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Many people see having a newborn as being housebound for a couple of weeks, maybe more. It’s intense, you’re always tired and newborns are delicate souls who need constant attention. If you’ve lived through the COVID-19 pandemic then you’re probably used to it. However, many people are desperate to get some fresh air which helps with exercising and mental health.
But, if no one can stay to watch the newborn when is it safe to take a newborn out of the house? Well, the answer may surprise you.
When is it safe to take a newborn out of the house?
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Pediatric experts agree that it is safe to take newborn babies out of the house straight away provided parents take precautions which we will go into detail shortly. Fresh air and exposure to nature provides a fantastic boost to both parent and baby and can be seen as a fantastic break from the house to reset mind, body and soul.
In all honesty, you really should look to get out as often as you can within reason as staying all the time isn’t healthy. But you shouldn’t rush it, go as soon as you feel ready.
What to consider before taking the newborn out in public
Before you take your baby out here are some quick-fire tips to make it a huge success
- Make sure they’re fed – Taking a baby who’s been recently fed will reduce the risk of a cranky baby who will need to be fed outdoors. Particularly true for breastfeeding mums who may not feel up to getting a boob out in public or the cold yet. You could always take a thermos with you or expressed milk.
- Dress your baby appropriately – Dress your baby according to the weather and what transportation they will use (sling/carrier/pram). You don’t want a newborn who is it too hot or too cold.
- Avoid direct sunlight – UV rays are particularly harmful to newborn skin so avoid direct sunlight on them. Slings, wraps and carrier usually do this automatically but for a pram consider investing in a sunshade.
- Avoid noisy places – If it’s your first time taking the baby outside or if they’re still very young then we recommend avoiding noisy places which could wake them up or confuse them. Keep it simple with the local park.
- Socially distance – This is not because of the coronavirus but more about keeping your newborn away from everyday germs which could make them unwell. Don’t let people shove their face in the pram (cold sores), touch them (chickenpox) and generally touch dirty surfaces.
- Time it with a nap – Although newborns frequently nap during the day it’s a good idea to take your newborn out for a stroll when they’re tired or due a nap. If they nap in the pram or sling you’ve got an opportunity to put some headphones in and catch up with your podcasts or listen to some music.
- Pack the essentials – Don’t leave the house unprepared. Pack nappies, wipes, a ready-made bottle of milk, make sure your phone’s fully charged and take your purse. If it’s autumn/winter make sure to take a rain cover in case the heavens open up.
- Don’t rush it but be brave – If you don’t feel up to it, then don’t do it. But equally, don’t put it off forever. If it’s a great day, you and your newborn are feeling great then get yourself out there for some quality outdoors time.
If I’ve had a C-Section should I take my newborn out?
Having caesarean does make things a little tricky, especially physically. Therefore, you shouldn’t take your newborn out in a carrier for at least 6 weeks from the operation. However, some form of a gentle walk with a pram can do a lot of good for the healing so our advice on this is to only take a newborn out of the house with someone else and not alone. If your newborn starts to cry then you don’t want to be in a situation that there’s nowhere to stop and sit to tend to their needs.
Summary – Can I take my newborn out of the house?
Absolutely, as we’ve covered throughout the article – taking your newborn out of the house is not only perfectly fine but recommended by paediatricians and other parents alike. It’s a healthy and safe exercise post-pregnancy and can offer a more than welcome mental health boost to yourself and your baby. It doesn’t even need to be you to take your baby out – why not let your partner do it to give you a break or even a family member for a quick nap.
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