FAQ

What's the best way to bathe a newborn?

Sponge bathing is recommended for the first few weeks, until the umbilical cord and circumcision, if any, have healed. Wash your baby's hair and body using a gentle baby cleanser, washing the diaper area last.

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Why should I give my baby a massage?

Touch is one of the first ways parents and babies communicate. Through touch, a baby learns to enjoy the comfort and security of loving and being loved. Baby massage helps enhance the bond begun at birth.

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I've been reading that it is important to establish a regular bedtime routine at night in order to help a baby fall asleep easier. I always give my baby a warm bath at bedtime as part of the routine I use, however, I've recently heard that newborns don't need to be bathed every day. Is it OK for me to continue bathing my baby every night as part of the bedtime routine that I use?

To keep your baby clean, you really only need to bathe your baby every other day or so. Once your baby is mobile or has discovered the joys of independent eating, daily baths for cleanliness become a necessity as well as another opportunity for play! There are many other reasons to take a bath that can include being part of a routine that helps transition a child into a sleep-ready mood. Bathing in a delightfully scented warm bath is a very relaxing way for both parents and baby to slip in to a good night's sleep! Bath time can also provide a special opportunity to bond with your baby and to lightly massage him so he is a ready-for-bed baby. Bedtime routines are essential for good sleep habits, so enjoy this unique time with your baby, particularly at the end of a hectic day.

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When is my baby ready for the big bath tub?

Your baby is ready for a grown-up tub when she is able to sit up on her own. But remember, never leave your baby unattended in the tub.

What causes diaper rash?

Most babies get diaper rash at least once in the first 3 years. Babies who are 6 to 10 months old, teething, starting solid food or taking antibiotics are especially vulnerable.

Trapped moisture and friction from movement in a wet or dirty diaper can irritate the skin, causing redness and inflammation in the diaper area. Once the skin is damaged, your child's urine and feces can cause further irritation.

Change your baby's diapers as soon as they are soiled. Cleanse your baby's diaper area thoroughly with baby wipes, a wet cloth or cleansing lotion. Always wipe from front to back. Pay attention to skin folds and creases-make sure they're thoroughly rinsed and dried. JOHNSON'S^® Baby Powder Pure Cornstarch can help reduce friction and dampness in skin folds and creases.

My baby is often fussy at bedtime. What can I do to calm her down?

It's not uncommon for babies to be fussy at the end of the day. It's their way of coping with all the stimulation of their world. Try to create bedtime rituals that your baby will look forward to. Give her a soothing bath, read her a story or play soft music.

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How long should my newborn nurse at each breast?

All babies eat differently. Some babies are very efficient nursers and can empty their mother's breasts in less than 5 minutes. Some want to play and "snack" and can take up to 30 or 45 minutes to finish nursing. Some babies want to take all of their milk from one breast and need to use the other breast the next feeding.

The general guidelines are to allow your baby to nurse from 10 to 20 minutes at each breast. If your baby is wetting at least 6 to 8 diapers in a 24-hour period and is over one week old, then it is likely that he is getting enough milk no matter what his feeding pattern.

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How many times a day should you breastfeed your newborn baby?

All babies eat differently, some want to eat a small amount every 1 to 2 hours, others take longer to nurse and only eat every 3 to 4 hours. This also varies as a baby grows and starts eating solid foods, or if he has a growth spurt. The general recommendation for a newborn to eat is between 8 and 12 times in a 24-hour period.

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How can I help my baby relax and fall asleep?

Massage is a great way to relax your baby before bedtime. Massage JOHNSON'S^® BEDTIME LOTION^® over your baby's entire body to help soothe, soften and moisturize.

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How should I clean my baby's ears?

Follow your grandmother's advice, "the only thing you should stick in your ear is your elbow". At your doctor's direction, use an ear bulb syringe, an earwax softener, or a swab, such as JOHNSON´S® Safety Swabs to clean the outermost portion of your baby's ears.