The first bath of a newborn, especially the first-born, is as exciting for his mother as the first word, the first step. Many people know this procedure in theory, but how to bathe a baby in fact is still a mystery for them. One day, you will still have to open the veil over it, or maybe it is worth getting rid of some stereotypes that have passed to the modern generation from the previous generation along the way.
What is needed for bathing a newborn
In order for the baby's bathing procedure to be enjoyable for both him and his parents, you need to prepare for it in advance and purchase the necessary devices and tools:
- baby bath for bathing;
- thermometer for measuring water temperature;
- disinfectants (manganese solution and bath soda);
- herbs (string, chamomile, etc.);
- baby soap (pharmacies offer a liquid form for convenience);
- shampoo;
- 3% hydrogen peroxide and brilliant green for navel treatment;
- a large soft towel;
- clothes after bathing (pants and undershirt).
When can you bathe a newborn for the first time?
Many parents are worried about when they can bathe their baby for the first time - immediately upon returning from the hospital or wait for the umbilical cord to heal completely. If there are no contraindications, then it is better to bathe the baby after arrival.
For the first bath of a newborn, it is better to boil the water. For disinfection, use a weak solution of potassium permanganate or brewed herbs. You should pay attention to the temperature regime of the room where the procedure will take place. It must be at least 24 ° C. Bathing water temperature should not exceed 36 ° C. Bathing usually relaxes the child, so it is better to carry out the procedure in the evening and always daily.
How to properly bathe your baby
The newborn looks so fragile that many parents are afraid to pick him up. Do not be afraid of this. The main thing is to put his head on your hand, and with the other hand support the baby by the butt. The water itself will hold it. While holding the head and upper body, you can gently pour water with your free hand.
After soaping the baby's head, you need to thoroughly wash off the product. After that, proceed to rinsing the groin area, armpits. It is not difficult to bathe a newborn correctly if there is an assistant. But even alone, mom may well cope on her own. Many people worry that water can get into the ears and nose of the baby. It's not scary. It will only wash and free you from unnecessary microbes.
When bathing, the baby can be turned over onto the tummy. After the entire procedure, it is necessary to rinse the child with pre-prepared water from another container. It should be slightly cooler than the one in which the bath took place. Sufficient 34-35 ° C for rinsing the baby. It is better to put it on your hand with your tummy down.
For the first time, 5 minutes is enough for bathing, and then gradually you can increase the time to 15 minutes. The main thing is that during this period the water does not cool down.
So that the baby does not get nervous, while bathing, you need to talk or hum a song. He should feel that his mother is near, and he should not be afraid of unfamiliar surroundings.
It is necessary to start bathing the newborn in a small amount of water, gradually increasing its volume if the baby is frightened and cries. As a last resort, you can wipe the child with wet wipes. When bathing, it is sufficient to use soap only once a week.
Is bathing a newborn dangerous?
It is highly likely that many parents pay so much attention to a seemingly simple and uncomplicated procedure due to the fear that while bathing, the child may swallow water or even choke. These are unnecessary worries. The body of a newborn is perfectly adapted to such conditions: when liquid enters the respiratory tract, a reflex spasm occurs, and the breath is held. So the baby, in principle, cannot choke.
Modern courses and schools for the preparation of young parents specifically teach to dip babies when bathing with their heads, so that the child does not lose such a useful skill longer. The fact is that if the newborn does not dive when bathing, the reflex fades away at about two months of age.
Some helpful tips
What else needs to be considered when bathing a baby so that the procedure becomes a pleasant experience for him:
1. When bathing, it is not recommended to close the door in the room. In this case, the temperature should be the same both in the bathroom and in the room where the baby will be dressed and put to bed.
2. Avoid drafts in the apartment.
3. Starting from the second month of the baby's life, gradually reduce the water temperature to 32 ° C for hardening.
4. When bathing a newborn, it is possible and even necessary to use special circles for swimming and slides. This will create convenience for the parents and comfort for the child.
Do not be afraid of this rather easy procedure. The kid will like the process itself and soon he will be willing to dabble in an adult bath.
