Bathing a newborn baby for the first time after the hospital. How to bathe a newborn for the first time When can you bathe a newborn after the hospital

Not all parents understand that it is necessary to bathe babies not only to keep them clean. Moreover, in the first year of a baby's life, washing and bathing have fundamentally different meanings for him. How to bathe a newborn and an older baby, and why do it in principle? Let's tell!

Bathing a baby is a special procedure, which, in addition to some minor troubles, brings a lot of joy and benefit to parents and the baby. Of course, if the parents approach this "warm" event with a "cold" head...

Bathing and hygiene: what's the connection?

No! Bathing a baby has nothing to do with baby hygiene. Unless - water is involved in both rituals, but that's all. You wash a baby (or wash a little one, wash it whole from time to time, etc.) with one single purpose - to make it cleaner.

This usually requires: running water or special wet wipes, delicate baby soap (preferably in liquid form) and about 5 minutes of time.

But bathing is a longer, creative and useful process. You bathe both a newborn and an older baby to:

to give him a feeling of pleasure and psychological comfort (after all, he still remembers how he swam in his mother's womb);
provide him with some necessary physical activity;
develop communication, tactile and emotional skills of the baby;
awaken his appetite;
Finally, bathing is an excellent procedure for hardening and preventing colds.

How to bathe a newborn in the first two weeks of life

Let's define the concepts: you can wash the baby for hygienic purposes from the very first day of his birth. But bathing in a large bath and in ordinary tap water until it is contraindicated for him.

The umbilical wound heals completely in about 10-15 days after the birth of the child. Therefore, for the next two weeks after discharge from the hospital, parents have 2 adequate options for a hygiene procedure for a newborn baby:

A newborn baby can be bathed in a small baby bath using only boiled water. In Western tradition, it is customary to bathe a newborn baby with a tiny soft towel - this way he has a more plausible association with the mother's womb. But from a medical point of view, there are no arguments for or against this - if you want, bathe with a towel, if you want - without.

Bathing a newborn in a diaper or a small towel gives him a feeling of "intrauterine comfort" - so say child psychologists and neonatologists.

For the first two weeks, a newborn baby can not be bathed in water, but simply wiped with special wet wipes.

How to bathe a newborn in tap water for the first time

Finally, the baby's umbilical wound has completely healed, which means that a newborn baby can now be bathed in ordinary tap water. We repeat: not just wash, namely - bathe! How to do it so that both the child and parents get the maximum pleasure and benefit from the process of bathing? So, you need to bathe the child:

In the big bath. A large bath for a baby is practically a sea-ocean: he can happily jerk his legs and arms, follow toys or grab them. The water in a large bath cools down more slowly and bathing can be quite "stretched" up to 20-30 minutes. And it is bathing in a large bath that the baby spends a large amount of energy, which allows him to sleep soundly until the morning, gaining strength. This physical energy exchange is extremely important: it normalizes metabolism, stimulates the work of muscles and internal organs.

Another important argument in favor of bathing in a large bath: when the baby’s chest is completely immersed in water (that is, the baby bathes entirely and only his head “sticks out”), then the very mechanism of the breathing process becomes fundamentally different. In the water, the baby spends just as much energy on inhaling and exhaling, as always, but his lungs open much more at the same time. This means that they contain more oxygen than "on land". And accordingly - more oxygen will come from the lungs to all corners of the body, which will provide it with faster and more prosperous development and growth.

In clean water. There is no need to boil water for bathing after the umbilical wound has healed - now it is already unwise, inconvenient and does not make sense. However, the water in which you plan to bathe your baby should be as clean as possible. Do not trust the water treatment system in your city - put a special cleaning filter on your faucet.

In a pleasant and interesting environment. If you find it difficult to constantly support the baby in the water with your hands, then you may well transfer it to the "free swimming" mode. To do this, today there are a lot of devices, such as special swim rings for babies and caps with foam inserts. These useful inventions securely keep the child's head afloat, but at the same time allow his body to completely submerge in water without anyone's support. Hang a mobile with music and toys on the edge of the bath - so that the baby gradually learns to reach for them, and every evening bathing will become a real symbiosis of a sort of "Disneyland" and spa for the baby - both exciting and useful!

Special inflatable circles and caps with foam inserts are real "rescuers" of parental lower backs. Agree - even in the name of an ideal and long-term children's bathing, it is very difficult and risky to stand tilted for half an hour or more ...

At what temperature to bathe a newborn and an older baby

Bathing water temperature varies slightly depending on bathing experience. At the very beginning - as soon as the baby's navel has healed and you have already prepared the usual "adult" bath for him, the optimal water temperature to start the procedure is 33-34 ° C.

Let us pay special attention - this temperature regime is suitable for a large volume of water and space - when the child has the opportunity to actively move in the water, move his arms and legs, "swim" in the hands of his parents.

If the little one was put in a small baby bath, where there is no way to move a finger, then the temperature of the bathing water should be about 36 ° C. However, no more than 37 ° C is the temperature “ceiling” for the water in which you bathe the baby.

Now again about those lucky ones who are allowed by their parents to swim in the "adult" bath. You can start bathing with a temperature of 33-34 ° C, but gradually it makes sense to lower it a little. Namely - every week you can reduce the water temperature by 1 degree. It is absolutely safe for a child, but the prevention of respiratory diseases is the most reliable.

Gradually, the temperature of the bathing water can be brought up to 28-30 ° C, and in such conditions, by the age of six months, the baby will be able to spend 30-40 minutes quite comfortably and with health benefits. After a long bath in cool water, tired and well fed, the baby is almost guaranteed to sleep soundly until the morning.

When is the best time to bathe a baby?

If we are talking specifically about the procedure of bathing, and not washing - that is, about a more or less long (15-30 minute or more) stay of the baby in the water, then it is best to carry out this event exactly before evening feeding and sleeping.

The fact is that swimming, as a fairly active kind of "sport" available to a small crumb, takes a lot of energy from him - about the same amount as a 40-minute aerobic exercise in the fitness room takes from you. And just like you, after such a load, the baby, as a rule, has only two needs - to eat "from the belly" and sleep.

Properly and reasonably organized bathing of a baby can provide a sound healthy sleep all night long not only for the baby himself, but also for his relatives.

Already at the age of 4-5 months, with a regimen of long bathing every night (we repeat: 20-30 minutes) and having a good meal before going to bed, the child is able to sleep soundly all night without waking up for night feeding. Which inevitably makes all parents, without exception, twice as happy.

Can a baby dive in the tub?

Newborn children have such a wonderful reflex - when water enters the respiratory tract, a spasm immediately occurs in them, they overlap and the child cannot actually choke in the water. Of course, if he is immersed in water for a long time, he may die from a lack of oxygen - that is, in fact, the little one threatens to suffocate from a lack of air, but does not choke from an abundance of water.

Simply put, you don’t have to be scared if the baby accidentally rolled over and “hid” under the water, there is nothing fundamentally dangerous in this. If you quickly raise his head above the water and he can, after coughing (if there is a need for it), breathe freely, then such a “dive” is considered quite physiological and ordinary. Moreover, many progressive schools and courses for young mothers and fathers specifically teach parents how to dip their babies with their heads so that the child does not lose this valuable reflex - automatic breath-holding when water enters the respiratory tract. As a rule, children who are “taught” in this way from childhood to freely float on the water and behave underwater without panic, learn to swim very quickly and rarely get respiratory diseases.

Whether to dive from time to time to the baby while swimming or not - the parents themselves decide. If it is pleasant and useful (with proper supervision by adults!) for the child, but every time it causes a heart attack in the mother, then it is better not to dive at all. Not a single pediatrician will undertake to prohibit one thing or promote another. The style of home bathing is solely at the discretion of the family. The main thing is that both the baby and the parent feel comfortable during the procedure and enjoy bathing the child.

If the baby never dives while swimming, then the breath-holding reflex fades away completely approximately 2-2.5 months after the birth of the child.

What to add to bath water

By and large, you can not add anything. A baby of infancy can be quite successfully bathed in ordinary tap water, provided that it is more or less clean. But if you still really want to somehow “flavor” the bathing water, then it is best to use a decoction of the string. Why not potassium permanganate and not supposedly soothing collection?

Potassium permanganate. Any grandmother's favorite substance. But if it can also be useful for washing newborn babies, then potassium permanganate is ineffective for bathing a baby in a large bath: if it is diluted to a pale pink color, then its anti-inflammatory properties are extremely small, and if diluted in a concentrated form, that is, there is a risk of “burning the delicate mucous membrane of the eyes.

Herbal soothing preparations. As Dr. Komarovsky often jokes, pediatric neurologists are very fond of prescribing such fees for young mothers. They tell them that these herbs calm babies before bed, but in fact, they give them a reason for complacency ... to the mothers themselves! E.O. Komarovsky: “If a child has problems in the neurological part, then no herbs, alas, will help him, even if he is “rinsed” in them around the clock. And if there are no problems as such, then the fees are all the more useless.” One way or another, there is not yet a single serious study that has confirmed that a certain herb added to water for calming would bring really tangible results.

Series. Perhaps this is the most useful “seasoning” for infant bathing. It has a certain antibacterial and healing effect, but it is completely safe for the delicate mucous membranes of the baby. And if it makes sense to add something to the water before bathing the baby, then it is the decoction of the string.

After the mother and baby are discharged from the hospital and returned home, the question arises about the first bathing a newborn. How to carry out the procedure correctly, at what time and what means to use, parents have a lot of questions. The main thing is safety, so you can not leave the child alone in the room. In addition, it is advisable not to forget about a comfortable temperature, bathing should take place in water no higher than 37 degrees. Gentle touches and kind words will inspire peace and happiness, strengthen the emotional bond between mother and child.

Water temperature for bathing a newborn

The skin of a newborn is very delicate, so you need to carefully check the temperature of the bathing water. For these purposes, a thermometer is suitable, with which it will be possible to determine whether the temperature is suitable.

Too cold water leads to hypothermia and colds.
Heat expands the pores through which infections enter the body.
Too hot leads to burns and problems in the functioning of internal organs.

If a newborn cries while bathing, this is a signal that something is wrong, and the actions cause the baby anxiety and discomfort.

To accustom the baby to the schedule, it is enough to choose the same time for bathing the baby, for example, before bedtime. Pleasant warmth will relax and help you fall asleep soundly. It is important to wash every day and not do it afterwards - this can lead to spitting up.

In some cases, the baby cries after bathing, why this happens:

The wrong temperature or too cold air in the room can cause discomfort.
The desire to drink or are also the cause of crying.
Fear of the new and the unknown.
Colic.
Fatigue and stress.
Skin irritation.

If for bathing there are no devices for a newborn yet, then the process can be carried out in an adult bath. It can be filled completely so that the little one can freely move his arms and legs, in addition, it will cool down much more slowly.

Important! You need to know how to wash the bath before bathing the baby. For this, ordinary baking soda will do, which will destroy bacteria, dirt and leave no plaque or odor behind.

It is not necessary to constantly boil water for a newborn, this is done only in the first weeks, until the umbilical wound has healed and the baby has enough rubbing with a sponge.

How to bathe a newborn

Daily splashing is a mandatory item in the baby’s routine, but what to do if he fell asleep in the evening, is it possible to wake him up. If this is an isolated case, then you should not wake up the baby, but if this happens constantly, then it is preferable to adjust his regimen to include a visit to the shower room.
Take a bath of water (temperature +37 ºС). It is necessary to take into account the time of year and air temperature. Filling the bath with water, it is necessary to stir it periodically so that there is uniform heating. To determine the temperature, it is appropriate to use a water thermometer. The volume of water is such that it slightly covers the body, and the head is open.
When using decoctions of herbs or a solution of potassium permanganate, add them after filling the bath.
Wash your hands well with soap, remove rings, bracelets so as not to scratch the baby. Set the time for the duration of bathing the baby.
The baby is carefully undressed and slowly immersed in water. For a more comfortable stay in the water, you can use a diaper. Gradually getting wet, she will wrap the baby, he will be calmer, like a mother in the tummy (adaptive bathing of a newborn).
While bathing a newborn, the door should be slightly ajar for a more comfortable stay of the baby in the water.
Bathing the baby is best done together. It's safer this way, because the baby twitches actively, and sometimes soapy. if this is not possible, then you can use various devices for bathing a newborn, for example, a hammock can come to the rescue. Additionally, bathing together, when mother and father are in the bathroom with the baby, strengthens the bond between them, pacifies and makes the process more interesting.
Newly-made parents are afraid that the baby will not take a sip of water from the bathroom, but there is nothing to worry about.
Young parents wonder how to hold a newborn while bathing to make it safe and convenient. In a large bathing suit, the baby can only be supported under the head, allowing the body to hold on to itself, or to keep the fingers under the neck and armpits.
To prevent the baby from slipping out, you need to grab the shoulder farthest from you and hold your hand in the armpit. Back of the wrist. The other hand under the ass. In this position, lower and remove the baby from the water. After immersion in water, the legs can be left free.

How to bathe a newborn. Photo: rodivnizze.ru

For washing, you can use a stream from the tap, how to hold a newborn - lay it on your left wrist, face up, holding the leg with your fingers, and the second to perform ablution.

How to properly hold a newborn under a faucet. Photo: my-sunshine.ru

At first, you can carry out adaptive bathing of the baby several times, which will help you get used to the new conditions. To do this, he is wrapped in a diaper and bathed right in it, so that he plunges into a state close to being in his mother's stomach.
Wash the baby with your free hand: neck, chest, stomach, arms, armpits, legs, inguinal folds, back, and at the very end the head. Thoroughly rinse all folds, unclench the cams.
Wash the perineum very thoroughly. In girls: folds between the labia. In boys, gently wash the penis without moving the foreskin, scrotum, then the area around the anus.
Wash the head gently, holding it with your hand and slightly tilting it back. Pour water from the face to the back of the head. Rinse the creases behind the ears. To teach the baby to hold his breath and swim, you can already pour water from the back of the head to the forehead while bathing the newborn, using marker words "Attention" or "one two Three"(you can think of it yourself).
Pour the baby with the help of a bathing ladle after ablutions (the temperature in it is 1 degree lower than the water in the bath).
The frequency of bathing the baby does not depend on the degree of contamination; it is advisable to wash the newborn daily. At 2-3 months, there is no need to use any cream, gel, soap or shampoo, if the baby is not dirty with feces, a warm stream from the tap is enough.
After discharge, the child has a clothespin on the navel, and many parents doubt whether it is possible to bathe the newborn with it. It is necessary to solve this issue together with the pediatrician, if the event is decided to be held, then it is enough to adhere to the rules: heat the water to 37 degrees; boil water so as not to lead to suppuration.
Is it possible to wet the navel and what to do if it gets wet, it is advisable to wait until it dries, gently blot with a cotton swab and smear with peroxide or brilliant green.
To cleanse the skin of a newborn, you can take a bathing sponge, which gently cleanses, makes a light massage and the baby will like it. It can be used alone or with baby bath.
If, during bathing, water gets into the baby’s ear, do not be afraid, for starters, it is placed on one side so that the liquid flows out, and then on the second. You can use cotton swabs, thanks to which you can check for dampness in the ear canals. To prevent a cold, it is advisable to put on a baby cap or hat.
Bath time for the first time from a few minutes to 15, as you get used to it. After a month, you can increase to 20-30 minutes.

Important! If the baby's nasolabial triangle turns blue, it is advisable to observe it. Children have a very delicate and thin dermis through which blood vessels show through, so in some cases, turning blue is a natural reaction to stress, for example, when crying for a long time. If accompanying symptoms appear, for example, wheezing when breathing or a runny nose, it is advisable to contact a pediatrician for clarification.

What you need for bathing a newborn

In addition, for the procedure, you need to prepare a room in which the newborn will be. The room should be warm, avoid drafts, but if everything goes in the bathroom, then you should leave the door open. The main thing for mother or father is to keep calm, which will be transmitted to the baby and then the event will take place without complications.

If you briefly analyze what you need to bathe a newborn baby, you get a small list.

You can put a sponge in the bath, which makes the process more comfortable for the baby.
For convenience, the container can be placed on a stand, which will allow you to adjust the height, relieve the lower back and free your palms. In addition, such a stand can be used as a dryer for clothes.
The basin is supposed to be thoroughly washed before and after ablution.
To communicate with a newborn, it is recommended to talk with the baby, tell various nursery rhymes, rhymes and sing songs while bathing.
Thermometer for water.
Towel and clothes for the baby.
Bathing facilities.
Products for bathing the baby.
A decoction of herbs or a solution of potassium permanganate.

Newborn Bathing Equipment

In some cases, a bath for bathing a baby is not the best option, because. the child starts crying and worrying. In this case, a special small bath for a newborn is suitable - this is the best option, because the baby is in a limited space, like a mother in her stomach and feels safe.

Bathtub with stand makes life easier, because it will be at the right height, it will be enough just to substitute a chair and sit next to it for washing.
folding the design is convenient and easy to use, safe, takes up little space, you can take it with you to the country house or on a trip.

For ordinary baths, special liners will be required that will facilitate the process of washing the newborn.

Bath for bathing a newborn. Photo: profilaktika.tomsk.ru

Slide for bathing a newborn

The plastic hill is convenient in application, since. the anatomical shape repeats the curves of the body, the baby sits tightly in it and this does not cause him any inconvenience, and the human palms will be free. From what age can a slide be used for bathing a newborn - from birth, because. it is safe, does not allow the baby to fall out and gives the opportunity to control the situation. There are also fabric slides for swimming - they are a metal frame on which the fabric is stretched. However, many parents prefer plastic or anatomical ones, because. they are safer, the baby does not fall out of them, does not slip.

Not so long ago, it became popular to wear a circle for babies. From how many months can you bathe a newborn in a circle - doctors advise starting to use the device from 1.5 months.

Before putting on a bathing circle around the neck of a newborn, it is useful to introduce him to him, for this you can let him touch, and then put them on. How to wear a circle:

carefully, spread the latches on the back;
put on the neck;
bring the parts together and adjust the fit so that there is little space left;
the chin should lie in a special recess.

Although it is safe to bathe a baby with a ring around his neck, it is not advisable to leave him alone in the room, even for a short period of time. Young parents are also concerned about the question of whether such a circle harms the newborn. If a quality product is chosen, then its use will only benefit, because. this improves and enhances its development.

Bathing circle for a newborn. Photo: kpoxa.info

Hammock for bathing a newborn

In order for the hands to be free while bathing the baby, there is a hammock. It consists of a strong mesh that is attached to the structure with strong hooks and supports the baby during the entire process without restricting movement.

Bathing mattress for a newborn

For bathing in a large volume, you can use the mattress, which has an anatomical shape, perfectly floats and can withstand a child weighing from 3 to 8 kg. You can not use oil-based cosmetics while bathing the baby, and after the event, the mattress is thoroughly dried.

Bathing cap for a newborn

The cap for babies is a cotton cap on which foam liners are sewn. The essence of this dress is to support the baby's head - this will affect his ability to stay in the waves, develop the muscles of the back and limbs. However, this does not mean that the little one will not need to be supported, because he can roll over and swallow liquids.

You can buy a foam cap at any store, or you can make it yourself, it does not take much time and effort.

Cap with foam for bathing a newborn. Photo: ladysarafan.ru

Collar for bathing a newborn

A collar is also suitable for bathing a baby, which is worn around the neck and keeps it afloat in a large font, pool or sea. Such a device will last up to six months and help the baby hold his head, and then his body. However, you should be careful, because the inflatable collar can be harmful, for example, if the baby learns to reach the bottom with his legs, this will lead to a lack of coordination.

Bathing bed for a newborn

Used to free the hands and make the child feel comfortable and safe. However, it is desirable to support the baby so that it does not slip and fall out. Despite the resemblance to a slide, the deck chair is soft and pleasant to the touch.

Baby bath pillow and net

For swims in a large bath, a bathing pillow is suitable for a newborn, thanks to which he will hold on, but it is not advisable to leave the child alone, because. it is easy to slip off and swallow water. For a small volume, a mesh is suitable in which the baby feels comfortable, does not slip and holds confidently.

Herbs for bathing a newborn

Pediatricians advise adding decoctions of herbs for bathing a baby.

- the most popular antiseptic plant that treats problems with the gastrointestinal tract, increases, fights microbes and pathogens, and is also great for bathing a newborn. It reduces inflammation, soothes the epidermis. To prepare a decoction, it is enough to pour a tablespoon of flowers with a liter of boiling water, let it brew and strain.
Since ancient times, parents use to bathe newborns. The grass perfectly copes with itching, inflammation and hives, it is recommended to arrange such manipulations no more than 2 times a week. To prepare a decoction, take 150 g of chopped grass, pour it out, boil, insist.
for bathing the baby has a beneficial effect on inflammation, irritation, the effects of diathesis and prickly heat. To prepare a tablespoon of herbs, pour a glass of boiling water and leave to infuse, after which the sage infusion is filtered.
Due to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects, it is suitable for washing, because it reduces the activity of pathogenic bacteria, heals wounds, relieves muscle spasms and does not cause.
The decoction fights various skin diseases, relieves itching and burning. Before use, it would be appropriate to visit a doctor and obtain permission and recommendations from him. For cooking, take 2 tablespoons of flowers for 0.5 liters of boiling water, then insist.
Bathing a newborn in a bay leaf relieves allergic manifestations and soothes the dermis. For cooking, take 10 leaves of laurel, add boiling water to a liter and boil for 10 minutes, after infusion apply.

To normalize sleep, you can use soothing herbs for bathing a newborn.

Lavender pacifies the nervous system of the baby, disinfects, improves well-being and improves sleep.
for bathing it is also useful in the form of an infusion, because. calms arousal and normalizes sleep.

Need to know! For bathing the baby is used, which contains iodine, which means it improves the functioning of the endocrine system, reduces sweating, relieves stress and sets you up for a pleasant sleep. The temperature should not exceed 35 degrees, take 5 tablespoons of salt, after 10-15 minutes the baby is pulled out and rinsed under the tap.

Means for bathing a newborn

After bathing the baby for the first time after discharge from mom and dad, they think about whether it is necessary to use soap or shampoo. Doctors recommend using them only for cleaning dirt, for example, foam for newborns.

The French brand has developed a bathing gel that is suitable for use from the first days of life and is hypoallergenic. It cleanses the skin, softens it, does not dry out and does not cause irritation.
Weleda is a manufacturer of organic cosmetics and they have released a series of products suitable for children that soften, tune in to healthy sleep.
suitable for use in severely dry skin, indicated from the beginning of life. This remedy is suitable for infants with atopic dermatitis, psoriasis or other skin diseases.
German company Bübchen has been collaborating with pediatricians for years, collecting important information and inventing cosmetics specifically for newborns. It does not cause irritation, soothes inflammation and.
In addition, some practice potassium permanganate for bathing a baby, so you need to know how much to add it. How to properly dilute potassium permanganate for bathing a newborn: DO NOT throw the crystals of the substance into the bath; Place 5-7 crystals in a glass, pour hot water (does not dissolve in cold water); stir to dissolve the crystals completely; strain through cheesecloth; Check if there are any crystals on the bottom. A pink-violet solution. Gently add to the bath without a child, make sure that the water becomes evenly slightly pink. There are both opponents of this method and defenders, some argue that the solution disinfects the epidermis, promotes the healing of the umbilical wound, fights diaper rash, and others that it is poison for the child's body.

Interesting fact! Dr. Komarovsky clearly spoke out that bathing a newborn in a potassium permanganate solution does not bring much benefit, but can lead to mucosal burns and poisoning if this remedy is not properly diluted.

What to do after bathing a newborn

After bathing is over, gently blot the skin and wrap it in a towel with a hood or corner, which will protect the baby from colds.
All folds must be dried well.
Treat the umbilical wound.
After bathing, the epidermis of the baby must be smeared with something, such as cream or oil. In addition, it is important to carefully treat the baby's folds and lubricate them with powder, oil or cream to avoid diaper rash. For these purposes, ointment is well suited.
If the skin of a newborn flakes off after bathing, it is advisable to abandon the solution of potassium permanganate and cosmetics, and after the procedure, use oil and cream that will soften and moisturize the layers of the dermis.
After wiping the newborn, put on a cap, diaper and wrap in warm diapers. It must be remembered that the baby keeps the temperature for about 15 minutes. Do not remove the cap until the hair is dry.
Then you can feed the baby and put to sleep.

Interesting! The best advice for caring for young children before, during and after taking a bath was provided by the Union of Pediatricians of Russia in recommendations for skin care.

Output

Regardless of which baby bathing kit parents choose, the main thing is to keep the epidermis of the newborn clean. Regular bathing of a newborn not only cleanses the skin, but also participates in the physical development of the child, as well as improving his psycho-emotional state. Water sessions relax the body, relieve colic, muscle spasms and develop.

Bathing a baby for the first time is a real holiday in a family where a baby has just been born. But in order to carry out this procedure correctly, you need to follow a certain procedure. At the first stage, there are a million questions that need to be answered.

Only after the first bath, the answers come by themselves. But still, for a responsible family, it is better to prepare for this procedure.

Bathing a newborn for the first time: how to bathe a newborn baby?

The main question that I want to answer is when can I bathe a newborn baby after the hospital? The first time you can bathe a newborn as soon as the umbilical wound heals. It will be possible to buy a baby immediately after discharge.

But the presence of an umbilical wound can complicate this process. Therefore, pediatricians advise not to rush and wait until the ass is completely healed. The risk of infection is not excluded and can be dangerous for the baby. Once the umbilical wound has healed, then the risk will disappear and it will be possible to start bathing the baby for the first time without any fear.

Bathing a newborn baby for the first time at home: what to cook?

All bath accessories for the baby are purchased before the birth of the crumbs. But if still not bought, then after the hospital, there is a little time to make purchases.

When to bathe a newborn: how to choose the time?

When choosing a time for water procedures, it is worth considering that bathing a child is best done at the same time. This will be the most important point for accustoming the baby to a certain regimen.

Bathing a child on the advice of pediatricians is best before direct feeding or bedtime. This process is due to the fact that after bathing the baby gets tired and therefore sleeps much stronger and longer. But do not forget about the personal qualities of the newborn. After all, not every child will be able to swim in the evening, there are also children who prefer to take a bath in the morning. Despite such a small age, the child understands everything, however, he cannot yet say.

The main rule is that Bathing your baby on a full stomach is not recommended.. You need to wait about an hour after feeding and only then start bathing. Water procedures act on the child quite hard and take away his strength. After the procedure, the baby is guaranteed to want to eat. Therefore, it is recommended to wait a while between these two processes, and then carry out the procedure.

How to bathe a newborn: at what temperature

It is especially important to understand at what temperature it is worth bathing a child. The temperature during swimming should not be lower than 37 degrees. Thus, an optimal comfortable environment for the child is created. If the water is cold or hot, then the baby can swim due to a sharp change in temperature.

If your home does not have a thermometer to measure the temperature of the water, then the parent can determine the optimal temperature in a tactile way by dipping his hand into the water. If the water is equal to body temperature, then you can safely bathe the baby. In addition, pediatricians advise gradually lowering the temperature of the water in the bathroom by several degrees in order to harden the child. It is recommended to do this carefully, for several months.. After that, sudden temperature fluctuations will not harm the baby and bring him discomfort. The first bath should be carried out at a temperature of 37 degrees Celsius.

The first bath of a newborn: water preparation

Our grandmothers are sure that in order to disinfect water and see all pathogens, you need to boil water before bathing a newborn. Do not trust this method too much and follow it unquestioningly. Doctors have long been assuring us that you can bathe your baby in ordinary tap water. If the child accidentally swallowed some water, then nothing terrible will happen in this case.

Among mothers and grandmothers, there is an opinion that something should be specially added to the water. It can be solutions and various herbal infusions. It is not recommended to add potassium permanganate to the bath, as it can cause burns of the mucous membrane. If water gets into the mouth and eyes of the crumbs, there may be a serious skin burn. A few decades ago, a solution of potassium permanganate disinfected water. To date, the quality of water is not so sad, so there is a need for potassium permanganate.

You can bathe a child with the addition of a variety of herbal infusions. They can be used as an anti-inflammatory and sedative. These herbal infusions include string and chamomile; lavender and oak bark; calendula and motherwort; nettle and St. John's wort.

These herbs can help get rid of diaper rash and soothe your baby. In addition, they will help improve sleep. But before using them, you need to determine the presence or absence of an allergic reaction to a particular herb. Since many of the herbs can cause a variety of rashes, redness and swelling.

How to bathe your baby for the first time

In order for the first bath to go smoothly, you need to follow a few rules.

Folk omens about bathing

In Slavic culture, many signs and beliefs can be associated with the first bath. Whether or not to believe in signs is up to you, but you can use the wisdom that has been accumulated for centuries. The first bath of a child is one of the most memorable events in the life of a family. For the first time, it may seem that the procedure is complicated.

There is a sign that for the first time after the birth of a baby, a grandmother or grandfather should bathe. In fact, it does not matter who will bathe the child. It will be easy and pleasant to go this way for the first time. The main thing is to prepare and not complicate the task. Any relatives can bathe a newborn for the first time or after a few weeks. From folk signs, you can use some options:

In order to have good lactation, a little breast milk is added to the water at the first bath. For the first time, you can redeem a child only by father and mother without anyone's help - this is a powerful amulet against the evil eye and damage. So that everyone loves the child and he grows up beautiful. Add a decoction of herbs to the bathroom lovage. In the event that the girl is dressed in a white shirt while bathing, then her skin will remain white and beautiful.

In addition to the basic things, children's cosmetics may be needed. In the first month of a baby's life, this is unlikely, but it is still necessary to prepare all the ingredients. In the second and third months of a child's life, you can buy rubber toys that will attract the attention of the baby. At a more conscious age, you will need a washcloth, as well as a bathing circle. Some mothers purchase special bathing caps so that water does not get on the baby's face.

Bathing can take place in any conditions, the main thing is that this process is comfortable for the child. Parents, grandparents should provide the newborn with everything necessary as much as possible. Proper bathing is the key to sound sleep and a good appetite. Therefore, not only the health of the child, but also the sleep of the parents will directly depend on this process. By taking care in advance and purchasing everything necessary for this process, you can be ready for bathing a newborn for the first time.

The birth of a child is a long-awaited event in every family, which brings great responsibility. It is important not only to feed and change diapers to the baby on time, but also to know how to properly conduct the first bath of a newborn. In fact, there is nothing complicated here, follow a few simple rules and motherhood will bring you pleasure.

When is the first time to bathe a newborn?

Young mothers are interested in the answer to the question: “On what day after the maternity hospital is it allowed to bathe the baby?” This will depend on the condition of the umbilical wound of the newborn. Until recently, bathing a baby was allowed from the moment the umbilical wound completely healed - about the second week after birth. And to remove sweat from the child's body and food debris, it was recommended to use a towel or napkin dipped in boiled water. But now the bathing procedure is allowed to be carried out, starting from the second day the child is at home (day 5 after birth).

To get an accurate answer, you need to consult a pediatrician who will examine the child and give good advice. Bathing the baby is carried out only in boiled water - this rule is observed until the umbilical wound is completely healed. The required amount of water is prepared in advance, then a clean bath is filled. To bathe a child, it is not necessary to purchase a special bath - wash an adult bath with plain baking soda.

Using an adult bath for bathing, a newborn needs to be kept on his own, and bending over a large bath is not very convenient, moreover, this hygienic procedure will have to be carried out regularly. Therefore, it is best to spend a little and purchase a special bath for bathing newborns.

To fill an adult bath, you will have to boil a lot more water, which will take a lot of time. It is important that the water temperature is 36°C. If hot water is used, there is a risk of leaving burns on the delicate skin of the child. Check the water temperature before every swim. To do this, purchase a special thermometer.

What you need for bathing at home

The first bath of the baby will take a long time, so first you need to prepare the bath accessories that you may need:

Bath tub. For the first days of a baby's life, purchase a special baby bath. Before the procedure, rinse it thoroughly using cleaning products intended for children. It is not recommended to spend the first bath in large adult baths, otherwise the child will be frightened.
Thermometer for measuring water temperature. The first bathing of newborns must be carried out only at an optimal temperature of no more than 36 ° C. If the water is too hot, the baby may overheat.
Soft mitt or washcloth. As a washcloth, you must use a soft cloth, mitten, sponge, which gently rubs the baby's skin. It is strictly forbidden to use hard washcloths, because they can seriously damage the delicate skin of a newborn.
Toys and soap. It is not necessary to take toys into the bath, but they can distract the baby, and bathing the newborn for the first time will be more peaceful.
A clean and soft towel, hydrogen peroxide or brilliant green to treat the umbilical wound, a diaper, cotton swabs with a special limiter, clothes.

Water temperature

The most important thing is to know in what water it is allowed to bathe a newborn, and for this it is worth consulting with a pediatrician. The bath for bathing must be filled with water by about 15 cm. The first bath of a newborn child is recommended to be carried out in boiled water, but if the tap water is well filtered, then it is not necessary to boil it again.

What to add to water - bath products

To bathe a newborn child, use plain boiled water, it is recommended to add decoctions of medicinal herbs that need to be infused (string, chamomile and others) or a weak solution of potassium permanganate. Before using potassium permanganate, consult a pediatrician who will tell you the correct concentration of the solution so as not to harm the baby. There is one interesting sign - a silver jewelry (but not a cross) was placed in a bath of water in order to attract wealth and prosperity to the fate of the child.

Bathing a newborn in a diaper

The first bath of a newborn baby can be carried out in a diaper according to the following principle:

the child must be wrapped in a thin diaper or simply thrown over the baby’s shoulders and lowered into a clean bath;
you need to bathe the child together - one person holds the baby, opening the arms and legs, and after washing with warm water, he covers it again with a film, the other pours from the ladle;
first of all, the handles are washed, then the legs;
then the tummy is washed, then the back;
at the end of the bath procedures, the child is taken out of the bath and wrapped in a dry towel.
After drying, the baby is dressed in warm clothes.

Duration

Professional pediatricians advise newborns to bathe for no more than 10 minutes. If the first bath scared the newborn and even the gentle voice of the mother cannot calm him down, it is worth getting the baby out of the water much earlier. Provided that the child likes the water procedure, you can extend the process a little, but in this case it is important to constantly monitor the temperature of the water so that the baby does not freeze. To do this, prepare another pot of water to add while bathing.

How newborns are bathed

Provided that the child is completely healthy and the first bathing caused only positive emotions, the water procedure is allowed to be carried out every day. Pediatricians recommend bathing your baby at about the same time every day. Most parents choose the evening time, before feeding the baby. It is best to monitor the mood of the child, if he feels good and likes daytime bathing, give up evening procedures. For some children, bathing does not have a calming, but an exciting effect, and here it is necessary to take into account the mood of the little one.

Rules for bathing newborns

Bathe the child according to the following instructions:

The bath is filled with water by about 15 cm. The chest, shoulders and head remain dry. Next to the bath is a ladle filled with warm water, which will be needed for rinsing.
A small child undresses and is taken in his arms, then very carefully, slowly lowers himself into the water. It is necessary to immerse the baby in water so that his head is on the elbow bend of the mother, and the back is supported by the left hand.
With a soapy cotton swab, the chest, arms, legs, and genitals are carefully washed. Then the baby turns over on the tummy, the chest and head are supported by the hand, the back is lathered. At the end, you need to lather your head (it is recommended to use a special baby shampoo).
Using warm water from a jug, the rinsing procedure is performed. It is important to wash off the soap foam from the head very carefully, avoiding contact with the eyes. To do this, a stream of water is directed from the forehead to the back of the head, but not vice versa. It is necessary to thoroughly rinse the child so that there are no soapy traces left on the delicate skin, otherwise there is a risk of an allergic reaction.
Next, the child is quickly removed from the bath and wrapped in a soft towel, placed on the changing table (hard bed) and the rest of the water is soaked with gentle movements. It is important to wipe the skin with gentle movements, but do not rub too hard, paying special attention to the folds of the neck, groin and armpits. If the child has very dry skin, it is recommended to use baby oil or cream (it is advisable to consult a pediatrician).
The next step is the procedure for processing the navel. A small amount of hydrogen peroxide solution is drawn with a pipette (only a doctor can determine the correct consistency) and a couple of drops are dripped directly onto the navel area, then gently wiped with a clean cotton swab. It is possible to replace peroxide with a solution of potassium permanganate (strong) or a simple brilliant green.

Up to 6 months, the child should be bathed every day, provided that contact with water does not cause severe stress, and then water procedures can be carried out every other day. The temperature of the water is constantly monitored. Gradually allowed to increase the duration of bathing.

Video: About bathing a newborn - Dr. Komarovsky

Before the first bathing procedure for a newborn child, parents are consulted, the doctor gives advice and general recommendations. But verbal advice is not always enough, especially for young parents. Therefore, it will be useful for them to familiarize themselves with several videos, learn about all the intricacies and rules for bathing newborns. It is important to provide the baby with proper care, and Dr. Komarovsky will tell you how to do this.

Finally, the mother and baby were discharged from the hospital. The main difficulties are behind us, relatives and friends are waiting at home, everything is ready to welcome a new family member. Nevertheless, there is still so much trouble ahead - to establish a regimen, organize feeding, learn how to swaddle properly ...

One of the most pleasant worries is the first bath of a newborn, which must be taken with all responsibility. After all, this water procedure is very important for his health and further development.

If bathing a newborn in the first days of life is carried out correctly, this will contribute to its healthy and full development. The beneficial properties of the water procedure have long been beyond doubt among pediatricians, since it:

stimulates the functions of the skin, maintains it in a normal state;
normalizes blood circulation;
relieves tense muscle tone;
strengthens the immune system;
eliminates manifestations;
provides high-quality hardening;
contributes to the prevention of allergic rashes and skin diseases;
increases motor activity;
improves appetite and sleep.

It must be understood that the first bath of newborns is very important both physiologically and emotionally. Its task is to make the skin clean, as well as to open new facets of this world to the child. He should like the process itself, which can become a source of good mood and positive emotions for him in the future. So you have to prepare for the first procedure with all responsibility. And it is advisable to start in advance - with the acquisition of the necessary things for this.

There is an opinion. Some pediatricians advise bathing newborns daily, while another group of doctors say that water dries out the skin. Therefore, they recommend arranging water procedures three times a week.

Equipment

Tray for bathing a newborn anatomically shaped

In order for the bathing of a newborn for the first time to pass without problems and unexpected troubles, it is advisable to prepare the necessary things for this in advance. These include:

anatomically shaped plastic bath for children with special protrusions and recesses;
soft sponge / mittens from a bike;
water thermometer;
jug for pouring;
a special stand in the form of a slide that supports the baby in the reclining bath (optional);
diaper / soft baby towel for wiping;
clean pajamas / diaper for changing clothes after bathing;
a watch to monitor the duration of the procedure;
a camera to capture such a significant event for the whole family.

If caring parents have purchased all this in advance, the first bathing of a newborn at home will be much calmer and without nerves. Otherwise, it usually happens that you didn’t buy a thermometer, didn’t prepare a watch, and the camera generally ran out of power at the right time. But the most important thing is to choose the right baby cosmetics for this procedure - shampoo and soap.

Baby shampoo

shampoo for children from the basic series with wheat, aloe vera, panthenol, chamomile extract from Bubchen (Germany);
soft shampoo from the children's series "For the smallest" with extracts of soapwort, angelica from Little Siberica (Russia);
baby shampoo-gel with calendula from Weleda (Germany).

Eared nanny (Russia);
My sun (Russia);
Our mother (Russia);
From top to toe - foam-shampoo from Johnson's Baby (Italy);
Pigeon (Japan);
Sanosan baby (Germany).

Baby soap

Our mother: with chamomile and string;
moisturizing soap from Sanosan baby;
vegetable soap for children with calendula from Weleda.

eared nanny;
Johnson's Baby
Bubchen.

At the same time, keep in mind that shampoo and soap will be needed for the first bath of a newborn. All kinds of foams, gels, milk offered in a wide range are best used much later. Otherwise, do not be surprised that the next morning after the procedure, the baby was covered with an incomprehensible rash. Protect his thin and very sensitive skin from unnecessary parabens, fragrances and dyes. And take care of the water in which the first bath will take place.

We distinguish concepts. In many sources, you can read that already from the first bath for a newborn, you can use a special soap or shampoo, which are identical in their functionality. And yet, it would be more correct to initially distinguish between them: wash your head with shampoo, and your body with soap.

Water

So that the first bathing of a newborn after the maternity hospital does not harm his health, it is very important to properly prepare the water for this procedure. A lot depends on her: it is with her that the baby's skin will contact, including the umbilical wound and fontanelles on the head. Therefore, it must be:

boiled;
disinfected with an unsaturated solution of potassium permanganate (potassium permanganate) to prevent suppuration of the umbilical wound; moreover, you need to ensure that all crystals are well dissolved in water, because large ones can leave a burn on delicate, thin skin;
with diathesis, a pediatrician or a dermatologist may prescribe bathing in herbal decoctions, but you should not add them if the child is absolutely healthy, otherwise the protective layer of the skin can be broken;
the water temperature during the first bath of a newborn should be + 36.5-37 ° C (for a healthy baby), 38 ° C (for children at risk).

Regarding the use of potassium permanganate, it is advisable to first consult with a pediatrician while still in the hospital. He will know the state of the umbilical wound in the newborn and will advise whether such disinfection is necessary during the first bath. Perhaps, in general, it will be recommended to postpone water procedures until this place is completely healed. Now for the procedure itself.

Curious fact. Modern doctors say that already the first bath can be carried out without boiled water, taking a bath directly from the tap and not even using potassium permanganate. Well, pediatricians know better, but in this case, the responsibility lies on the shoulders of the parents. Still, an umbilical wound that has not yet healed can become a gateway for bacteria that are teeming with tap water.

detailed instructions

The procedure for the first bathing of a newborn after discharge from the hospital is carried out on the second day of his stay at home. Not the first, because for him at this moment there will be a lot of stress.

Training

Prepare everything you need in advance. After all, a newborn should not be left unattended in the bath for a minute.
Bathing is recommended immediately before the last feeding. But at the same time, the child should not be very hungry, otherwise he will cry and act up.
In the room where the water procedure will be carried out, the temperature for bathing a newborn for the first time should be: for healthy babies + 22-23 ° C. For those who are at risk - + 23-24 ° С.
Lubricate the crusts on the baby's head with vegetable oil 10-15 minutes before bathing.
Place a rubber mat on the floor to prevent adult feet from slipping. This will protect against injury.
Open the door to the room so that the humidity does not rise.
Disinfect the room. This can be done with the help of special devices - a bactericidal recirculator, a salt lamp, a humidifying air purifier. If it is not possible to use them, it will be enough to put a saucer with several peeled garlic cloves in the room 15 minutes before bathing.
Arrange for 5-7 minutes before bathing the first air bath in the life of a newborn.
Reassure him, talk to him affectionately, smile.
Fill the bathtub with water, measure its temperature, bring it to the recommended mark.

bathing process

So that the newborn is not afraid of water for the first time, he must be lowered into the bath in a vest or in a diaper, and after 1-2 minutes, when he gets used to it, remove it.
The first dive should be slow until the water covers the chest and shoulders.
With your left hand, support the head and neck so that the thumb of the adult lies on the left shoulder of the newborn, and the rest under the left armpit. So the head will lie firmly on the forearm of the bather's hand.
If bathing is carried out by one adult, he rinses the child with his free right hand. If there is an assistant, then with this hand you can support the baby under the ass. Fix its position so that it does not accidentally slip out of your hands.
As soon as the newborn becomes worried, you can start rocking him right in the bath.
First, they wash their face without soap, paying special attention to the eyes.
Wash the body (especially the folds - armpits, neck, perineum, behind the ears) thoroughly with soap and water.
Wash your baby's head with soap or shampoo.
The perineum is washed last.
When bathing girls, all movements of an adult should be in one direction: from the urethra to the anus.
For boys, just rinse the external genitalia. In this case, it is desirable to delay the foreskin and rinse all the folds under it to prevent its infection.
The duration of the first bath should not exceed 2-3 minutes, although some pediatricians allow you to do this much longer - up to 5-7, or even up to 10 minutes.
Do not forget to learn a few special nursery rhymes and jokes for such a significant event. If you sentence them, starting from the very first bath, the baby will quickly get used to water procedures.
After the procedure, pour clean water over the newborn from a jug on the back, holding it over the bath. The temperature of the water for such a rinse should be 1-2 ° C lower than that in which it was just bathed.

After swimming

Wrap the newborn in a diaper. Wipe gently, making blotting, but not rubbing movements.
Treat body creases with sterilized vegetable oil / baby cream. You can not lubricate the entire skin.

If everything is done correctly during the first bath, the procedure will be pleasant for the newborn and joyful for adults. True, in rare cases, the matter is complicated by unforeseen circumstances, which are also desirable to keep in mind in order to know how to behave in a given situation.

The right of the first bath. There are many disputes in the family about who should bathe the newborn. For the first time, parents should definitely do this - mom is sure to and dad as an assistant. Let the rest of the relatives (grandparents and siblings) enjoy this procedure later, when the baby is emotionally ready for it.

Possible problems

A newborn cannot express what hurts him and why he cries. Doctors and parents can only guess about many of his conditions. During the first bath, he can also behave unusually - and parents must be prepared for this in order to respond correctly and not spoil the impression of the procedure.

What to do if a newborn cries during the first bath?

Stop the procedure and postpone it for the next day. The child should experience only positive emotions in these moments. There can be many reasons for naughty behavior:

hungry;
something hurts;
afraid of the first contact with water;
wants to go to the toilet.

Try to foresee all these circumstances and warn them.

What to do if a newborn cries after the first bath?

A possible reason for this behavior is fear due to temperature differences. From the warm and comfortable bath, the newborn was pulled naked into the air. To smooth out this unpleasant impression, you need to immediately wrap the baby in a pre-prepared towel or diaper.

What to do if the newborn fell asleep during the first bath?

Nothing wrong with that. This happens very often: a new procedure for the first time calms and relaxes the baby. However, bathing will have to be interrupted. If he is awakened at this moment by a careless movement, he can be very frightened. Therefore, we carefully pull the sleeping person out of the bath and put him in the crib. Feed him in such a situation, already when he wakes up.

What to do if a newborn cannot fall asleep after the first bath?

This happens often: the first bath excites the baby so much that he actively moves, tosses and turns, turns around, asks for food, but does not fall asleep. If this situation repeats in subsequent water procedures, just know that your child is special and needs to be bathed in the morning.

What to do if the newborn empties into the bath?

There are children who are so relaxed in the bath that they use it as a toilet. If this happened on the first bath, it should be stopped and postponed for the next day. But, having such experience, you need to wait until the baby is empty, and then bathe him.

No matter how the newborn behaves during the first bath, parents must be prepared for one circumstance or another. This will help them respond correctly and quickly. In addition, it will be useful to know that the famous pediatrician Komarovsky has his own opinion on this procedure.

Could be so. If the parents are very young and do not have enough experience to bathe the newborn for the first time themselves, you can invite a nurse specifically for this procedure. Many hospitals now provide this service. You can see how a professional does it, and in the future do everything right yourself.

Komarovsky system

It is worth paying special attention to the method of bathing newborns, according to the system of Dr. Komarovsky. To date, it has been approved by many well-known pediatricians and parents who have already put it into practice. They do not differ much from the generally accepted postulates, but there are some nuances. Study - perhaps you will spend the first bathing of your baby using this technique. We are only interested in those points that relate to the very first procedure. Here's what they say.

You can start them no earlier than 2 weeks after the birth of the child - that is how long it takes for the umbilical wound to heal. During this period, Komarovsky offers simple rubbing with a damp sponge, without touching the navel area.
Exclude the kitchen as the venue for the first water treatment. It can be too stuffy here from the constantly working stove and other kitchen appliances.
From the point of view of Komarovsky, the best option is to spend the first and all subsequent baths in an ordinary bathroom. Moreover, a children's bath can be inserted into a large adult.
A feature of the Komarovsky system is his opinion that a baby bath does not need to be bought at all, and the very first bath should be carried out in a large adult bath. This gives the child maximum freedom of action, trains the muscles of a small body, improves his cardiac activity.
Boiling water is not necessary for a healthy newborn.
Its temperature should be 33-34 ° C for the first bath, and then it must be gradually reduced for hardening.
Bathing time is between 23 and 24 hours.
Before this newborn, you can do a massage, then gymnastics for the whole body. This should take 15 minutes.
Komarovsky opposes potassium permanganate, believing that it does not provide a normal level of disinfection. He suggests replacing it with a decoction of the string, which must be prepared 12 hours before bathing the newborn.
Soap in the first weeks should not be used.
It is impossible to swaddle a newborn tightly after bathing. He should feel free and uninhibited.

Each system has its own advantages and disadvantages. Many of Komarovsky's advice on bathing newborns are approved, find positive feedback. But not using soap, not having to boil water, not using potassium permanganate is still being criticized by the medical community. So whether to use this system or not is up to the parents to decide. Well, it's time for us to prepare disinfectant medicinal solutions for the baby's first bath.

Reference Information. Komarovsky Evgeny Olegovich (born in 1960) - doctor of the highest category, pediatrician, TV presenter of the special program "School of Doctor Komarovsky", which in Russia goes on the channels "TV3", "Mama", "Friday!".

Recipes for disinfectant solutions

If you waited until the umbilical wound healed, the first bath should not be carried out with a solution of potassium permanganate. If it is still wet or festering, it is better to add an old proven remedy. If from birth the baby suffers or sweats, with the permission of the doctor, use decoctions of medicinal anti-inflammatory herbs.

Decoction of a series

Pour a glass of chopped string with a liter of boiling water. Insist 4 hours under the lid. Prepare 12 hours before swimming. Strain immediately before the procedure. Fill the bath with water and pour the infusion into it. A series without loss of bathing quality is replaced by chamomile or calendula.

Potassium permanganate solution

Dissolve a pinch of potassium permanganate (2-3 g) in a glass of boiling water. Stir thoroughly until all crystals disappear completely. The solution should turn out to be a transparent purple color (but not black!). After pouring it into the bath, the water should turn pink.

Potassium permanganate - the same "potassium permanganate" for disinfection

Recipes for the preparation of disinfectant solutions are best agreed with the pediatrician. This will eliminate the possibility of complications and skin rashes the next morning. The experience of the first bath of a newborn is very important for parents, who, on its basis, must build a whole system of water procedures throughout the year.

Additional Information. If a newborn is suspected of having rickets, the doctor may prescribe salt or coniferous baths for him. Without medical indications, it is strictly forbidden to use them on their own for the first bath.

Do not think that after the first bath all problems are solved. During the first year of a baby's life, questions regarding water procedures will arise constantly. A few useful tips will help you avoid mistakes and overcome all difficulties.

The average duration of bathing should be 5-7 minutes.
Bathing should be daily during the first year of life.
You need to boil water for up to 3 months.
Add potassium permanganate to water until the umbilical wound has healed in the newborn.
Bathing with soap should be arranged no more than 1-2 times a week.
After each bath, the bath should be washed with hot water, and once a week - cleaned with baking soda.
Bathing should be carried out at the same time so that the baby develops a habit of daily routine.

In order for the first bathing of a newborn to be touching, and most importantly, correctly, parents need to thoroughly prepare for this procedure. How the baby will perceive the bath in the future, as well as his health, will depend on this. Healing of an umbilical hernia, skin condition, overgrowth of fontanelles, treatment of allergic rashes and prevention of diaper rash - all this is within the competence of water procedures. So you need to take control of this from the first time and follow the professional advice of pediatricians, and not engage in dangerous amateur activities.