When I became a mom, I remember the first days home with my baby were a little nerve racking. She was so tiny and delicate, that I made sure to only use baby products that were gentle and safe on her skin. Four years and two babies later, the nerves are gone and the use of safe baby products are still a must in my home.
Here are some tips for establishing a baby bath time routine.
- Time it. Timing is EVERYTHING. Getting a fussy baby in the bath is never good, a screaming and wiggly baby can be dangerous. Pay attention to your baby and wine down a few minutes before you begin bath time so he is calm and relaxed.
- Have everything you need ready. Interact with your baby and help them pick out their pajamas. Although they don’t fully understand or comprehend what you’re saying, (depending on their age) they’ll get excited hearing your voice and establishing eye contact with you. Before you know it, your baby will be walking and grabbing their pajamas on their own. Have a towel right next to the bathtub so it’s easy to grab and go when bath time is over.
- How often? In order to prevent your baby’s skin from getting dry, skip the daily baths. Both my little ones have sensitive and dry skin, their pediatrician recommended baths every other day. Too many baths can dry out your baby’s skin. During baths, I prefer to use Dove on babies delicate skin. Dove now has baby bath products available, not only is it tear free but also made with ¼ moisturizing cream to help replenish the essential nutrients baby’s skin can lose during bath time.
- Baby massage. Remember, babies have incredibly sensitive skin so make sure to always use products made for babies. Choose fragrance-free or lightly scented lotions to keep your baby’s skin hydrated and use immediately after bathing your baby. I like to use Baby Dove lotion, the scent isn’t harsh and is very gentle on my baby’s skin. It instantly soothes dry skin and moisturizes for up to 24 hours.
Stay consistent and pay attention to your baby’s cues so you know when it’s time to begin bath time. Your baby will go through different stages, it’s important to remember that you need to change along with him and adapt to his needs. A good bedtime routine begins with a happy and relaxed baby.
