Baby Equipment (0-12 Months): Hygiene

Baby Equipment (0-12 Months): Hygiene

General Hygiene Principles

• Sterilise all feeding equipment, such as bottles, nipples and spoons, before each use until the baby is 12 months old.
• Keep the baby’s sleeping area clean and regularly launder bedding using non-biological detergent to avoid skin irritation.
• Regularly vacuum and clean floors, especially if the baby is starting to crawl.

Changing Diapers

• Always wash hands before and after changing a baby’s nappy to minimise the spread of germs.
• Dispose of used nappies properly; consider a nappy disposal system to contain odours and bacteria.
• Clean the baby’s bottom thoroughly with each nappy change, using baby wipes or cotton wool and warm water for newborns.

Bathing

• Bath the baby in a clean tub or sink, free of residual soap or cleaning products.
• Be cautious of the water temperature; it should be around 37-38 degrees Celsius (about body temperature).
• Use mild baby soap or bath wash to avoid drying out the baby’s skin.

Teething

• Clean teething rings, pacifiers, and other teething toys regularly.
• Consider keeping a spare teething toy in the fridge (not freezer) as the coolness may soothe the baby’s gums.

Clothing Care

• Always wash newly purchased clothing before dressing the baby in them to remove any potential irritants.
• Wash baby clothes separately from the family’s laundry using non-bio detergent and a hypoallergenic fabric softener.
• Check the care label on toys and clothing ensuring they are suitable for machine washing.