Tiny Hands, Big Germs: Your Guide to Baby Hygiene in Winter

Winter brings a delightful change of scenery, but for parents of little ones, it can also bring a new set of challenges. Keeping your baby warm and comfortable is a top priority, but maintaining good hygiene practices is just as important. After all, winter air is a breeding ground for those pesky germy monsters, and we want to ensure they don't turn your little one's rosy cheeks into sniffly battlegrounds! 

Why Winter Woes?

Unlike the refreshing summer air, winter's dry, cold air dries out our precious mucus membranes—those handy filters in our noses and throats that trap germs. This dryness makes it easier for viruses to spread through coughs, sneezes, and even talking in close quarters. Combine that with increased indoor time, and voila—a recipe for a potential winter germ battle.

Here are some tips to ensure your baby's hygiene stays healthy throughout the winter months:  

The Hygiene Headquarters: Bath Time and Beyond

- Bath Time Basics:

Daily baths were great in summer, but as we touched on, winter air can be drying. Scale back to every other day or 2-3 times a week with lukewarm water to keep your child's skin happy and healthy. Don't forget the moisturiser – a gentle, fragrance-free lotion creates a barrier against dryness and germy monsters.

- Liquid Cleansers for Toys and Bottles:

Ditch the harsh chemicals and opt for a gentle, fragrance-free liquid cleanser specifically designed for baby products. This ensures thorough cleaning of toys and bottles without harming your little one or the environment. Our Liquid Cleanser, made from food-grade ingredients and contains no harsh chemicals, has been a high-demand product.

One review from Anne says, “We have always been using this product for all our baby bottles and accessories, not to mention it's also safe to wash our fruits and veggies! It's such a great product. It is very clean, gentle on the skin, and has a pleasant smell. Highly recommended.”

- Sterilisation Station:

While we can't control the outside world, we can create a germ-free haven at home to help with your baby's hygiene. Use a baby wipe to regularly disinfect surfaces your child touches, like changing mats, highchairs, and toys (especially those that get mouthed!). We have six different Baby Wipes options that are, of course, baby-safe and are tremendously easy and quick for cleaning.

Hands Up! Don't Let Germy Monsters Take Over!

- Frequent hand washing is your Saviour:

Washing hands is crucial for baby hygiene. Remember to do it throughout the day, especially before mealtimes, after diaper changes, and after playtime. Make hand washing fun with colourful, gentle soap and sing a catchy song to encourage good habits. Think of it as a secret handshake with cleanliness, sending those germy monsters packing!

- Fever Cooling Patches to the Rescue:

If those germ monsters do get ahold of your little one, a Fever Cool Plaster will withdraw heat associated with a cold, flu or fever.

One of our reviews from Klaudine said, “I hope this can get advertised more because these are the only cool plasters I've seen here in Australia that are very small and gentle enough for newborns. Usually when babies get vaccines, they may have a small fever. This is very effective in lowering the temperature of the fever. It doesn't bother the baby as it's small and gently sticks on the baby's skin.” 

- Mighty Mucus Management:

A stuffy nose can be uncomfortable for your little one. Saline drops can help loosen mucus and make breathing easier. A cool-mist humidifier can also add moisture to the dry winter air, soothing congestion.

- Breastfeeding Blitz:

Breastfeeding provides a robust immune system boost for your baby. If you can, breastfeed for as long as possible to give your little one a natural defence against winter germs. 

- Vaccine Victories:

Make sure your baby is up-to-date on all recommended vaccinations. This is the best way to protect them from severe illnesses like influenza (the flu).

- Hand Sanitiser: Your On-the-go Ally:

Keep a travel-sized, baby-friendly hand sanitiser handy when soap and water aren't readily available. It's a quick and effective way to kill bacteria.

Bonus Tip: Creating a Clean and Healthy Environment

- Wash Those Clothes!:

Remember to wash your child's clothes regularly with a gentle, fragrance-free detergent. This eliminates any lingering germs they might have picked up throughout the day, leaving their clothes fresh and germy monster-free. According to Pregnancy Birth & Baby, they recommend dressing your little one in natural fibres such as cotton or bamboo as these fabrics are more breathable and will allow for better air flow, decreasing the risk of bacteria growth.

- Frequent Changes are Key:

Cold weather can trap moisture and lead to diaper rash more easily, creating a perfect playground for germs. Change your baby's diaper more frequently than usual, especially after feedings and poopy changes.

- Wipe with Care:

Use warm wipes or washcloths with warm water instead of cold wipes during diaper changes to avoid discomfort and bacteria from growing.

- Petroleum Jelly is your Friend:

Remember: Every child is unique. Consult your Paediatrician for any questions or concerns about your baby's hygiene routine. By following these handy tips, you can empower your little warrior to conquer those germy monsters and remain healthy all winter long.