Overview:
Bathing a baby is an enjoyable experience for parents as it is a great time to foster bonding, but sometimes there is anxiety about when and how well it is done. The World Health Organization recommends delaying a baby's first bath until 24 hours after birth - or waiting at least 6 hours. It is preferable to delay bathing a newborn for 24 hours because
- Bathing a baby immediately after birth exposes him to hypothermia and low blood sugar.
- Immediately after birth, the baby's body is covered with a white, waxy substance that acts as a natural moisturizer and may have antibacterial properties.
- Before the umbilical cord falls off, the baby should not be immersed in water to keep this area dry.
The Number of Times for bathing a Baby:
Newborns do not need to be bathed every day, as they rarely sweat enough to require a full bath. In the first year of a child's life, 3 baths per week are sufficient. Because frequent bathing can dry out the baby's skin.
Tips for a safe baby bath:
- A solid plastic bathtub for the child must be used with an inclined surface provided from the inside with anti-slip.
- The bathtub must be equipped with anti-slips to maintain its stability and prevent it from moving.
- Avoid bringing life rafts, flotation devices and chairs into the bathtub; Because the infant may drown if he escaped from it.
- Have a towel and other bathing essentials close at hand so you can keep the baby close at hand at all times.
- If you forget something or need to answer the phone or the door during the baby shower, take the baby with you.
- A child should not be left alone in the bathtub, even for a moment.
- The water temperature should be set and tested before showering so that it is warm.
- The child must be kept warm, as soon as he takes off his clothes, he must be put in the water immediately so that he does not get cold.
- The baby's body and face should be kept well above the water level for safety, so you'll need to pour warm water over his body frequently to keep him warm.
- Soap should be used in moderation as soap can dry out the baby's skin.
- Baby's hair should be washed two or three times a week using a mild shampoo or body wash.
- Bathing should be a relaxing and soothing experience for the baby so you should try to have fun with him.
- Avoid having toys in the bathtub, especially if the child is young, because it will distract you from the child.
- When bath time is finished, immediately wrap a towel around the baby's head and body to help them stay warm.
- After showering, moisturize skin with a fragrance-free moisturizer immediately after showering to help prevent dry skin or eczema.