So what is this magical cure-all tool that babies absolutely love?
Let’s discuss the many uses and situations where the hairdryer is beneficial for your baby.
1. Helps to Soothe & Sleep
During your pregnancy, your baby lived in constant, loud noise. This is what they are familiar with, which provides them comfort. The more you can replicate the experience of being inside the womb, typically the happier your baby becomes.
Using white noise as part of your baby’s sleep routine, and anytime they are fussy can be VERY helpful. This can be a white noise machine, vacuum, fan, and your hairdryer. Keeping your hairdryer on the low setting, at least an arm length away from the baby can stop or reduce crying within seconds. Along with other comfort measures for your baby, you can keep the hair dryer running until your baby is relaxed or falling asleep. It works like MAGIC!
2. Turn Bath-time into Spa-time
Did you know that we lose body heat 25 times faster when we are wet versus dry? Your baby will feel this as they transition out of the warm bath, into the cooler air. To fix this, have your blow dryer running in the direction of where you will receive the baby. A constant stream of low heat, paired with the noise will be a positive experience for the baby & parents alike! Be sure to place your blow dryer in a secure
location, with cords away from any water source.
Need tips on bathing your baby? Check this out!
3. Dry Out Those Chubby Rolls
Even the littlest of babies will have rolls as their bodies grow into their skin. The skin folds can hold onto wetness from diaper wipes, and after bath time. Unfortunately, this can turn into skin irritation. The best approach to this is to make sure their skin is fully dry before putting their diaper and clothes back on. Even with extra drying time, and using a baby towel, that moisture can still be trapped. Giving your baby a quick blow dry can help to speed this up, and ensure all those rolls are good to go!
4. Diaper Rash Prevention & Treatment
Although diaper rash is common in babies, we want to try everything in our power to reduce the flare ups. Irritation can start when stool, urine, or moisture is touching skin for any length of time. It’s important to make sure that your baby has a good clean to remove any solids or liquid, anywhere that the diaper touches. The next, and just as important step, is to dry out the entire diaper area BEFORE applying creams or ointment. You can have some naked time without the diaper on over a towel or chux pad. This isn’t always feasible, and where the blow dryer comes in for the win! Give your baby a quick blow dry on their bottom, with keeping it on low heat, and arm length away. Then apply your favourite ointment, or zinc based cream if an active case of diaper rash is present.
5. Tummy Time
You will learn about the importance of tummy time from your healthcare provider. Spending active awake time with your baby while they explore the world on their belly. This helps strengthen their neck muscles to prepare them for rolling, sitting, and eventually being mobile.
The problem with tummy time is many babies don’t love doing it. It takes time before they can spend longer periods on their stomach happily. So this is where the hair dryer can help lengthen this time, while keeping your baby engaged. Running it on low can give your baby the comforting white noise, and to keep them distracted. Using toys, high contrasting images, and seeing your face can all be used in tandem. With time, your baby will love this activity!
Have you utilized your blow dryer to soothe your baby? Try it out and let us know!
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