Your bundle of joy didn’t come with an instruction manual, but don’t worry — you don’t need one! Learn the basics with our simple baby-care guide.
Stock a Diaper-Changing Station
Never leave babies unattended on a changing table or bed. Make sure everything you need is within arm’s reach. Diaper-changing essentials include:
- Newborn diapers
- Gentle baby wipes
- Cotton balls and dressing for umbilical cord or circumcision care
- Diaper-rash ointment and baby lotion
- A change of clothes for baby
Prepare for Feeding Time
Newborns eat every two to three hours on average. You may find yourself moving from room to room while you settle into a routine. For assistance, keep your feeding essentials in a basket or tote. You’ll need:
- Bottled water to stay hydrated
- Burp cloths
- A nursing pillow
- Baby gas drops
- Your cell phone or cordless phone
Bathe Baby Safely
Until your newborn’s umbilical cord falls off, don’t worry about baths. A quick wipe with a damp, warm washcloth will do. For baby’s first bath, have your spouse or a friend take pictures while you follow these safe bathing tips:
- Bathe your baby in an infant bathtub or a clean sink.
- Check baby’s bath temperature with your elbow; hands are not as sensitive to heat. The water should be warm, not hot.
- Never leave your little one unattended.
- Use a gentle baby shampoo.
- Place a dry towel within arm’s reach.
Organize a Baby-Care Kit
Make a baby-care kit and place it near your changing table or in the bathroom. Creating one is simple — just organize all of your baby’s tiny toiletries in a stylish storage basket. Include these baby-care basics:
- Infant thermometer
- Infant pain reliever
- First-aid ointment and rubbing alcohol
- First-aid kit
- Safety clippers to cut baby nails
- Petroleum jelly
Ready, Set, Sleep
Prepare your bassinet or crib with clean sheets that fit well. Avoid keeping stuffed animals or loose blankets around your sleeping baby. Try these sleep solutions:
- Use a white-noise machine if pets or older siblings are noisy.
- Burp baby after feedings. It’ll minimize gas and fussiness at bedtime.
- For chilly nights, try a tight swaddle blanket or a sleep sack.
- Place baby in a swing or bouncer. You’ll be able to easily watch your baby take short, daytime naps.
- Follow your pediatrician’s safe sleep recommendations.
Take a Deep Breath
Relax and enjoy your first days with your baby. Newborn care comes naturally. Be sure to take care of yourself; it’ll help you stay alert. Plus, keep anxiousness to a minimum with these tips:
- Rest when the baby is resting.
- Drink plenty of water and snack frequently.
- Try to get outside, even if it’s just to grab the newspaper, at least once a day.
- Mark milestones on a calendar with quick notes or stickers.
- Plan easy meals and freeze leftovers.
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