From the beginning, new parents feel some hesitation or uncertainty associated with giving baby their first bath. This is completely normal and to be expected because babies are fragile in their first few months of life. The truth is, there have been multiple reports of accidents occurring while parents are bathing their new baby. However, these instances are isolated and seldom happen. Even though the situation does not occur frequently, it can be traumatic for parent and baby.
When it comes to caring for your new baby, you need to keep a few crucial facts in mind so that you do not put your baby’s safety at risk. Paying attention to pointers from well-seasoned pros will help you avoid risks associated with baby’s bath time. For example, you should be right at your baby’s side at all times. You should not step away, even for a second. Your baby is not able to sit up, so if something gets in their mouth or nose, they will not be able to do anything about it.
When your baby first comes home, you will need to be careful. However, you do not need to stretch careful to the point of being paranoid. Accidents can happen, even if parents exercise extreme caution. This is why it is so important that parents keep their eyes open for safety problems surrounding the baby’s bath area. Each and every time your baby is going to have a bath, you should inspect baby’s tub, and the area around baby’s tub for any safety hazards, even if baby cannot reach anything around them yet.
When you bring baby to the bath tub, take your time and make slow movements. You do not want to startle baby during bath time. Make bath time fun and calm, it is time for you and baby to spend together and bond. The more relaxed bath time is, the more your baby will enjoy this time with you. Even though it should be fun, it is important for safety to be the first priority.
From the second you step into the bath area, you should have your eye on baby at all times. Ignore distractions and take time to be with your baby. When you do put toys inside the tub, it is important to make sure they are large enough that they do not choke on them. Make a circle with your thumb and index finger. If the toy is able to fit through the hole, the toy will most likely pose a choking hazard.
When putting baby’s water in the tub, you must ensure the water is not too hot. If the water is too cold, it could startle baby. Too hot of water and baby could get burned. You can judge the temperature with the inside skin of your wrist, or the skin of your elbow.
While it may be a frightening thought, it is important to realize that baby can drown in shallow water. Choose a bath tub that has a rubber surface to prevent slipping. Hold your baby at all times to ensure they do not fall. Make sure that your baby’s towel and clothing are within arms-reach, so you do not need to walk away from the tub at any time.
