Having a baby is overwhelming, but don’t feel scared! All first-time parents are in the same boat. We’ve got a few secrets that’ll get you bathing, dressing and changing your new-born like a total pro.
Giving Medicine
If you’re having difficulties giving your baby medicine, simply pierce a small hole in the tip of an open-ended pacifier, or you can use a bottle nipple – no cutting required. While your baby is happily sucking away, put the medication dropper inside it to administer the dose. Game changer, right?
Don’t Break Your Back Bathing Them
When you’re recovering from childbirth, you’ll find that the kitchen sink is the perfect height for bath time. No bending over, no sore neck and back and the best of all, if they do wee you are not stuck with a tub full of wee water that needs replacing!
Combat Cradle Cap
Moisturise cradle cap with a bit of coconut oil, and use a baby comb to gently and gradually remove the flaking skin. Don’t over do it, this is a timely process, cradle cap doesn’t disappear overnight.
Exercise Balls
If you had one from labour, keep it! Some fussy new-borns love to be bounced up and down. Get your daily exercise while you’re at it.
Nappy Rash Cream
Apply the cream with a clean, sterilised makeup brush or use a mini spatula to avoid getting the gloopy stuff all over your hands. You’ll thank me later!
Pee Problems
Prevent your baby boy from peeing on you by swiping a wet wipe under his belly button right before a nappy change. The cold from the wipe will shock any wee to come out (on most occasions).
Long Lost Baby Socks
Those tiny things are easy to lose while in the wash. Never lose their socks again by washing them in a mesh laundry bag.
Sleepless Nights
If you’re having trouble getting your baby to sleep, try gently stroking your baby’s face with a tissue. Blackout curtains also help your baby to settle and stay sleeping.
Baby Cycling
Relieve your baby’s gas by gently pushing their knees toward their chest in a circular motion. Lay your baby down on his or her back, and move the legs as though he or she is riding a bicycle. It’s a magic trick for getting the gas out!
Baby Nails
We’ve all been there, frightened to cut their tiny little nails. The best time to cut your baby’s nails is twenty minutes after they’ve fallen asleep.
Don’t feel too overwhelmed just yet! We’ve still got three more bonus mama hacks for you.
3 Bonus Hacks
- Fold the waistline of your baby’s nappies down and away from the umbilical cord area while it’s still healing. This also works if you are using a size that is too big.
- Stash wipes and a few extra nappies in the back of your car. Rather than grappling on the backseat if you have nowhere to change your baby clear a space in the boot of the car instead. Don’t forget to pack an extra shirt for yourself in your baby bag (for emergencies).
- Use new born nightgowns (sleepers that are open at the bottom) instead of onesies and PJs. They’re life-changing for those first few days of dressing baby.
Now you’re fully prepared with top mama hacks that will help make it all look easier than it is! Have you got any? Please share them below!
