6 Tips For Baby’s First Bath
It is normal for all first-time mothers to have doubts and many questions regarding the baby’s first bath.
The most frequent questions are related to how to hold the baby so that it does not slip and fall into the bathtub, at what time to bathe and what the temperature of the water should be.
Despite the nervousness and fear, going through this experience is unforgettable, as bathing the baby is a great opportunity to transmit love and security. Therefore, it is worth paying attention: What are the precautions that should be taken? What is the correct way to hold the baby?
1.- When is it recommended to give the baby the first bath?
Experts recommend giving the first bath between 7 and 15 days after birth. In this interval, the umbilical cord has already fallen out and, therefore, possible infections can be avoided. Furthermore, the duration of the bath should not be long: it should not exceed 5 minutes.
2.- What is the ideal temperature of the water for the baby’s bath?
The ideal temperature should be between 36º and 37º C. To control the temperature, the mother should touch the water with her elbow or forearm, as her hands are more used to the change in temperature.
It is also important to know that the amount of water should be approximately 10 centimeters. Thus, the baby will be supported in the bathtub and will be able to perform movements without taking risks.
3.- What do we need for the baby’s first bath?
For the baby’s first bath, it is essential that the mother has everything prepared. That way she will feel more secure.
Among the things you will need are: a proper bathtub, a baby changing area, mild soap, baby shampoo, hypoallergenic oil, petroleum jelly, cotton wool for the eyes, cotton swabs for the ears and nose, alcohol, a comb, cotton towels and diapers.
6 tips for baby’s first bath
Babies can become familiar with water from the first day you bathe, as the water reminds them of where they spent 9 months: the inside of the uterus. So, keep the following in mind when taking your first shower:
- Take off the baby’s clothes and cover him with a towel.
- Put it little by little in the water so it doesn’t get scared. You should use one of your hands to hold your head and neck.
- Use a little soap to wash your baby’s body. You can start with your chest, arms, hands, and then your legs and feet. Then carefully turn it over to wash your back and butt.
- After washing the body, you should wash the baby’s head.
- Clean your eyes with cotton moistened with clean water, that is, not in the same water as the bath. You should clean by moving from the inside out.
- After having bathed, take the baby out of the water and cover him with a clean towel.
Finally, you should also clean your nose and ears – the outside, never the inside – with a cotton swab. Now the baby is ready to be dressed.
Other recommendations
Here are other tips you may want to consider after showering:
- During the bath, you should not leave the baby alone. In the first few months, you should not use baby powders or colognes, as they can cause allergies.
- Place the bathtub at a height suitable for you. Also, the bathtub must be washed before and after bathing.
- Always remember to smile and talk to your baby as you bathe.
- If the baby starts crying in the first bath, don’t be discouraged. With your affection and the right environmental conditions, he will get used to it and start having fun in this moment of pleasure.
To conclude, the baby’s first bath is one of the most pleasant and beautiful moments that a mother can live. Finally, if you are a first-time mother and you are afraid to bathe your baby, try not to worry too much. With this advice, you will see that everything will work out.
If you choose the right time, your baby will relax and start enjoying it. Therefore, you must convey tranquility and joy. If you are very nervous, you can ask a relative or friend for help.
