Everything that comes into contact with a baby's fragile skin should be similarly delicate. Because a baby's skin is so thin, anything you put on it will be absorbed into their body, thus we advise washing your baby's garments in a baby detergent. It follows that whatever detergent you use to wash your clothes will come into contact with your skin later and be absorbed. And if you're using a strong detergent loaded with chemicals, this can be a concern because your baby's skin is completely different from yours.
Compared to adult skin, baby skin has significantly smaller cells, and the collagen strands are also much thinner. According to studies, a baby's epidermis is 20% thinner than our own. This indicates that the skin on your infant is more prone to being dry and irritated. In other words, compared to our skin, your baby's skin absorbs stuff far more readily.
The general function of the skin is to serve as a barrier, and given that your baby's skin is thinner, it is clear why the products we use on their clothing should be as soft as possible. The delicate skin barrier is more likely to be compromised by products containing harsh chemicals in their list of components, which can lead to allergies and inflammations.
Yes, even if your baby has sensitive skin, you can use fabric softener on their clothing, bedding, and towels. Even better, it will add extra cuddly softness to baby clothing.
The use of fabric conditioners does not appear to irritate your baby's skin, according to the NHS. To make sure it's as gentle as possible, choose a fabric softener made for sensitive skin.
But keep in mind that certain infant garments have been treated with chemicals that are flame-resistant. Always check the care labels before using fabric softener since it can reduce the effectiveness of this.
Dishwashing soap, which contains harsh compounds frequently linked to skin irritation, endocrine disruption, dermatitis, and allergic reactions, is a riskier option than baby bottle cleaners. Therefore, it is better to steer clear of items that contain these substances for the sake of your infant.
But the soap will still be removed by rinsing. What then is the issue?
Yes, but that doesn't necessarily imply it's the greatest option for your child. After all, it's better to be safe than sorry because improper bottle washing could allow dishwashing soap's toxins to seep into it. These substances could contaminate the bottle if heated with milk.
The toys that infants ingest frequently need to be cleaned. Every one to two days, clean these toys. Toys made of hard plastic and bath toys should be cleaned and sanitized on a weekly basis (particularly if they are used daily). Stuffed animals and toys that aren't used frequently can be cleaned once every two months or as needed.
Using disposable wipes
It is advised to wash babies' hands with a pre-moistened, disposable towel until they are mature enough to do so and start washing with soap and water. Baby hands can also be cleaned with soap and a warm, damp cloth. Either paper towels or cloth towels can be used, but cloth towels should only be used for one child and should be laundered frequently because they might harbor germs. The hands of your infant should be washed as completely as your own, or you should encourage your older children to wash their own.
Make sure you wash your hands first before bathing your baby's. Pay close care to cleansing the entire hand and wrist when wiping your baby's hands with the disposable towel. Wash the fingers, between the fingers, and the front and back of the hand. Keep your fingernails short so you can clean under them easily. Additionally, pay close attention to any regions where the skin folds, such as the joint between the hand and wrist.
You will require two moist towels if you plan to use one. Wipe the baby's hands using a cloth that has been dampened with soap and water. To remove the soap residue, clean the cloth with merely water on a second occasion. Use a paper towel to dry your baby's hands. Only use moisturizer on infants if a healthcare professional, such as a doctor, advises it. Babies often don't need it.
With water and soap
Older infants should wash their hands at a small basin, with or without your assistance. It is your responsibility to help them properly wash their hands with soap and water. If your child is old enough to wash their hands while standing:
● If they don't enjoy the way cold water feels on their skin, use warm water instead. But before you put your baby's hands beneath the stream, check sure the water is not too hot.
● Use a gentle, fragrance-free baby soap to prevent skin irritation. So that you are aware of all the ingredients in the soap, read the label.
● Using a disposable paper towel, dry your baby's hands. Avoid rubbing the skin as this can irritate it.
