Bathing products
Kerri Stalton

For a baby, bath time is much more than simple grooming. Cleaning your baby is the ultimate aim. But if done properly, this is a great time for parent-child bonding. Even with the fussiest of babies, bath times can become relaxing and fun with a little experience. Baby bath products, ranging from an infant bath to a bath seat and then to toddler tubs, are so numerous that a parent can feel confused by the sheer choice and range. So, here's an inventory that seems to be the most useful for the baby as well as the parents.
Baby bath products can be classified under three main categories:
Pre-bath products
Bathing products
Post-bathing

Baby oil: Baby oil, which is light and non-greasy, is a good purchase. For babies who love the bathing ritual, this will be a delightful experience. With my own baby, we spent many happy hours massaging and talking about all sorts of wild stuff - he seemed to understand every bit of the talk and his toothless grin used to make my day!
Apart from the wonderful bonding experience it offers, light massaging is good for babies. In cold climates, where the skin is likely to get rough, non-greasy oil helps to make baby skin soft and supple. Many baby-oils are enriched with vitamins A, E and D. Baby oils get absorbed quickly, and are non-staining. If you warm the oil slightly before applying, it increases the blood circulation. But check the temperature on your skin first.
Oil also helps to take care of cradle cap. Gently massage some baby oil into the scalp and comb your baby's hair. Wash the oil off with a mild shampoo.
If you decide to buy the baby oil, a massage mat is inevitable. I personally feel that the few extra dollars you spend on the mat is well worth the truly rewarding experience of bonding with your baby.
Bathtubs: Once your baby's umbilical cord falls off, you can start bathing him or her properly. A bathtub is therefore a most-needed accessory. If your little one is squirmy and irritated in the bath, an infant bathtub becomes useful. These mini-tubs allow you to place your baby in a reclining position, without him wriggling all over the place. Tubs that come with a slip-resistant seat and a contoured shape will make your baby feel secure. If you want to use the same bath for a longer period, go for a transitional bathtub. This one has removable infant bath attachments, which can be detached once your baby is able to hold his head up.
Baby soap and shampoo: Mild baby soaps and shampoos clean skin without drying it out. Since young babies have to be cleaned thoroughly, soaps are a must. And while you're at it, get a mild shampoo that does not irritate his eyes.
Bath toys: Squishy, squeaky, colorful toys help keep your baby engaged while you get on with the bath. Many bathtubs have built-in toys or special pockets where you can keep toys.
Moisturizers: A natural all-purpose moisturizer will help tender skin regain its oil balance after a thorough bath.
Towels and washcloths: A large fluffy, soft towel with a hood will keep the baby dry and warm just after the bath. Washcloths are handy to dry difficult areas like the inside of the ears, creases of the neck and bottom etc.
Other products:
Thermometers can be used to test the temperature of the water. Ideally, water temperature should lie between 90-100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Wipes: There are times when a bath is not really essential, or a bathtub is not available. Never underestimate the power of wipes. They're just the thing to clean baby drool, baby food and any other mess that your baby creates. They are also best to clean up a baby after a diaper change.
Before you buy any product, do a little research. Any baby product should be one hundred percent safe for the baby.