Your baby's skin is extremely sensitive, and it's usually recommended to only use warm water when cleaning them for at least the first few weeks. When your baby was born, they may have been covered in a thick, sticky, white substance known as vernix. It is best to let this be absorbed into your baby's skin, as it acts like a moisturiser.
When your baby was born, they may have been covered in a thick, sticky, white substance known as vernix. It is best to let this be absorbed into your baby's skin, as it acts like a moisturiser.
After birth, your baby's umbilical cord will have been clamped and cut and either a plastic clip or cord tie will have been used to tie off the end. Your baby's umbilical cord stump will normally fall off in the first week or so after birth. Keep it clean and dry. Some mums fold nappies down so the stump is free of the nappy. Don't worry if the cord stump is short and this is not possible.
Sometimes the stump can smell a little while it is drying up, before it falls off, but if it appears red, bleeds or has any discharge, do speak to your midwife.
It is important to cut your baby's fingernails regularly as they grow quickly, are quite sharp and your baby can scratch themselves easily. You can buy special baby nail clippers or scissors. Many parents find it easier to use an emery board (soft file). Scratch mitts can be used but take these off for skin to skin or breastfeeding.
That very first bath is such a lovely way to bond with your baby but do remember that not all babies love baths to start with.
Some parents prefer to wait a few days before washing their baby. If your baby was born with vernix still on their skin, it's recommended to leave it to sink in, as it acts like a moisturiser.
Daily bathing is not necessary for your baby's sensitive skin; some parents prefer to just clean your baby's face, neck, hands and nappy area every day.
Your baby may have sticky eyes in the early days. Using a cotton wool ball dampened in a little cooled boiled water gently wipe each eye from the inner corner of the eye outwards in one sweep.
Being prepared for baby's bath time is key. You don't have to buy a baby bath if you don't want to, some parents prefer to use a large, shaped baby sponge instead, especially if they don't have a lot of storage space.
Make sure the room is warm and have towels ready for when they've had enough of the bath as being in the water can often tire babies out. Make sure the water is warm enough but not hot and mix it well.
Lower him or her slowly into the water, supporting the head and shoulders and keeping their head away from the water. In the first month, it's recommended that you only use plain water, as your baby's skin is very sensitive.
That preparation is key as it's never safe to leave your baby in the bath alone, even for a moment. If your baby doesn't enjoy bathing, you could try having a bath together. Many mums and babies enjoy bath time feeds and it's a lovely way to have skin to skin contact. It's best to have someone to help you with getting the baby in and out if you want to bath together.
Nappy rash is a common problem so it's important to change your baby's nappy regularly. Clean the nappy area with warm water and cotton wool and allow to dry thoroughly. Allow your baby some time to kick about without a nappy (perhaps lying on a folded towel). This can help reduce nappy rash. You can also use a petroleum-based lubricant to protect your baby's skin.
If nappy rash becomes a problem, contact your GP.