to six month-old babies are the ones very active and love to touch everything they see so, you will have to be alert about this.
The only good news about this is that most babies want a warm water bath since they find it to be comforting. Thus, making your baby calm and cooperate with you. If it is done very well, bathing your baby will become one of the most enjoyable and unforgettable moments of being a parent.
Listed below are some tips to make this experience simpler for you and of course safer for the baby.
1. Collect all the important bathing materials. These include the towel and soap or baby bath.
2. Fill your tub or with at lest two to three inches of water. It should be warm not hot. Do not leave your baby unattended even for a second because he or she might drown.
3. Using one of your hands, support the neck and head of your baby and then ease him or her into the tub.
4. Use a baby bath or soap carefully. Choose a soap that will not make your baby’s skin dry. If you have a baby shampoo, use it to clean your baby’s scalp.
5. Do not put any oils or bubbles into the tub since it can cause UTI to your baby.
6. Clean your baby’s eyelids, nose and face with a moistened cotton.
7. Rinse your baby with a clean washcloth. Carefully remove your baby from the tub since the skin is still wet and slippery.
8. Using a soft towel, wrap your baby and wipe him or her with soft cloth until dry.
9. If your baby has a dry skin, you can put a baby lotion directly to the affected area. Otherwise, if your baby has a diaper rash, use a prescribed ointment to eliminate it.
For babies whose 4 to 6 months old, make sure that the tub is a secure place for him. Ensure of the safety precautions before bathing your baby.
Remember, do not fill the tub more than an inch from your baby’s waist. Though your baby already knows how to play bath toys, still it is important to always keep an eye on him or her.
Lastly and again, do not leave your child even for a second. If you want to leave the room to answer a phone call or something, better wrap your baby with a towel and carry him or her with you. This way, you are making sure that your baby is safe.
