Bathing a Newborn Baby (with Umbilical Cord): Step-by-step Video

Summary

This video provides a step-by-step guide to bathing your newborn, ensuring safety and comfort. It covers everything from preparing the bath with warm water, selecting the right baby care items, to cleaning delicate areas like the eyes, face, and umbilical cord. Tips for handling your baby safely while bathing, drying thoroughly, and dressing appropriately are also included. The video emphasizes the importance of bonding during bath time, making it a calming experience for both baby and parents. With practice, new parents will confidently master the routine and enjoy this special bonding moment.

Takeaways

• 😀 Always wash your hands with soap and water before preparing for your baby's bath.
• 🛁 You will need specific items such as a bathtub, water jug, cotton wool balls, towel, bath soap, and baby clothes.
• 🧸 Never leave your baby unattended during bath time for safety.
• 🌡️ When preparing the bath water, ensure it is comfortably warm by testing with your forearm.
• 👶 Always talk to your baby to reassure them and help them feel comfortable during the bath.
• 🧼 Use baby soap in the bath water and mix it well for gentle cleaning.
• 👁️ Clean your baby's eyes with cool boiled water using a cotton ball, always using a new one for each eye.
• 💧 Clean your baby's face with cotton balls or a face cloth and avoid using any harsh products.
• 🧴 After cleaning your baby's face and hair, gently dry them with a soft towel.
• 👶 Make bath time a bonding opportunity by encouraging your spouse to help with bathing your baby.
• 🚼 Always clean the baby's umbilical cord carefully with cotton balls and ensure it dries properly to prevent infections.

Q & A

When is the best time to bathe your baby?

It is advisable to bathe your baby before a feed, as bathing immediately after a feed may make your baby uncomfortable and could lead to spitting up milk.

What items do you need to prepare for bathing your baby?

You will need a bathtub or basin, a jug of cool boiled water, cotton wool balls, a bin or plastic bag for soiled cotton balls, a face cloth, towel, baby soap, baby clothes, diaper, and baby wrap (if necessary).

Why is it important to test the water temperature before bathing your baby?

It is important to test the water temperature to ensure it is comfortably warm, as hot water could burn your baby’s sensitive skin, while cold water could make them uncomfortable.

How should you clean your baby’s eyes during bath time?

To clean your baby’s eyes, dip a cotton wool ball in cool boiled water, squeeze out excess water, and wipe from the inner corner of the eye to the outer corner. Use a new cotton ball for each eye.

What should you do if you notice sticky discharge from your baby’s eyes?

If you notice any sticky or yellowish discharge from your baby's eyes, it is important to consult a doctor, as it may indicate an eye infection.

What is the correct way to wash your baby’s hair?

To wash your baby's hair, hold them in a football hold, supporting their head and neck with your palm. Tilt their head slightly over the basin, then gently wash their hair. Dry their hair gently with the corner of a towel.

How do you support your baby when placing them in the bath?

When placing your baby in the bath, use your left hand to support their shoulder, and with your right hand under their body, gently lift them into the water. Ensure their head stays above the water at all times.

What areas should you pay attention to when drying your baby after the bath?

After the bath, make sure to dry behind the ears, between the fingers and toes, and in the creases of your baby's skin, including under the arms and in the private areas.

How should you clean your baby’s umbilical cord?

Clean your baby's umbilical cord by using cotton balls dipped in cool boiled water. Clean in a circular motion around the base of the cord, then move up the sides. Make sure to dry the area and check for any signs of infection, such as foul smells or bleeding.

What should you avoid using on your baby after the bath?

Avoid using baby powder after bath time, as it can cause respiratory issues. Instead, you may apply baby lotion to keep your baby’s skin moisturized.