Finding time to care for yourself as a new mom can be challenging. Between the constant feedings, diaper changes, and lack of sleep, it can feel nearly impossible to squeeze in a shower.
But with some planning and helpful tips, you can safely leave your little one in the bassinet while you take a quick shower.
Is It Safe to Leave My Baby Unattended While I Take a Shower?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies always be placed on their backs to safely sleep in a baby crib or bassinet that meets safety standards and in the same room as the parents or caretakers.
This practice is called "room-sharing." While sharing a room can help lower the incidence of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), this does not mean leaving a newborn unattended, even for a short time, is safe.
It's crucial to remember that newborn babies are unpredictable and may suddenly roll over or start crying. The bathroom door may unintentionally close, and the floor may be slippery, which might lead to danger.
Therefore, it is not recommended to leave your baby unattended while you take a shower but with the proper precautions & preparations, you can safely take a shower while you newborn is sleeping in a bassinet.
Tips for Taking a Shower With Newborn Babies
Here are some tips for taking a shower with a newborn baby:
Invest in a baby monitor: A baby monitor allows you to hear your baby's cries and movements, so you'll know if something is wrong.
Place your baby in a bassinet or crib next to the shower: This will make it easy to watch your baby while you shower.
Keep the bathroom door open: While keeping the bathroom door open, you can still detect baby's cries and movements.
Keep your shower short and sweet: A quick shower can be a great mom hack to spend more time with your little one.
What is the best time to shower with a newborn?
The best time to shower with a newborn is when they are in a deep sleep. Newborns sleep for short periods, usually between 16-18 hours a day.
Because they are less likely to wake up and cry, try to take a shower while your baby is sleeping deeply.
How to Limit Your Time Away From the Baby?
Being efficient in your showering routine is one approach to reducing the time you spend away from the baby. An excellent parenting hack is to take a quick shower so you can spend more time with your child.
Another way to limit your time away from the baby is to plan your shower around their feeding and sleeping schedule. This will help you to be able to finish your shower before your baby wakes up.
While having a shower with a newborn can be a bit challenging, with some planning and preparation, it is possible to keep your baby safe.
In contrast, you take a little break to care for yourself. Keep in mind that your baby's safety should be your top priority. As such, keep them in the same room as you, or use a baby monitor to watch for any cries.
You can take a safe, soothing shower without being concerned about your child if you make the proper preparations.
Additionally, you can make the most of your time when your baby is asleep. This way, you can have uninterrupted time to shower and can also use this time to take care of other things that need attention, such as tidying up, doing laundry or catching up on some sleep.
To make the most of this time, try to establish a routine for your newborn to make it easier for you to plan your time.
It's important to remember that being a new mom can be very exhausting and that taking care of yourself is essential too. And while it may not be easy, taking a shower with a newborn can be a great way to relax and rejuvenate yourself so that you can be the best possible mom for your little one.
Sleep deprivation is widespread among new mothers & taking a quick shower will help you feel refreshed and revived, even though you might feel exhausted.
It can also be an excellent opportunity for some alone time and self-care.
Additionally, think outside the box and maximize your time with your infant in the shower. For example, you can try singing lullabies to your baby.
To make the event more enjoyable and participatory, you can shower concurrently or even play baby shower activities with your child.
Conclusion
In conclusion, leaving your sleeping baby alone while you take a shower is not always an option. However, you can leave your baby in the bassinet. At the same time, you take a quick shower without worrying if you follow the proper safety precautions, such as using a baby monitor and keeping the bathroom door open.
It's also essential to be aware of the best time to shower with a newborn, to be efficient with your showering routine, and make the most of your time while your baby is asleep.
With some preparation and helpful tips, new parents can have a safe and relaxing shower while still caring for their little ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you shower when home alone with a newborn?
Leaving the baby unattended when home alone with a newborn is not recommended, even for a quick shower. Instead, you can use a baby monitor to hear your baby's cries and movements and place your baby in a bassinet or crib next to the shower. Keep the bathroom door open and the water temperature lukewarm to ensure your baby's safety.
Can I hold my newborn in the shower with me?
It is not recommended to hold a newborn in the shower with you, as the water can be too hot, and the bathroom floor can be slippery. In addition, newborns can get easily overheated and being in a warm, humid shower environment can be dangerous.
Is it safe to shower during a newborn's sleep?
Showering while your newborn sleep is safe as long as you take the appropriate safety precautions. Make sure to use a baby monitor to hear your baby's cries and movements, and keep the bathroom door open. Remember to shower quickly and when your baby is in a deep sleep, as they are less likely to wake up and cry.
About Hira Saleem
Hira Saleem is an experienced writer and researcher who has been working in the field of parenting and baby care for many years. She has a passion for helping parents and caregivers make informed decisions about their children's sleep and comfort. Hira brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Bumpybeds and her articles are a valuable resource for parents.
