This is the right way to clean a baby’s eyes, nose and ears

Babies get dirt around their eyes, ears, and nose just like the rest of us do. You must be extremely cautious when cleaning these three crucial areas. After all, it’s about your child! If you’re a mother and you’re wondering how to clean baby’s ears, nose, and eyes, the first and foremost thing is to know that you are not allowed to put anything directly into those areas. You may only use soft, damp cotton or cloth to wipe the surface.

Health Shots spoke to Dr Jagdish Kathwate, Consultant Neonatologist and Paediatrician, Motherhood Hospital Kharadi Pune, to understand the right and safe way to clean the ears, nose, and eyes of a baby to prevent any infection.

How to clean the ears of a baby?

The majority of parents are uncertain about whether or not to clean their children’s ears. Even while earwax is unsightly, it is harmless and even beneficial to the ears. According to Dr Kathwate, “Newborns might have thick brown wax in the ear. Refrain from cleaning the wax as it is good for the little one. You will be surprised to know that it can protect the ear from external infections.”

However, if you still wish to clean your child’s ears, you should refrain from using cotton buds or earbuds. Avoid placing anything inside the ear, including oil, without consulting a medical professional. Simply use a wet washcloth and warm water to wipe the ears. To remove any wax, gently rub it around the outer ear. Never insert a washcloth in a baby’s ear.

How to clean the eyes of a baby?

There will be a time when you may notice a sticky white or yellowish-coloured liquid present in the corner of the little one’s eyes. It can be seen in both eyes. “Try not to rub the baby’s eyes. Use cotton swabs dipped in warm water to clean the corners of your baby’s eyes,” says Dr Kathwate.

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If you notice any redness or a constant flow of tears from your baby’s eyes, this could indicate a need to consult the doctor.

How to clean the nose of a baby?

It is a no-brainer that a common cold can give rise to a blocked nose, which is often seen among newborns. In any case, you should never put anything into the nose, just like you shouldn’t with the ears.

Dr Kathwate says, “Don’t try putting the finger into those little nostrils to clean. Try to use paediatric nasal drops after consulting the doctor. This solution can loosen up the hard mucus, and then use cotton buds to pull the filth out.” You can also use a wet washcloth to wipe your baby’s nostrils gently to get rid of mucus.

Along with this, keep these tips in mind for baby skin care:

1. Give a proper bath: Babies’ skin is extremely sensitive and soft. Therefore, try to avoid over-bathing your kid when it comes to skin care. It’s sufficient to bathe a young child twice or three times a week.

2. Apply moisturizer: Avoid using products on newborns containing chemicals and fragrance. To avoid skin dryness, choose modest and skin-friendly cosmetics.

3. Minimize exposure to the sun: Too much sun exposure can damage a baby’s skin. Always protect yourself from UV rays by wearing a hat, cap, or umbrella.

4. Change diapers frequently: Diaper rash can develop when diapers are worn for an extended amount of time. Change the product as soon as possible to prevent eczema, dryness, and irritation.

5. Give a massage: Yes, giving regular massage to a child can keep the skin soft and supple.