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Lessons of motherhood,
No. 3: How to bathe your newborn
by Errin Stevenson
January 25, 2008 | The
first thing to remember when you start to bathe your
newborn is that this infant has been swaddled and warmed
for their whole life. Most newborns cry when they are
cold and have no comfort. So, always make sure your
infant is kept warm and is bathed in a warm environment.
After someone has showered and the room is warm is a
great place to start.
As we all know, babies are born with
umbilical cords, which cannot get wet. Sponge baths
are the perfect start. Simply fill a warm tub of water
and wash the baby's body. Keep the baby in a towel and
only do one part of the body at a time. Remember, you
are not washing your baby because he or she is dirty,
rather to get your baby in the habit of bathing. You
can choose the amount you want to wash your baby. Some
parents like to wash their baby everyday, while others
do it every other. It is completely up to you.
When the umbilical cord is off, it
is time for the real fun, the big bath. Start by purchasing
either a small tub to place your baby in, which is then
placed inside the big tub, or by purchasing my favorite,
the yellow teddy bear sponge. The yellow teddy bear
sponge can be purchased at Wal-mart. These fit in a
sink where you can start to wash your baby. Prepare
a towel before you put your baby in the tub so you don’t
have to leave your baby in the water or run your baby
around the house to find one. Never leave your baby
in the tub without supervision.
Babies are exactly like us and like
what we like while bathing. As each of us get in the
tub we put our feet in, test the water and then slowly
lower the rest of our bodies in. Babies also enjoy that
feel. So, simply do the same to your new little one.
Baby wash is in all stores. Choose
your favorite wash and scrub your little babe up. Personally,
I do not think that the washes are really tear-free,
so be careful with those little eyes.
Put your baby in the towel, cuddle
him and lotion him up. I hope this advice works. Good
Luck!
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