The ABCs of Newborn Care: From Diapering to Bathing, What Every Parent Should Know
Newborn care essentials
You’re headed home after giving birth to your new bundle of joy, and the excitement of bringing a new life into the world suddenly morphs into a weighty reality you’ve never experienced before. “Parent” is your new job title — and arguably the most important one you’ll ever have. You’re no longer living primarily for yourself or your partner; a little one now depends on you for all their needs.
If it’s of any consolation, you’re in good company. Research shows that around 62% of survey participants (over 50% of fathers and 66% of mothers) experience burnout due to their parental responsibilities. Babies are especially demanding, so it’s not surprising that the lives of new parents are often consumed with caring for their baby.
The good news? Mastering the ABCs of newborn care early on can make transitioning to being a new parent easier. Let’s explore what every parent should know about (A) absorbency (aka diapering), (B) bathing, and (C) cuisine (aka feeding).
A. Diaper Problems
Changing your little one’s diaper may not be the most glamorous part of being a newly minted parent, but it’s one of the most important. To avoid diaper rash or bladder infections, change your newborn child’s diapers frequently — about every two to three hours. Use wipes or a gentle cloth to clean your baby’s bottom, and use diaper cream if necessary to soothe irritated skin.
Reusable diapers are an especially wise investment for newborns, as they’re healthy, comfortable, and cost-effective. Chemicals like chlorine, fragrances, and polyacrylate are included in some disposable diapers but absent from cloth diapers. The absence of these chemicals may lessen your child’s chance of experiencing rashes and skin irritations. Because cloth diapers are made of waterproof but breathable fabrics, they allow for better ventilation, promoting healthier skin.
Cloth diapers can also save you money over time by being reused, even if their original cost may be more upfront. Compared with disposable diapers, cloth diapers add up to significant savings over time—particularly if you reuse them for your future children.
B. Splish, Splash Bash
Bath time can be an excellent time to bond with your little one while meeting their hygiene needs. Until the stump of their umbilical cord falls off, give your infant sponge baths two to three times per week in a basin using mild baby soap, a soft cloth, and lukewarm water. Use the wet washcloth to gently wipe their hands, face, neck, and diaper area.
Your baby is ready for a baby tub once their umbilical cord falls off. Prepare their bath water by adding several inches of warm water (around 100 degrees Fahrenheit) to the tub. Always support your infant’s neck and head during bathing, and never leave them alone. Apply a gentle, scent-free cleanser to freshen up your little one, moving from the cleanest area (the face) to their dirtiest area (the diaper area). Give your infant a good rinse, and use a gentle cloth to pat them dry.
C. Dinner on Demand
Whether you are breastfeeding or formula feeding, the most important thing to remember is to feed on demand. Feeding time is both important for your baby’s growth and development, as well as an excellent bonding experience. So, whether breastfeed or bottle feed, enjoy that cuddle time with extra burping and enjoy the baby snuggles—your little one will be tossing yogurt from their high chair before you know it!
For Breastfeeding Parents:
One of the best things about feeding a newborn is that dinner’s “free” when you breastfeed. That’s not the only reason to feed your infant breast milk, though. The ideal combination of nutrients, enzymes, and antibodies found in breast milk may help shield your child from illnesses and diseases. Breastfeeding can also help strengthen the emotional tie between mother and child.
Make sure your infant latches onto the areola (the pigmented ring around the nipple) and not just the nipple itself. Proper latching enables effective milk transfer and lessens the risk of nipple soreness. Remember that newborns usually eat every two to three hours. Be aware of signs of hunger such as fussiness, rooting (searching for a breast or bottle nipple), or sucking the hands.
Nursing your baby regularly supports milk production. Shoot for eight to 12 feedings daily, and stay hydrated to maintain a strong milk supply.
For Bottle Feeding Parents:
Iron-fortified cow’s milk or soy-based formula is an excellent alternative to breast milk for parents who prefer formula feeding. Remember to hold your child semi-upright to prevent ear infections and choking when bottle feeding them, and burp them after each meal to release swallowed air.
Embrace Newborn Parent Life Today
Taking care of your newborn baby can feel exciting yet overwhelming. Fortunately, proper newborn care is easier if you think about it as changing their diapers every two to three hours, bathing them two to three times per week, and feeding them eight to 12 times daily. Consider all the above-listed tips for newborn care to keep your little angel comfortable, clean, and healthy from one baby milestone to the next.
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