The first few months of your infant’s life are some of the most intense yet exciting moments for any mum. It’s also a time of hard work and little sleep, so being as prepared as possible can help the newborn process run smoothly.
As a baby’s immune system only begins to produce its own antibodies at two to three months old, hygiene expert Dr. Lisa Ackerley advises we take extra precautions before bringing a newborn home “to ensure maximum protection from the bacteria and viruses that exist around the home”.
To help make life a little bit easier for Mum and safer for Baby, Dr. Ackerley, from The Hygiene Doctor, offers the following tips to ease anxiety and help protect your newborn:
1. Drying Baby
Bath time is one of the most relaxing moments in a baby’s routine. Not only does it help them become use to water, it also provides quality bonding time for mums. However, it is important you ensure your infant is thoroughly dry after a soak, focusing on creased areas such as elbows and the neck to prevent dry skin and infections.
2. Changing mats
Before changing a baby’s nappy ensure that the mat is as free from bacteria as possible by using anti-bacterial wipes or spray. And don’t be tempted to use baby wipes to clean the mat when you’re finished - make sure you use an anti-bacterial wipe to remove harmful bacteria.
3. Surfaces
While a new baby won’t necessarily touch surfaces, it is important to ensure that any surfaces where bottles are prepared are hygienically clean.
4. Cots
Ensure bedding is hygienically clean by using an anti-bacterial laundry cleanser in the cot that is powerful enough to remove germs yet gentle on their sensitive skin.
5. Nappies
Make sure your nappies are suitable for newborns and that their umbilical cord is uncovered. Newborn nappies have a notch cut out to give the umbilical cord room to breathe preventing any infections and soreness.
6. Hands
Washing hands before and after handling your baby and before preparing baby bottles is essential. Using an antibacterial soap with added moisture will keep hands bacteria free whilst keeping skin nourished.
