Cute, small and fragile your baby may seem, but looking after a baby is a responsibility which requires a huge amount of patience and time. Constant care and presence may be necessary in case of a newborn at least on the mother’s part. The baby’s health has to be the paramount factor for new parents, and setting up a routine for baby healthcare could really help. Here are a few tips for new parents as to what they should consider when planning the baby care routine:
Newborn clean up routines
Cleaning is one of the essentials of newborn baby care. For cleaning up a newborn baby, sponge bath is a good solution atleast until the umbilical cord has dried up. Since newborns don’t get as dirty, a sponge bath shall be sufficient to keep them clean. The drier the umbilical cord remains, the quicker it falls off.
Feeding
Newborns might need to be fed every two or three hours. Generally, the newborns tend to lose a few percent of their birth weight in the first week but gain it back in the second. As far as the amount of milk is concerned, the baby shall help you know if it’s full. Let us give you a head start here - it is usual for a baby to have 5 to 7 diaper changes and poop twice a day.
Moisturizing
Drying up of the baby’s skin is again normal. To moisturize the baby, essential baby oils or fragrance-free hypoallergenic baby lotions can be brought into use. About 10-15 minutes of massage can help boost growth and development, and help the baby sleep better.
Mother’s diet
It is essential that breastfeeding mothers take to a healthier and more nutritious diet. Avoiding smoking or alcohol, processed food, fast and spicy food shall keep not only the mother but the baby healthy and happy too.
Dressing the baby
While it is important that you dress the baby adequately to protect it from cold, but care also must also be taken not to overdress. Baby-wears must not include anything tight that could leave marks on the baby’s soft skin or interfere with its blood circulation. The clothing must also be washed using mild and anti-microbial cleanser to prevent the baby’s skin from any harm.
Sleep
Newborn babies tend to rest for a longer time or more often. Some baby’s may also require swaddling to help them fall asleep. While undertaking any such activity, the baby must be held gently yet securely, ensuring that proper support is being provided to it. The swaddles must be slow and gentle. Also, don’t let the baby sleep for more than 3 hours at a stretch without waking it up for feeding.
We hope our tips will keep you in good stead when taking care of your newborn!
