As a parent, you should always be prepared so that your baby’s baths are as pleasant as possible, both for yourself and your baby. Here are a few bath supplies you will need to keep your baby clean, healthy, and happy.
1. A Sponge
It’s quite a common and simple item, but it’s essential nonetheless. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that newborn babies be given sponge baths.
Parents should use a sponge that is soft enough for their baby’s delicate skin. Ideally, they should use one that is hypoallergenic and will not collect mold or mildew.
Babies can be given regular baths once the umbilical cord falls off and heals. If your baby dislikes regular baths, go back to sponge baths, then try giving them a regular bath again after a week. A baby boy that has been circumcised should be given sponge baths until his penis has healed.
Even once your baby is taking regular baths, you will still need a sponge or washcloth to gently clean their face and hair. This should be done near the end of the bath so your baby’s head doesn’t get cold. Remember to use warm, not hot water. The water should be between 90º to 100º Fahrenheit or 32º to 38º Celsius.
2. Baby towel, clean diaper, and clean clothes
After bathing your baby, you should immediately pat them dry. Newborns can get cold very easily, even in warm baths. Though not necessary, you can get a hooded bath towel so that it stays on their head.
You can use an adult towel, but it’s recommended that you get your baby their own towels. Babies have a tendency to poop either in the tub or soon after you take them out. This is because warm water causes their muscles to relax, including their intestinal muscles. They are also still in the process of learning to control their bowel movements. A small, soiled baby towel is much easier to clean than a large, soiled adult towel.
Once you’re done bathing your baby, you will of course need a clean diaper and clean clothes so your baby is comfy and warm.
3. Baby soap and shampoo
Regular soap is designed to lather and remove oily body odors. However, babies and young children don’t need this. Rather, it is harmful to them. The components that cause regular soap to lather and deodorize might irritate your baby’s skin and leave it dry and red.
Baby soaps and shampoos are designed to be gentler on your baby’s delicate skin. Most of them are also tear-free which will help you avoid hurting your baby if you accidentally let soapy water get into their eyes.
There is actually little reason for your child to start using regular soap and shampoo until puberty. It is during puberty that children get body odor because the puberty hormones stimulate their sweat glands. It is at this time that they will need regular soap and shampoo which is good at removing body odor.
4. Bath visor
If you’re still worried about getting soap in their eyes, you can get a bath visor for them. A bath visor will redirect all the water from the top of their heads to the back or sides.
This makes washing your baby’s hair easier and faster. This also means you will minimize the amount of time your baby’s head is being washed with water, making it easier to keep them from getting cold.
5. Baby bathtub
Baby bathtubs are quite convenient. Some of them are designed so your baby can lie down or sit in them, leaving you with both hands free. This might not be possible with just a sink if its design requires you to support your baby with one hand. If you don’t have a bathtub, don’t worry. There are baby bathtubs designed to sit in your sink.
Similar to your sink, a baby bathtub needs to be cleaned. Don’t use any harsh cleaning agents as the residue might irritate your baby’s skin. Use a multi-purpose cleaner, vinegar, or soap. You should also scrub out buildup with a toothbrush or cleaning pad.
All that said, you don’t necessarily need a baby bathtub. It’s perfectly safe to bathe your baby in a sink, even your kitchen sink, as long as you clean it thoroughly beforehand. If you’re renovating and plan to buy bathroom products online, you could circumvent any need for a baby bathtub entirely and just get a sink or bathtub that will work for your baby’s needs.
With these bath supplies, you will be ready to give your baby a bath you will both enjoy, and you will avoid inconveniences.
