Recommendations for baby care at home

Swaddling

You may swaddle your baby loosely, allowing their arms to move freely. Disposable nappies can be used, but keep the umbilical area uncovered by folding the top of the nappy down.

In the first months of life, place your baby on their side after swaddling and feeding. Babies may bring up milk, and side positioning can help reduce the risk of it entering the airway. Hats and mittens are not necessary indoors.

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Umbilical Cord Care

It is recommended to wash the umbilical area gently with soap and water. The area should be kept clean and dry.

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Bathing

You can bathe your baby daily from the time you return home. Soap is not needed more than once a week. Bath oils suitable for infants may be added to the water. In the first few weeks, your baby’s skin may appear dry or flaky after bathing.

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Feeding

For the first six months, it is recommended to feed the baby only with breast milk. If the mother has enough breast milk, a healthy baby does not need additional fluids. Feed your baby as often as they wish. If you have any questions about breastfeeding, you can contact your family doctor or breastfeading consultant.

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Eye care

In the morning, your baby’s eyes can be cleaned with tap water. Use a separate cotton pad for each eye, wiping gently from the outer corner of the eye toward the nose.

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Going outdoors

With a healthy, full-term newborn, you can go outside in the summer as soon as you return home from the hospital, and there is no strict time limit. Avoid direct sunlight, as there is a risk of overheating.

In winter, it is advisable to begin by letting your baby get used to fresh air indoors (e.g., near an open window) for a few days. You can usually go outside from around one week of age, provided the temperature is not colder than -10° C. When returning indoors, check the back of your baby’s neck. If it is warm, your baby is dressed appropriately.

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Anti-tuberculosis vaccination (BCG) scar

The BCG vaccine is given as an injection in the left upper arm during the first days of life. A reaction usually develops after 2 to 3 weeks. At the injection site, a small red, firm, painless lump may appear, sometimes with a small amount of whitish discharge. The area will heal gradually and may leave a scar. The baby can be bathed as usual during this time.

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Stool

In the first few days of life, the baby's stool is dark green or black. This is called meconium. Over the following 1–2 weeks, the stool becomes yellow and may have a slightly sour smell. It can sometimes be quite loose. The frequency of bowel movements in breastfed babies varies widely from several times a day to as little as once a week.

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Wind (gas) in infants

As a baby’s digestive system develops over the first 2-3 months, wind (gas pains) are common. There is no single solution, as the causes can vary.

Recommendations:

1. After breastfeeding, hold your baby in an upright position for a few minutes to help release any swallowed air.
2. Place your baby on their tummy a few times a day (for short periods) to help strengthen abdominal muscles. Do not leave your baby unattended.
3. Gently massage the tummy in a clockwise direction to help relieve discomfort.
4. Wind discomfort often occurs later in the day, so a warm bath at this time may help your baby relax and pass gas more easily.
5. Over-the-counter remedies (e.g., simethicone-based products) are available from pharmacies. Please consult your GP before use.