Just as babies experience all new circumstances after they're born, so do the parents. Fortunately, as a parent, you have the ability to prepare for the birth and care of your newborn. The transition at home after delivery can be somewhat stressful for the baby and parents. Touch, fondle, and caress your baby. They respond very well to love and attention.

During the first week, sponge your baby with mild soap and water or just water to clean. The base of the umbilical cord should be cleaned two or three times a day using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Be sure to cleanse the folds of the cord where it connects to your baby. Do this until the stub drops off; this usually takes 7 to 10 days. Do not bathe your baby in a tub of water until the umbilical stub has dropped off and the navel area has healed completely.

Before bathing, gather all the items you'll need. A mild soap, washcloth or sponge, a towel, diaper, ointment, cotton swabs, and a basin of warm water no hotter than 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Lay your baby on the counter keeping it's body covered for warmth. Never leave your baby alone. They learn to wiggle around and roll over quickly.

Begin by supporting your baby's head in one hand and with the other clean your baby with a firm but delicate stroke. Start with the eyes and clean from the inner part sponging toward the ear. Then wash the outer area around the mouth and nose. Cleaning inside the mouth is not necessary. A white build-up on the roof of the mouth is normal and your baby's lips may peel the first few weeks also. Next, wash the outer areas of the ears. Do not attempt to clean the inner ears. Use soapy hands to wash the hair using a gentle circular motion. Pour water over the scalp, protecting your baby's eyes and be sure to wash away soap thoroughly. Brush the hair with a soft brush. A dry flaky scalp is normal the first few weeks.

Gently wash the rest of your baby's body with mild soap paying special attention to the folds of the armpits and groin area. To prevent diaper rash it's important to cleanse your baby's buttocks every time they get soiled as promptly as possible. How often can vary from baby to baby, the main idea is to keep them clean. As long as your baby doesn't develop any redness or rash, you're changing them enough.

For more information on caring for a newborn
please view program #310 " New Baby Care".