BATHING BABY

Bathing your baby can seem like a major logistical nightmare for new parents – especially if your baby is not too thrilled about the prospect. Rest assured, it will become second nature and in most cases enjoyable as your wee one learns to love a good kick and splash. 1) Before you start, make sure the bathroom/room is warm – this should be no less than 22 degrees C, and make sure there are no cold draughts. 2) Ensure you have everything on hand before you begin – cotton wool, baby soap, baby liquid (your baby’s skin is sensitive so don’t use adult cleaning products in the bath), towels, baby cream, nappies and clean clothing 3) Run cold water in the bath first, then hot. If using a baby bath place on the floor first. Make sure you thoroughly mix the hot and cold water before you test the temperature. The water should be about 32C, and no more than 10cm deep. 4) Undress your baby and wrap her in a soft clean towel, leaving her head free. Its best to wash your baby’s hair first before you put her in the bath. To clean her hair, securely hold her body with your arm and support her head with your hand and gently squeeze a little water from a flannel on to her hair, then gently wash with plain water or baby shampoo, then pat dry with a dry flannel or towel. 5) Unwrap the towel, and gently lower your baby into the bath while holding her firmly under her shoulders and cradling her neck in the crook of your elbow. Then use your other hand to support her legs and buttocks which your lower her into bath. Once your baby is touching the bottom of the bath you can remove your lower hand so it’s free to wash her gently using a soft flannel and baby soap. Gently swish water over your baby’s body while talking to her and smiling so she feels secure. 6) After a few minutes, lift your baby out of the bath. Hold her firmly as her skin will be slippery. Wrap her in a towel and lie her down so you gently pat her dry, pay close attention to the nooks and crannies, like those behind the ears, in the elbows, knees and groin. It’s amazing how quickly a little moisture left behind in the body creases can develop a sore red patch. Apply nappy cream or baby lotion followed by clean clothes.