Nine Months : Baby Bathing & Grooming Safety Tips

* If using a sink for giving bath to your baby, remember to cover the taps with towels to prevent any accidents.

* A newborn baby does not need very much water in the tub.

* Never leave your baby unattended in the tub.

* Always test the water in the bath tub by feeling it with your elbow first before placing the baby in it (you may feel more comfortable using a thermometer instead).

* You may want to clean your baby's face outside the bath first with moist cotton wool. Make sure you use separate cotton walls for cleaning each eye.

* Newborn babies don't really need soap as they don't get dirty. If your baby has delicate skin, plain water is good enough for a bath.

* Baby shampoos are not needed unless your baby has cradle cap which can be treated with special shampoos.

* Babies don't produce oil naturally like we do. Hence, it is important to oil their skin especially if its dry. Use any vegetable based oil like olive oil, coconut or almond oil.

* The temperature of the room where your baby is bathed must be warmer than usual.

* It is best to clip nails after your baby's had a bath as the nails are soft.

* In the first few weeks, you don't even necessarily need scissors or clippers. Some mothers find it easier to gently 'bite off' long nails.

* Be very careful when using baby powder. Never dust it straight on your baby's body. Always dust it on a cotton ball or your palm first and then gently rub it over your baby's skin. Your baby can choke on specks of powder.

* When using cotton earbuds, remember to clean only what is visible from the outside. Don't venture inside your baby's ear with the earbud.