Essentials for a Baby's Medicine Cabinet

Nothing makes a parent feel more helpless then to have a crying, miserable baby on-hand. Most of your baby's ailments can be soothed at home with the aid of some basic essential items in your baby's medicine cabinet. Purchase these items at your local pharmacy or grocery store before the arrival of your little one and you'll be prepared to deal with some of the most common baby discomforts.

Nasal Aspirator Bulb Syringe

• Babies breathe, primarily, through the nose so when this breathing passage becomes congested it can be an uncomfortable and upsetting experience for your baby. While your baby is in an upright position and before using the aspirator, spray a squirt of saline-based nasal spray into each nostril. Wait a moment, then squeeze the bulb of the aspirator, place the tip in your baby's nostril, and slowly release the bulb. This sucks the mucus out of the nostril. Repeat with the other nostril and clean the aspirator when done.

Diaper Rash Cream

• Changing diapers frequently helps prevent or minimize diaper rash.

  According to Drs. William and Martha Sears, diaper rash is a normal occurrence for babies. Preventing or minimizing diaper rash by changing the diaper frequently, wiping thoroughly, and airing the skin out before re-diapering is the best approach. But even when you do this, your baby is likely to get diaper rash at some point. There are typically three types of diaper rash creams: petroleum based ointments, which are great as a preventative, white zinc oxide creams that are good for moderate rashes, and butt paste or triple paste that are affective for severe diaper rashes (see Resources).

Baby Nail Clippers

• Compared to the rest of the list, nail clippers may not sound all that important. However, babies nails can become quite sharp. Since babies movements are sometimes quick and jerky long, sharp nails can result in scratches on the face and body. The best time to trim your baby's nails is while they are sleeping and still. Trim below the end of the fingertip, if possible, to prevent scratching.

Baby Thermometer

• When your baby is sick one of the first questions the pediatrician's office will ask is "What's your baby's temperature?" Having the right thermometer for your baby's age will aid you in determining an accurate temperature which, in turn, helps the pediatrician to know just how ill your baby is. There are three types of thermometers you may use, dependent upon your child's age. A rectal thermometer delivers the most accurate temperature for a baby 3 months or younger. Once a baby is over 6 months old his ear canal has grown enough to use an ear thermometer. After the age of 5, you can use an oral thermometer for your child, similar to one you would use for yourself.

Infant Acetaminophen

• Acetaminophen helps reduce fever and minor aches and pains. Read instructions carefully and follow dosage guidelines. Use an infant medicine dropper or medicine dispenser so you can be sure to measure out the right amount and not too much. Do not give any kind of medicine to a baby under the age of 2 months old without first speaking to your pediatrician.