As parents, keeping your kids clean may be one of the most important things on your mind. But like all things when it comes to kids, it’s never as easy as it seems. Not only are they hard to get a hold of, but kids are constantly dirty from playing outside, rolling on the floor and exposing themselves to germs. However, being hygienic and safe has never been more important, especially for your little ones. Your babies may not be exposed to dust, dirt and the outside environment, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t need a bath. But bathing an infant is a task and there are several things to keep in mind in order to do it right. Would you like to know all our tips and tricks to keep your baby clean and safe? Read on to know them all!
1. How Often You Should Bathe Your Child
Many parents believe they should bathe their baby daily, but it’s not necessary. Bathing your little one 3 to 4 times a week is generally sufficient unless they get visibly dirty. Over-bathing can lead to dry skin issues, which are more pronounced in babies due to their sensitive skin. Therefore, it’s essential to be mindful of how often you bathe your child. On days when a full bath isn’t needed, a quick wash of their hands, feet, face, and other dirty areas will suffice. When they’ve encountered messy situations, like food in their hair or mud on their feet, it’s time for a brief shower. Keep bath time relatively short, around 10 minutes, to maintain warm, soothing, and enjoyable water, especially during colder months.
2. What Bathing Supplies You Should Have On Hand
Despite common misconceptions, you don’t require a long list of items for your baby’s bath. Nevertheless, it’s important to remember that a toddler’s skin is highly sensitive. When selecting the right baby bath sponge, opt for something soft and hypoallergenic. Ensure it’s easy to clean and provides a comfortable grip. You can even choose one with fun shapes like a dinosaur or a starfish, which can serve as an additional toy for your child to enjoy during their bath time splashes.
It’s a wise practice to prepare everything you need before giving your children a bath. Ensure all the essential supplies are easily accessible near the bathtub. This step is crucial because a child should never be left unattended during bath time. Keep their soaps, shampoos, clean clothes, towels, blankets, and diapers within reach, so you can quickly access them without losing sight of your child. In case the doorbell rings or there’s any unexpected interruption, it’s also important to promptly take the baby out of the tub, wrap them in a towel, and bring them with you.
3. Which Areas You Should Be Paying Close Attention To
During your baby’s bath, it’s essential to pay close attention to cleaning the creases under their arms, behind the ears, around the neck, and in their private areas. These are areas where dirt tends to accumulate, so there’s no need to wash their entire body daily. Providing a gentle sponge bath and maintaining the cleanliness of these specific areas will keep your baby hygienic and safe. After washing them, be sure to thoroughly dry your baby, then proceed to diaper and dress them.
4. How To Protect Your Baby’s Eyes And Ears
Wondering how to keep shampoo out of your baby’s eyes and ears during bath time to ensure a tear-free experience? Start by gently washing your baby’s head and hair, using the pads of your fingers or a soft baby hairbrush. Keep your nails clipped to avoid any accidental discomfort for your baby. While washing, gently cup your hand across their forehead to prevent shampoo or water from running into their eyes. When not washing their head or hair, consider using a waterproof shower cap, which is an affordable and convenient solution. This way, your baby can enjoy their bath without the risk of water getting into their ears.
Never leave your child unattended in the tub, even for a moment. Ensure that all necessary supplies are within easy reach to avoid the need to step away. Make sure the water temperature is comfortably warm, not too hot, by testing it with your elbow or a thermometer to prevent scalding. Special attention should be given to cleaning the creases under their arms, behind the ears, around the neck, and in their private areas, as these are common places where dirt can accumulate. So, now that you know the dos and don’ts of bath time, keeping your baby clean will be easy and breezy. So, what is your favorite way of giving the little ones a bath? Let us know in the comments section. Happy parenting!