When and how to bathe a baby in a large bathtub? Rules and advice for parents. Circle for bathing a newborn in the bath: rules for selection, use, special exercises for baby development, contraindications Bathing a baby in the bath
Bathing together has its own peculiarities:
- The adult is in the same container with the newborn.
- Bathing involves direct bodily contact.
Benefits of bathing together:
- This is the best way to accustom a baby to regular water procedures who does not like to swim, but loves to spend time with mom or dad.
- Helps you overcome your fear of water.
- Helps maintain a close emotional connection.
- It will restore attention deficit if the mother is away from the baby during the day.
- Provides space for games and maneuvers that are only possible when swimming together - you can dive and play actively with your mother.
Disadvantages of bathing together:
- When taking baths together with a parent of the opposite sex, an older child (over 1 year old) may experience a violation of sexual development.
- Infection (if the adult is sick or does not follow hygiene rules).
Separate bathing means that the baby is alone in a large bath under the supervision of an adult.
Benefits of separate bathing:
Disadvantages of separate bathing:
- The need for close attention (when bathing together, the adult is involved in the process and is more relaxed).
- The child may be afraid of water and not enjoy the procedure.
When can a baby have his first bath in an adult container?
There are two fundamentally different opinions about when it is permissible to completely immerse a newborn in water. Proponents of early bathing believe that a child should start bathing immediately after being discharged from the hospital, without waiting for the umbilical wound to heal. Wherein it is necessary to use boiled water disinfected with potassium permanganate(potassium permanganate).
Fans of the alternative position (including E. O. Komarovsky) believe that the first bathing is carried out after the navel has completely healed. This helps prevent infection and regular wetting of the wound.
In addition, as the pediatrician states, potassium permanganate is not capable of ensuring the aseptic state of water in the concentration that can be used when bathing a baby. If you add a few crystals to water to make a pink solution, it will do no good. And here a more significant “strength” of manganese solution will cause chemical burns.
Dr. Komarovsky insists that it is possible to bathe a newborn for the first time in a large bathtub.
Rules for bathing babies from 6 months
Let's look at the rules regarding temperature, water quality, and safety precautions for bathing a 6-month-old newborn in a large bathtub.
Temperature
The temperature of the water depends on the goal pursued by the parents. If this is a hygienic cleansing procedure, then the temperature is maintained within 35-37⁰C. Warm water will wash away sweat and secretions from the skin. If the temperature is higher, there is a high risk of drying out thin skin. There is no need to steam the baby - there is no point or need for it.
If a family practices hardening evening bathing according to Komarovsky, then by six months the baby is already bathed in cool water at a temperature of 21-26⁰С.
The smaller the container and the room for maneuver, the warmer (but not hotter) the water should be. You should not practice hardening in a small bath - there is simply no room for the baby to move. A child will freeze if there is only room to lie down.
Water quality
If you adhere to the position that you can bathe the baby immediately after discharge from the hospital, use boiled water with potassium permanganate. Since the umbilical wound has not yet healed, you need to make the water as harmless as possible.
When bathing a baby with a healed umbilical wound, there is no need to boil water.. Of course, the water must be clean, so it is advisable to use filtered water. Flowing water from the water supply is quite suitable. There is no need to further disinfect the water.
Safety precautions
- Under no circumstances should you leave your child unattended in the water.
- Prepare everything you need and place in advance in the bathtub and on the changing table any things that will be needed during bathing and after water procedures.
- Do not measure the water temperature by eye - a baby has thin and sensitive skin. Use a special thermometer.
- During the first month of life, the baby does not need active “washing”. Hot water, soap and a washcloth will destroy lipid protection.
If you bathe your baby frequently, dermatitis – inflammation of the skin – may occur.
- Do not overheat the water to avoid drying out the skin.
- Do not pour water on the child's face - the baby will be scared. Carry out hygiene of the face, eyes and nose separately from bathing.
Other rules
Bathing rules:
How to organize the process correctly?
Cleaning the container
Before water procedures, the container in the bathroom must be carefully prepared. If during the day someone has already bathed, been washed or washed in the bathtub, be sure to wash the inner surface with cleaning products. Simply rinsing is not enough.
Suitable for cleaning the bath:
- soda;
- lemon acid;
- vinegar;
- powder for washing children's clothes;
- gel for washing toys;
- detergent for children's dishes.
You can rub the container with soda paste made from a mixture of sodium bicarbonate and after 15 minutes, rinse off the active ingredients with hot water.
You cannot clean acrylic bathtubs with soda paste., as the abrasive may damage delicate material. In this case, you can apply a strong soda solution to the walls and wash it off after a quarter of an hour.
An vinegar solution or a mixture of water and citric acid also perfectly cleans and disinfects the surface. In this case there are no restrictions on use. The solution is applied to the bath and then thoroughly removed with hot water.
Instead of soda, you can clean the bathtub with baby powder. The principle of application is similar. Liquid products (gel for toys and detergent for children's dishes) contain foaming agents. After washing, rinse the container.
To clean the bathtub before bathing your child, do not use aggressive cleaning agents based on chlorine, acids and alkalis. Such substances are difficult to wash off, forming a film on the surface of the material, which comes into contact with water and the epidermis when swimming. Chlorine vapors irritate the respiratory tract during water procedures.
If the bathtub has not been used for its intended purpose during the day, before bathing the baby, it is enough to rinse the container with warm water.
What will you need?
What you will need for the bathing procedure:
- a large bath towel with soft bristles (or a special baby towel for bathing);
- a small towel or cloth for blotting your face;
- bath slide or stand;
- decoction of string (optional);
- cotton pads (for washing);
- cotton wool (for turundas);
- cream or oil;
- powder;
- soft baby bath product (not earlier than 1-2 months);
- clean diaper;
- a container with warm water for facial hygiene;
- a set of clothes for changing clothes.
Other organizational issues
Place all necessary items near the bathtub at arm's length. During water procedures, the baby cannot be left unattended, so it is important that everything can be taken and taken out without leaving the place. Place items and things that will be needed for hygiene procedures on the changing table before bathing. Lay out your clothes there and unwrap a clean diaper.
Bathe only a child who is calm and satisfied with life. If the baby is nervous, bathing will cause unpleasant associations later. It is recommended to carry out water procedures before feeding.
Was there a “surprise” under the diaper? Wash your baby under running water before bathing or use wet wipes.
Immediately after birth, the baby is not yet fully adapted and cannot exist without the help of its parents in a new environment. Mommy should learn how to properly pick up the baby, change clothes, feed and play. She will also have to face the question of how to bathe a newborn baby in a bathtub. The procedure will have to be performed every day in the future. If parents have all the necessary knowledge in their arsenal, then the ritual will turn into entertainment.
First bath
For all new parents, bathing a newborn is a responsible and exciting process. All pediatricians insist that the procedure must be performed in a special children's bath. The water should be warm, but not hot. Otherwise, the baby will not feel comfortable in such conditions.
The first few days after birth, the baby should be washed under running warm water. During this period, the navel will be able to heal and fall off. Immediately after being discharged from the hospital, the baby can already be bathed. However, in the process, you should follow the basic rules of personal hygiene for infants, which are somewhat different from adults.
Positive effects of water procedures
For children, bathing can be fun and exciting. It plays an important role in hygiene, normalizing the immune system and raising the baby’s mood. Thanks to water, he feels the following positive aspects:
- Necessary care and cleansing of the skin.
- The baby will be able to calm down and have a good rest.
- Thanks to water, the baby receives the hardening necessary for his age, which improves the process of thermoregulation.
- Swimming allows the baby to understand the world around him in more detail.
- The procedure gives the baby positive impressions and emotions.
In the first month of life, you can bathe your baby no more than once a day. During this period, his skin is still too sensitive and may be damaged by water. When the baby turns six months old, the frequency of procedures can be reduced to once every two days.
Criteria for choosing the time for the procedure
It is correct to bathe your child in the evening. Thanks to water, he will be able to relax and calm down. The procedure completely eliminates colic. Water helps your baby get ready for sleep.
However, in some cases, the bathing process, on the contrary, makes the child too alert and active. In this case, you should adapt to the baby’s temperament and perform the action in the first half of the day. The process should bring benefit and pleasure to children and their parents.
Device for bathing a newborn
Preparatory procedures
You can proceed to bathing the baby in the bath only after all preparatory activities have been completed. Parents must take into account the following nuances of the process:
For bathing, it is advisable to use a special bath for children. Before starting the process, it is doused with boiling water and washed with soap. This will eliminate all harmful viruses and bacteria.
The water temperature is measured using a baby thermometer. If such a device is not at hand, then mommy can dip her elbow into the liquid. The optimal temperature range is from 37 to 38 degrees.
Medicinal herbs help take care of the baby’s delicate skin. Before using them, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician. Plants have a calming and anti-allergenic effect.
It is permissible to use detergents that have been specially designed for children. Even this soap is advisable to use only a couple of times a week. The hair washing procedure is performed once a week.
You should also choose a washcloth from a children's store. For its manufacture, only natural fabrics should be used. Otherwise, the risk of injury to the baby’s skin increases.
If a child is afraid to bathe in the bathtub, then several special toys should be placed in it. They should be bright and attract the baby's attention. In this case, washing will turn into an exciting game.
At the end of the procedure, the baby’s body must be rinsed with clean water from a pre-prepared ladle.
After the bath, the baby should be wrapped in a clean diaper. Adult terry towels can also be used.
Your baby's skin should also be properly cared for after bathing. For this you will need tampons, sticks, and diapers. You should also have hydrogen peroxide and brilliant green on hand. They are used in case of detection of wounds on the skin.
After drying, a clean child is dressed in a fresh set of underwear.
Kids love swimming with a circle
Combination of bathing and feeding
The baby is bathed only after he has eaten well. Thanks to this, the further process will take place in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. If your baby is breastfeeding, there should be no additional breaks between feeding and bathing. Mother's milk will be absorbed quickly, so you can safely move on to water procedures.
Medicinal plants
Bathing a newborn in a large bath is beneficial with medicinal herbs. They form a protective barrier and make the skin soft and silky:
- String and calendula will help you quickly get rid of rashes.
- Thanks to chamomile, the baby will be able to forget about colic.
- Motherwort is used to calm the baby.
Algorithm for the bathing process
After preparing everything you need, you can start bathing your newborn in a bathtub with a slide.
To do this, perform the following manipulations:
- The bath should be installed in such a way that during the process the woman’s back remains straight and no unnecessary stress is placed on it. Thanks to this, the woman will not get tired during the process, which means she will always feel cheerful.
- A slight tilt will help prevent the newborn's head from plunging into the water. It should be organized by placing several books under the edge of the bath.
- Next, boiled water is poured into the vessel and diluted with cold water to 37 degrees. The two compositions should be carefully moved between each other; only in this case can uniform heating be achieved.
- The herbal decoction is added only after filtering.
- You should place a vessel with hot water next to you. It will need to be added if the rest of the liquid cools. This should be done from the edge of the bath so as not to burn the crumbs.
- Place a towel roll under the baby's head in the bath.
- The baby's body must be immersed slowly. Only the head should remain above the water, which is conveniently located on the pillow. Mommy is advised to keep her hand on the baby’s tummy all the time.
- After bath procedures and thorough drying, the baby will benefit from air baths.
The baby should be watered with a small ladle. Periodically, the liquid should flow down the woman’s hand. Thanks to this, it will be possible to further control its temperature.
You should buy a bathtub that is at least 65 centimeters in length. In this case, the baby will feel as comfortable as possible in it.
At the first stage, you should carefully wash the baby's legs and arms. At the same time, he must remain wrapped in his diaper. Mommy must make sure that the baby does not freeze.
Some pediatricians advise avoiding soap during the first bath. However, if the parents decide to take it, then the foam after the procedure should be thoroughly rinsed with water.
After bathing, the baby should be wrapped in a towel or diaper that absorbs moisture well.
After finishing the procedure, the baby should be thoroughly dried with a towel.
Key rules
Bathing a baby in a large bathtub should comply with all the rules and regulations of the process. Throughout the entire procedure, the baby should be as comfortable, warm and cozy as possible. Only in this case will he be able to enjoy swimming. Parents should know how much and how to properly handle their child in the water:
- The head should always be on a surface or pad. It should be washed from the forehead to the back. It will need to be rinsed with clean water. To prevent it from getting into her mouth and ears, a woman can place her hand on them. In this case, children are not afraid to swim.
- It is most convenient to bathe your baby using a washcloth or cotton swab. It is convenient to apply the required amount of soap on them. It is important to thoroughly rinse all folds and the space between the fingers. If there are areas with irritation or redness, they can additionally be wiped with a decoction of medicinal herbs. Thanks to it, you will be able to get rid of diaper rash, prickly heat and other unpleasant manifestations on the skin.
- While the baby is completely immersed in water, you should wash his genitals. After completing the procedure, they should be rinsed with clean water.
- Cotton pads are also used to wipe the eyes. Movements should start from the outside and end at the nose. The ears are washed in the same way.
The mother should observe the change in the baby's reaction during the bathing process. If his nose or lips turn blue, he is cold. If your cheeks or face are red, you can judge that the water temperature is too high. The baby always communicates his discomfort by crying or screaming, so it is not recommended to ignore it.
Features of bathing at different ages
As the child grows older, he begins to like water procedures more and more. That is why parents must be patient and make the adjustment process more enjoyable.
Up to 6 weeks, it is advisable to bathe the baby every day. He will feel as comfortable as possible throughout the entire process if you first wrap his body in a towel.
For up to three months, when bathing, it is advisable to use a special bath in which the baby will lie comfortably.
At the age of six months, the baby can already take water procedures with his mother in a large bathtub. Thanks to this, the baby will be able to swim and explore the world around him.
At six months, the baby should already be sitting. As a rule, during this period he begins to show a genuine interest in water and playing in it. Parents can use either a special bath or a plastic chair. It is secured to the sides using special Velcro. At the same time, the most comfortable conditions are created for the baby.
Duration of bathing
It is advisable to extend bathing if the baby likes to flounder in the water. If he is already two months old, then the procedure can be continued for about 20 minutes.
After six months, water procedures may well last forty minutes a day. It is important that the child has sufficiently warm water during this time. Otherwise, he may catch a cold and get sick.
Post-bath procedures
When the baby has already had a good bath, he should be wrapped in a soft towel. Most likely, he will want to sleep, so a woman can perform the following manipulations:
- Lightly rock or feed the baby.
- The baby should also be placed in a supine position and all folds should be thoroughly wiped with a clean towel.
- If necessary, they must also be treated with hygiene products.
- Put on a diaper.
- To protect your baby's ears from colds, you should immediately put on a cap.
After all the manipulations performed, the baby will fall asleep sweetly. When bathing, you should follow the basic recommendations of your pediatrician. In this case, they will become a pleasant pastime for the child and his parents.
Nowadays, purchasing a baby bathtub is not particularly difficult, but many parents think about bathing their newborn baby in a large bathtub.
Why? After all, this is not done because of savings. In fact, everyone knows that swimming is one of the most beneficial exercises for a person. And kids are no exception here. And since there is a tendency to arrange regular “swims” for them, it means that we need to understand all the intricacies of the procedure.
Let's talk about how to organize a child's bathing in a large bathtub so that it brings exceptional pleasure and benefit to the child and parents.
First of all, let's note one important point. As the famous and authoritative doctor Komarovsky says, one should distinguish between washing and bathing. The first is an exclusively hygienic procedure designed to cleanse the child’s skin of all existing contaminants.
Bathing a baby involves water procedures designed to strengthen his health and give positive emotions. Simply put, children should float in a large bathtub, and not lie practically motionless while their mother washes them.
A big child will no longer be able to do this at home, the dimensions of both him and the bath will not allow, but it is quite possible to accustom a baby to such water procedures.
From this article you will learn
First swim
If you are determined to bathe your newborn baby in a large bathtub, remember that you should not do this in the first days of life. Let the baby acclimate a little and wait until the umbilical wound heals.
Despite the fact that many doctors have begun to adhere to the opinion that it is not necessary to bathe a child in boiled water, one should not risk it. Our water quality leaves much to be desired, so you should let the wound heal quietly, and only then you can start organizing swims.
There is no need to dissolve potassium permanganate in a large bath. Since our task is not washing, but bathing, nothing will hinder the baby’s movements, he will be able to easily slurp the surrounding liquid. We believe you know that a solution of potassium permanganate provokes vomiting. Imagine what could happen in the end.
The main task of parents who begin to bathe their baby in a large bath is to support his head. Position your palm so that your little finger is under your neck and the rest of your fingers are under the back of your head. This will be convenient for both you and the newborn.
The rest of the child’s body will float on the water by itself; you will immediately notice how it floats up as soon as you try to immerse it deeper. You can do this periodically to make him warmer and more interesting.
The first time you put a newborn in water, you need to be very careful so as not to scare him. The legs are immersed first, then the torso. Your task is not to scare the baby; he should enjoy the process so that next time bathing will be desirable.
Temperature
Bathing a newborn baby should take place at a certain temperature. So, it is recommended to start at 34 degrees. In this case, the entire process should last no more than fifteen minutes. In the future, it is necessary to gradually reduce the temperature, because we are not in a bathhouse, but in a kind of swimming pool.
By about one month of age, the baby can already be kept in a large bath for up to half an hour. Of course, provided that he is healthy and he likes what is happening. The temperature is already about thirty degrees.
In the future, the degree of water heating can be further reduced. It is important to monitor at what point the baby shows signs of dissatisfaction. It's very individual. Some people like to swim at 24 degrees, while for others even thirty is not enough.
Poses
In a large bathtub, the child feels free, nothing limits his movements. When he grows up, he will begin to have fun while sitting with various toys. A newborn has his own pleasures - he swims, moving his arms and legs.
If you see that your baby has lost interest in what is happening, try leading him from one end of the bath to the other. He should like new sensations. If this doesn’t help, it means he’s simply not in the mood right now, so it’s better to end the water treatments.
For a newborn baby, there is not a wide variety of positions that he can take in the water, but they are enough to have fun for 15 to 30 minutes.
- Lying on your back. We have already written about this pose above. Do not forget that the baby can be moved.
- On the tummy. Here, adults must support the head under the chin, preventing it from sinking into the water. You can also swim across the entire surface of the water.
- Sitting. Yes, the newborn is imprisoned. Of course, not at the bottom of the bath, but in the water. The main thing is to gain sufficient depth for this.
Swimming with a circle
A very interesting way to bathe a baby in a large bath is lap swimming. This is a special device that allows the child's head to remain on the surface of the water, while the body can move freely in any direction.
So, first, inflate the circle, strictly following the attached instructions. Then carefully place it around your baby’s neck so that the chin fits into the special notch.
The next step is immersion in water. The child should be warm and comfortable, since his entire body is in liquid. Despite the fact that he will swim completely autonomously, he should never be left alone.
Swimming with a circle is allowed after approximately three weeks of age, but parents must themselves monitor the child’s condition and determine his readiness for such procedures.
Bathing rules
In order for bathing to be useful and enjoyable, the following rules must be followed:
- accurately control the temperature. A special thermometer will help with this;
- food - after swimming, not before;
- You cannot force a child to bathe if he is dissatisfied and capricious;
- Take all bath accessories with you immediately;
- Do not leave your baby alone for a minute.
Have a pleasant and healthy water treatment!
Bathing for newborns is a very important hygiene procedure. However, you should understand that bathing and washing are two different things. If you wash the baby after each bowel movement (about 10 times a day), then bathing a newborn (washing his entire body) is only once a day.
The process of bathing is invaluable for a baby, since water is similar to the environment in which he was 9 months before birth. Moreover, bathing promotes the development of the vestibular apparatus and muscles of the child, as well as relaxation - it perfectly calms his nervous system.
How long does the bathing procedure take?
This daily procedure takes very little time - within ten minutes (with a gradual increase in duration). However, it should not be neglected, since it is bathing that allows you to avoid the formation of diaper rash on the child’s body.
What does she need?
To bathe your baby you will need:
- thermometer,
- soft sponge (or a piece of cloth or cotton wool),
- terry towel,
- diaper.
When to start?
Newborns are bathed for the first time (if there are no complications) the day after discharge from the hospital.
However, some pediatricians believe that it is better to simply wipe newborns with a soft, damp diaper for the first 2 weeks to avoid inflammation of the umbilical wound.
Or bathe, placing the child in the bathtub wrapped in a diaper (to create conditions similar to those in the mother's womb), alternately pulling out the arms and legs for washing. This will prevent your baby from freezing while swimming.
What is the best time to bathe your baby?
Bathing time is usually chosen in the evening to prepare the child for bed. It is very important that both mother and baby are in a calm mood. Otherwise, it is better to have a swim later.
What water should I bathe my baby in?
It is recommended to bathe the baby in boiled water (it is necessary to boil water for at least the first couple of weeks) with the addition of potassium permanganate (just a drop, until a faint pinkish tint is obtained, since its excessive addition dries the baby’s skin).
You should first disinfect the bath with a cleaning agent (soda, laundry soap) or a special antiseptic that is safe for children.
How to choose the optimal water temperature?
The ideal water temperature for bathing a baby is 37-39 degrees, and the air temperature is 20-24. Air baths are also useful for your baby: before washing, you can let him lie naked for 3-5 minutes without clothes.
After bathing in the bath, air procedures cannot be performed, since the child’s skin that is not completely dry creates a serious risk of developing a cold. For the same reason, it is better to close all windows, especially in winter.
The water temperature is allowed to be reduced by 1 degree over time, gradually reaching 33-30 degrees and below (useful for hardening a newborn).
Hardening plays a very important role in the formation of good health for the baby, so start it gradually, without sudden temperature changes, without causing discomfort to the child.
Remember, the child must be active in the water: if he is lethargic and yawns, then the water is too warm. Also keep in mind that during swimming the water has time to cool by 1-3 degrees.
Also, please note that the door to the bathroom must be open during the procedure to allow air to flow freely (there should be no draft).
Do I need to add something to the water and use soap?
If the child's skin is healthy, it is better to bathe in clean water. If there are diaper rashes and other inflammations on the skin, add sea salt, a decoction of chamomile, string or elecampane to the water (if you are not allergic to these herbs).
The use of shampoo and soap during washing should be limited, as they dry out the skin greatly; it will be enough to use one or the other once a week (remember that only detergents that are approved for children are used!).
Algorithm of actions when bathing a baby
- Fill the bath with water at the desired temperature (boil and cool it first).
- We immerse the baby gradually, starting from the feet, letting him get used to it (the first times, as mentioned above, you can bathe him directly in the diaper).
- If the child cried a little during the first bath, this is the norm, it’s okay - the main thing is that the next time he gets used to it and feels calm.
- It is more convenient to use a hammock or other holders, but if the parents have chosen the traditional method for bathing, then it is better to hold the baby by the head with your left hand so that the little finger is under the neck and the other fingers are under the back of the head.
- You can immerse the baby almost completely, but make sure that water does not get into the nose and mouth.
- First you should wash your neck, then your arms, legs, and torso, paying special attention to the folds and genitals, but do not overdo it. I wash my hair last, pouring water from a ladle onto the hairs at the back.
- You need to water from the ladle from top to bottom, the water temperature should be about a degree lower than in the bath.
- It is not necessary to stop bathing after 5-10 minutes. If the child is calm and enjoys being in the water, then the procedure can be extended to half an hour or more.
- For convenience, you can use an inflatable ring for the neck: it will prevent the baby from choking and will make it easier for parents to monitor the bath. With a circle, children quickly become active in the water.
- After taking the baby out of the water, wrap his head in a prepared dry diaper and let the water soak in (no need to rub him!). Then cover your baby with a towel and you are ready to leave the bathroom.
What to do with bathing if the baby is sick?
The factor preventing bathing is the baby's severe discomfort and prolonged crying. We need to wait until he feels better.
At a slightly elevated temperature, you can wash the child, but with water that is 1-2 degrees lower than his body temperature (in this case, it is important that clogged pores are cleaned and sweat secretions are washed away). Slightly cool water will help normalize the baby's temperature.
What to do if your baby is afraid of water?
It also happens that children are afraid of water. This may be a sign that they were bathed incorrectly, in which case you need to analyze and correct your mistakes.
Changing bathing conditions
If you followed all the rules of bathing, try changing the conditions:
- regimen (if you bathed him before eating, then try to do it after eating or instead of in the evening, bathe him in the morning);
- water temperature (make it warmer);
- bathe the baby with the mother (the mother must be washed beforehand).
It is important to know that the so-called “whims” of the baby are directly related to his physiology; here you just need to listen and understand which bathing mode will be most convenient for him.
The right attitude and availability of toys
Young mothers also need to remember that attitude plays a big role: if your hands shake, the child will also experience anxiety, and this phobia can remain with the baby for life.
You can also do water exercises while swimming. This is a very useful activity that children like. And when the baby becomes active, you can give him rubber floating toys.
Over time, when all procedures are systematized, the child will again happily splash around in the water and learn to stay afloat without the help of adults.
"No" to unnecessary experiments
As for diving: inexperienced parents should not experiment with this, because the child may choke and will forever have a fear of water. Yes, there are practices where a baby swims underwater, but before you start doing this, you need to take special courses or training.
Baths for bathing: what are they?
Plastic
It is quite possible to bathe a one-year-old child in such a bathtub, as it is quite comfortable and spacious. They often have a built-in slide for swimming, compartments for soap and washcloths.
Models without a slide are less comfortable because the mother will have to bathe and at the same time support the newborn’s head with her hand.
Anatomical
In them, the baby takes a comfortable half-sitting-half-lying position and is fixed, which allows the mother to free both hands to wash the child.
However, such models have anatomical protrusions, which over time become a hindrance for an active baby.
Inflatable
They are convenient for storage and transportation, and prevent the child from getting injured during bathing. These baths come in all sorts of colors and are very comfortable for children.
The disadvantage of such baths is the presence of folds that are difficult to clean. Moreover, over time, harmful microbes accumulate in them, emitting an unpleasant odor. For these reasons, most mothers use inflatable baths only as a backup or “country” option.
Also in our time, a great variety of bathtubs have appeared with various additional features, such as: a built-in thermometer, scales, a rubber mat, anti-slip coating, thermoplastic inserts (change color depending on the water temperature), drainage holes and other devices.
But is there any point at all in such a bath if you can bathe the baby in a shared bath? You decide!
Should you use a baby bath?
Benefits of a special bath for newborns
- in a small container it is easier to control the baby;
- requires less water for boiling;
- convenient for moving even if the house does not have a real bath, but, for example, only a shower;
- you can add potassium permanganate, a decoction of string and other herbal decoctions without fear of thereby spoiling the enamel of the bathtub (plastic is easily washed).
Flaws
- in such a bath the water cools down faster than in a large one, so you need to constantly monitor the water temperature to make the baby comfortable;
- A large bathtub gives your baby more room to move.
Why do we need slides and hammocks for swimming?
Swimming slides are attached to the bathtub (or built into it), and allow the child to bathe longer. However, they have a very limited period of use, since such a slide may be too big for a newborn, and at 5-6 months the baby begins to sit up and move actively, so the slide only gets in the way.
Therefore, most mothers believe that a bathing slide is not the most practical device.
There are also hammocks for swimming, allowing the mother not to be afraid that the baby will slip out. The hammock attaches to any bathtub and can be removed and washed.
How to properly wash babies?
The baby's delicate body requires compliance with hygiene rules and precautions. There are differences in the characteristics of washing for boys and girls. At the same time, it is extremely important to carefully consider this procedure in both cases.
How often should this be done?
The frequency of cleaning depends on how many times your baby poops (or every diaper change).
What is needed for washing?
For the procedure you will need:
- cotton pads,
- baby oil,
- fresh diaper,
- soft large towel.
Preparatory stage - removing the diaper
Before the procedure, you need to remove the baby's diaper and carefully wipe off the feces with a damp cloth.
You shouldn’t use wet wipes too often and forcefully scrub off stuck fragments of feces from your butt; it’s better to moisten a cotton pad with baby lotion or oil and lightly rub it over the uncleansed area of skin - everything will wash off quickly and easily.
How to properly wash baby under the tap?
When washing, the baby is placed with his back on the mother's left arm so that his head rests in the elbow bend and his body lies along the arm. You need to support the baby's thigh with your fingers, and his butt with the other hand. This is the safest and most comfortable position.
The movements of the hand when washing and the direction of the water jet are strictly in the direction from the genitals to the anus (to prevent bacteria from the intestines from entering the genitals). It is advisable to wash with tap water, the temperature of which is approximately equal to the temperature of a newborn.
After finishing the procedure, you need to wipe the baby’s skin dry with a diaper or terry towel.
Features of a boy's washing
- when washing the penis and scrotum (important!), you must not open the head of the penis, you just need to massage it lightly;
- If it is not possible to wash the boy with tap water, you should use cotton pads soaked in baby lotion or boiled water: first you need to wipe the penis, then the testicles and folds of skin in the perineum, and then the butt.
Features of washing a girl
- if vernix lubrication is detected in the labia area, it must be washed off;
- The girl needs to be washed very gently, but thoroughly, since careless care can lead to fusion of the labia and other gynecological problems.
Do I need to use additional diaper products?
If the baby's skin is healthy and free of irritation, it is not recommended to use powder, oils, creams and other products under the diaper - they are used only in cases of irritation and diaper rash.
Also, do not overuse soap when washing, as it dries the skin, and the baby’s skin needs to breathe freely.
Be aware that when you combine baby cream and powder at the same time, lumps form in the diaper, which rub and irritate the baby’s delicate skin, so avoid making such mistakes.
Also, remember that any diaper products you use (if you do use them) must be intended for children. Never use cosmetics for adults, no matter how expensive and high quality they are!
If you notice any redness in the genital area in your child, consult a doctor immediately; do not take any measures yourself.
Bathing a newborn baby in the bath is a daily family ritual that involves all its members (even the shaggy and tailed ones). The process itself is not complicated, but it is always exciting for young parents. To make bathing your child in the bath a pleasant procedure for you and your baby, you just need to carefully prepare all its stages.
When should you bathe your baby?
First of all, you should decide on the bathing time. Pediatricians (including the now popular Dr. Komarovsky) definitely recommend evening bathing. Indeed, an evening bath helps the baby relax and prepare for subsequent sleep. However, not all children, and especially infants, react calmly to the bathing process, which means they become overexcited, capricious and then refuse to fall asleep. In this case, you can absolutely safely move the bathing time to the daytime or even morning. After all, in the end, the main task of bathing a baby is hygiene, which can be observed at any time.
Having figured out the bathing time, we decide on the container. A small bathtub for bathing babies is not at all necessary, but it makes life much easier due to its size. It is easy to wash, you can take it with you on trips to visit grandparents and relatives, and it is convenient to install with one hand. There is perhaps only one downside to baby baths - babies outgrow them very quickly.
If you decide to bathe your baby in a large bathtub, you should follow one strict rule - the bathtub must always be clean before placing the baby in it. Absolute sterility, of course, cannot be achieved, but this is not required. It is enough to rinse the bathtub with a brush, baking soda and hot water. It is better to try not to use modern cleaning products.
What you need to bathe a baby in a large bathtub
Adaptations that may be needed when bathing a child in the bath:
- Thin diaper. From time immemorial it has been recommended for accustoming babies to water, especially to a large bathtub. The baby, wrapped in a swaddle, is lowered into the bath, gradually pouring water over the body from the palm and unrolling the layers of fabric.
- A plastic bathing slide or a bathing hammock is a device that helps parents calmly bathe a newborn in a large bathtub. A device in the form of a concave container that is attached to the bottom of the bathtub. When bathing, the baby is placed on a slide (in a hammock), thereby freeing the hands of the parents.
- Swimming circle. It is inconvenient for bathing as it is attached to the neck. If you remove the circle from the baby and continue washing, the child will feel insecure and begin to worry. More suitable for learning to swim and overall a lot of fun.
- Swimming cap. It comes in different modifications and is worn on the head. Allows parents to calmly wash their child while entertaining him with swimming.
- An older child who can already sit may need a special non-slip mat or baby seat for bathing. Relevant for children who do not want to sit quietly in one place.
Further questions from young parents concern the bathing process itself - whether it is necessary to boil water for bathing a newborn, whether it is worth adding potassium permanganate to the water, what temperature must be maintained for bathing a baby in the bathtub, how long to bathe a child, etc.
Briefly we can say the following. Boiling water and bathing the baby with the addition of potassium permanganate are recommended, i.e. desirable for use. Since by the time of the first bath the umbilical wound will have already healed, there will no longer be a special need for sterility and disinfection of the water. Therefore, here we can only advise parents to act at their own discretion.
What should be the water temperature for bathing a baby?
The same applies to the temperature of the water for bathing an infant. In general, it is believed that water at 37 degrees will be comfortable for a baby. You can find out the temperature by measuring it with a special thermometer for water. In addition, the degree of suitability of water can be further understood by briefly dipping your elbow into it. If you do not feel that the water is hot or too cold, then the temperature is suitable for bathing a child.
E. Komarovsky suggests starting swimming at 37 degrees, reducing the water temperature every day to 25 degrees. By bringing the water temperature to room temperature, says Komarovsky, parents will provide their child with all the conditions for hardening. In principle, the doctor’s advice is not satisfactory, but not all newborns can easily tolerate swimming in lukewarm water, since they are simply cold. In this case, you can advise making the water a little hotter, having learned experimentally what is the most comfortable option for the child. Hardening can be ensured by listening to another piece of advice from E. Komarovsky - do not close the bathroom door when bathing the baby, thereby eliminating a large temperature difference in the rooms.
The last thing you should pay attention to is accessories for bathing a newborn in the bathtub. Or rather, their absence. Because babies, as a rule, are washed without soap and a washcloth, adding bathing products in the form of gel or liquid soap only once a week. The washing process itself looks like a gentle stroking and massage of the baby in water, without effort, pressing or rubbing. A little later, from 3-4 months, you can start using a soft mitten or sponge for washing (preferably natural).
So, the procedure for bathing newborn children in a large bathtub involves the following simple scheme: choose a time for bathing - clean the bathtub by this point - draw water at the desired temperature - undress the baby - lower it into the water - rinse the face and head - wash the groin area, perineum and folds - poured water from the shower/jug over it - took the baby out of the water, wrapped him in a towel. The whole process takes from 10 to 15 minutes of pure time. And for washing to be more than just a hygienic procedure, you should bathe in a good mood, with songs, smiles and warm cooing from mom and dad.