You are the happiest woman in the world, because your baby is already in your arms. After nine months of carrying it in your belly, you can finally hug it! These first days together everything is new for both of them, they adapt to each other and you don't get tired of looking at him when he sleeps and you enjoy the time they share when he is awake. Now, as a first-time mom, surely one point that could worry you is bath time, but don't worry, you'll see that it's just a matter of practice. Here are some simple tips for you to know what to do step by step and take care of your skin from the first moment.
When and at what time is it better to take a bath?
First of all, you have to know that there is no need to bathe the newborn every day. When it is so small it is enough to clean it very well after changing the diaper, as well as cleaning your face and neck after eating. It will be enough for you to give him a full bath four times a week, at least until he grows a little and starts to move more.
The best bath time is up to you. Our grandmothers said that it was better at noon, when the sun is already hot, but if you think it is better in the afternoon, as a ritual before bed, it is fine. The important thing is that you are not in a hurry and do not interrupt. Do it your way!
A soft wipe will be your ally
The specialists of the American Academy of Pediatrics, recommend giving the newborn a bath with a soft wipe the first few days until the umbilical cord falls. They suggest doing it on a flat and firm surface. It could be a table or bed on which you spread a blanket and on top of the baby's towel.
Make sure the room temperature is warm and there are no drafts. You will need a bowl of warm water, a soft cloth wipe, neutral soap, wet wipes and a change of clean clothes.
You undress your baby and wrap it with the towel. Lie it on your back and discover only the area you are going to clean to keep it warm. Wet the wipe, squeeze the excess water and clean the baby's face. Carefully slide the wipe over one eyelid, from the tear to the outer corner and then the other.
Remember that your skin has a high PH and has no fat on your dermis, so you do not have enough skin protection; So it is recommended to clean your little body by soaking the towel in water and neutral soap. An option with balanced PH and that even contains some humectants is Baby Dove, which comes in a bar.
Pay special attention both to the areas with folds, such as the neck, armpits, behind the ears, in the diaper area, as well as between the fingers. Finally, rinse the washcloth very well to remove the soap, squeeze it and pass it through your body quickly. As soon as you finish, wrap your baby in the towel and dry it well.
The bath in tub
On a smooth surface, a table or the bed, place a thick plastic to prevent it from getting wet. Put the tub on top. According to the Family Health Guide, published by the Harvard Medical School, just fill the tub with about five centimeters of warm water. It is important to check the temperature of the water with the wrist, elbow, or with a thermometer. This should ideally be 38º Celsius.
On one side of the tub, spread the baby towel and the products you will need. The same as for the bathroom with a washcloth. This will allow you to hold the baby with one hand and at all times. For safety, never leave it alone in the tub.
Hold your head with one hand and with the other go introducing your feet in the water very gently, continue with the rest of your body. Verify that the water reaches below your shoulders and does not touch your ears. Using one hand, pour some water on the parts of your body that are not submerged to keep it warm. Wet a washcloth and apply some neutral soap. He gently rubs his little body with the towel while talking to him. That will reassure him if he gets restless.
No matter what type of bath you give, pay attention to the areas with folds. To wash your hair apply a little shampoo for babies (make sure it is hypoallergenic, do not irritate their eyes and moisturize their scalp), the appropriate amount would be about the size of a pea. Rinse the foam with a cup or two of water, make sure it does not drain into your ears - if you want, you can place a cotton ball to protect them. Rinse your neck very well and leave the face for last. Run your hand with a little water. Straighten it a little so that no water gets in your nose or ears.
After the bath, make sure you dry it very well. The skin of the newborn is very delicate and may dry out. To prevent it, it is important to provide it with extra moisture. During the bath you can use a mild soap with neutral pH, for example the one offered by Baby Dove, in this way the lipid layer of your skin is not altered. Before putting on the clothes, spread a light layer of moisturizer to nourish your skin safely.
You will see that as your baby grows, bath time will become a fun time that both will enjoy. Happy first days together!
