While their intentions are all love and care, medical science strictly prohibits post-birth baby bathing.
Why, so? The reason is simple: it can remove the natural protective layer of your baby’s skin, leading to severe skin dryness and infection.
In this article:
Let’s discuss the common myths and realities of baby bathing in India.
What are the Common Baby Bathing Myths in Indian Homes?
While rituals are being passed down through generations, it doesn’t make them right or safe for your baby. Here are common myths about baby bathing.Myth #1: Baby Bathing is Essential Right After Birth
Grandmothers and even some mothers believed that post-birth bathing is essential to cleanse the baby. However, blindly following such a practice can cause severe skin dryness and even hypothermia (a sudden drop in body temperature). A white coating on a baby’s skin called “Vernix caseosa” provides a natural protective layer against germs. Bathing your baby immediately after birth can strip away the layer and lead to potential skin infections.Tip: While it’s ideal to wait for a few days, always consult your paediatrician to know how long you need to wait to bathe your baby.
Myth #2: Massaging the Baby With Mustard Oil Will Strengthen Their Bones
It’s a widely practised ritual being followed by grandmothers and mothers to strengthen their baby’s bones. However, this is half the truth. While gentle massages are proven to relax your little one, using mustard oil or other refined oils can cause severe skin infections. Remember that your little one is still growing, and you may never know which oil can cause skin allergies, rashes, or irritation.Tip: Once your paediatrician approves you to bathe your baby, ask them which oil is best suited to your baby’s skin type.
Myth #3: Bathing Your Baby Twice a Day Will Keep Them Clean
It’s believed that frequent baths are essential to keep your baby clean and germ-free. However, that’s not true! Always keep in mind that natural oils protect your baby’s skin, and bathing your baby twice or thrice a day can cause skin irritation. A maximum of three times a week is enough for your baby’s cleanliness while keeping their skin protected. On non-bathing days, you can use wipes to keep the dirt away from your little one.Tip: Always consult your paediatrician to determine which soap or shampoo suits your baby’s skin.
What are the Modern Realities of Baby Bathing in India?
Baby bathing is an emotional experience. While the ritual is about cleaning the baby, following modern realities can make it safer, more enjoyable, and more comfortable. Here are the proven bathing practices that every parent should follow.Use Lukewarm Water
Since babies have delicate skin, always tread carefully to avoid burns or chills. Check the water temperature with your elbow or wrist before bathing your baby. Having lukewarm water helps maintain your little one’s body temperature and keeps skin infections at bay.Limit Bath Time
Don’t put your baby in a bathtub for hours. You will be doing more harm than good. Keep your baby’s bath time between 5 and 10 minutes. Prolonged bathing can irritate your baby’s skin and cause dryness or even infection. If you have a newborn baby, sponge bath 2-3 times a week is more than enough until the umbilical cord stump falls off.Prioritise Gentle Cleansers
Parents often use their regular soaps and shampoos on their baby, thinking it won’t harm their baby. However, you don’t know how dangerous it could be for your little one’s skin. Always use paediatrician-recommended cleaners, soaps, or shampoos for your baby to prevent skin-related issues. Furthermore, avoid bathing products that contain alcohol, artificial colours, or parabens.Gentle Drying is Key
Once you have finished bathing your baby, always pat their skin dry gently with a soft, clean towel. Dry their skin folds, neck, underarms, ears, and groin area to prevent moisture. Furthermore, always wash your baby’s towel every day to keep germs and bacteria at bay. Avoid using hair dryers and be cautious while drying your baby’s head.Post-Bathing Care
You’ve gently dried the baby, great! It’s now time to moisturise your baby’s skin with a good lotion or moisturiser to keep it healthy. Always ask your paediatrician for a safe and clinically-proven product for your baby’s skin. Don’t use powders unless your doctor recommends them.Baby bathing is essential to keep your little one clean and germ-free. While old-age cultural myths abound, keeping the realities in mind is crucial to a happy, healthy baby. Always follow the paediatrician-recommended bathing tips to avoid skin issues and make your baby's bath time a joyful experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions on Baby Bathing Rituals in India: Myths vs Reality
- Can I massage my baby daily?
Yes, you can massage your baby daily, but keep it gentle and don’t overdo it. - Is it necessary to wash my newborn baby’s hair every time during bath?
No, it’s not necessary to wash your newborn baby’s hair every time during bath.
