Bathing and Skin Care For Your Baby II

How to give your newborn a tub bath:

Once your baby's umbilical cord has fallen off and the stump is healed, and after a boy's circumcision has healed, you can give your baby a tub bath. This can be a pleasurable experience for you and your baby. However, some babies may not like to be bathed, especially the first few times. Talk softly or sing and try some bath toys if your baby protests.

What equipment is needed for a tub bath?

• baby bathtub (preferably with a bottom drain plug)
• nonslip mat or pad
• bath thermometer (these often have "safe" bath temperature ranges marked on them)

When bathing your baby in a tub:

• Clear the counter or table top of breakable objects and electrical appliances to prevent injury.
• Fill the tub with warm water, using a bath thermometer.
• Follow the same general bathing instructions for a sponge bath.
• NEVER take your hands off your baby, or walk away, even for a moment.
• Be sure to clean the bathtub after each use.

Providing proper skin care for your newborn:

A baby's soft and delicate skin needs special care. Generally it is best to use products made especially for babies, but your baby's physician can advise you about other products. Products for adults may be too harsh for a baby and may contain irritants or allergens. Many parents like to use lotions for the sweet baby smell. However, unless the baby's skin is dry, lotions really are not needed. Powders should be avoided, unless they are recommended by your baby's physician. When using any powder, put the powder in your hand and then apply it to the baby's skin. Shaking powder into the air releases dust and talc which can make it hard for the baby to breathe.

Many babies have rashes and bumps that are normal. Some rashes may be a sign of a problem or infection. Diaper rash can be irritating to the baby and needs to be treated. If you have concerns about a rash, or your baby is uncomfortable or has a fever, call your baby's physician.

Laundry detergents may cause irritation to a baby's delicate skin. Even if you use a detergent marketed for baby laundry, it is a good idea to rinse the laundry an extra time to remove residues.

Article From:http://www.chp.edu/greystone/newborn/bathcare.php

Bathing and Skin Care For Your Baby I

Proper bathing and skin care for your newborn:

A newborn's skin is soft and delicate. Proper skin care and bathing can help maintain the health and texture of the baby's skin while providing a pleasant experience for both of you.

Contrary to popular thought, most babies do not need a bath every single day. With all the diaper changes and wiping of mouth and nose after feedings, most babies may only need to be bathed two or three times a week or every other day.

Baths can be given any time of day. Bathing before a feeding often works well. Many parents prefer to bathe their baby in the evening, as part of the bedtime ritual. This works well especially if bath time is relaxing and soothing for the baby.

Sponge baths are required at first. Bathing in a tub of water should wait until the baby's umbilical cord falls off, and a baby boy's circumcision heals, to prevent infection.

What equipment is needed for bathing newborns?

• thick towels or a sponge-type bath cushion
• soft washcloths
• basin or clean sink
• cotton balls
• baby shampoo and baby soap (non-irritating)
• hooded baby towel
• clean diaper and clothing

How to give a sponge bath:

• Make sure the room is warm, without drafts, about (75° F).
• Gather all equipment and supplies in advance.
• Add warm water to a clean sink or basin (warm to the inside of your wrist or between 90 and 100° F.).
• Place baby on a bath cushion or thick towels on a surface that is waist high.
• Keep the baby covered with a towel or blanket.
• NEVER take your hands off the baby, even for a moment. If you have forgotten something, wrap up the baby in a towel and take him/her with you.
• Start with the baby's face - use one moistened, clean cotton ball to wipe each eye, starting at the bridge of the nose then wiping out to the corner of the eye.
• Wash the rest of the baby's face with a soft, moist washcloth without soap.
• Clean the outside folds of the ears with a soft washcloth. DO NOT insert a cotton swab into the baby's ear canal because of the risk of damage to the ear drum.
• Add a small amount of baby soap to the water or washcloth and gently bathe the rest of the baby from the neck down. Uncover only one area at a time. Rinse with a clean washcloth or a small cup of water. Be sure to avoid getting the umbilical cord wet.
• Wash the baby's head last with a shampoo on a washcloth. Rinse, being careful not to let water run over the baby's face. Holding the baby firmly with your arm under his/her back and your wrist and hand supporting his/her neck, you can use a high faucet to rinse the hair.
• Scrubbing is not necessary, but most babies enjoy their arms and legs being massaged with gentle strokes during a bath.
• Wrap the baby in a hooded bath towel and cuddle your clean baby close.
• Follow cord care instructions given by your baby's physician.
• Use a soft baby brush to comb out your baby's hair. DO NOT use a hair dryer on hot to dry a baby's hair because of the risk of burns.
• Expect your baby to cry the first few times you bathe him/her. Usually, this is just because a bath is a new experience. However, be sure to check that the water is not too warm or cold or that soap has not gotten in your baby's eyes if your baby suddenly starts crying during a bath.

Continue part II

Article From:http://www.chp.edu/greystone/newborn/bathcare.php

Bathing your newborn Techniqe II

Should I wash my newborn's hair?

Yes, if it seems dirty or your baby develops cradle cap — a common condition characterized by scaly patches on the scalp.

Supporting your baby's head and shoulders with your free hand, gently massage a drop of mild baby shampoo into your baby's scalp. Rinse the shampoo with a damp washcloth. If your baby has cradle cap, loosen the scales with a soft-bristled baby brush or toothbrush before rinsing off the shampoo.

What type of baby tub is best?

When your baby graduates from sponge baths, you'll have plenty of choices. Many parents use plastic tubs specifically designed for newborns. Others opt for plain plastic basins or inflatable tubs that fit inside the bathtub. Lined with a towel or rubber mat, the kitchen or bathroom sink may be another option.

Safety is the most important consideration — not necessarily the type of tub. Gather your supplies ahead of time so that you can keep one hand on the baby at all times. If you're interrupted, take your baby with you. Never leave your baby alone in the water.

How much water should I put in the tub?

You'll need only a few inches of warm water. At first, you may want to lather your baby on a towel and use the tub only for rinsing.

What about water temperature?

Warm water is best. To prevent scalding, set the thermostat on your water heater to below 120 F. Always check the water temperature with your hand before bathing your baby.

Keep room temperature in mind as well. A wet baby may be easily chilled. Be sure the room is comfortably warm — about 75 F.

What's the best way to hold my newborn in the tub?

Use your arm and hand to hold your baby in the tub or under the faucet.

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A secure hold will help your baby feel comfortable — and stay safe — in the tub. Support your baby's head and torso with your arm and hand. Wrap your arm under your baby's back, grasping your baby firmly under the armpit. When you clean your baby's back and buttocks, lean him or her forward on your arm. Continue to grasp your baby under the armpit.

To rinse your baby's hair, try a football hold under the faucet. Support your baby's back with your arm, keeping a firm hold on your baby's head while you rinse.

What should I wash first?

Most parents start with the baby's face and move on to dirtier parts of the body. Wash inside skin folds, and rinse the genitals carefully. You may want to save the hair for last to help your baby preserve body heat.

Do I need a special type of soap?

No. In fact, plain water is fine for newborns. When needed, use a mild moisturizing soap. Avoid bubble bath and scented soaps.

Will lotion after a bath help prevent rashes?

No. Most newborns don't need lotion after a bath. In fact, greasy lotions or ointments may make a rash more likely by blocking your baby's tiny sweat glands. The best way to prevent rashes is to dry inside your baby's folds of skin after each bath.

Is it better to bathe my baby in the morning or at night?

That's up to you. Choose a time when you're not rushed or likely to be interrupted. Some parents opt for morning baths, when their babies are alert and ready to enjoy the experience. Others prefer evening baths as part of a calming bedtime ritual.

Article From :http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/healthy-baby/PR00041/UPDATEAPP=0

Bathing your newborn Techniqe I

Bathing a slippery newborn can be a nerve-racking experience. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you master the basics.

Bathing a slippery newborn can be a nerve-racking experience. Your baby may not like it much, either. But stay calm. With a little practice, you'll both start to feel more comfortable at bath time. Start by learning the basics.

How often does my newborn need a bath?

There's no need to give your newborn a bath every day. In fact, bathing your baby more than several times a week may dry out his or her skin. If you're quick with clean diapers and fresh burp cloths, you're already cleaning the parts that really need attention — the face, neck and diaper area.

Is a sponge bath good enough?

Yes. Sponge baths are usually the best option at first, at least until the area around the umbilical cord heals. Sponge baths are more convenient than tub baths, and they're easier on your newborn.

Here's what you need:

• A warm place with a flat surface. A bathroom or kitchen counter, changing table or firm bed will work. Even a blanket or towel on the floor is OK if it's warm enough.
• A soft blanket, towel or changing pad. Spread it out for your baby to lie on.
• A free hand. Always keep one hand on your baby. On a changing table, use the safety strap as well.
• A sink or shallow plastic basin to hold the water. Run several inches of warm water into the basin or sink. Check the water temperature with your hand to make sure it's not too hot.
• Essential supplies. Gather a washcloth, a towel, cotton balls, mild baby shampoo, mild moisturizing soap, baby wipes, a clean diaper and a change of clothes.

How do I give a sponge bath?

Keep your baby warm during a sponge bath. Expose only the parts you're washing.

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Undress your baby and wrap him or her in a towel. When you're ready to begin the bath, lay your baby on his or her back on the towel or pad you've prepared. Wet the washcloth, wring out excess water and wipe your baby's face. There's no need to use soap. Use a damp cotton ball or clean cotton cloth to wipe each eyelid, from the inside to the outside corner.

When you're ready to move on, plain water is usually OK. If your baby is smelly or dirty, use a mild moisturizing soap. Pay special attention to creases under the arms, behind the ears, around the neck and in the diaper area. Also wash between your baby's fingers and toes. To keep your baby warm, expose only the parts you're washing.

Continue in Part II

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