The skin on your baby is very sensitive, gentle and thin, hence the importance of a baby skin care routine. This means the skin is very delicate and can react easily to weather temperatures and also irritants. Irritants may come from a number of substances but mainly through the chemicals contained in the products you use on baby. Staying away from these kind of chemicals can be as simple as purchasing organic baby products but here are 10 other options for you to consider.
1. Unbleached disposable nappies
The Choice website claims: As far as dioxins are concerned, they’re a family of organochlorins which includes one of the most toxic chemicals yet made. Previously, dioxin traces were found in chlorine-bleached white paper and pulp products, including disposable nappies. However, nowadays nappies are usually oxygen-bleached (using hydrogen peroxide), which forms no dioxin.
2. Do not use talc on baby
3. Applying massage oils after bathing
Stay away from mineral based oils as they contribute to the drying of the skin when absorbed. Instead use natural and organic oils for baby skin care that will continue to soothe and moisturize baby’s skin. Try products that contain sweet almond oil, coconut oil, sunflower oil and chamomile, rose, lavender and mandarin essential oils. But remember to always do a test patch first and watch for any redness or irritation. Do not use if this occurs! You only need the smallest amount of oil to massage into your baby’s skin, about less than a teaspoon.
4. Natural bottom wipes
Homemade bottom wipes can be made very easily. Cut a roll of strong paper towel (Viva are great) in half. Take out the cardboard inner roll. Mix two cups of water with ½ cup sweet almond oil and ½ cup of organic baby wash. Place one half of the roll into a container and pour over ½ of the solution. Store in container. Or for just a wiping solution try a cup of cool chamomile tea and a teaspoon of honey mixed well. Honey is a natural antiseptic so it is great for keeping baby’s bottom germ free and will help treat existing nappy rash.
5. Soap free washing/bathing.
6. Washing baby’s clothes and bedding
7. Using organic baby skin care lotion
Organic baby lotions can be used as an alternative to massage oils and help keep baby’s skin from drying out.. However baby’s skin is sensitive so monitor the results carefully and discontinue use if any sign of redness or irritation occurs. It is best to stick to quality baby skin care products only.
8. Sanitizing cloth nappies
Washing cloth nappies at a temperature of 65 °C or hotter and then drying them in direct sunlight should eliminate any harmful germs as the ultraviolet light has a sterilizing effect and a natural bleaching ability. Natural Nappy Soak: Half fill a nappy bucket, then add a quarter of a cup of bicarbonate of soda and swish to dissolve, add 3 drops of lavender essential oil and 3 drops of tea tree essential oil. Soak nappies in this overnight then wash as per normal. Add half a cup of white vinegar to the final rinse for softer nappies. Always make sure the nappy bucket lid is firmly in place, and always out of reach of children.
9. Umbilical stump tips
The umbilical stump must be kept clean and dry until it falls off naturally. Fold baby’s nappy below the stump so it’s exposed to the air and not to urine. Avoid bathing your baby in a bath tub until the stump falls off. Try using the hydrosol wash mentioned above. Studies have shown that leaving the stump to dry out naturally is the quickest method. Do not apply any drying agents as they can cause irritations.
10. Cradle cap care
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